Imagine needing to fell a large tree or process a lot of firewood. What tool comes to mind? For many, it’s the powerful hum of a chainsaw. But when you’re faced with the task, and you see that “20-inch bar” label, a wave of questions might hit you. Is a 20-inch chainsaw right for you? How do you even begin to pick the best one from so many choices?
Choosing a chainsaw, especially one with a 20-inch bar, can feel overwhelming. You worry about getting one that’s too heavy, not powerful enough, or simply doesn’t fit your needs. You want a tool that makes your work easier, not harder. This guide is here to cut through the confusion and help you understand exactly what makes a 20-inch chainsaw a great choice for certain jobs.
By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident about what to look for. We’ll explore the benefits, the types, and the key features that matter most. Get ready to discover how to find the perfect 20-inch chainsaw to tackle your biggest projects with ease and power.
Our Top 5 20 Inch Chainsaw Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 20 Inch Chainsaw Detailed Reviews
1. PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw 24 Inch 20 Inch Petrol Handheld Cordless Chain Saw for Tree Wood Cutting
Rating: 9.5/10
Tackle your toughest outdoor projects with the PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw. This powerful tool is designed to make tree cutting, wood preparation, and land clearing a breeze. Its reliable performance ensures you can handle jobs around your garden or even further afield with confidence.
What We Like:
- The 68cc, 2-cycle engine delivers impressive power for efficient cutting.
- It makes tasks like pruning trees, clearing brush, and preparing firewood much easier.
- The anti-vibration system helps reduce fatigue, making your work more comfortable.
- A one-year warranty offers peace of mind for your purchase.
- It’s a robust tool ready for demanding jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The chainsaw’s weight might be a factor for users who prefer lighter tools for extended periods.
- While powerful, understanding the specific maintenance needs of a 2-cycle engine is important.
Overall, the PROYAMA 68CC chainsaw is a strong contender for anyone needing a dependable tool for serious outdoor work. It combines power with features that aim to make the job smoother.
2. OPERMAXER 58CC 20 Inch 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw
Rating: 9.5/10
Tackle any cutting job with the powerful and reliable OPERMAXER 58CC 20 Inch 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw. This bright red powerhouse is built for serious work, from trimming branches to felling trees. Its strong engine and sharp chain make quick work of wood, while thoughtful safety features keep you protected. Get ready to cut with confidence!
What We Like:
- The 58CC, 3.8 HP engine delivers plenty of power for fast cutting.
- The 20-inch bar and low kickback chain offer smooth, controlled cuts and are safer to use.
- It’s designed to be portable and easy to start, so you can get to work quickly.
- The anti-vibration feature helps reduce fatigue during longer projects.
- Built-in safety features like the brake function and guide plate guard offer extra protection.
- This chainsaw is made from strong materials, making it durable for tough jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The installation direction of the chain needs careful attention.
- While powerful, it requires a 25:1 oil mix, which needs to be remembered.
This OPERMAXER chainsaw is a robust tool that offers a great balance of power and user-friendly design. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable gas-powered chainsaw for various cutting tasks.
3. NEO-TEC 20 Inch Chainsaw
Rating: 9.3/10
The NEO-TEC 20 Inch Chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered tool designed for cutting wood in your outdoor garden. With its 62CC engine, it offers strong performance for various tasks. This chainsaw is built for ease of use, even for those who might find other chainsaws difficult to handle. It’s a great option for keeping your yard tidy and managing wood projects.
What We Like:
- The 62CC engine delivers strong cutting power.
- The wrap-around handle is comfortable and helps reduce tiredness.
- It features a built-in steel bar spring for easier starting, making it user-friendly for everyone.
- The chainsaw is lightweight, weighing only 14 lbs with the bar and chain.
- It’s portable and can even be used with one hand, which is great for long jobs.
- The design offers a good power-to-weight ratio for excellent control and performance.
- Starting is made simple with an easy-activate launcher and a reset foolproof switch.
- It comes with a 20-inch bar and chain, ready for immediate use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for ease of use, some users might still prefer more advanced anti-vibration features.
- Availability might be limited, so it’s good to check stock regularly.
Overall, the NEO-TEC 20 Inch Chainsaw is a well-rounded tool that balances power with user-friendly design. It’s a solid choice for homeowners needing a reliable chainsaw for their outdoor projects.
4. Oregon 2400W Powerful Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw with 18-Inch (45cm) Guide Bar
Rating: 9.2/10
Tackle your yard work with ease using the Oregon CS1500, a powerful 2400W corded electric chainsaw. This tool is designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, offering a long-lasting 18-inch guide bar for efficient cutting. Its integrated PowerSharp system means you can sharpen the chain in seconds, keeping you working without long breaks.
What We Like:
- Powerful Performance: The 15-amp motor provides plenty of power for most homeowner tasks.
- Self-Sharpening System: The built-in PowerSharp system sharpens the chain in 3-5 seconds, minimizing downtime.
- Easy Tensioning: Adjust the chain tension quickly and easily without needing extra tools.
- Automatic Oiling: The automatic oiling system keeps the bar and chain lubricated for smoother operation and longer life.
- Instant Startup & Low Noise: It starts immediately and is quieter than gas chainsaws.
- Ergonomic & Lightweight: Features a chain brake for safety and a lightweight design for comfortable use.
- No Assembly Required: The chainsaw comes pre-assembled, so you can start cutting right away.
- Warranty: Comes with a 3-year Oregon warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Corded Limitation: Being corded means you are limited by the length of your extension cord and need access to a power outlet.
- Power for Heavy-Duty Jobs: While powerful, it might not be the best choice for very large trees or extensive, heavy-duty logging.
The Oregon CS1500 is a fantastic option for homeowners seeking a reliable and user-friendly chainsaw. Its self-sharpening feature and ease of use make it a standout choice for regular yard maintenance.
5. Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw
Rating: 8.5/10
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw is a powerful tool for your outdoor projects. It’s designed for tree pruning, yard cleanups, and cutting firewood. This chainsaw combines a strong gas engine with features that make it comfortable to use.
What We Like:
- The 50.2-cc X-Torq engine delivers strong power for tough jobs.
- Smart Start technology makes starting the chainsaw quick and easy.
- LowVib technology reduces vibrations, making it more comfortable to handle.
- The ergonomic design with a soft inlay and asymmetrical handle improves grip and comfort.
- Air Injection technology helps the engine last longer by cleaning the air.
- The inertia-activated chain brake adds an extra layer of safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 20-inch bar is recommended, but it’s not the only option; check compatibility for other bar lengths.
- As a gas chainsaw, it requires fuel and oil, unlike electric models.
This Husqvarna 450 Rancher is a reliable choice for homeowners needing a capable and comfortable chainsaw. It balances power with user-friendly features for a great experience.
Your Guide to Choosing a 20-Inch Chainsaw
Why a 20-Inch Chainsaw?
A 20-inch chainsaw is a great size for many homeowners and property owners. It’s big enough to handle medium to large trees and cut through thick branches. But it’s not so big that it becomes too heavy or hard to control. This makes it a versatile tool for tasks like cutting firewood, clearing storm damage, or felling smaller trees.
Key Features to Look For
Engine Power (CCs)
The engine size, measured in cubic centimeters (CCs), tells you how powerful the chainsaw is. For a 20-inch bar, you’ll want an engine that’s at least 50 CCs. More CCs mean more power to cut through tough wood without bogging down. A more powerful engine makes your work faster and easier.
Bar and Chain Type
The bar is the metal piece the chain moves around. The chain has sharp teeth that do the cutting. Look for a chain with low-kickback features. This is a safety design that makes the saw less likely to jump out of your hands. The chain’s pitch (the distance between the drive links) and gauge (the thickness of the drive links) should match the saw’s specifications.
Anti-Vibration System
Chainsaws vibrate a lot. This can make your hands and arms tired and sore. A good anti-vibration system uses springs or rubber mounts to absorb these vibrations. This makes the saw more comfortable to use for longer periods.
Chain Brake
This is a crucial safety feature. A chain brake stops the chain quickly if the saw kicks back. It can be a manual lever you push with your hand or an inertia-activated brake that triggers on its own.
Automatic Oiling System
This system keeps the bar and chain lubricated as you cut. Proper lubrication prevents the chain from overheating and wearing out too quickly. Some saws have adjustable oil flow, which is a nice bonus.
Important Materials
Engine Components
A strong engine is key. Look for engines made with high-quality metals like aluminum and steel. These materials help the engine run smoothly and last longer.
Bar and Chain Material
The bar is usually made of hardened steel. The chain is also made of high-strength steel. These materials are tough and can withstand the wear and tear of cutting wood.
Handle and Housing
Handles are often made of durable plastic with a rubberized grip for comfort and control. The main housing, which protects the engine, is also typically made of strong, impact-resistant plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Chainsaw Better
- Powerful engine: Cuts faster and easier.
- Good anti-vibration: More comfortable for long jobs.
- Reliable chain brake: Essential for safety.
- Easy starting: Some saws have primer bulbs or decompression valves to make starting simpler.
- Durable build: Made with strong materials that won’t break easily.
What Can Make a Chainsaw Worse
- Weak engine: Struggles with tough wood.
- Poor anti-vibration: Leads to fatigue.
- Lack of safety features: Makes it more dangerous.
- Difficult starting: Frustrating to use.
- Cheap materials: Can break down quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who Should Use a 20-Inch Chainsaw?
A 20-inch chainsaw is great for homeowners who need to cut firewood, prune large branches, or remove trees on their property. It’s also useful for landscapers or anyone who regularly works with wood.
Ease of Use
A well-designed 20-inch chainsaw should feel balanced and comfortable to hold. Starting it should be straightforward. Features like tool-less chain tensioning can also make maintenance easier.
Safety First
Always wear safety gear: a helmet with a face shield, ear protection, gloves, and cut-resistant boots and chaps. Read the owner’s manual and understand how to operate the chainsaw safely. Never operate a chainsaw when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much power do I need in a 20-inch chainsaw?
A: For a 20-inch bar, aim for an engine with at least 50 CCs for efficient cutting of medium to large wood.
Q: What is kickback and how do I avoid it?
A: Kickback is when the tip of the chainsaw bar hits something hard, causing the saw to jump up violently. Low-kickback chains and proper cutting technique help prevent this.
Q: Is a 20-inch chainsaw too heavy for a beginner?
A: For some beginners, a slightly smaller saw might be easier to handle. However, with proper technique and safety gear, a 20-inch saw is manageable for many.
Q: How often should I sharpen the chain?
A: Sharpen the chain when you notice it’s cutting slowly or the wood chips are turning into dust instead of shavings.
Q: What kind of oil should I use for the chain?
A: Use a dedicated chainsaw bar and chain oil. Do not use motor oil or other types of lubricants.
Q: Can I use a 20-inch bar on a saw designed for a smaller bar?
A: No, you should only use the bar length recommended by the manufacturer. Using a longer bar than intended can damage the saw and is dangerous.
Q: How do I maintain my chainsaw?
A: Keep the air filter clean, the chain sharp and properly tensioned, and the oil reservoir full. Store it in a dry place.
Q: What safety gear is absolutely necessary?
A: You must wear a helmet with a face shield, ear protection, gloves, and cut-resistant boots and chaps.
Q: Are gas or electric chainsaws better for a 20-inch bar?
A: For a 20-inch bar, gas-powered chainsaws are generally preferred because they offer more power and run time for demanding tasks.
Q: How do I start a chainsaw safely?
A: Place the chainsaw on a firm surface, engage the chain brake, and follow the manufacturer’s starting instructions carefully.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!