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The Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hatchet Chainsaw may not have the power or bar length of the larger options on our list, but its compact size makes it the best chainsaw for quick and easy, light-duty pruning. At just five pounds, it’s comfortable to use in tight and awkward areas and easy to perform cuts at any angle. The bar sheath is a nice perk as well.
“This thing is perfect for cutting small stuff under 4”,” reviewer Robert Williamson explained. “It’s good because it’s small, light weight and just enough power to get the job done, and you can you use it with one hand and control what you cut off with the other. I do line work and this this is a game changer when you are just doing some light line clearance work.”
Pros
- Can access tight areas
- Very easy to use and maneuver
- Lightweight
- Onboard scrench storage
Cons
- Too small for branches thicker than 4 inches
- Battery and charger not included
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The 16-inch bar on the Oregon CS1400 Chainsaw tackles small and large cutting tasks effectively. Thanks to the corded power supply, you won’t need to worry about recharging any batteries. A molded rubber cover on the handle and a trigger grip make it easy to maintain control as you cut, and a hand guard protects against flying chips and other debris. At less than $100, this electric saw is a great value as well.
“I’ve been using this saw to cut down two big trees killed by the unusual extreme winter event my state had a couple of years ago,” reviewer TNC explained. “I bought this saw to do small trim jobs on trees, but it has been more than capable to do everything a good, regular, gas chainsaw can do. I’m surprised and impressed.”
Pros
- Instant electric start
- High-quality Oregon chain
- Built-in chain tightening system
- Oil-level window
Cons
- Corded power limits portability
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Featuring a large, 40V lithium battery, the Ryobi HP Cordless Battery Chainsaw delivers gas-like power and performance without the inconvenience of fumes, liquid fuel mixes or a pull cord. The battery is compatible with over 50 tools in Ryobi’s 40V family.
Its 16-inch bar boasts a 28-inch cut capacity—great for both small and large jobs—and a scrench (combination wrench and screwdriver) is stashed conveniently in the handle of the saw, making adjustments quick and easy.
“This chainsaw has plenty of muscle to handle tough jobs,” reviewer Rfeierbach explained. “With its 40WA battery, it compares perfectly well to using a gas-powered unit, but without the typical hassle of having to prime and pull the rope several times to start it, which is very frustrating with gas ones. Just click the battery on, and you’re ready to go! This a well-designed tool, with adjustable auto-oiling for the chain as well.”
Pros
- Rapid charger
- Brushless motor for maximum efficiency
- Included carrying case
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Only includes a single battery
What to Consider When Buying a Chainsaw
To select the best chainsaw, it’s important to know the size of what you plan to cut. This way you can accurately choose the best size saw for your task and avoid ending up with one that’s too small to be effective or too large to be used safely.
Consider whether to go with a gas or electric model. According to Douglas Dedrick, landscaper and writer for Greenpal, “For most homeowners, a small battery-powered chainsaw with a 12-16 inch bar is more than enough to take care of most of the tasks you need to complete”. Although, in his opinion, their near-silent operation makes battery-powered saws more dangerous than gas-powered models, whose noisy and aggressive motors more clearly indicate potential dangers.
If you plan on working close to your home and don’t want to worry about gas tank refills or battery charging, a corded electric saw is a convenient option. You’ll be limited to the length of your extension cord, but their unlimited runtime and instant start feature could be worth the compromise. For those looking for maximum power and portability, gas-powered chainsaws are still the best option, according to Dedrick.
How We Found the Best Chainsaws
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
How do you store a chainsaw?
When not in use, store a chainsaw in a dry, well-ventilated area. Dedrick adds that for long-term storage, “It is best to empty the fuel tank and store the saw on its side to avoid leaks.” We also recommend giving your chainsaw a thorough cleaning before winter storage, ensuring that it’s prepped and ready to go when spring rolls around.
How long does a chainsaw last?
According to Dedrick, a well-cared-for gas-powered chainsaw can last for decades, but battery-powered models have a shorter lifespan. He explains that it really comes down to the brand you choose, but, “Most battery-powered saws will last at least a decade as long as they are cared for properly.” Routine maintenance, like chain sharpening and air filter replacement, is essential to extending the lifespan of your chainsaw, so be sure to follow the instructions in your user manual.
Source:
- Douglas Dedrick, landscaper and writer for Greenpal