Imagine needing to clear a fallen tree or prepare firewood, and your chainsaw just won’t cut it. It’s a frustrating problem many homeowners face. Choosing the right gas chainsaw can feel like navigating a jungle of confusing specs and brand names. You want power and reliability, but you don’t want to waste money on something that’s too heavy or too weak for the job.
This is where understanding what makes a gas chainsaw “rated” becomes crucial. It’s not just about horsepower; it’s about finding a tool that matches your needs and skill level. We’ll break down what those ratings really mean, helping you avoid common mistakes and find a chainsaw that will be a dependable partner for years to come.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll guide you through the key features and considerations, empowering you to confidently pick the perfect gas chainsaw for your next project. Let’s get started on finding the right power for your needs.
Our Top 5 Rated Gas Chainsaws Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Gas Chainsaws Detailed Reviews
1. OPERMAXER 58CC 20 Inch 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw
Rating: 9.0/10
Tackle tough jobs with the OPERMAXER 58CC 20 Inch 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw. This red powerhouse is built for serious wood cutting, offering a blend of strength and user-friendly design.
What We Like:
- The 58CC, 3.8 HP engine packs a punch, reaching up to 12500 RPM for fast cutting.
- It’s designed for smoother, safer cuts with a low kickback chain and a 20-inch bar.
- The U-shaped handle makes it easier to hold and control, reducing tiredness during long work sessions.
- Starting is simple, and a fail-safe switch helps with quick starts and stops.
- Safety is key, with a brake function that stops the chain instantly and a protective guide plate.
- Built with strong ABS and metal, it’s ready for heavy use like trimming trees or logging.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember to check the chain installation direction for best performance.
- The 25:1 oil mix ratio needs to be followed for optimal operation.
This chainsaw offers impressive power and safety features for a variety of cutting tasks. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable gas-powered chainsaw.
2. JAYGOVAN 12” Top Handle Gas Chainsaw 2-Stroke 25.4cc Portable Chain Saws Petrol Handheld Cordless Petrol Portable Gas Powered Chain Saw for Tree Wood Cutting
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the JAYGOVAN 12” Top Handle Gas Chainsaw, your new go-to tool for tackling wood cutting tasks. This portable, gas-powered chainsaw is designed for both power and ease of use, making it a great choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike. Its compact size and lightweight design mean you can handle it comfortably, even during longer jobs. Get ready to make quick work of branches and small trees with this reliable chainsaw.
What We Like:
- The 25.4cc, 1.22 hp engine delivers a strong 900W of maximum power, letting the chain spin up to 9000 rpm for fast cutting.
- A high-temperature hardened chain stays sharp for longer, ensuring efficient wood cutting.
- The 11.8-inch cutting diameter and carefully chosen guides give you great control for precise cuts, even on tricky jobs.
- Starting this chainsaw is a breeze, usually taking only 2-3 pulls of the cord.
- Easily adjust the chain tension with a spark plug wrench, keeping your work smooth and uninterrupted.
- Weighing just 11.02 lbs and measuring 22.1×9.4×8.3 inches, this chainsaw is very light and easy to handle, saving you energy.
What Could Be Improved:
- As with most gas-powered tools, you’ll need to mix fuel and oil for operation.
- The top handle design might require a brief adjustment period for those used to rear-handle chainsaws.
This JAYGOVAN chainsaw offers a great balance of power and user-friendliness. It’s a solid option for anyone needing a dependable tool for their yard work.
3. Getell Professional 58cc Gas Powered Chainsaw with Quick-Switch Dual Bars (18/20 Inch)
Rating: 9.3/10
The Getell Professional 58cc Gas Chainsaw (G337 PRO) is a powerful tool designed to make your tough outdoor jobs easier. It’s built for serious work, letting you cut through thick wood quickly. This chainsaw is a real time-saver for big projects, helping you get more done.
What We Like:
- It has a strong 58cc engine that cuts hardwood easily.
- You can switch between an 18-inch and 20-inch bar in seconds. This means you can do detailed work or tackle bigger trees without changing your whole saw.
- It starts up fast and reliably, even when the weather is bad.
- The anti-vibration system helps reduce tiredness so you can work longer.
- It comes with everything you need to start, like two bars, chains, and a fuel mixing bottle.
- The automatic chain oiling keeps the chain cutting smoothly.
- Safety features like the quick-acting chain brake give you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- For beginners, understanding the fuel mix might take a little practice.
- While it has great safety features, always remember to wear your protective gear.
This Getell chainsaw is a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile tool for tree cutting and other demanding outdoor tasks. It’s a system that helps you work smarter and faster.
4. BILT HARD 18 Inch Gas Chainsaw
Rating: 9.4/10
Tackle your wood cutting projects with confidence using the BILT HARD 18 Inch Gas Chainsaw. This powerful tool boasts a 46cc, 2-cycle engine that delivers a strong 2.4 HP, making quick work of tough jobs. Its 18-inch bar and chain are designed for fast, smooth cuts, while features like an automatic oiler and air cleaning system ensure it runs efficiently and lasts a long time.
What We Like:
- The 46cc, 2.4 HP engine provides superior power for demanding tasks.
- It starts easily with a recoil starter and cuts smoothly with an 18-inch bar and chain.
- The automatic oiler and air cleaning system help it run well and last longer.
- The lightweight design and anti-vibration system make it comfortable to use.
- Safety features like low kickback and an inertia-activated chain brake offer peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 40:1 fuel-to-oil mix requires specific attention.
- Users might need to get used to the handling of a powerful gas chainsaw.
This BILT HARD chainsaw is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable and powerful tool for wood cutting. It combines performance with user-friendly features for a great experience.
5. Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw
Rating: 8.7/10
The Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw is a great tool for homeowners. It’s designed for cutting wood and trimming branches. This chainsaw is lightweight and easy to handle, making your yard work much simpler.
What We Like:
- The 16-inch bar is perfect for most homeowner tasks.
- Its 38cc X-Torq engine provides strong power for efficient cutting.
- The inertia-activated chain brake adds an important safety feature.
- LowVib technology reduces vibrations, so you can work longer without getting tired.
- Separate choke and stop controls prevent the engine from flooding.
- Air Injection technology keeps the air filter cleaner, helping the engine last longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for homeowners, it might not be powerful enough for very tough jobs or professional use.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, making it harder to find.
This chainsaw offers a good balance of power and ease of use for typical home projects. It’s a solid choice for keeping your property tidy and tackling those wood-cutting needs.
Choosing the Right Gas Chainsaw: Your Guide to Power and Precision
Gas chainsaws are powerful tools that help you tackle tough jobs like cutting firewood, clearing brush, and felling trees. But with so many options, picking the right one can be tricky. This guide will help you find the perfect gas chainsaw for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a gas chainsaw, keep these important features in mind:
- Engine Size (cc): This tells you how powerful the chainsaw is.
- Small engines (25-30cc): Good for light trimming and small branches.
- Medium engines (30-50cc): Great for cutting firewood and medium-sized trees.
- Large engines (50cc+): Best for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees.
- Bar Length: This is the metal part that holds the chain. Longer bars cut bigger things but can be heavier.
- 14-16 inches: Good for most homeowners.
- 18-20 inches: Better for larger logs and tougher jobs.
- 20 inches+: For professional use and very large trees.
- Chain Brake: This is a safety feature that stops the chain quickly.
- Anti-Vibration System: This helps reduce shaking, making the saw easier to hold and use for longer periods.
- Automatic Oiling System: This keeps the chain lubricated as you cut.
Important Materials
The materials used in a chainsaw affect its durability and performance.
- Engine Casing: Look for tough plastic or magnesium alloy. Magnesium is lighter and stronger.
- Bar: High-quality steel is important for a durable bar that resists wear.
- Chain: Hardened steel chains last longer and cut more efficiently.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain design choices make a chainsaw better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built chainsaw feels solid and has parts that fit together tightly. Cheaply made chainsaws might have wobbly parts or feel flimsy.
- Engine Performance: A reliable engine starts easily and runs smoothly. Some engines are designed for better fuel efficiency.
- Ease of Maintenance: Chainsaws that are easy to clean and maintain will last longer. Look for easy access to the air filter and spark plug.
- Brand Reputation: Trusted brands often use better materials and have better customer support.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your chainsaw will guide your choice.
- Homeowner Use: For occasional tasks like trimming branches or cutting small amounts of firewood, a medium-sized chainsaw with a 14-18 inch bar is usually perfect.
- Serious Hobbyist/Landowner: If you cut a lot of firewood or need to clear larger areas, a more powerful chainsaw with a larger engine and bar might be necessary.
- Professional Use: For logging or demanding tree removal, you’ll need a high-powered chainsaw with all the top features.
Remember to always wear safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection, when operating a chainsaw.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gas Chainsaws
Q: What is the most important feature to consider?
A: Engine size (cc) and bar length are the most important features because they determine the chainsaw’s power and what size wood it can cut.
Q: Are more expensive chainsaws always better?
A: Not always, but higher-priced chainsaws often use better materials and have more advanced features that improve performance and durability.
Q: How do I know if a chainsaw is too heavy for me?
A: If you struggle to hold the chainsaw steady or feel strain in your arms and back after a short time, it might be too heavy. Try to test the weight if possible.
Q: What does “anti-vibration” mean?
A: Anti-vibration systems use special springs or rubber mounts to soak up the shaking that comes from the engine, making the saw more comfortable to use.
Q: Should I get a chainsaw with a manual or automatic oiler?
A: Automatic oilers are more convenient because they oil the chain as you cut. Manual oilers require you to press a button to add oil.
Q: How often should I sharpen the chainsaw chain?
A: You should sharpen the chain when it starts to cut slowly or produces sawdust instead of fine wood chips. This can be after a few hours of use.
Q: What is the difference between a 2-stroke and a 4-stroke engine in a chainsaw?
A: Most gas chainsaws use 2-stroke engines, which are lighter and simpler. They require you to mix oil with the gasoline. 4-stroke engines are less common in chainsaws but are quieter and more fuel-efficient.
Q: Is a longer bar always better?
A: No, a longer bar can cut bigger wood but makes the chainsaw heavier and harder to control. Match the bar length to the size of the wood you usually cut.
Q: What safety gear is absolutely necessary?
A: You must wear safety glasses, sturdy gloves, and hearing protection. Chaps, which protect your legs, are also highly recommended.
Q: How do I start a gas chainsaw?
A: Most chainsaws have a primer bulb to pump fuel to the engine and a choke to help start it when cold. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for starting.
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!