Harvesting firewood, sawing logs, cutting down old trees and shrubs, pruning skeletal branches require a lot of time and good physical fitness. A chainsaw helps save time and effort. Today we will tell you what characteristics the best chainsaw should have.
How to choose a chainsaw
The chainsaw was invented a long time ago, but the tool has become widespread relatively recently. Previously, the device was used mainly for felling trees in the forest. Today, a chainsaw is considered an indispensable assistant for every summer resident. With the help of a working tool, you can perform a lot of construction, agricultural and utility work on the site.
In their design, all chainsaws are similar. A 2-pin gasoline engine drives a sprocket located on the housing. The asterisk, in turn, puts into operation the sawing part of the device – a tire and a chain with teeth.
The modern market offers a huge selection of chainsaws. Depending on the power, household, semi-professional and professional units are distinguished. To understand all this variety of working tools, you need to know what to look for. Let’s see what are the criteria for choosing chainsaws.
Шина
One of the important points of choice is the length of the tire. The longer the bar, the deeper the wood is cut. For example, the average length of a household saw bar is 30–40 cm. To cut thick logs, you have to cut on both sides. Semi-professional and professional tools cope in one go.
In this case, the length of the tire must correspond to the class of the tool and its power. The larger the tire, the higher the load on the engine. Since most household saws are equipped with low-power motors, there is a high risk of overheating and failure of the tool.
Chain
The performance of a chainsaw depends on the structure of the chain. So, the chains are distinguished by the height of the profile, by the pitch and by the shape of the teeth. A small step reduces the degree of vibration, but has a negative effect on the quality of the wood cut. The chain pitch should be set, taking into account the technical features of the chainsaw and the nature of the work performed. Over time, the chain can stretch. You can adjust the length manually or using a special screw on the side of the case.
Kickback protection
On contact with a solid object, the saw is thrown back. Kickback can injure a person. To increase the safety of the working tool, many manufacturers have provided protection against kickback. This is an instant chain stop button mounted on the handle or housing.
Please note that many chainsaws have a button to prevent accidental activation. Do not forget that a chainsaw is considered a tool of high trauma. It is necessary to work with the device carefully and extremely carefully.
Anti-vibration protection
The vibrations caused by the engine lead to hand fatigue and muscle pain. Craftsmen who have to work a lot with chainsaws often complain of joint diseases and impaired blood flow.
You can reduce the level of vibrations by installing an anti-vibration system. The easiest way is to install a rubberized gasket between the handle and the body of the tool. Anti-vibration protection of professional chainsaws is achieved by the correct ratio of the weight of the engine and other elements of the unit.
Engine
The engine is deservedly called the heart of the chainsaw. It’s simple: the higher the power, the greater the productivity. Depending on the engine power, there are three types of chainsaws:
- Household, or for the home. Power – up to 2 kW, volume – up to 40 cm3.
- Semi-professional, or farm. Power – from 2 to 3 kW, volume – from 40 to 60 cm3.
- Professional. Power – from 3 kW and more, volume – from 60 cmXNUMX3 and more.
The reliable and high-quality engine has a piston system with two compression rings, a metal crankcase, a forged crankshaft and chrome-plated cylinder walls. Additionally, a spring-type starter and primer can be installed.
For home
Having dealt with the selection criteria, let’s move on to getting to know the working tools. Let’s start with household chainsaws.
STIHL MS 180-14
The optimal working tool for clearing the area from unwanted hard vegetation. It can be used for preparing firewood for the winter, pruning shrubs and tree branches, making wooden fences. The STIHL MS 180-14 has a robust and reliable body. An inertial chain brake and an anti-vibration system are provided.
Pros:
- lightness, compactness, maneuverability;
- ease of use;
- good performance for low power;
- low fuel consumption;
- quick start;
- low vibration.
Cons:
- difficulties with the replacement / repair of original spare parts;
- overpriced components;
- lack of primer;
- frequent clogging of the air filter.
Video “Overview of STIHL MS 180-14”
This video talks about the features of a well-known brand chainsaw.
Husqvarna 236
Lightweight and compact chainsaw for home use. It is actively used for harvesting firewood, cutting boards and thin logs, cutting branches from bushes and trees. Husqvarna 236 has an engine with the innovative X-Torq system, which reduces fuel consumption by 20%.
The Husqvarna 236 saw is equipped with a chain brake, chain limiter, fuel priming pump and Air Injection air purification system.
Pros:
- simplicity and ease of use;
- compactness, reliability, practicality;
- economical fuel consumption;
- lack of difficulties with storage and transportation;
- excellent build quality;
- housing resistant to mechanical damage;
- low vibration and medium noise.
Cons:
- when the tool is tilted, oil begins to flow;
- difficulties with starting;
- incomprehensible instructions for use;
- false information in the user manual.
Video “Husqvarna 236 – quality and reliability”
This video shows how easy and simple it is to assemble a working tool.
PARTNER P340S
PARTNER P340S is equipped with an inertia chain brake
Universal chainsaw for domestic use. Quickly and accurately removes branches from bushes and trees. It can be used for sawing small thickness logs and preparing firewood for the winter. PARTNER P340S is equipped with an inertia chain brake, an effective anti-vibration system and a built-in accidental start switch. The presence of a fuel pump contributes to reasonable fuel consumption.
Pros:
- ergonomic body;
- the presence of an anti-vibration system and protection against accidental start;
- good balance;
- convenient and understandable user manual;
- no maintenance hassle.
Cons:
- average build quality;
- lack of an indicator for controlling the amount of fuel;
- minimum equipment.
Video “Detailed review of the PARTNER P340S saw”
This video shows how to assemble, start up and use the instrument.
Semi-professional
For a private house and summer cottage, it is better to take a semi-professional tool, the power of which is enough to perform various household tasks.
Husqvarna 135
Husqvarna 135 is equipped with an ergonomic rear handle
One of the best semi-professional saws on the market today for agricultural and construction equipment. It is characterized by efficient power consumption, fast start-up and carefully thought-out security system. So, Husqvarna 135 is equipped with an ergonomic rear handle and an anti-vibration system. Innovative X-Torq technology contributes to economical fuel consumption. The chainsaw has a quick-release air filter and a centrifugal air pre-cleaning system.
The Husqvarna 135 saw is designed for active use. It is used for sawing logs, cutting branches, harvesting firewood and making wooden fences and hedges.
Pros:
- American assembly;
- quality components;
- reliability, durability and versatility;
- body resistance to mechanical damage;
- low noise;
- economical fuel consumption;
- lightness and ease of use.
Cons:
- strong vibration at startup;
- when tilted, oil leaks;
- expensive original spare parts.
Video “Detailed review of Husqvarna 135”
This video explains how to operate a chainsaw.
STIHL MS 250
Compact and lightweight semi-professional saw with high power. The tool can be used for felling trees with a trunk diameter of up to 30 cm. It copes with various household tasks quickly and efficiently. STIHL MS 250 is suitable for domestic use, as well as for use in farm and forestry conditions. Doesn’t require a lot of storage space.
Pros:
- high impact resistance of the case;
- compactness, lightness and maneuverability;
- lack of difficulties with storage, transportation and maintenance;
- high motor resource.
Cons:
- lack of fuel pumping;
- “weak” gasket between the cylinder and the muffler;
- difficulties with starting;
- noisy idle.
Video “Overview of STIHL MS 250”
This video provides a detailed overview and test drive of a semi-professional tool.
See DCS4610-40
It features a thoughtful ergonomic design. Due to its high power, it can be used not only for domestic use, but also in farm and forestry areas. The Makita DCS4610-40 saw is characterized by an effective anti-vibration system and a low level of noise performance. The presence of a protective plastic shield increases the safety of the device.
Pros:
- high-quality German assembly;
- reliable and durable case;
- lack of difficulties with the replacement / repair of components;
- convenience and ease of operation;
- adequate price.
Cons:
- oil leakage;
- high oil consumption;
- difficulty starting at sub-zero temperatures.
Video “Overview Makita DCS4610-40”
This video presents the main technical characteristics of the device.
Professional
At the end of today’s rating, we offer the Top 3 professional tools according to reviews from users and employees of technical service centers.
STIHL MS 880-36
Professional high power chainsaw for a large amount of work. It is used for regular harvesting of large-sized wood. The STIHL MS 880-36 saw provides high-quality and accurate cutting of wood of any thickness. Can be used for felling trees.
The STIHL MS 880-36 has a heated carburetor. There are no problems with starting at sub-zero air temperatures.
The STIHL MS 880-36 chainsaw is equipped with an instantaneous chain brake and an advanced anti-vibration system. In case of strong kickback, the Stop system is activated. The saw is characterized by an increased level of safety and reliability.
Pros:
- high power;
- high efficiency;
- versatility of application;
- quick start in all weather conditions;
- reinforced anti-vibration system;
- low noise performance;
- strong and reliable case;
- resistance to shocks, falls and other mechanical damage;
- the presence of a chain brake;
- automatic oil supply.
Cons:
- heavy weight;
- overpriced.
Video “STIHL MS 880-36 – the best saw in terms of quality and reliability”
In this video, experts talk about the benefits of a professional unit.
CHAMPION 265-18
A powerful and reliable tool for active use. CHAMPION 265-18 is highly resistant to wear. The case is made of strong and reliable material. Thanks to its high performance, the saw copes with a large amount of work. Can be used in farming and forestry. CHAMPION 265-18 is often used for a range of construction applications. The ergonomic shape of the handle and low vibration improve the performance of the tool.
Pros:
- high-quality assembly;
- body resistance to mechanical damage;
- excellent anti-vibration protection;
- handle ergonomics;
- simplicity and ease of use;
- high productivity.
Cons:
- large dimensions;
- noise during intensive use;
- oil leaks when tilted.
Video “Overview CHAMPION 265-18”
This video shows the scope of delivery of the tool.
STIHL MS 661-28
STIHL MS 661-28 – powerful saw for demanding tasks
Extremely powerful saw for demanding tasks. It is characterized by high productivity under any operating conditions. STIHL MS 661-28 features a high quality anti-vibration system. The presence of an instant chain brake increases the level of safety of the device. In case of strong kickback, the chain brake is activated automatically. Thanks to the heated carburetor, the chainsaw can be used even in severe frosts.
Pros:
- versatility of application;
- high performance;
- convenience and ease of operation;
- reliable protective system;
- good anti-vibration;
- reinforced body.
Cons:
- noise above average;
- difficulties with the replacement / repair of original spare parts.
Video “Overview of STIHL MS 661-28”
This video demonstrates how a chainsaw behaves in operation.
When choosing a chainsaw, pay attention not to the design of the unit, but to its technical characteristics and functionality. A high-quality and reliable chainsaw will serve faithfully for more than a dozen years.