A chainsaw can be a useful tool to have in your kit. But you have to be aware that not all chainsaws are made to handle every job. You wouldn’t use a pole saw to cut firewood for example. Nor would you want to reach above your head with a full sized gas tree cutting saw to trim small branches.
So, choose the right tool for the job. Let’s take a look at the different types of chainsaws you may be in the market for.
This is going to be your go-to if you have a lot of cutting to do. Gas powered saws run faster than your average electric saw. That means you’ll need less pressure on the blade to get a quick, clean cut.
These are the workhorses of chainsaw world. Great for felling large trees, cutting lots of firewood or clearing away storm debris. You’ll need good arm strength to use the pull starter as well as hefting this type of chainsaw for long periods. They are loud and heavy. Their gas engines require refueling as well as careful maintenance.
WEIGHT: 6-20 LBS
BAR LENGTH: 12-24 INCHES
CUTTING CAPACITY: LARGE TREES
STARTING PRICE: $160.00
A little lighter in weight, the corded electric chainsaw is good for lighter duty jobs. Mid-size trees and small amounts of firewood. Their slower chain speeds limit the types of work you can easily do with them. But for light yard work, they’re hard to beat. Just be sure to take extra care with the cord, (they can get in the way and be a bit limiting).
All the benefits of electric without the limitations of a cord. These will get the smaller jobs done admirably and will operate as long as you have charged batteries on hand. These units tend to be as expensive as a basic gas powered chainsaw, but the mobility and lack of exhaust fumes can be a real plus.
WEIGHT: 5-17 LBS
BAR LENGTH: 6-18 INCHES
CUTTING CAPACITY: MID-SIZED TREES
STARTING PRICE: $59.00
These can be a real help in pruning trees and trimming low hanging branches. No need for a ladder, the pole saw has all the reach you need to safely take care of keeping your trees in good shape. These can be gas or electric and although they are really useful, they are not meant for the big jobs.
WEIGHT: 6-17 LBS
BAR LENGTH: 6-20 INCHES
CUTTING CAPACITY: LIMBS/ SAPLINGS
STARTING PRICE: $100.00
Now that you have a gauge of what type of chainsaw you’ll need to do the kinds of jobs that you may come up against, let’s look at some features that will improve your chainsaw experience.
Getting the right chainsaw is just part of the equation. Making sure that you are safe when you operate it is just as important. Do yourself and your loved ones a favor and invest in good safety gear that will ensure that you have years of safe operation.
Safety glasses (with side shields), leather boots with non-slip treads and steel toes are a must. Gloves that have excellent grip and are cut proof will help to keep mishaps to a minimum. A hardhat and ear protection should always be used and cut resistant chaps will help to protect you from damage to your legs. Keeping safe while doing your work is paramount.