We went through several chainsaws to find the best chainsaws for cutting firewood. The good thing is there are several quality brands that offer quality chainsaws. So tested each chainsaw of each brand to understand which works best. Each has its own qualities and weakness but for Workx WG303 covers almost all bases. Here we will not only offer seven best chainsaws for firewood but also a guide to help you learn everything about them.
Contents
Best Chainsaws For Cutting Firewood
1. Workx WG303
- [AUTO-TENSION] Patented system prevents over-tightening and increases the life of the motor, bar, and chain
- [AUTO-LUBRICATION] Keeps the chain running smooth and fast around the bar at 32 ft/s. And the oil-level indicator lets...
- [CHAIN BRAKE] Prevent accidental cutting with the quick-stop chain break. One of the many features that makes this a...
Reigning on top is the Workx WG303 chainsaw. The tool has a good reputation for cleaving firewood. The packaging was fantastic, and the company took all the preventive measures while designing. The package dimensions were 14.57”×19.69”×8.07”, and the item weighed 11 pounds. Taking the dimensions and weight into account, you can easily handle the saw with ease. It’s user-friendly, and can even be operated by beginners with ease. Moreover, it has a good-looking appearance with a color combination of black and yellow.
Since the WG303 is more specialized in ripping wood, we selected two wooden mediums. These were hardwood and softwood. As a hardwood, we selected Oak, and pine as softwood. The chainsaw proves itself to be more efficient in cleaving softwood. It’s also good to work with hardwood, but it is hard to maneuver at high RPM. It draws its power from a 14.5 amp motor which is equivalent to any gas chainsaw. The embedded auto-tension prevents self-tightening. This acts like a safety feature. The WG303 is an electric tool that operates on all 120V, 60hz sources. Due to the lack of battery, we find it less compatible for outdoor cutting.
When it comes to durability, it won’t disappoint you. Work provides a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty to its users. The fit and finish are impressive that makes it even more durable. However, the product requires frequent maintenance. There is an automated oil lubrication feature with an oil reservoir. But, it is exhausted sooner than you expect. This is probably due to the wide performance it serves. Overall, it can slice all types of wood, and can be used for intense works.
- Impressive fit and finish
- Relatively more durable
- Better performance
- Better safety features
- Requires frequent maintenance
- Unstable on high revving
- Less compatible
Bottom Lin
The WG303 is a value for money product that proves itself to be the best chainsaw for bucking firewood.
2. Greenworks G-Max 40V
- 40V 16” CHAINSAW: Perfect for homeowners that need to tackle yard projects, or storm clean-up
- BRUSHLESS MOTOR: Provides more power, longer run-times, and extended motor life
- CHAIN BRAKE: For added safety and reduced risk of injury
The Greenworks G-Max has a dimension of 31”×9”×8.5” and it weighs 10.36 pounds. It has a wider grip and a lower weight than the other saws. Moreover, it has an ergonomic design that many beginner craftsmen consider to be comfortable. Our team was impressed with its vibrant appearance of neon green. Thus, it is easy to spot that is quite an advantage.
Coming to the performance test, we selected the mediums similar to the previous test. The brushless motor is powered by a 40V Li-ion battery. It produces enough torque to slice both hardwood and softwood. Since it’s battery-powered, we expected fewer power figures from the G-Max. However, the product proved us wrong, and it worked flawlessly. The company claims 70% lesser vibrations. We found this statement to be true in most aspects. It was stable on high revving. But, it produces noises on at high RPM that might leave you frustrated. The G-Max is compatible with many aftermarket accessories. The chain brake is electronic that doesn’t operate at a low battery.
This 16” chainsaw might let you face some durable issues. We indicated its durability by inspecting its fit and finish, which wasn’t up to the mark. The batteries have a good power backup. Each cell can power 25 distinct tools. It also charges faster than general 40V Li-ion batteries. So, we decided to provide a 5-star rating for its power backup.
- Impressive looks.
- Neat and tidy packaging.
- Better battery performance.
- Low vibrations.
- Relatively low durability.
- Poor fit and finish.
- Emits noises.
Bottom Line
Being battery powered, it is more convenient than other wired chainsaws.
3. Black+Decker LCS1240
- 12-INCH CORDLESS ELECTRIC CHAINSAW - 40V MAX battery-powered chainsaw with extended runtime
- SMOOTH, FAST CUTS - OREGON low-kickback bar and chain for easy and efficient cutting
- TOOL-FREE CHAIN TENSIONING - Quickly and easily adjust chain tension
The Black+Decker is one of the best chainsaws for cutting wood. It consists of a battery charger bar with a chain scabbard. Just like other Black+Decker products, the orange and black color combination looks amazing. The chainsaw has a dimension of 28.5×8.81×9.63 inches, and a weight of 10.4 pounds. It’s lightweight than other cordless products.
To test the LCS1240, we selected maple and pinewood. The first phase of the test was done by low revving. The 12” Oregon has low-kickback and chain provides enough movement whiling cut at sharp angles. The LCS1240 sliced pinewood without any excessive vibrations. Cuttings were precise and proportionate as we expected them to be. Lubrication is facilitated by an automatic oiling system for the bar and chain. This ensures flawless and smooth operation throughout your work. The oil doesn’t deplete faster. However, the cuttings for Maplewood wasn’t precise. We experienced extra vibrations on low and high revving. On mid revs, the LCS1240 behaved decently but still requires extra handling efforts.
Black+Decker products have an impressive fit and finish. This initiative by the company led the product to be more durable. Coming to longevity, the batteries last for 24 hours on full charging. The company claims the maximum charging duration to be 5 hours. On the contrary, it took us 8 hours to fill the battery fully. The green led indicates the capacitance of the battery. After a full recharge, the LED glows continuously without any blinking. The LCS1240 can perform mid intense tasks. Without proper maintenance and use, the durability might shrink adversely.
- Impressive fit and finish
- Good looks and design
- Relatively more durable
- Lightweight design
- Takes more time to recharge
- Poor handling
- Vibrations on high revving
Bottom Line
Due to its durability, the LCS1240 has the best chainsaw chain for cutting firewood.
4. Oregon CS1500
- Powerful performance: 15A electric chainsaw with integrated PowerSharp self-sharpening system. The perfect chainsaw for...
- Built-in PowerSharp self-sharpening system minimizes downtime by sharpening your chain in 3 to 5 seconds. Ergonomic...
- Tensioning without tools: Allows you to adjust your chain quickly and easily so that you can maintain the perfect...
The Oregon CS1500 is one of the best chainsaws for firewood business. The Oregon CS1500 has an 18” bar length. So, you can easily add extra inclination for more deep and precise cuts. The item has a dimension of 18×37.5×10.5 inches and weighs 12.9lbs. These figures might not be suitable for beginners. Grab bars are non-slippery and ergonomic that provides you confidence when you hold it.
Performance is where this Oregon product reigns. Still, we selected a 6″ thick oak and cedar wood. The power sharp chains run efficiently with a 3/8″ low profile. The gauge thickness is .050” which is an ideal number for low vibration operations. You don’t need to pull cords, mix gas, or warm-up. The motor starts instantly with much less noise than a general gas saw. Being electronic, there isn’t any question of carbon emission. It draws its power from a 120V, 60hz source, and has a 15amp rating. Unlike many cordless chainsaws, it cleaves the hardest of wood easily.
The Oregon CS1500 is durable and can be used in the long run. For people who are professional carpenters, this product will serve all day long. However, you will have to maintain to keep this product in good condition. The lubricant dries faster and needs to be refilled frequently. Oregon doesn’t compromise its products with performance. Therefore, the performance will cost you more power consumption. It can handle intense tasks with ease but overheats on continuous use.
- Better performance
- Relatively more durable
- Sharp and precise cuttings
- Better ergonomics
- Heating issues
- Casual packaging
- Requires frequent maintenance
Bottom Line
It can handle almost any kind of wood cutting jobs that is why we think it is even perfect for professionals. You can say it is the best chainsaw for firewood business.
5. Husqvarna 455 Rancher
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When it comes to heavy duties, you can’t ignore the gas-operated machines. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is one of the best chainsaws for bucking firewood. The product has a dimension of 41×10×14 inches and weighs around 20 pounds without fuel. This might be heavy for unskilled hands. We recommend the beginner to handle with care. After fueling up, it gets heavier at the holding area. The grab handles are comfortable to hold, and you won’t feel even the slightest strain. So, for the comfort and convenience, the 455 gets a full star rating from us.
The Husqvarna franchise is known for its performance. We selected a 7” thick cedar and pinewood for our performance test. Powered by a 55.5cc 2 stroke engine, the 455 ranchers went through both the mediums. A chainsaw is 18” thick that operates with a side-mounted tensioning system. So, you won’t have to spend much time in chain adjustments. Being a gas-operated chainsaw, we expected additional safety features. However, our expectations are fulfilled by an intertie activated chain brake. An automatic chain oiler adds additional safety by the continuous supply of the lubricant. But, the package doesn’t include a bar and chain oil, and you will have to purchase them separately.
As stated above, the Rancher 455 is meant for intense tasks. Therefore, you can expect this product to perfect for the long run. Besides, you won’t have to spend extra money on its maintenance. The quick-release air filter allows you to clean itself with ease. After frequent use, teeth of the chain saw becomes blunt. So, you will have to purchase a new chain sooner than your expectations. Remember to purchase only a Husqvarna chain, as foreign tools might reduce its performance. Husqvarna issues a chain sharpener too, but it’s sold separately.
- Performs heavy tasks
- Requires less maintenance
- Value for money
- Torque motor
- The chain becomes blunt frequently
- Emits motor noises
- Heavyweight design
Bottom Line
Being a reputed company, Husqvarna contributes some of the best tools in the market. It has a good selling reputation with many positive reviews.
6. Husqvarna 120 Mark 2
No products found.
Another Husqvarna product on the list is the 120 Mark 2. This product has a good reputation in the market and is recommended by many carpenters. The dimensions and weight were similar to the Husqvarna Rancher 455. It has a bar length of 18 inches, that allows you to incline properly. So, if you want to add extra curves to your wood, its length will be an advantage. Grab bars are ergonomic, and won’t let you feel the strain on your arms. Unlike the 455 Rancher, it’s a more beginner-friendly product.
We held the performance test similar to the previous product. The testing medium was a 7″ thick cedarwood, and pinewood. Being of compact design, this chainsaw is designed to start-up easily. It emits less noise and carbon than the 455 Rancher but didn’t match with the power figures. The low kickback safety features, built-in safety breaks ensure utmost. But, still, you’ve had to maintain the same safety measures. We didn’t find any heating issue, as the automatic oiler delivers a continuous supply of chain lubrication. It comes with the exclusive X-torque technology that reduces fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
The Mark 2 is ideal for mid-range activities. Our team encountered heating issues on working with hardwood. So, you might encounter the same problem. Coming to the durability, the Husqvarna Mark 2 will last for a decade. But, this will turn to be true only with proper maintenance. We recommend you to change the lubricant only as mentioned in the user manual.
- Better ergonomics
- Relatively more smooth operation
- Emits less noise
- Emits less carbon
- Lacks performance with hardwood
- Heating issues with hardwood
- Poor packaging
Bottom Line
Despite the cons, the Husqvarna 120 Mark 2 is one of the best chain chainsaws for cutting firewood.
7. Remington RM4618
No products found.
Manufactured by MTD products, the Remington RM4618 is recognized as an ideal chainsaw. By the dimensions, you can easily estimate its size. It might seem big, but it weighs only 16.4 pounds. Handlebars are cushioned which makes it more ergonomic and beginner-friendly. It even helps the untrained craftsmen to maintain the balance. So, the appearance we rated it with a 4 star.
This time we selected 8” thick hickory wood and cedar as the testing medium. The high output 46cc engine provides enough torque to slice cedar with ease. Chain teeth are of premium quality that goes through all wood smoothly. It can be operated quickly by an easy pull start system to work right away. However, there might be some vibration issues followed by heating on high revs. But, the automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated and the system cools soon. Oil changing duration is best directed by the company. Therefore, we recommend you to abide by the user manual.
The Remington has a durable die-cast chassis that is designed for the long run. Many products lose their durability due to heavy vibrations. Thanks to the 5-point anti-vibration system that enhances its maneuverability. It is designed to perform various tasks from yard work to your lawn care projects. You can use it all day long, but only for mid intense tasks. Moreover, we recommend you not to rev high on cleaving hardwood. Doing this might reduce your chain’s lifespan, and you’ll have to purchase new ones.
- Premium packaging quality
- Impressive appearance
- Emits low carbon
- Relatively more ergonomic
- Unstable on high revving
- Stiff on hardwoods
- Heating issues
Bottom Line
Nevertheless, the RM4618 deserves to be on the list due to its ergonomics.
8. Makita XCU03PT1
- Makita-built outer rotor BL Brushless motor direct-drive system provides high power efficiency equivalent to a 32cc gas...
- Variable speed trigger and high chain speed (0-3, 940 FPM) For improved cutting performance
- "Tool-less" chain adjustment for convenient operation and maintenance. Chain pitch: 3/8 inch
The Makita XCU03PT1 serves as ideal cordless chainsaws to many carpenters. The product has a dimension and weight of 10.63×22.24×10.59 inches and 21.5 pounds respectively. Being a cordless chainsaw, it weighed more than items in its segment. Grab bars might be uncomfortable for beginners, as they lack cushioning. However, a pair of experienced hands can easily accommodate it.
We selected a 5” thick oak wood as the testing medium. As expected, we didn’t find any vibrations or much noise emissions. The brushless motor direct-drive system provides torque no less than a 32cc gas chainsaw. You can manage the RPM by a variable speed trigger. However, we found vibrations at 750 RPM. So, we recommend users to put an extra effort on high revving. Chain pitch is 3/8” with a tool-less chain adjustment.
We didn’t find a good fit and finish in the XCU03PT1. Therefore, we didn’t expect the product to be durable. Besides, many customers are complaining about durability issues. Nevertheless, this Makita product has impressive longevity. The two 18V batteries have a good power backup. Unlike many other batteries, it depletes slow and has a capacity of 5Ah.
- Better performance
- Good battery backup
- Feature-loaded
- Extended longevity
- Relatively low durability
- Poor fit and finish
- Unstable on high revs.
Bottom Line
With brand like Makita you cannot go wrong. It has good customer service as well as the price is also on the lower end.
9. Wen 4017
- 12A motor rotates the chain at up to 44 feet per second
- Lightweight design limits fatigue to the user
- Auto-oiling system lubricates itself to elongate the saw’s lifespan
The Wen 4017 is one of the best chainsaws for cutting firewood. The packaging for this product was good and simple. On unboxing we found the dimensions to be 31×10×6.5 inches. It weighs around 10 pounds and is quite lightweight even for beginners. Due to its lightweight, the grab bars feel even more comfortable.
The 4017 cleaved all softwood in the performance test with ease. However, you might find some stiffness in it with hardwood. The 12A motor can rotate the Oregon chain up to 44 feet per second. The oiling system is automatic that lubricates the chain as you work. This ensures the smooth operation of the machine.
The Wen 4017 has an impressive fit and finish. So, you can expect it to last for 5 years under maintenance. High revving with hardwood might blunt the chain teeth, or even break it. We recommend it to use only for mid-range works. Power consumption is less, so is the performance.
- Complete fit and finish
- Low power consumption
- Relatively more durable
- Lacks performance
- Unstable on high revving
Bottom Line
The Wen 4017 is known for its impressive battery backup.
10.Worx WG322
- [FAST, CLEAN CUTS] This cordless 20V PowerShare chain saw is as fast and powerful as anything in its class. And with no...
- [AUTO-CHAIN TENSION] The automatic, tool-free chain tension system ensures you’ll always have the correct tension for...
- [SAME BATTERY, EXPANDABLE POWER] The same battery powers over 75plus 20V, 40V, and 80V lifestyle, garden, and power...
Worx WG322 is the most lightweight chainsaw on the list. We found that the dimensions and weight to be 25”×7.5”×9.5” and 6.19 pounds. The weight is similar to a 2L water bottle. So, you can work all day long without a bit strain on your arms. Built quality is rigid, and the grab handles are ergonomic. Craftsmen of all skill levels can operate this machine with ease.
Worx doesn’t compromise with performance and quality. The material might be lightweight but cleaves the hardest of woods with ease. During our performance test, we sliced a 5” thick oak slab. There were no vibrations even on high revving, but it emits noises. The automatic tool-less chain tension ensures safety and efficacy. Batteries are versatile and can be used to power the 20V and 40V variants.
The WG322 has an impressive fit and finish. This is a good indication of high durability. Besides, there aren’t extra panels or impressive. The chain has a maximum speed of 12.5ft/sec. This ensures it performs all the heavy tasks with ease. Our team found the batteries to deplete faster. Besides, it also takes time to recharge to the fullest. We recommend you to perform the mid-range works to extend battery life.
- Relatively more durable
- Negligible vibrations
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to use
- Emits noise on high revs
- Batteries deplete faster
- Takes more time to recharge
Bottom Line
Being lightweight, the Worx WG322 is the foremost choice of many craftsmen. Besides, the product received many positive reviews from users all over the world.
Buyer’s Guide- What To Consider While Buying the Best Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood
Let’s discuss the ultimate buying guide for the best chainsaws for cutting firewood. It’s a bit technical concept to understand precisely when you are a beginner. We will try to make it convenient to get into the minds because knowing the buyer’s guide is worth it. You have to note the following factors before deciding to purchase these chainsaws. And, the very first factor starts with the type of chainsaw you want to go with.
- Type of chainsaw
The chainsaw comes in different types with regards to power and operation. They can be gas-operated, corded-electric, battery-powered, and electric loppers, etc. So, let’s discuss their features and specifications.
You need to go with gas-powered chainsaws if you want high speed and power. These tools tend to cut more smoothly and quickly. They also need less pressure to have those clean cuts. The gas-powered chainsaws are said to be ideal for large trees and limbs. However, they also require regular maintenance for spark plug and air filter. It’s also primarily advised to operate these chainsaws outdoors because of harmful carbon-monoxide gas production.
As the name suggests, it’s a corded and plug-in chainsaw that is quite less expensive than a gas-powered one. These chainsaws are also known to be compact and convenient. However, the speed limit is comparatively slow. They are perfect for light-duty chores such as the occasional trimming of small tree limbs or shaping the hedges. Well, you need to operate them near the electrical outlet for more convenience. Workx WG303 is the best example of corded chainsaw.
- Battery-Powered Chainsaws
Battery-powered chainsaws are free from any cord. The run time is generally managed by the ampere-hour ratings and voltage of the battery. However, their cost aspect is almost the same as gas-powered chainsaws. You can expect a performance of 40 minutes to 1 hour with a single charge. These saws also consist of enough power to cut large firewood trees. Black+Decker LCS1240 is the best example of battery powered chainsaw.
- Electric loppers
The last one to mention is electric loppers. These tools are highly compact and convenient that you won’t feel difficulty even while cutting those small limbs. Well, they are specifically designed to reduce through small firewood trees that are difficult to cut from those large loppers.
- Speed
Even though we have listed different kinds of models for speed above, it still considers factors above them. Whatever model you want to go with, check its speed factor firstly. It’s because the speed will ultimately determine the frequency by which it goes into the wood and cut it.
- Weight
You can also check for weight factors to know how easy to handle a particular chainsaw is. You are required to make both vertical and horizontal cuts through the wood for which a lightweight chainsaw will be more convenient.
- Ease of use
We are talking about ease of use in terms of adjustment, start, and maintenance. Along with secure handling, you must also go for these factors. For instance, you can consider the choke’s location, or access to filters and spark plugs in a gas-operated chainsaw. Check their average number of pulls and convenience of adding oil or gas to the chainsaw.
- Bar length
Bar length is one of the easiest ways to determine the work handling of a particular chainsaw. The tool with long bar length can easily cut wood of larger diameter and vice-versa. This bar length varies from 6-inches to 24-inches depending upon what type of firewood you want to go through. The bar length of professional and mostly used chainsaws goes around 20-inches. However, the longer bar length means more weight. So, you need to check for this aspect also.
Some specific models allow you to adjust bar length up to three sizes. So, you must not ignore the chainsaw if it contains this particular adjustment feature. Each motor and size is designed to fit a specific bar.
Given below are some standard specifications of power to bar size.
Power Size | Bar Size |
Gas 45cc – 50cc | 18″ – 20.” |
Gas 51cc – 60cc | 20” – 24” |
Battery 36v – 40v | 12” – 16” |
Corded Electric 12amps – 15amps | 16” – 18” |
So, the chainsaws between 16-inches to 18-inches are also useful to cut most of the firewood trees.
- Safety Features
Safety features are essential to have in a particular chainsaw. It could be anything facilitative such as kickbacks, exhaust parts, and protective cases, etc. Check if any kickback is encountered during the working of the chainsaw. The anti-vibration feature is also ideal for its comfortable use. You can also consider the chainsaw with the chain brake feature.
The function helps to automatically stop the chain whenever the tool encounters any abrupt movement. Then, you have a chain adjustment feature to change the cutting tension.
- Brand Recognition
You are not going to invest in the tool again and again. So, it’s better to once check brand loyalty and recognition before purchasing. Some of the recognized brands you can go for are Echo, Craftsman, Husqvarna, DeWalt, Remington, Poulan Pro, Stihl, and Ryobi, etc.
These are some of the critical buying factors you need to consider while buying the best chainsaws for cutting firewood.
Safety Tips for Using the Chainsaws
Let’s discuss how to use the chainsaws safely. These big boys cause most accidental injuries in the US, namely lacerations in arms or legs. Sometimes the chainsaw hits back towards the chest and head of the operator generating severe injury issues. It’s the reason we always recommend to consider safety features in your firewood chainsaw.
Also, note the safety precautions given below.
- Dress Appropriately
Dress as per the requirements of the job. You can wear snug-fitting clothes and work boots, preferably steel toe shoes. You are also required to shield the legs and hands with protective gloves. Cover your face with a helmet and have any hearing protection.
- Maintain Regularly
Maintenance is the key to keeping up with a chainsaw. There could be many loopholes that are going to work well after regular upkeep. Let your chainsaw properly tensioned, sharpened, and oiled to prevent any kickbacks and incorrect cutting. Also, make sure to check the tightening of the chain. It’s because the loose chain is going to slip off towards the operator and will mishit him.
- Have a Grounded Grip
Grip ensures secure handling. So, you need to buy the chainsaw with convenient handling options. For instance, most gas-powered chainsaws come with a secured grip that can be easily pulled with a starter cord. Similarly, the use of electric lopper is recommended to cut firewood above the shoulder height.
- Stay Away From Harmful Emissions
It’s the case mainly when you use gas-powered chainsaws. They emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. This odorless and colorless gas is potentially dangerous and should not be involved indoors. So, you are required not to use the gas-operated indoors. It can be highly destructive for the user.
- Your Skill Level Matters
It’s evident that your experience and skill level profoundly matters. There is a kind of learning curve involved while operating a chainsaw. And, this learning curve is going to nourish as you gather more experience in different situations. So, don’t be too scared while operating this tool correctly when you follow all the safety indications as given above.
Remember that every situation of your firewood cutting is different. Thus, you are required to follow these precautions in whatever case.
- Look Around
Looking around is also significant to have a safe environment. The point is to check for an escape route that you will follow when the tree falls. Is it a clear path? Is it a difficult one that you can’t easily escape?
Your hesitation may matter if you find it uncomfortable to see in a particular environment.
- Safely start your chainsaw
After reading all the safety measures before operating chainsaw, it’s time to start it! So, let’s begin our chainsaw comfortably and protectively. For ease of understanding, we will discuss two methods for beginners as well as experienced saw operators.
- The method is for new users. At the very first, take your saw and place it on the ground. Remember, there should be a firm footing and a leveled surface. Make your machine stable by keeping the right foot over the rear handle.
- After it’s all done, take your left hand and reach over to place it on the handlebar securely. Then, engage its chain brake with your right hand to let the chain not move until you are ready to cut. Now, you can pull straight up for the starter.
- It’s our second method for experienced operators. However, these users have the confidence to operate the machine on an unleveled surface. At the very first, you can keep the rear handle behind the knee area between legs. Take your left hand and grab its handle along with the arm straight out.
When the handlebar is behind your right knee, and you have full support on the left knee, you can easily pull up for the starter.
So, these are two recommended ways to start your chainsaw protectively. Choose either of them based upon your usage level.
Are you a beginner? Keep note of the following points then!
The entry-level operators make some serious mistakes for which the account of the following points is more than necessary.
- Always keep your eyes fixated on the chain and bar while you are cutting.
- Don’t allow the guide bar to get pinched to avoid any sudden kickbacks. The kickbacks are going to happen when you don’t see the pinching of the log. The next important consideration is never to engage the saw with the upper bar corner. So, be aware of the tip position at all times.
- Log or your firewood is sitting on the ground? Don’t be folk and cut it through the ground. It will let the chain hit the ground and create a big disaster.
- You should never use this tool like a hand saw or knife. Let your chainsaw work through the firewood rather than you working hard on the chainsaw. Always put its guide bar into the log’s cut that is closest to its powerhead. The bumper spike present in the power head’s front should be used as a leverage point.
- It’s a fact that the firewood you are cutting upon will be under a lot of pressure. So, you must look for the possible reaction of this wood while cutting. Watch its fibers and check their response. It’s because you may accidentally release a limb and experience a hard reactive force.
- Most of the first-timers use guide bar’s tip while cutting the firewood. So, what you need to do is check the bar’s rear with its bumper spike as much as possible.
- Look for the possible plunge-cutting and felling techniques of operating a chainsaw. You should research and watch beforehand, or you can even leave it up to the professionals. Don’t forget to go through the manual if you are hesitating so much in operating a chainsaw.
Defining the Safety Features in a Chainsaw
Make sure that the chainsaw you are buying must have the following safety features to consider highly. It may or may not consist of all of them, but having even some safety functions counts among the genuineness and durability of the product.
- Chain Catcher
The first safety feature we are going to mention is the chain catcher. It is a metal extension under the guide bar to stable the chain. It helps keep up the thrown chain from further flying back to the operator. This bonus facility is especially helpful when your chain becomes too loose because of improper maintenance or tensioning. Well, it doesn’t mean you can stop maintaining your chainsaw.
- Chain Brake
It’s a brake that is most helpful to avoid accidental kickbacks. The chain brake helps to stop the chain quickly when its front hand-guard is pushed forward or in any kickback situation. Almost every recognized brand manufactures their chainsaw with this feature present in the tool.
- Sheath or Case
It’s a full cover for the bar as a protective element against accidental cuts while carrying the saw. It also prevents any leakage of oil from the chain itself. However, you can buy a new aftermarket case if your product doesn’t come with one.
- Automatic Chain Oiler
The automatic oiler is another safety feature not to stop cutting. It is present even in low-priced chainsaws to let it work without a stoppage. The feature also means convenient handling of chainsaw by keeping both of your hands firmly on it. A well-oiled machine will always give returns by preventing premature wearing and overheating.
- Tools-Free Chain Adjuster
It’s a kind of mechanism to easily lock and unlock the chain bar and move it in and out to further adjust the chain’s tension without even using any tool.
- Anti-vibration
It’s the anti-vibration feature to minimize the noise levels. Along with being a safety feature, it also doesn’t cause you any fatigue or discomfort while cutting firewood.
- Reduced-kickback chain
Any aggressive cutting profile or extra links of the guard can hardly push to take a bite and cause kickback. Thus, most of the chainsaws have a bar that comes with a narrow nose or tip to limit the cutting area and prevent any kickback occurrence.
- Trigger Lockout
Most of the chainsaws come with an individual palm switch that should be pressed before engaging any throttle trigger.
- Bucking Spikes
Bucking spikes are sharp spikes along the base of the bar. They act as a fulcrum while biting the logs. It also lets you pivot the bar and chain it downward while cutting the firewood. However, metal spikes are known to work exceptional as compared to plastic spikes.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
1. How chainsaw works?
The chainsaw works quite by merely spinning its saw blades. The blades are also commonly known as ‘teeth’ of the chainsaw. Thus, many things involved operating a chainsaw such as an engine, chain brake, bar guide, and so on.
2. What is the best length to cut firewood?
The best length to cut firewood is said to be 16-inches. The reason behind the fact is its standard length measurement.
3. Can you cut against the grain with a chainsaw?
Chainsaw cutting should be done against the grain for beautiful sinking. Thus, you have to prepare the standard cut even against the grain.
4. Why does my chainsaw burn the wood?
If your chainsaw starts burning the wood, it means merely the dull blades. It also causes buckling while biting the firewood, which can be a hazardous scenario.
5. When should firewood be cut?
The firewood should be cut in the ideal season that is the early spring or late winter months. It also allows the maximum drying time for the specific wood. Make sure to cut the ends of wood as square or flat to let them sturdy and stable for splitting.
Final Thought
We have tried to include all kinds of chainsaws that you can use firewood. This was done to ensure, each type users finds what they are looking for. After testing all of them we can say that for basic use you can go with any of the best chainsaws for cutting firewood on our list. However, connect with the seller to learn more about the accessories and warranties.
Workx WG303 - Editor's Choice
Summary
Reigning on top is the Workx WG303 chainsaw. The tool has a good reputation for cleaving firewood. The packaging was fantastic, and the company took all the preventive measures while designing. The package dimensions were 14.57”×19.69”×8.07”, and the item weighed 11 pounds. Taking the dimensions and weight into account, you can easily handle the saw with ease.
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