Buying guide for best gas chainsaws
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Battery-powered chainsaws are great for light yard work, such as trimming a few branches here and there. However, for more demanding jobs, I'll always reach for a gas chainsaw.
Whether I'm cutting through thick hardwood or working far from an outlet, the extra power and unlimited runtime make a gas-powered chainsaw a no-brainer. Everything from firewood cutting to storm cleanup is much more manageable with one.
My top pick for most people is the Husqvarna 450 Rancher. It offers an excellent balance of power, features and price, making it a reliable choice whether you're a homeowner DIY enthusiast or someone who relies on a chainsaw for work.
Expert Tip
Do not use chainsaws alone. You want to have a buddy on-site to help you or call for help in case of an emergency.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert
Editors' picks
Husqvarna 120 16-inch 38 cc Gas Chainsaw
Husqvarna products are loaded with proprietary features that offer enhanced performance and comfort. This tool includes Husqvarna’s X-Torq engine technology, which reduces harmful fume emissions by up to 60%, with a 20% increase in fuel efficiency. Air Injection Technology expels sawdust before it reaches the filter, greatly reducing the possibility of friction-causing particles wearing down the engine’s moving parts. Finally, the chainsaw’s LowVib feature cuts down on vibrations, lessening hand numbness and letting you work longer without grip fatigue.
This 16-inch chainsaw offers less power than our top pick, with a 38 cc, 1.8 horsepower engine. It’s also a two-cycle machine, but it’s a bit lighter at 13.5 pounds. The chainsaw delivers on both torque and maneuverability, making it great for the light to medium cutting tasks that homeowners typically encounter on their property.
ECHO CS-590 20-inch 59.8 cc Timber Wolf Chainsaw
ECHO says that its Timber Wolf lineup is built specifically for the biggest jobs in the toughest environments. Packed with robust features that make for reliable operation, its G-Force Engine Air Pre-Cleaner ensures that the air entering the motor is free of sawdust and dirt. With a 59.8 cc, 2.91 hp motor and 20-inch bar, this saw is a great choice for commercial users who have to cut through especially thick trees. It can handle branches up to 35 inches in diameter.
You can adjust the chain tension without having to reach for a tool, and, due to the saw’s translucent fuel tank, you can easily check the gas level as you work to prevent sputtering out mid-task. This machine runs on a two-cycle engine and weighs 16.1 pounds.
What to consider when choosing a gas chainsaw
Motor power
Most chainsaw motors are two-cycle (or two-stroke) motors. Instead of having engine oil in a sump (which would add weight and make it cumbersome to carry around), you mix a small amount of two-cycle oil with the gas. Common ratios are 40:1 and 50:1, but you should always check your chainsaw operating manual to be sure.
In gas chainsaw motors, power is indicated by two figures. Horsepower (hp) measures the amount of power in the engine, while cubic centimeters (cc) measures the volume and/or size of the engine. You aren’t likely to find a gas chainsaw under 30 or over 75 cubic centimeters. Machines using a 30 cc to 40 cc engine would usually be considered consumer-grade chainsaws, the kind you’d use for general pruning, yard maintenance and storm clearance. A motor like this usually produces around 1.5 to 2 horsepower.
If you step up to the 40 to 60 cubic centimeter range, you’ll find gas chainsaws that are often referred to as “ranch” or “farm” chainsaws. Producing somewhere between 2 and 4 horsepower, these tools can handle a heavier workload. Most individuals, even those with substantial properties, would never need anything more powerful than this.
Chainsaws with motors above 60 cubic centimeters can produce anywhere from 4 to 8 horsepower. These are specialist tools for serious professionals. In fact, many are so big that they're only used for tree felling.
Starting
Starting has long been considered something that was difficult with gas chainsaws. However, today’s gas chainsaws are much easier to start thanks to electronic ignition, automatic chokes, air purges and other features.
The key is to follow the starting procedure as explained in the owner's manual. Many times when people complain of troubles, it's because they tried to start a chainsaw using a method they used years ago — but on a new machine. If you read the manual and follow the instructions carefully, starting a gas chainsaw shouldn’t present any problems.
Chainsaw bar
The blade that the cutting chain runs around is called the bar. Different bar lengths offer different cutting capacities. Therefore, a chainsaw’s bar length gives an indication of its intended use, but it is not a direct correlation.
Using the right technique, a chainsaw with a 12-inch bar is theoretically capable of cutting down a tree nearly 24 inches in diameter. But that isn’t likely in practice. The motor on a 12-inch gas chainsaw just isn't going to provide enough power for that.
The following is a better guide to general chainsaw performance. For chainsaws that overlap these parameters look carefully at why a particular motor/bar combination has been chosen.
12 to 14 inches: This size bar is generally matched to an engine in the 30 to 40 cubic centimeter range. You end up with a tool that's relatively light and easy to manage, a tool that’s perfect for clearing overgrown areas, pruning, lopping and cutting logs. It's capable of felling a modest size tree on occasion, but it isn’t the machine for doing that regularly.
16 to 20 inches: This bar might be paired with a 40 to 60 cubic centimeter motor, though the latter is unusual. While it's easy to think of this kind of chainsaw as “medium” or “average,” there's no way that should be interpreted as derogatory. These are powerful, flexible tools that can do pretty much everything a small chainsaw can do, but they have the capacity to work hard all day if needed.
20 inches and more: These bars are found on professional-grade chainsaws, big tools for heavy-duty logging over extended periods of time. These gas-powered giants demand a high price and a high level of skill to get the most out of them. For most people, a bar of 20 inches or larger would simply be overkill.
Weight
The heaviest component on a gas chainsaw is the engine. More power means more weight. If you’re fairly fit, a heavier chainsaw shouldn’t be a problem, but most people are concerned about user comfort and fatigue, and rightly so. And there's no point in buying a heavy chainsaw if you don't need one.
Saws designed for light to medium work tend to weigh between 12 and 14 pounds, while larger tools with bulkier engines can weigh 16 or more pounds. However, the inclusion of lightweight plastic components, variable bar lengths and advances in engine technology can significantly reduce the heft of power saws. Consider how much weight you’re comfortable working with, and keep in mind that a full tank of fuel will increase it further.
Other features to consider
Automatic chain oiler: If the chain isn't lubricated properly, it will overheat and stretch, leading to poor cutting performance and shortened life. An automatic chain oiler is a definite bonus.
Tool-free adjuster: The easier it is to adjust the blade the better. Many chainsaws have a tool-free adjuster that is fast and simple.
Chain brake: A chain brake is an excellent safety feature that is usually incorporated in a guard for the front handle. Push it forward and it prevents the chain from rotating when the engine is running. Pull it back and the chainsaw works normally.
Blade cover: All gas chainsaws should come with a blade cover. A carrying case is a bonus.
CARB-compliant motor: In certain states, it's illegal to use a gas chainsaw with a motor that isn't CARB-compliant. Check local regulations before buying.
Expert Tip
Avoid mixing oil and gas in a driveway or on concrete as spills of oil and gas will cause stains.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert
Tips for using a gas chainsaw safely
While chainsaws aren’t the scary tools they're often made out to be, there's obviously an inherent danger in something with the power to rip through trees and branches. Sensible precautions will help keep you safe.
- Practice good safety procedures. Wear work gloves, ear protection, face shield and sturdy footwear when using a chainsaw. Never operate a chainsaw when you’re tired or unwell. Make sure your body is properly balanced and your footing firm. Always work in front of you; never twist to the side as you work. Never overreach with your chainsaw, and never cut above shoulder height. Keep children and pets out of the work area. And beware of fuel spills that could start a fire.
- Know how to use your chainsaw. Get comfortable with the machine. Make sure you understand how to turn it off quickly. Start the chainsaw on the ground. On most gas chainsaws, the rear handle is designed so you can put your foot in there to keep it steady. If you've never used a chainsaw before, start on small branches and work your way up. Kickback is the most common problem when sawing. Avoid cutting with the tip of the bar. Never undercut. Never make adjustments to your chainsaw while the engine is running.
- Maintain your chainsaw. Make sure the chain is properly adjusted and replace it if it’s worn. Check the blade regularly and sharpen it as needed. Poor chainsaw performance is often a result of a badly adjusted or blunt blade. If your chainsaw is smoking or choking, check that the air-intake slots are not blocked by sawdust or debris. Don't be cheap when it comes to replacement blades. A high-quality replacement can be like having a whole new chainsaw.
- Use the right tool for the job. If most of what you do is woodland management that rarely requires felling trees, consider a small, top-handled gas chainsaw. These remarkably compact tools have plenty of power.
Expert TIp
Secure long hair and wear snug clothing. These are often overlooked in safety guidelines, but are still very important.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert
FAQ
Q. How much does a good gas chainsaw cost?
A. There are some very cheap gas chainsaws available, but we advise caution. A low-quality chainsaw might not stand up to the rigors required of it, and component failure could have serious consequences. Many good-quality gas chainsaws with a motor of 30 to 50 cubic centimeters and a bar of 12 to 20 inches cost $200 to $250. Professional-level gas chainsaws cost $450 to $950. As you can see, they jump substantially in price.
Q. How will I know when to sharpen my chainsaw blade?
A. The manufacturer will probably suggest a time frame, in working hours, as a guide for sharpening the blade. But if you don't use your saw often, it's tough to keep track of the number of hours worked. Don't worry. You'll know anyway when the chain fails to cut efficiently or stalls or jams. You'll get fine dust or sludge instead of the sawdust you expect. In extreme cases, the saw will burn the wood where it's rubbing instead of cutting.
Q. How do I sharpen a chainsaw blade?
A. You can sharpen a blade with a round file specifically designed for the purpose. It might take a bit of practice to get the angle right. Round files cost very little, and for a bit more you can buy a jig that holds the blade and file at the proper angle.
Easier still is a mechanical sharpener. Several models are available. Alternatively, you could find a local garden center or hardware store that offers a sharpening service. They'll do it for you for a few dollars.
Q. Can I buy a replacement chain from a brand other than the manufacturer of my chainsaw?
A. You can purchase a replacement chain from another reputable chainsaw brand, but we advise against buying cheap ones if you’re just trying to save some money. You should always buy high-quality chain replacements from reputable makers. They stay sharp longer, last longer and can improve the performance of your chainsaw.
Our expertise
Beth Allen is the founder of HIP Chicks (Home Improvement Project Chicks). With a practical do-it-yourself attitude, she empowers homeowners to save money, stress and time and offers the only online DIY school for women. Beth is a DIY expert, speaker, author, RN and licensed contractor who has been featured on TV over 100 times, including QVC and The Rachael Ray show.
Kevin Luna is a DIYer who loves tackling home repairs with the best tools to help him save time and money. As a longtime writer for BestReviews, he enjoys writing engaging, high-quality guides to help shoppers make smart buying decisions.
Bob Beacham has covered a wide range of topics over the years as a writer for BestReviews. Whether he’s reporting on tires for your truck or tools to repair your home with, he loves helping shoppers find high-quality products that make life better.
