7 Best Gas Chainsaws

Buying a Gas Chainsaw

For large-scale projects, you don’t want to be limited by the portability and runtime of an electric chainsaw. For big jobs, choose a gas-powered chainsaw. Sure, they require fuel and more maintenance. But when used correctly, these heavy-duty tools are extremely efficient for cutting, pruning and felling trees.

When shopping for a gas-powered chainsaw, consider these features:

• Weight: While larger saws generate a lot of power for big jobs, they can also be heavy. Choose a saw that’s light enough for you to effectively maneuver, on a vertical plane and for sideways cuts when trimming branches and angled logs. Be realistic about how much weight you can safely handle.
• Bar length: The length of the bar (in inches) indicates the maximum log diameter it can safely and effectively cut. Choose a bar an inch or two longer than whatever you will be cutting. Don’t assume that the longer the bar, the better. If you don’t need the length, you won’t use it efficiently.
• Use: Think about your tasks. Smaller, lighter-duty saws (approx. 11 to 13 inches) are great for smaller jobs like pruning. And because they’re lightweight and maneuverable, they’re inherently safer than larger options. Medium-duty saws (14-16 inches) can handle a bit more and are versatile enough for lots of residential tasks. Pro-style saws (18 to 22 inches) are OK for smaller tasks but better suited to felling and processing large logs.
• Maintenance: Gas chainsaws require regular maintenance and need periodic adjustment to keep the chain in the ideal position. Look for features that make these processes easier, like tool-free chain adjustment knobs and an automatic chain oiler.
• Cost: Gas-powered chainsaws range from less than $200 to more than $3,500. Determine your budget and you’ll find a saw to match.

Safety

Gas-powered chainsaws are dangerous tools and can easily injure or kill the user in a fraction of a second. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 36,000 people are treated for chainsaw injuries every year. So be sure to receive the proper safety training before using one.

This video offers helpful chainsaw safety tips. And we strongly recommend having a professional or experienced user walk you through how to safely start and operate a gas-powered chainsaw. You should also never use one without personal protective equipment, including chaps and face, hearing and eye protection.

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