🏠The Homeowner's Guide to Choosing the Best Chainsaw
You have a fallen tree that needs to be cut and cleared. You need it done today because it's blocking your driveway and you need to get the car out. So what do you do? Grab that chainsaw and cut it up for firewood? Ideally, yes! But seeing as you are here looking for the best chainsaw to help you out, let's help you choose the right one for your needs.
This guide is for the homeowner, the renter, the backyard enthusiast, and the weekend warrior. You want a chainsaw to cut down the odd tree on your property, chop out branches that are poking out awkwardly, or process a winter's worth of firewood. We'll focus on the best range of chainsaws that you might want to have tucked away in your shed for such occasions.
Before You Buy: 4 Key Questions to Ask Yourself
- Am I experienced enough for this chainsaw? The bigger the saw, the more experience you need. A powerful saw can be dangerous in untrained hands.
- How often will I be using it? If you're a frequent user, a gas-powered saw might be best. For occasional yard work, a low-maintenance battery-powered saw could be perfect.
- What type of wood will I be cutting? If you're mostly cutting softwoods like pine, you won't need a beast of a machine. For dense hardwoods like oak or maple, you'll need more power.
- What size trees will I be cutting? A good rule of thumb is that a chainsaw can safely cut a log that is twice the length of its bar. A 16-inch bar can handle a 32-inch log. If you're felling very large, mature trees, it's always best to call a professional arborist.
Safety First: Only Ever Buy a Chainsaw with a Chain Brake
This is non-negotiable. A chainsaw is not a toy. It is a powerful tool that can cause serious injury or death. You must only ever buy a chainsaw that features a chain brake. This is a critical safety feature that stops the chain in a fraction of a second during a kickback event, which is when the saw violently kicks up and back at the operator. If you are buying a second-hand chainsaw, you must verify that it has a working chain brake. Your safety is worth more than any tool.
⚡Gas vs. Electric: Choosing Your Power Source
Your second big choice is whether to go with a gas-powered or an electric chainsaw. Each has its pros and cons.
- Gas-Powered Chainsaws: These offer the most power and can run all day as long as you have fuel. They are completely portable but require more maintenance, including mixing fuel and oil.
- Electric Chainsaws (Battery or Corded): These require significantly less maintenance, are quieter, and produce no fumes. Battery-powered models offer excellent portability, but their runtime is limited by the battery life. Corded models have unlimited runtime but are tethered to a power outlet.
And don't think a battery-powered chainsaw lacks the guts to cut wood. Modern brushless motors and high-voltage batteries are incredibly powerful. Check out how well the DEWALT 60V FlexVolt chainsaw performs on a fallen tree:
⭐Top Chainsaw Recommendations for Homeowners
Best All-Around Gas Saw: Husqvarna 450 Rancher
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher is a robust, all-around saw that's ideal for demanding cutting jobs where more power is required. It's equipped with a powerful X-Torq engine, and its ergonomic design makes it easy to handle. It also features modern conveniences like Smart Start, Air Injection, and LowVib technology.
"The build quality is outstanding... I see myself using this saw for years (probably decades) to come."
Best Beginner Gas Saw: Husqvarna 120 Mark II (14-Inch)
This saw is perfect for beginners and homeowners. It's designed to start easily and is ideal for everyday tasks like tree pruning and firewood cutting. Its 14-inch bar is easy to maneuver, and at under $200, it's an incredible value. For more details, check out the Husqvarna 120 Mark II.
Best Battery-Powered Saw: DEWALT 20V Max XR (12-Inch)
If you want the convenience of electric, DEWALT has you covered with their 20V Max XR 12-inch chainsaw. It's a lightweight and easy-to-use saw perfect for home use, and it's also a great deal at under $200.