Cutting firewood with an ax is backbreaking work that most no longer have time for.
So, if you regularly need to cut your firewood, buying a chainsaw will be the most economical and efficient decision you can make.
Below, we help you find the perfect chainsaw for firewood cutting and give you tips on how to chop firewood on your own.
Quick Overview
Winner
Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Built for heavy-duty and challenging work
Most powerful chainsaw model here
Low vibration and noise level
Runner-Up
Green Works 16-inch G-MAX 40V Chainsaw
Warranty for four years
70% reduction in vibration
Suitable for medium to heavy-duty work
Our Top 9 Choices For Best Chainsaw For Cutting Firewood
| Best Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood | Power | Bar Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw | 60.3 cc | 24″ | Check Price |
| 2. Green Works 16-inch G-MAX 40V Chainsaw | 40V | 16″ | Check Price |
| 3. BLACK + DECKER LCS1020 | 20V | 10″ | Check Price |
| 4. Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw | 55.5 cc | 20″ | Check Price |
| 5. Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas Chainsaw | 50 cc | 20″ | Check Price |
| 6. Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf Chainsaw | 59.8 cc | 20″ | Check Price |
| 7. Husqvarna 450E SASII45020 Gas Chainsaw | 3.20 hp | 20″ | Check Price |
| 8. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw | 20V | 12″ | Check Price |
| 9. Makita XCU03PT1 18V X2 | 18V | 14″ | Check Price |
9 Best Chainsaw for Cutting firewood
#1 – Winner – Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Built for heavy-duty and challenging work
Most powerful chainsaw model here
Low vibration and noise level
Power and Performance
If you want the best chainsaw for cutting firewood, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the champion model of choice.
It is built for heavy-duty cutting of large wood for sawmills, re-affirming it has enough power to surpass any other model in this guide on any task, including cutting firewood.
Its X-Torq technology is built into its power source: a monstrous 3.62 HP and 60 cc engine that will give you enough power for operating its 60.96 cm or 24-inch Bar and chain in even the most challenging of firewood cutting situations.
Design and Added Features
Everything is contained in a sleek, balanced design weighing only 12.8 pounds or 5.81 kg.
It also has a full control choke and spring assisted Air Purge Smart Start Technology. Some of its comfort and safety features include LowVib Technology and lower noise levels.
Finally, it also has a centrifugal air cleaning system that filters out and stops any sizeable chunks of firewood, debris, and sawdust from clogging the air filter.
This helps prolong its engine life and lessen the maintenance required for its upkeep.
Its performance and features are so incredible that it is unanimously well-loved by users, firewood chainsaw reviews, and professionals everywhere.
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
The Husqvarna 460 gas-powered chainsaw’s features and specs are perfect for anyone who regularly engages in heavy-duty work, making it the best chainsaw for cutting firewood if you usually do so for extended periods or in large volumes.
All of its safety features, combined with its comfortable design, will allow you to use this professional-grade chain saw for hours with ease and comfort.
Here’s what you’ll love
Smart Start technology built-in
Powerful 60cc X-Torq engine
24-inch chain for challenging tasks
Easy access chain tensioning
Easy to grip ergonomic handles
Anti-vibration technology
Adjustable automatic chain oiler
Inertia-activated chain brake
Here’s what you might not like
Automatic oiler can be troublesome at times
Over-working and over-heating results in stalling
Expensive
#2 – Runner-Up – Green Works 16-inch G-MAX 40V Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Warranty for four years
70% reduction in vibration
Suitable for medium to heavy-duty work
Power and Performance
This 16-inch cordless chainsaw is the next best thing to cutting firewood. It allows you to forego the inconvenience of mixing your fuel, cleaning air filters, changing spark plugs, or maintaining a carburetor engine.
The GreenWorks G-MAX gives you reliable performance and is one of the best chainsaws for cutting firewood. Each battery charge gives you 30 to 45 minutes of actual cutting time or a guarantee of 150 cuts.
And if you run out of juice, there is no need to worry! Charging will take you only 30 minutes. This gives you just enough time to go on a lunch break while charging your battery, then start cutting firewood again right after!
This cordless chainsaw’s brushless motor gives you additional torque and a longer run-time to help you cut firewood for longer.
Design and Added Features
The Green Works G-MAX is super lightweight at just 10 pounds. It also has an Automatic (Fixed Flow) Oiler to keep your bar and chain adequately lubricated at all times.
And it is easy to keep your chain correctly tensioned with its Tool-Less Chain Tensioning System. Its added features include a low kickback, electronic brake, noise reduction, and 70% vibration reduction.
There is a model with an 18-inch or 16-inch blade. The 18-inch model comes with an 80V battery if you need a more powerful cordless chainsaw for cutting firewood.
Unless you need a powerful chainsaw for firewood cutting, we recommend the 16-inch model. Its bar length is just right for cutting wood, without being unnecessarily long or expensive.
Regardless of what you choose, it will come with a 4-year warranty and all the other features we mentioned here.
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
If you live in a neighborhood or residential area where noise can be an issue or need a powerful cordless chainsaw to take with you in the middle of nowhere, the Green Works 16-inch 40V G-MAX is an excellent choice.
Here’s what you’ll love
Super lightweight
Cordless with a long-lasting battery
Durable
Easy and comfortable to hold and use
High power efficiency
Translucent oil tank for easy refilling
Noise reduction
Here’s what you might not like
Oil may drain out while in storage
#3 – BLACK + DECKER LCS1020
Quick Facts
Short 10-inch bar and chain
Perfect for fast tree pruning
Warranty for two years
Power and Performance
Black + Decker is well-known in the power tools industry to provide high-quality tools with excellent designs and durable construction.
If you want the smallest chainsaws possible without giving up raw power, this Black Decker model is the best you can get. It has a 10 – inch bar length that is easy to use and can get a lot of firewood chopping and tree pruning done in the shortest time.
Its 20V battery is lithium-ion, which the manufacturers promise will last five times longer than traditional batteries.
Design and Added Features
You can use it as you would use scissors. This small chain saw can make super-fast cuts while keeping you safe.
Unlike gas-powered chainsaws, this Black + Decker model is quick to start up with its start button and sliding safety – lock combination, which doubles as safety features.
Your neighbors have nothing to worry about because the noise of these chainsaws from Black + Decker is comparable to that of a vacuum cleaner.
This makes it the best small chainsaw for chopping firewood in the backyard.
The parts that come with this model is a 10 – inch low kickback bar and chain. This minimizes kickback and keeps you safe and comfortable. It also has a wraparound bale handle to give you extra comfort.
The best part is this chainsaw’s Automatic Tool-less Chain Tensioning System. This sets the proper tension for the chain without you having to fiddle and guess around.
This system also prevents any over or under-tightening of the chain, both of which can cause a lot of damage to your chainsaws or, worse, injury to you.
If you want additional accessories, you can get this model with a leaf collection bin, a power cut, an extra 2.0AH battery, or an extra 3.0AH battery.
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
Suppose you typically do a lot of yard work, use your chainsaw in a suburban backyard, and want the best lightweight chainsaw available to speed through all your tasks, such as tree pruning and brush cutting.
In that case, this electric chainsaw is one you should consider.
Here’s what you’ll love
Convenient to use
Stays charged for a long time
Comfortable and easy to control
Easy oil – level gauging
Lightweight and portable
Maneuverable for fast cutting
Low volume levels
Long-lasting lithium-ion battery
Here’s what you might not like
Too weak for thick wood
Short battery charge
The automatic oiler may be faulty
#4 – Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Perfect for heavy-duty saw work
CARB-compliant due to lower emissions
Smart Start technology
Power and Performance
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw is the best choice for doing heavy-duty saw work and firewood gathering with its 50.8 cm or 20-inch bar and large 3.5 HP gas engine.
It can easily cut down wood from large trees and is considered one of the most powerful chainsaws available on the market, making it the perfect chainsaw for firewood cutting.
Its gas-efficient X-Torq technology is built into the 3.5HP 55.5cc chain saw engine to give you the best power and torque to operate its 20″ bar with no stalling.
It is also equipped with an Automatic Tool-less Chain Tensioning System and an Automatic (Adjustable Flow) Oiler.
Design and Added Features
All Husqvarna chainsaws are powerful, quieter than other chainsaws, and have anti-vibration technology.
It is also lightweight and well-balanced to lessen your fatigue. An added feature is the bucking spikes that let you mount chainsaws on the trunk you are cutting firewood out of.
Weighing only 12.8 pounds or 5.81 kg, you will not waste time starting this up because it has a full control choke and spring assisted Smart Start technology.
We love the Centrifugal Air Cleaning System, which keeps large debris and dust out of the air filter. This lessens your work because your chain saw will last longer despite fewer cleanings.
The X-Torq technology is why this chain saw has been certified as compliant with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) due to its lower gas and fume emissions.
It even has an Inertia-Activated Chain Brake, Bucking Spikes, and an Automatic (Adjustable Flow) Oiler!
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
If you need a powerful chainsaw for firewood cutting, felling large trees, or just chopping up wood in general, you cannot get any better than this gas model.
This chainsaw can deliver reliable performance without tiring you throughout the day and is pimped out with every imaginable feature!
That is why the 455s are the best chainsaws for cutting firewood available on the market.
Here’s what you’ll love
Smart Start technology built-in
Ergonomic handles and better grip
Anti-vibration technology
Lightweight well-balanced saw
Chain catch and brake
Low kickback
CARB compliant and low emissions
Noise level control
Here’s what you might not like
Automatic oiler can be finicky
Overheating if fuel mixture too rich
More expensive than the 450E Husky
#5 – Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Reasonable price
70% fewer emissions
20% lower fuel consumption
Power and Performance
If you require a gas chainsaw that requires more power than the ones we have recommended light work, the Poulan Pro PR5020 is your best bet.
The PR5020 is equipped with a 50.8 cm or 20-inch bar powered by a massive 50 cc engine size, perfect for cutting wood from any tree and firewood cutting.
Its 20″ bar is excellent for several medium to a few heavy tasks. And despite the power, it comes at a reasonable price.
The Special OxyPower Engine Technology allows you to save money. It creates 70% fewer emissions and 20% lower fuel consumption than other gas chainsaw models in the long term.
Design and Added Features
The Poulan Pro PR5020 also has a purge bulb, providing a means to supply the carburetor with fuel, making this gas chainsaw easier to start with fewer pulls.
Note that its Side-Mounted Chain Tensioning System requires a unique tool (known as a scrench) for quick chain adjustments. However, it will not be challenging to do since it’s integrated into its rear handle.
It uses an Automatic (Fixed Flow) Oiler to keep your gas-powered chainsaw well-lubricated. However, some may prefer an oiler with adjustable flow. It is up to your preference.
Its user-friendly combination choke/stop control allows you to start this gas chainsaw faster and with 30% less pull force.
This feature will also ensure you are given excellent reliability by lowering the engine flooding risk if any stalling occurs.
The lower emissions are suitable for both the environment and you.
Since the emissions are lower, the air you will breathe in will also be cleaner, allowing you to breathe more easily and avoid adverse long-term effects of inhaling all those fumes.
And as a plus, it helps to filter air out more efficiently, lessening the time and effort required to clean it!
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
Despite some of its flaws, this is the perfect chainsaw for you if you want excellent value for your money and need a reliable chainsaw for firewood cutting without stepping into the professional chain saw market.
Here’s what you’ll love
70% fewer emissions
20% more fuel efficiency
Effortless pull system
Easy start-up
Purge bulb is protected
Inertia-activated chain brake
Here’s what you might not like
Manual Tensioning System
Prone to flooding
No adjustable flow oiler
#6 – Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Can run 20, 24, or 27-inch chain
Digital ignition system
Easy to start
Power and Performance
The 20″ bar Timber Wolf Chainsaw can hold its own against the other models here with its 3.89 HP power output.
Featuring an easy start and plenty of power, this chainsaw will not wear you out during a full day’s work. It is also lightweight at just 13 pounds.
The standout feature is the 59.88cc and 3.89HP engine designed to provide enough power for its default 20″ bar and a 24-inch and 27-inch bar and chain.
This makes it an extremely capable chainsaw for firewood cutting while also being versatile enough to take on other difficult tasks.
Design and Added Features
With a bar length of 20 inches or 50.8 cm and a weight of 13 lbs or 5.9 kg, the Timber Wolf is easy to control.
You can also expect an easy start every time you use the Timber Wolf with its fully controlled choke and a decompression valve for easy pulling.
This saw can handle all kinds of work with no trouble. It uses 2-stroke fuel, just like all other gas chainsaws.
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
If you typically cut a lot of firewood and need a chain saw that is versatile enough also to handle other challenging work, the Timber Wolf is powerful and flexible enough to meet all your needs.
It gives you the ability to switch your bar and chain from a shorter 20-inch to cut branches and thinner wood to a 24-inch bar for more robust wood and even up to 27 inches for those stubborn wood logs.
It is reliable and flexible, allowing you to use your chainsaw for firewood cutting every day.
Here’s what you’ll love
Powerful 3.89hp engine
The 20-inch blade is capable
Decompression valve
Effortless to start
Easy access manual chain tensioning
Chain brake and chain catch
Warranty for five years
Here’s what you might not like
Pricey compared to the competition
Chainguard housing is made of plastic
No vibration or noise control built-in
#7 – Husqvarna 450E SASII45020 Fully Assembled Gas Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Massive engine despite the shorter bar
Easy to start
Protected air filter
Power and Performance
With its Smart Start technology, you can quickly get the 450E up and running without wasting time pulling on a starter cord, allowing you to chop firewood faster.
This Husky model’s engine’s high horsepower at 3.2 HP also includes its X-Torq technology, which supplies you with plenty of raw power to operate its 50.8 cm or 18-inch bar.
If you regularly have to cut firewood, the Husqvarna 450E is a wonder to behold. Its 18-inch bar length is powered by a robust 50.22 cc engine size you can depend on during operation.
No energy is wasted on powering an unnecessarily long bar, making this perfect for someone who regularly uses their chainsaws for various tasks, including cutting firewood.
It is a compelling gas chain saw for all-around use with a versatile bar length. It will not needlessly tire you out when you have to use it all day.
Design and Added Features
Despite its size and power, the 450E is lightweight at 11.3 pounds or 5.1 kg. It is also equipped with LowVib technology to make it easier and more comfortable to use.
Like the Husqvarna 460, it also features technology to protect its air filter. Its fuel consumption is efficient, and its exhaust emissions are also lowered, making it environmentally-friendly.
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
Despite its smaller size and bar length, this Husqvarna 18-inch gas saw can cut firewood, branches, limbs, and any type of wood, even in demanding situations.
If you need a smaller and lighter saw still capable of the most challenging firewood cutting tasks, this is the Husky model for you because its 18-inch blade is the ideal length of chainsaws for cutting firewood.
Here’s what you’ll love
18-inch blade makes it versatile
50.2cc X-Torq engine
Budget-friendly
Great to use for challenging situations
Easy access chain tensioning
Ergonomic handles for better grip
Low vibration
Lightweight frame
Here’s what you might not like
Factory chain dulls pretty quickly
Manual chain tensioning can be challenging
#8 – DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Customized Oregon Bar and chain
Can even cut 16-inch thick trunks
Automatic oiling system for constant lubrication
Power and Performance
The DEWALT DCCS620P1 is considered one of the bestselling electric chainsaws on the market that is well-suited for cutting down firewood.
It uses powerful 20V lithium-ion max batteries with a highly-efficient engine that allows you to take this on-the-go anywhere.
It works well if the charge lasts. The brushless motor makes it easier to use, and it has a chain speed of 25..2 ft/s, which is more than enough for the average home user.
The built-in knob for chain tension control and tightening is conveniently placed to ensure you always have a properly tightened blade.
Design and Added Features
This DeWalt model features a customized Oregon Bar and chain and was particularly designed without a brush edge.
The automatic self-lubrication system has an oil level indicator. It also works well to ensure your chainsaw will always stay well-oiled.
You should use high-quality vegetable oil with this chainsaw, though in its absence, you can use non-detergent SAE30 type oils when in a pinch.
Users have fallen in love with this chainsaw and have given it 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Note that you must fill it with the right kind whenever the oil runs out to avoid damaging the blade and chain. Avoid thick oils and waste oil.
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
If you want an excellent chainsaw for various forms of yard work and for cutting wood, this cordless DeWalt model should be one of your top considerations. It is efficient at consuming its battery and is comfortable for use anywhere.
Here’s what you’ll love
Cordless and portable
High work power efficiency
Lightweight and easy to carry
Less noise pollution
It stays well lubricated for longer
Here’s what you might not like
Picky with the type of oil for lubrication
It cannot be used continuously
Oil always must be refilled with the right quality
Some found it wasn’t long-lasting
Wrong oil damages bar and chain
#9 – Makita XCU03PT1 18V X2
Quick Facts
Fast charging
Dual-port charger for simultaneous charging
Plenty of safety features
Power and Performance
Powered by two 18V or 4 5.0 AH lithium-ion batteries, the Makita CXU03PT1 is one of the best chainsaws for cutting firewood.
This configuration gives you 36V of run – time and excellent performance. This makes it more than capable of taking down small trees and cutting dense firewood, such as oak and maple.
With a 35.56 cm or 14 – inch bar, you can use this cordless chainsaw for almost any task or chore. The brushless motor delivers a lot of power while preserving battery life to prolong your use.
Design and Added Features
This cordless chain saw uses a tool-less chain adjustment system. You need only turn the knob on the side of the saw to achieve the chain tension you desire.
It also has an automatic oiler and view window, which will allow you to make sure your chain and bar are oiled adequately.
The kit includes a dual-port charger that can charge both batteries rapidly and simultaneously. With this chainsaw, you can guarantee you will not be emitting harmful gases or chemicals in the air.
To operate this saw, you need to keep the built-in safety button always engaged. This reduces the chances of getting an injury to virtually zero.
There is also an included lock-off lever that stops the chain from accidentally engaging.
These features make this Makita chainsaw one of the safest medium-sized chainsaws available on the market.
It is also perfect for homes where children may accidentally play with your power tools, though we still suggest storing it in a safe place!
Is this the Best Chainsaw for You?
Suppose you have a particular need for battery-operated chainsaws for continuous work; this Makita model is the best homeowner chainsaw for you.
This chainsaw offers a lot of power and fantastic cutting speeds. The 14 – inch bar makes it suitable for all home needs, and its added safety features will make sure you and your family remain injury-free!
Here’s what you’ll love
No spark plug replacement costs
Fast charging lithium-ion batteries
Channels debris and moisture away
Higher motor life
Very portable
High cutting speeds
Low volume levels
Fast charging
Here’s what you might not like
4 – second automatic shut – off may be too short
Redundant power button
How to Cut Firewood With Your Chainsaw
The way you cut wood with an ax and a chainsaw is different.
When using a chainsaw to cut firewood, it is best to cut them into 18 or 16-inch sizes. This is so they can fit more quickly in a fireplace and your job isn’t so difficult.
Below is an essential guide to cutting your firewood with a chainsaw:
- Set the tree log on a stump and place it there horizontally.
- Place two smaller pieces of wood on either side of the firewood you are cutting. This prevents the wood from rolling away.
- Take your chainsaw and cut through the full length of the log, cutting it in half.
- Take each half and repeat the process to cut those pieces again, giving you quarter-sized pieces.
Safety and Precautions When Cutting Firewood
Wear the Right Safety Gear
As with any task that involves powerful tools that can cause injuries and with any other chainsaw work, you must wear the right safety gear to avoid unnecessary injuries.
- Head protection – Since you will also deal with cutting branches and twigs, some can fall on your head. Wear proper head protection to prevent blunt injuries.
- Eye protection – While cutting firewood, many small pieces and sawdust fly around. Eye protection will keep these and other debris from getting into your eyes and keep you from accidentally blinking or having to look away, making your cutting work more secure, as well.
- Hearing protection – Chainsaws are very noisy tools. Even those with noise reduction technology can still damage your ears, especially if you are regularly exposed to that sound level. So, wear a good set of hearing protection gear to prevent potential hearing loss.
- Chainsaw chaps or pants – Considering that most chainsaw injuries involve the legs, a good set of chainsaw chaps will prevent your legs from getting injured. They work by jamming or stalling the chainsaw if it makes contact with your pants.
- Safety toed boots – Steel-toed boots avoid the risk of crushed toes. Non-slip soles and heels will also keep you from tripping and falling as you walk on uneven ground.
- Gloves – Wear proper gloves thick enough to give you protection from all the wood and sharp things you are handling. The gloves should also give you a good grip and be comfortable enough for you to wear. A good set of anti-vibration gloves lessens the damage your body will receive from long-term exposure to vibrations and will give you a secure grip on your chainsaw.
- Snug fitting clothes- Loose clothing increases the risk that some portion of what you are wearing can snag on wood, trees, or worse, your chainsaw. So, wear something comfortable but snug to lessen the excess cloth around you.
Safe Handling and Other Tips
Here are a few more tips and recommendations on how to safely handle your chainsaw when cutting firewood:
- If you are walking from one place to another, use the front handle of your chainsaw to keep it from accidentally cutting your thigh if you trip. And if you are moving over 10 feet, always turn off the engine.
- Bring someone who can do first aid and give you medical assistance in case there are accidents or injuries. They should also bring a first aid kit with them.
- Always have your phone or radio to call for emergencies or assistance.
- Cut nothing above your shoulder height, as it could fall on you.
- When not cutting trees, always use the chain brake. Remember to keep it in the locked position.
- When cutting anything, put your chainsaw on the full-throttle even before contacting the wood.
- Do not operate your chainsaw when tired or under the influence.
- Have someone help you or use a lever or machine whenever you are moving logs to avoid injuring your back.
- Keep your chainsaw teeth sharp, as a dull chain is difficult to use and unsafe. It can also overwork you or your chainsaw.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood
Type of Chainsaw
You must choose three types of chainsaws: gas, battery-powered, or corded electric chainsaw.
The most powerful chainsaws are gas-powered. However, they are also the heaviest, bulkiest, and noisiest. Gas chainsaws will require 2-cycle fuel, a combination of gasoline and special 2-cycle fuel oil.
Depending on the manufacturer, this mixture can change, so read the fuel mixture specs that come with your professional chainsaw.
This is the main advantage of a battery and corded electric chainsaw, which does not require you to mix your fuel for your saw. These are also lighter and are usually more user-friendly, with some having keypads and digital ignition systems.
However, an electric chainsaw may not be as powerful as a gas chainsaw.
A corded electric chainsaw will require an extension cord and a nearby power source, which may be difficult if you are cutting firewood in the middle of nowhere.
Battery-powered chainsaws are more comfortable to transport but are limited by their battery life, usually ranging from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the battery’s size.
If you plan on carrying extra batteries with you, these extras can cost a lot of money.
Guide Bar or Blade Length
This is one of the most critical features you need to consider when buying a chainsaw for cutting firewood.
The guide bar or “blade” is what the chain is connected to and is powered by the engine to spin around and cut the wood.
To determine the right bar length for you, you need to select the largest wood diameter you will be cutting. Then, add about two inches to that length. Here, it is useful to overestimate.
For example, if the largest diameter of branches you encounter is about 12 inches, then a 14 – inch bar may be the best for you.
However, remember that saws with a more extended bar will require more power in their engine to operate. The longer the bar length, the harder it is to control the chainsaw and the greater the risk of injuring yourself.
This is because the chainsaw becomes unbalanced or front-heavy, and fatigue becomes a significant factor, as the chainsaw will feel heavier the longer you hold and use it. A 14 – inch chainsaw is more comfortable to control than a 24 – inch one.
For gas chainsaws, guide bars typically range between 12 to 71 inches. A size between 12 to 20 inches is best for the casual user or homeowner. Anything above 20 inches is already considered a “professional-grade” chainsaw.
Below are some of the most common gas chainsaw lengths and the tasks they are most suited for:
- 12 to 14 – inch bar- pruning and trimming branches
- 16 to 18 inches – cutting firewood and felling small trees
- 20 to 24 – inch – felling large trees and cutting thicker logs
Engine Power
The most important part of a chainsaw is its power, delivered by its engine. The more power your chainsaw has, the more capabilities it must handle challenging and demanding jobs.
This is especially true when dealing with challenging and thick woods, which require massive amounts of engine power and torque that only a professional chainsaw can deliver.
An obvious choice to make is to go for a gas-powered chainsaw, as they produce the most power out of all the types of chainsaw. This gives you the versatility to handle both hard and softwood types like a hot knife through butter.
However, if your professional field involves landscaping and gardening, you will not want the high noise levels common to all gas-powered chainsaws.
A quiet option is ideal not to disturb your employers and/or neighbors. You will want a balance of low noise levels, excellent control, accuracy, and precision in one professional chainsaw.
The better option for you would be an electric or battery operated chainsaw.
While they may not be capable of handling thick hardwood, they are more than able to keep up with your landscaping and gardening work.
They can still cut through 2- 0.25 inches of wood and any other task you may require when beautifying your yard.
You need to remember to bring a suitable extension cord with you to supply power from anywhere in the house, garden, or garage for corded electric saws.
Battery-powered chainsaws are also excellent if you work in different houses or changing locations. You may still be limited by the short battery life unless you bring spare batteries with you.
Noise Level
Chainsaws are well-known for their loud noise production. This is especially true for gas-powered professional chainsaws.
Studies have shown that gas-powered saws can make noises range from 106 to 117 decibels in the operator’s ear.
Electric chainsaws, excluding battery-powered models, produce noises that range from 90 to 102 decibels. That is an enormous difference.
We recommend checking the dB ratings of the chainsaw model you are looking to buy before making that purchase. Always remember that no matter what, always wear ear protection.
Doing these two things will prevent hearing damage and hearing loss, which you will surely be grateful for in the future.
Top Picks
Winner
Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Our absolute favorite has to be the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. This robust chain saw is more than enough for chopping up an endless supply of firewood. It is also robust enough to accomplish all other chainsaw work you may need.
And while it is also the most expensive, its reliability, durability, quality, and feature-rich engineering justifies its price.
Runner-Up
Green Works 16-inch G-MAX 40V Chainsaw
The Green Works G-MAX gives you the perfect saw for filling up your fireplace without costing an arm and a leg.
It is jam-packed with all the modern features you can want in your chainsaw while also ensuring you have an enjoyable experience while using it.
We especially love its lightning-fast charging time of just 30 minutes and its noise and vibration reduction technology.
If you want a chainsaw that is fun to use and will do the job quickly, this is the one for you.
Conclusion
The models in this guide are more than capable of chopping up firewood.
Here, you have the best options to choose from: from the most powerful to the most affordable. You will not need to look elsewhere to find the perfect chainsaw for you.