Best Chainsaw for Cutting Trees & Pruning – Top 8 in 2023

Most of the people wish to prune the plants in the backyard or the farm themselves. I am going to discuss underneath selected brands of chainsaws for cutting trees which are more appealing than others and gaining good popularity in the market.

There is an enormous list of the factors that turn a felling machine into the a suitable chainsaw for cutting trees. First factor is the power source. You are required to choose which suits you the best according to your need. Mainly, there are three kinds of chainsaws are available in the market, i.e., Gas powered, battery operated and electrical chainsaws.

Your selection depends upon your requirement as well as your personal preferences. Battery operated chainsaws are mostly light in weight and size. While gas chainsaws are mostly pull-start and you need to refill the gas tank now and again, according to your usage of the saw.

Second factor that you have to take care of is ergonomics. You need not select very heavy chainsaws.

There are many chainsaws which are lighter in weight but they provide you with the best speed along with finest sheerness.

Of course, with lighter weight you may work for a long time, without fatiguing your arms.

Best Chainsaw for Cutting Trees

Next, you need to see the engine. Modern engines are lighter in weight and better in productivity. It means, they consume less fuel but offer you better performance. Durability is also very important factor to consider cautiously.

Chain brake is good equipment securing the logger from the risk of kickback of the chain. Similarly, hand guard is found to be a compulsory part of a secured chainsaw.

Length of the bar and the chain is again a very important factor that you need to consider before selecting the chainsaw. Of course, the length of the bar must be according to the size of the timber in your yard or home. So, there is no need to buy a chainsaw with longer length without a reason.

Best Chainsaws for Cutting, Felling & Pruning Trees – Powerful & Reliable

Chainsaw
Type
Engine Power
Price
Husqvarna 460 Rancher
Gas Powered
3.6 HP
Check Price
BILT HARD Cordless Chainsaw
Gas Powered
2.7 HP
Check Price
WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw
Electric
2.2 HP
Check Price
Greenworks Pro 80V
Battery Powered
3.5 HP
Check Price
CRAFTSMAN S165 Gas Chainsaw
Gas Powered
3.2 HP
Check Price
Makita-UC4051A Chainsaw
Electric
1570 Watt
Check Price
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw
Electric
3.5 HP
Check Price
Husqvarna 130 Gas Chainsaw
Gas Powered
2 HP
Check Price

1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher

Type: Gas Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 24 Inches | Engine Power: 60.3cc | Weight: 15.5 Pounds | Adjustable Oil Pump: Yes | Tooled Chain Tensioning: Yes

Husqvarna 460 Rancher is a treasure of power with an engine that is equipped with efficient 60.3 cc piston.

Its 3.6 horse power, X-Torq engine brilliantly reduces emissions of harmful gases and also increases fuel efficiency.

It is easier to start as it is provided with choke system that is also helpful in saving from flooding.

It is light in weight which is very suitable for doing non-stop jobs for long. It is made up of durable material.

Husqvarna 460 Rancher is powered by 24 inch chain that gives you a good option to fell a bulky stem in a single blow. Its sheerness makes your job very easy and you need not exert power to get more output. It cuts like a knife that cuts a buttercup stalk.

Husqvarna 460 is powerful beast equipped with comfortable handle bar. You feel no tension on your shoulders by dint of any awkward angle of the log. Its speed helps you fell even a rough and dry stem in a minute or two. You are only required to put the chain at right angle and then apply an average pressure on the bars.

My first experience with Husqvarna 460 Rancher was really a idealistic one. If you ask me why I would prefer it over other devices I’ll write two principal reasons. It is easy to use and contains low vibration technology. It helps in giving shape to the beauty of nature according to my imagination.

You need to pull the cord once or maximum twice to bring the engine into life. The experience of cutting the branches was also cozy and comfy. I worked in tranquil with the feel of security in the presence of hand guard. Its chassis is although soft and light in weight yet quite resilient and weatherproof.

Pros

  • Equipped with Chain Brake
  • Economical
  • Centrifugal Air Cleaning System
  • 24 Inch Large Chain
  • Low Vibration Technology

Cons

  • Lacks Auto Oiling System

Personal Experience Review

In the presence of good equipment, its overall performance is impressive. I can state easily that you will find your value of money. Resilient chassis ensures its durability. Size of chain is large enough that a professional logger can also use it comfortably. It promises good speed and gives no botheration even when you are using it after a couple of weeks.


2. BILT HARD

Type: Gas Powered | Chain Length: 18 Inches | Engine Power: 2.7 Horse Power | Piston Size: 52cc | Weight: 15.5 Pounds

BILT HARD chainsaw offers better performance due to its valuable mechanisms based on modern technology.

It is provided with double security against dust particles and debris. Its air cleaning system removes bulky particles before approaching the air filter. Of course, it increases the life of engine to a large extent.

It carries 2 stroke powerful engine that provides you with the speed of 1100 rpm and fells the wood clear in a wink of eye.

You will definitely like its high quality carburetor that ensures less input with greater output. In fact, BILT HARD is made up of sterling material, that is why in durability it is leading its contemporary chainsaws.

With 18 inch chain, it cuts the timber clean and spotless. Being a low recoil chain it gives very efficient output. Especially, I like this device by dint of its sophisticated handle bars. They are prominently convenient in holding and pleasantly supportive in cutting. They offer my hand to hold them in a variety of angles.

Even though you need to pull the cord to start it yet you will like its response on pulling the starter. Its engine is so responsive that you don’t need to pull the cord twice. Furthermore, you don’t need a mighty pull. A mild and steady pull is enough to enliven the engine.

BILT HARD chainsaw runs on gas. However, it is a little heavier than Husqvarna with the difference of two pounds. However, heavy weight improves the strain on the wood and improves the sharp cuts. Secondly, its chain length is shorter than Husqvarna Rancher. This is more suitable for relatively small trees and thin trunks.

Thirdly, BILT HARD is fitted with an engine that is more powerful. It offers 2.7 horse power that is strong enough to cut even the most stubborn type of  wood.

Pros

  • Highly Powerful Engine
  • High Quality Carburetor
  • Low-Kickback
  • Comes with 8 oz. lubricating oil
  • Kit contains safety goggles
  • Automatic chain oiler

Cons

  • No tool-less tensioning

Personal Experience Review

BILT HARD is undoubtedly a fabulous garden tool and energetic cutting device. Its speed gives it a superior look and its budget performance is an overriding lure for each and every logger. Its speedy work is worth noting. My preferences are inclined to BILT HARD due to another big reason. It is tempting and elegant in all its appearance.


3. WEN 4017

Type: Electric Chainsaw | Chain Length: 16 Inches | Engine Power: 2.2 Horse Power | Weight: 10 Pounds | Motor: 12 Amp

Though WEN 4017 electric chainsaw requires an electric wire to provide it input.

It is again up to a logger what he likes. If you don’t mind to cope with the wires, then electric chainsaw is the best option for you.

It is very light in weight that goes up to only 10 pounds. Very easy to handle and you may keep on working for hours without tiring your arms and shoulders.

Secondly, you need not worry about the charging of batteries or filling the gas properly.

You only require managing a socket with a switch button close to your working place. As soon as you insert the plug of the machine into the socket, your job starts.

WEN 4017 electric chainsaw is a precious tool. Its 16 inch chain is invincible in performance. Auto-oiling system provides appropriate lubrication. Furthermore, you don’t need any screw driver, wrench or scrench for chain tensioning. You can do it with your fingers only.

You need to rotate two knobs with your fingers and the job is done. Tool-free tensioning system is modern technique and proves to be very handy and time saving.

After speed the feature that impresses me is light weight of the gadget. You will seldom find a chainsaw working god speed with only 12 pound weight. Thirdly, tool-less chain tensioning system increases the speed of the job and keeps the saw in a healthy condition which ultimately increases the life of the device.

Pros

  • Tool-free tensioning system
  • Works with 2.2Nm of torque
  • Two year warranty
  • Automatic oiling system
  • Speed of 44 feet per second

Cons

  • Sometimes light weight decreases durability

Personal Experience Review

Chopping wood with the speed of 44 feet per second with a minimal torque of 2.2 Nano meter was a very good experience. I realized soon after purchasing it that I had made a good decision. Quite contrary to its size, it gives me a fabulous performance and I feel something more than satisfaction.


4. Greenworks Pro 80V

Type: Battery Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 18 Inches | Engine Power: 42 cc | Engine Capacity: 3.5 Horse Power | Weight: 2.05 Pounds

I have always been an ardent lover of nature. And hence I love to spend my time in my backyard. Like many others, I don’t like to see the plants growing on their own.

I love to prune them and keep them so trimmed that they may fulfill aesthetic sense of everybody.

To satisfy myself I often visit the market and always try to look for some new and modern tool to keep the view of my garden healthy and pretty.

I have mostly used gas chainsaw so battery operated Greenworks Pro chainsaw was a big change for me.

Its weight amazes me the most. When first time I was told that it was only 2.05 pound, I was stunned and could never believe it until I tested it myself.

Contrary to its weight, its engine is not weak in performance. It proves a giant of performance in its full swing. Fitted with up-to-date technology, it is really value of your money. Greenworks Pro is supplied with 18 inch chain. It is best suitable for one’s personal place. Its speed and ease in use make greenworks Pro the best option for you.

Brushless motor does not need brushes, so they don’t wear out and no need to change them. This feature increases the efficiency of the motor and reduces the expenses.

My personal experience of using greenworks remained a unique journey by dint of many reasons. Besides its speed and light weight it is treasure of modern technology like brushless 3.5 horse power motor. This feature not only increases the life of the tool, but also decreases its noise and hence makes the device noiseless.

Chain brake and handle guard provide good security against any jerk or kickback of the chain. Its automatic oiler and brushless motor are gaining much popularity.

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • Very light in weight
  • Push button start
  • Environmental friendly module
  • Lithium-ion technology
  • Battery charge in 30 minutes

Cons

  • Needs extra battery for non-stop working

Personal Experience Review

I like this device for a couple of its unique qualities. First, with invincible 3.5 horse power motor, this small machine turns it into an awe-inspiring chainsaw. Its 18 inch bar is awesome for the amateur loggers. Its automatic chain lubrication system increases the productivity of the machine in your hand.

Its battery gives good output. My practical experience says that you may get up to 150 cuts on 4 x 4 log in a single charge. It is a good capacity, I hope.


5. CRAFTSMAN S165

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

CRAFTSMAN S165 is bejeweled with all the basic elements of the a good chainsaw for cutting trees. It is easy to assemble and you need no special skill to join its parts.

It is a beautiful and buoyant souvenir. Its intermediate sized body and typical weight helps the logger manipulate the log smoothly and comfortably.

Its engine is so commanding and impressive that even the most critical feller can completely trust it.

It is made up of long-lasting material and can face even the adverse weather conditions.

It is provided with the inertia based chain brake as well as hand guard that secure the user from any kind of calamity or mishap.

CRAFTSMAN S165 consists of 16 inch chain which is the best average length for working in the backyard and home garden. Its marvelous speed and sharp teeth do not let any kind of wood stay for long. It chops like a knife that enters the butter. Its automatic oiling system increases its cutting performance to the optimum level.

CRAFTSMAN S165 offers you the tool-less option of increasing or decreasing the amount of lubricant according to your need. It also provides you with easy view of the oil level. Its handle bars are so sophisticated and offer you the specific angles that ease your grip on the machine. Its easy start system is marvelous and needs not much heavy pulls.

I was impressed by CRAFTSMAN in my first experience of using it in my garden. Three-point anti-vibration makes it so smooth in working. Its ergonomic balanced design distinguishes it from its contemporary gadgets. Its tool-less entrance to spark plug and air filter compartment make its maintenance easy for you.

Its 3.2 horse power engine always asks for more to satiate its tongue. Even the toughest timber gets soft before its powerful teeth. It is so balanced that you feel at ease in cutting the awkward shaped, most stubborn trunks quite comfortably.

Pros

  • Adjustable Automatic Oiling System
  • Durable Poly Chassis
  • Easy Start Technology
  • Easy Oil Level View
  • Tool-less approach to Plug and Air-filter

Cons

  • Lacks Choke / Stop Control

Personal Experience Review

CRAFTSMAN S165 is a fanciful chainsaw for the backyard and home garden. Its compact size is very helpful in operating the device. Its maneuverability is so promising and accommodating to the heavy duty job that you never need to put your heavy task on the next day.


6. Makita-UC4051A Chain Saw

Type: Electric Corded Chainsaw | Chain Length: 16 Inches | Power: 1570 W | Weight: 2.2 Pounds

Makita-UC4051A is a premium gadget glittering with splendid paraphernalia.

It is festooned with precious mechanisms and machineries that make Makita-UC4051A dominate the market. With only one kg weight, it is a trinket in the hands of a pruner of the garden or the yard.

Makita is equipped with a large trigger switch for comfortable usage. A large window allows you to have a sight of oil level for easy checking of bar lubricant.

Tool-less tensioning system increases the ease of operation and easy maintenance.

Makita-UC4051A is adorned with a powerful motor of 1570 Watt that runs the chain at the speed of 2900 feet per minute. This is enough speed to cut even a robust lumber in a minute or so. Rubberized grip handle is an amazing thing. It does not let your fists sweat profusely. Moreover, its special texture keeps your hand comfortable.

This 16 inch chainsaw is comfortable for medium size timber. Special shape of the blades secures it from getting blunt immediately. Its durable chassis keeps you tension free of rotting or decaying when stored for long.

I am very contented with Makita due to a specific reason. Often when my chainsaw is overloaded I feel the danger of motor burning out. Makita is encumbered with a magnificent technology of current limiter that reduces the power to the motor in hazards and hence minimizes the threat of motor burning out.

Secondly, even with only 2.2 pound weight, it gives good performance. Its performance never lets me down in the yard. Its timing of maneuvering and nonstop working is really a good experience.

Pros

  • Durable Chassis and Machinery
  • Built-in current Regulator
  • Large Oil Box
  • Rubberized Handle Bar
  • Large Trigger Switch 
  • Very light in weight

Cons

  • Oiling needs a good skill

Personal Experience Review

This small in size but great in performance electric machine is a nice addition to the home appliances. Makita-UC4051A is capable of giving good performance in all circumstances and weather conditions.

For better performance it is fitted with large metal spike bar that increases its productivity. It is made for efficient cutting and dexterous performance. If you can cope with the wires, Makita is really made for you.


7. CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw

Type: Electric Corded Chainsaw | Chain Length: 16 Inches | Engine Power: 3.5 Horse Power | Weight: 6.19 Pounds | Motor: 12 Amp

CRAFTSMAN Electric chainsaw is one of the few chainsaws where you find your left hand not directly facing the chain or the blade.

Perhaps this is an extraordinary place for the feller for clutching the gadget, but it is surely an ample security against chainsaw kickback. 

Its chassis is light in weight and has a blend of durable sheets. A little care in handling and keeping can result in an intact gadget for years and years.

CRAFTSMAN is provided with 16 inch high efficiency chain. Tool-less chain tensioning is good addition in the technology of chainsaw. There are only two knobs that you may rotate with your fingers. This easy mechanism keeps your chain in good condition and ultimately increases the productivity of the gadget.

The gadget is very easy to handle. Even a layman or an aged person can handle it quite easily. Even a woman can use it in the garden for pruning and cutting wood for burning fire. Its speed keeps you at ease during your hectic job.

There are a couple of features that make CRAFTSMAN a distinctive and unique device. If we talk about security, the first thing that has impressed me about CRAFTSMAN is its low kickback. Secondly, quite contrary to common gadgets, your left hand is not in the line of the chain. That is why in case of kickback, your hand will be at a distance from the path.

Pros

  • Easy start
  • Three years warranty
  • Tool-less chain tensioning
  • Auto oiling mechanism
  • Less noisy
  • Environment friendly

Cons

  • No window to show oil level

Personal Experience Review

Whenever I come with this machine in my garden for cutting trunks and branches of awkwardly grown trees, I feel very light and comfortable. Contrary to gas chainsaw or battery operated ones, I feel no tension in taking care of charging batteries or filling the gas.

I feel myself as light as a feather with the comfy environment that it provides during operation. My tension free operation keeps me very comfortable and I can do my work for hours, without a pause.


8. Husqvarna 130

Type: Gas Powered Chainsaw | Chain Length: 16 Inches | Engine Power: 2 Horse Power | Piston Size: 38cc Weight: 5.6 Pounds

Gas chainsaws or generally heavy in weight, but Husqvarna 130 weighs only 5.67 pound. That is quite contrary to other gas chainsaws available in the market.

Husqvarna 130 is provided with 2 horse power X-torque engine that ensures reduced emission of harmful gases as well as an increase in fuel efficiency up to 20 percent.

It is equipped with a hand guard and a sophisticated handle bar.

Husqvarna 130 is equipped with centrifugal air cleaning system. With this technology, the machine gets rid of bulky particles in the environment before air reaches the air filter.

It is also adorned with low vibration technology. The gadget uses dampeners to reduce vibration.It is easy to start and comfortable for cutting. Its 38cc engine is powerful enough to rout out even the toughest lumber. It is equipped with inertia based chain brake that reduces the risk of any mishap.

Husqvarna 130 is an impressive and remarkable machine. My experience of working with it remains splendid and I never find shortcomings or any complaints against it. Efficiency of the engine remains 100 percent. Its marvelous speed never lets me down even against the toughest wood.

As it is gas powered gadget, there is neither any botheration of the wires not always watching the accurate charging of batteries. With light weight, it is possible for all to examine its performance in the garden, at least once.

Pros

  • Easy to start
  • Two years warranty
  • Inertia-activated chain brake
  • Air injection technology
  • Low vibration technology
  • Reduced risk of engine flooding

Cons

  • No window for checking oil level

Personal Experience Review

Vigorous Husqvarna 130 supports your limbs to work for long without making you even a tad fatigue. This is made possible by dint of two powerful dimensions of technology. One is its light weight. And the second one is its low vibration technology. With less vibration you feel so peaceful that even the job of many hours doesn’t let you fatigue.


Conclusion

In my view your knowledge should be updated before you decide the device you are going to buy. You must know various important features of chainsaws before you enter the market. That may be very helpful for you to get your required machine.

My personal experience with all these above mentioned products remained very good. However, every logger has his own inclinations and his own requirements. Different products fulfill the requirements according to their own specifications. For your interest I mention three top gadgets underneath:

  1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher
  2. Greenworks Pro 80V
  3. Husqvarna 130

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )

Q1. How do I choose a chainsaw?

You need to see your requirements before you choose a chainsaw. For example, what the diameter of the trees is which you are going to fell. Secondly, what type of wood you are going to cut.

Q2. What size chainsaw do I need for cutting trees?

Usually, the chainsaw with the bar of 14 inches is enough to fell a might tree, however, you must look into your circumstances before you choose a chainsaw for the job. The diameter of the trunk is significantly bigger, you should better consider a chainsaw with increased horsepower and larger chainsaw bar.

Q3. Is it better to chainsaw wet or dry wood?

It is better to chainsaw wet wood. The reason is that, dry wood offers more friction as it less percentage of wetness.

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