If you’re thinking about buying a chain saw but you’re not built like a lumberjack, you’re in luck. There’s a new emphasis on designing lighter, easier-to-use, easier-to-maintain saw tools.
Always wear safety gear when operating a chain saw, including heavy gloves, safety glasses and a hard hat. (Pictured: Model CCS818 18-volt cordless chain saw)
Photo Credit: The Black & Decker Corp.
Lightweight, cordless chain saws still offer heavy cutting power.
Photo Credit: The Black & Decker Corp.
Another good thing is that chain saw prices can be very reasonable. The cheapest (which you might consider if you think you’ll do just a small project or two a year) start at an amazingly low $40! A quality medium-sized chain saw that can see you through a lot of cutting over the years will come closer to $200.
No matter the price point, you have two basic choices when it comes to chain saws: electric or gas-powered. Electric models are light, quiet, inexpensive, require minimal maintenance and turn on with a switch. What they don’t have is enough power for big jobs. Big limbs and regular chores (like cutting firewood) are better handled with gas-powered equipment, which simply have more oomph.
Once you’ve determined whether you want a gas or electric saw, you’ll need to think about blade size. The bigger the blade (often called a bar), the more heavy-duty the saw’s cutting ability. However, the bigger the blade, the less maneuverable the saw will be – which can make tight cuts, like at the crotch of a branch, difficult. Another thing to consider is the added weight and cost of a bigger blade.
Most homeowners do fine with bars in the 12- to 20-inch range. A chain saw longer than 20 inches may be difficult for the average homeowner to handle. In fact, the bigger saws are targeted more for pros, with price tags to match: $250-$350.
Here are some other chain saw features to consider:
Engine power. This can be listed in various ways by different manufacturers. With electric chain saws, you might see engine power expressed as horsepower (hp) or amps. Occasionally, you may also see the power expressed in volts (V). With gas-powered chains saws, power is stated either in cubic inches (cu. in.) or cubic centimeters (cc). No matter the measurement used, the higher the number, the more powerful the engine.
Weight. An electric chain saw can weigh as little as 5 pounds, while a gas-powered one can weigh as much as 12 or 13 pounds. Weight is important because if you can’t handle the saw easily for long periods of time, you’ll be more prone to accidents. (And a note for lefties: Most chain saws are designed for right-handers. So make sure the design you’re looking at comfortably – and safely – suits you!)
Anti-kickback feature. Kickback, which occurs when the saw jerks out of control while cutting, is a leading cause of injuries, so anti-kickback is an important feature to look for!
Anti-vibration handle. Foam grips or other designs absorb the considerable vibration caused from the saw in action and can prevent injury.
Quick-start electronic ignition. Look for these on gas models, especially if you don’t like dealing with a rip cord.
With a little knowledge under your tool belt, it’s easier to pick the right chain saw for you.
