Best Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood – Tested Chainsaws

Using a power-driven chainsaw for cutting wood has really turned into an adventure, by dint of recent technology. Modern technology has created many a chainsaws suitable cutting firewood. Here, I’m going to mention some of the best chainsaws which exhibit imposing performance besides their beauty that satisfies one’s aesthetic sense as well.

They are attaining lighter weight but the graph of their performance is going higher and higher. They are being made sharper and quicker in work.

Similarly, the list of safety measures is also getting gigantic. With all those, and many other enhanced qualities, their capability of cutting, pruning, trimming, limbing etc. is getting colossal every next day.

Once, the people felt a terrible anxiety in using an electrical, battery operated or gas chainsaw.

best chainsaw for cutting firewood

But, with the achievement of leading ergonomics, their use is getting a celebrated game for the novice or the amateur logger. Underneath, you will find various models of the chainsaws with the best options of spare parts and mechanical operation. You may select any one of them for your home or the farm. These are all adorned with powerful features.

Best Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood 2023

Chainsaw
Type
Engine Power
Price
DEWALT XR Chainsaw
Battery Powered
3.5 HP
Check Price
Greenworks 40V
Battery Powered
Battery Output 4 Amp
Check Price
Worx WG304.1
Corded Electric
3.5 HP
Check Price
CRAFTSMAN 41BY Gas Chainsaw
Gas Powered
3.2 HP
Check Price
Greenworks 80v Pro GCS
Battery Powered Chainsaw
Battery Potential 80v
Check Price
Husqvarna 120 Chainsaw
Gas Powered Chainsaw
3.5 HP
Check Price
SALEM MASTER 6220G
Petrol Gasoline Chainsaw
3.4 HP
Check Price

1. DEWALT XR Chainsaw

Type: Battery Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 12 Inches | Engine Power: 3.5 Horse Power | Battery Potential: 20v | Weight: 8.8 Pounds

Dewalt XR is constructed with all the basic potential that commercialize it as a suitable chainsaw for cutting firewood. The appliance is fitted with high performance 3.5 Hp motor that gives an elevated output.

The energetic thrust of the motor is not only fit for cutting trees or rough and tough timber but also demolishing the beams on construction work.

Ergonomic perspective is clearly visible in the construction of Dewalt XR. Along with power and resilience, the light-weight machine is equipped with superior parts which make the machine suitable in all the areas of performance, either in the yard or in the garden. There are numerous features which make the use of Dewalt XR easy and comfortable.

In fact, I feel a remarkable sensation when I hold the handle bars. They feel fine in my palm and I feel a good grasp on the machine, perhaps due to its outstanding circumference. Supreme quality handle rubber offers me good clutch along with an ergonomic bent that lets the user handle the machine in all the best angles during his operation.

Brushless technology is achieving good fame due to making the maintenance easy and economical. This feature not only increases the life of the gadget but also secures you from spending time or money on the brushes whenever they expire. Brushless motors have also proved fantastic in giving better runtime and high efficiency.

12 inch chain makes the device more suitable for light operation. On the 4 x 4inch wood you may get 90 cuts per single charge, when the wood is sturdy and rigid. Tool-less tensioning system makes it very easy for tightening the bar or tensioning the chain without using any scrench. You have to rotate two knobs with finger to accomplish the job easily.

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • Low kickback chain
  • Compact, light-weight design
  • Tool-free tensioning system
  • Ergonomic project

Cons

  • Comes without battery and charger

Personal Experience Review

Actually, it is basically your requirement that makes a device more suitable for you than any other contemporary gadgets. For example, if you want to treat the huge size of timber on professional level, you need a device with longer bar and chain. I have only a small garden where not very large trees grow. For this, it suits me the most.

If you are working on the same category, you will find Dewalt XR best apposite device for you. Secondly, the feature of low kickback makes its usage sheltered even for a novice.


2. Greenworks 40V 

Type: Battery Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 16 Inches | Battery Output: 4 Amp | Battery Potential: 40v | Weight: 10.36 Pounds

Greenworks is a marvelous edition in the history of mechanical chainsaws. Let us start from mechanics. Its motor is harmonized with brushless technology that is found a fantastic invention.

Brushless technology produces a motor that works without brushes and it produces less noise, better speed and decreases expenses on maintenance.

Along with performance, brushless motors are found better in durability and resilience. The standard size of chain that is 16 inch tallies the requirements of most of the loggers for working at domestic level.

Similarly, Greenworks carries 10.36-pound weight that is again a fine feature liked by maximum number of the fellers. To make handling easy and comfortable, Greenworks is equipped with wraparound bar handle that is inevitable for cutting branches, which you find propagating on tough angles. This idea also proves to be fine for security against any mishap.

Greenworks comes with Prostyle tensioning system. This system requires you to rotate two easy clasping knobs with fingers and tighten the chain and the bar perfectly. This tool-less functioning saves time as well as strain to keep the screw driver and the wrench always available around you.

Next, the 40volt battery is again a fine addition. Obviously for better output you need a stronger input. Hence there is 40volt battery instead of commonly used 20volt. If we talk about its superficial beauty, greenworks acquires appealing construction. Green color matches the aesthetic sense of many. The structure is lovely and impresses the onlooker even at the first glance.

Pros

  • Automatic oiling system
  • No need to give warm up pulls
  • Trubrushless motor
  • Equipped with chain brake
  • Produces no smoke or noise

Cons

  • Difficult to check oil level

Personal Experience Review

I found greenworks fantastic paraphernalia in my backyard. I find no hassle in the functionality or maintenance. Most of the parts are automatic and easy to handle. The structure is robust and seldom needs repairing.

For increased productivity, greenworks is equipped with metal bumper spikes. This feature extends the durability and performance of the bar and the chain.


3. Worx WG304.1

Type: Corded Electric Chainsaw | Chain Length: 18 Inches | Engine Power: 3.5 Horse Power | Weight: 11.3 Pounds

Worx WG304.1 is loaded with the finest equipment. It is heavier than some other electric chainsaws which makes it favorite of the people who like some massive thing in their hands that they might feel the weight of during their cutting operation.
However, the apparatus is not that much heavy that fatigues you or creates any hurdle in your maneuver.
There is a long list of ergonomic features that qualify Worx WG as a unique contraption.

Its 15 ampere motor output is enough to give you more than satisfactory logging with extended timing. Moreover, 18 inch bar is a sufficient length to fell the tree trunks with greater circumference in your backyard.

For making Worx WG completely handy, easy and comfortable in usage, you find a unique automatic chain tensioning system. This system eliminates the anxiety of loose or over tightened chain. Moreover, patent tool-less chain replacement exempts you from learning the mechanics before using the chainsaw.

The list of fine features still goes on. Worx WG is adorned with automatic oil lubrication that does not let the chain work dry and hence saves the chainsaw from getting blunt early. You will find a built-in oil reservoir and a window to check the oil level easily. This will help you to see when you require adding oil into the reservoir.

Low kickback bar and chain brake are really precious gifts for your safety. Low kickback comes active when the machine comes across some awkward jerk or movement. Chain brake stops the chain in fraction of second and saves your hand from injury. A sophisticated hand guard is there for saving your hand from any sharp slice out of split wood.

Pros

  • Comes completely assembled
  • Automatic oiling
  • Auto tension chain system
  • Built in lubricant reservoir
  • Window for checking oil level
  • Low kickback bar

Cons

  • Tensioning knob is too smooth to rotate easily

Personal Experience Review

I am much satisfied with the performance of Worx WG. All the parts are well built and well located. Only one thing I feel messy. That is, continuous checking of the electric cables around me and see that they are not going to entangle my feet.

Otherwise, there is no alternative of electric chainsaws. However, if you learn, as I have learnt, how to cope with the scattered cables, Worx WG is the best chainsaw for you.


4. CRAFTSMAN 41BY Gas Chainsaw

Type: Gas Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 16 Inches | Engine Power: 3.2 Horse Power | Piston Size: 42cc | Weight: 15.22 Pounds

CRAFTSMAN 41BY has a sophisticated appearance and contains sophisticated ergonomics as well.

Gas powered chainsaws are better welcomed than other kinds due to powerful performance and durable physique.

CRAFTSMAN S165 is equipped with 3.2 horse power engine which offers you a perpetual work, without a notion of drop-down presentation.

A logger feels at home with the chainsaw even when he is felling a heavy tree. The 16-inch chainsaw is not large enough to create a challenge for the skills of an amateur operator.

15.22-pound weight comes in medium category that is not too light to produce heavy job and not too heavy to fatigue your muscles soon. For security measures the machine is fitted with two parts worth mentioning. One is the chain brake that can cause the machine stop in fraction of second when come across some abnormal hurdle.

The other one is sophisticated hand guard that saves your hand from some awkwardly flying slice out of under process wood. Three-point anti-vibration system secures you from fatiguing and draining during a long and strenuous spell of working. For easy upkeep you do not need tools to reach the spark plug and the air filter.

Pros

  • Ergonomic and durable design
  • Pretty chassis
  • Automatic chain brake
  • Ease in usage
  • Powerful speed and thrust of the engine

Cons

  • Lacks choke and stop control

Personal Experience Review

I like CRAFTSMAN S165 for cutting firewood at a marvelous speed. With 42cc power, it cuts even a robust log like a knife that cuts butter. Only I need to find the spot and then put the chain at the right angle. And then the assigned work is done in no time.

In a speed test, I achieved an average of 125 cuts on 4 x 4 lumber in an hour, which is an amazing display, I hope. In short, my personal experience remains good with CRAFTSMAN S165. I am more than satisfied to state that for domestic work this machine is sufficiently efficient.


5. Greenworks 80v Pro GCS

Type: Battery Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 18 Inches | Battery: Lithium Ion | Battery Potential: 80v | Weight: 2.05 Pounds

Simply, I found Greenworks Pro GCS invincible in every field of performance.

Even though it is designed on the requirements of novice or amateur users for domestic job yet I found the machine perfect for professional loggers as well.   

Greenworks Pro is gifted with 18 inch chainsaw that executes its duty on the professional level. You may fell huge trunks without a single hitch.

As the machine is battery operated, you don’t need to take care of the spark plug or feel awkward about the fumes or gases that might spoil your environment.

Though gas chainsaws are famous for power, yet its powerful 80 volt lithium ion battery compensates this blemish. With this power the battery is powerful enough to give you continuous performance till your satisfaction. Fast charging does not let you find the ways to kill the time during its charging period.

Trubrushless technology adorned with the double torque motor achieves unbeatable worth. This feature gives you more than you expect. For instance, you need not change the brushes and hence there is less mechanical work for you to do.

Secondly, it increases the life of the motor. Thirdly, this technology provides you with better runtime. Fourthly, you acquire more efficient maneuver. And the last, but not the least, your motor gets less noisy during your arduous work.

Automatic oiler supplies appropriate lubrication which keeps the chain sharp for long time and increases the productivity to a good extent.

Pros

  • Twice more torque
  • Output equivalent to 42 cc engine
  • Automatic oiling system
  • Digital brushless motor
  • Multi-functional device

Cons

  • No tool-less tensioning system

Personal Experience Review

My first experience of using this device was full of hopes and expectations. And truly it came up to my expectations. This very light weight gadget proves the giant of performance in the field. It can do a lot for you.

Greenworks Pro is not only a logging machine but also a lawn mower, hedge trimmer, limb shearer and string slimmer. With all the variety of jobs it proves to be a precious and professional grade apparatus.


6. Husqvarna 120

Type: Gas Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 16 Inches | Engine Power: 3.5 Horse Power | Weight: 13.49 Pounds

In the constellation of the best chainsaws, Husqvarna 120 has proved itself a worthwhile choice for buyers.

First thing that catches one’s attention is its structure and handle bars. Wrap around handle bar provides you good grip and easy movement of the arm in different angles, according to the structure of the limb or branch you are going to snip.

Husqvarna 120 is loaded with a robust 1.8-Horse power X-Torque engine with the piston size 38 cc.  These features help in reducing up to 60% gas discharges and increasing up to 20% fuel productivity.

Of course, with these features, you acquire sufficient yield. You must like these features as they are environment friendly as well as provide you economic output.

The supreme gadget offers you to change the length of the bar from 14 to 18 inches according to your requirement. You are not restricted to use the chainsaw only for cutting firewood. You may easily use the machine for various other purposes like lawn mowing, milling, limbing, landscaping etc.

Next prominent quality is effortless start up. The valuable device is furnished with choke and start control system that enables the engine awake in a few light pulls. This system also secures the engine from flooding. Air purge system supports easy start. Low vibration technology is another edge that enables the user to work easily, without feeling much fatigue.

Air injection technology performs a good job of cleaning the debris and larger fragments in air. Before the air reaches the air filter, it is distilled by centrifugal air cleaning system. Then only fine remains reach the air filter. This is surely helpful in increasing the life of both, the engine and the air cleaner.

Pros

  • Effortless starting
  • Multi task tool
  • Uses dampers to reduce vibration
  • Centrifugal air cleaning system
  • Inertia activated chain brake
  • 2 to 5 years warranty

Cons

  • No tool-less tensioning

Personal Experience Review

I found Husqvarna 120 very comfortable and supportive device. Loaded with a number of modern tools, I enjoy its companionship while working in my garden. I tried using it for long duration and the result was quite satisfactory. Neither machine showed weariness nor I felt fatigued.

My experience remained wonderful. I like the machine due to security measures that keep me tension free while using it. However, you should avoid getting careless during the process of cutting the logs at awkward position.


7. SALEM MASTER 6220G

Type: Petrol Gasoline Chainsaw | Chain Length: 20 Inches | Engine Power: 3.4 Horse Power | Engine Capacity: 62cc | Weight: 17 Pounds

Salem Master Pro has an impressive performance and appropriate ergonomics.

From its unique appearance it seems to be a topper in the list of best chainsaws. However, you know your special liking mostly depends upon your requirements.

Salem Master Pro is equipped with 62 cc authoritative engine which delivers powerful output.

20 inch chain is large enough to transfer the chainsaw from the domestic to the professional category.

Tremendous 8500 rpm speed makes Salem Master Pro an ideal chainsaw for everybody. It is capable of felling large trees in a couple of minutes.  

The ergonomic design supports your arms during the cutting process. Wraparound bar handle with specific non-slip, shock proof moulds offer good grip and helps you work for long without feeling exhausted. Automatic oiling system saves the chain and the bar from accidental dry environment that can be fatal for the blades.

Safety switch is another unique addition into the assembly of the machine. This is a great property that secures the user from some terrific injury in case of accidental push on the start button. For further security, the chainsaw is equipped with kickback protection technology. These safety measures assure the excellence and superiority of the gadget.

Tool-less access to the air filter makes it easy for you to change it at proper timing. Sharp cutting teeth on the chain are projected at right an angle that increases the performance of the chain to a great extent.

Pros

  • Intensively hard bar
  • Shock absorbing rubber handle
  • Automatic oiling system
  • Security switch for safety measures
  • Copper nozzle carburetor

Cons

  • First time start needs extra pulls
  • Nuts on the side get loose extravagantly

Personal Experience Review

Salem Master Pro 6220G is no doubt a fantastic gear. Steady power runs the large chain gracefully and makes the machine cut the timber gracefully. I like black color because it looks so sophisticated and unique. This quality and many others make Salem Master Pro my favorite chainsaw.

Secondly, the kit is very effective and enduring and long lasting. If you see it at work, you will feel that a huge axe is felling the foamy trees. Even the hardest timber cannot stay before its bites for long. Next, modern technology displays itself in every facet of the device. In short, I found the gadget nice-looking and impressive.


Conclusion

It is worth understanding how trees and plants knit a relationship with humans. Evidently, man adores their beauty and tries to enhance their beauty. Perhaps major motive of cutting trees for firewood is not economical but to strengthen the relationship and keep their beauty intact.

In the quest for the best chainsaw for cutting firewood, we see a lot of progress in technology. The manufacturers are trying to instill more and better features into their products. All the above-mentioned products are quite popular in the market. However, for your interest I selected three of them which may be more attractive for you as well.

  1. DEWALT XR Chainsaw
  2. Worx WG304.1
  3. SALEM MASTER 6220G

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )

Q1. Can you use a chainsaw to cut firewood?

Some chainsaws are specially designed to cut firewood. However, you may use any kind of chainsaw to cut firewood, but you need a little time to learn the skill. If the logs are thicker than your firebox, you must cut them lengthwise.

Q2. Which wood is better for firewood?

It is found that hard wood with good density produces more heat. For this purpose, maple and oak are found better plants to get firewood. They burn slowly and produce more heat.  Soft wood burns fast and gives less energy.

Leave a Comment