A chainsaw is one of the tools a homeowner needs at home. It is also one of the most effective tools in the logging and forestry industry.
A typical product consists of a metal bar (that comes in varying length). This metal bar rotates on a chain. They come in both large & small varieties.
Small chainsaws are used by homeowners to help them cut firewood, reduce logs to little bits, and make pruning faster. However, buying a good one can be quite tricky. This is especially true for inexperienced homeowners and upcoming professionals.
If you find yourself in this situation, we have got you covered. Read on to find out our top picks.
Top Small Chainsaws
Best Overall
Key Features
Rating: 4.9/5
This product comes with other accessories. You can decide to buy it alone or with these additions. This includes an emergency preparedness kit, four batteries, and a grinder.
Verdict and Rating
Apart from the price, the product is very nice. We’ll give it a 4.9/5.0 rating.
Premium Pick
Key Features
Rating: 4.8/5
The BLACK + DECKER brand has created a very effective 12-inch product. It packs a lot of power with a 40V battery.
Verdict and Rating
We like its features despite the high price. 4.8/5.0
Budget Pick
Key Features
Rating: 4.8/5
This 14-inch cordless product is another good product. Its features see it sneak into our top ten list.
Verdict and Rating
This product has everything a user needs. We’ll give it a 4.8/5.0 rating.
Key Features
Rating: 4.8/5
The Greenworks brand has another fantastic product. The slight drawback here is the 12-inch feature it comes with.
Verdict and Rating
This product is highly recommended. 4.8/5
Key Features
Rating: 4.6/5
This product comes with a 20V lithium-ion battery. It is ideal for all outdoor tasks.
Verdict and Rating
It is a good product. The automatic oiling system is a big miss. 4.6/5.
Key Features
Rating: 4.6/5
The WORX brand has another quality product on the list. It surely has interesting features.
Verdict and Rating
Great product. Some features of its design have let it down. 4.6/5
Key Features
Rating: 4.5/5
If there is any product in the WORX brand that cherishes safety, it is this product.
Verdict and Rating
It’s a good product. However, its inability to last for long periods is a fundamental flaw. 4.5/5.0.
Key Features
Rating: 4.5/5
This is one of the few products that has self-sharpening abilities. That makes it a truly interesting product.
Verdict and Rating
If you are looking to cut down costs, this product is your best bet. 4.5/5
Key Features
Rating: 4.4/5
This product has similar features to other products from this brand. Let’s take a look at some of its features.
Verdict and Rating
This product is a good one. We’ll give it a 4.4/5.0 rating.
Key Features
Rating: 4.3/5
Are you looking for a chainsaw that is effective and cost-friendly? This product seems to be the best bet. It is especially used for trimming limbs and branches.
Verdict and Rating
This product is highly recommended. A 4.3/5.0 rating.
Buyer’s Guide
How to Choose the Right Size
All chainsaws are not manufactured with the same specifications. So how can one choose the right size? Here are a few factors you should consider;
Smaller or Larger?
Smaller models are used for general maintenance activities. They are also used for pruning shrubs and trees. They are usually 14 inches long or less.
You can place ornamental trees and shrubs with this sort. They are also safe, readily available, and are mostly powered by electricity.
However, larger models are mostly used for cutting down trees.
Power Source
One thing you have to consider is the power source of your product. Most are powered by gas or electricity.
For most smaller models, it is recommended that you go with electric. The drawback here is that these will usually come with a cord.
House or Commercial Activities?
If you have more difficult jobs than simple trimming and pruning, then you should consider buying professional chainsaws. They are usually 16-inches to 18-inches long.
Most homeowners use larger chainsaws to cut very thick but moderate-sized tree branches into logs. Most of these are gas-powered.
Your choice will largely depend on what you want to achieve.
Attributes of the Product
You will also need to buy one that has an automatic oiling system and an oil level indicator. This contributes to the durability of the product.
Other features you need to look at are the chain brakes, muffler, kickback security, amongst others. Getting a chainsaw with the right features can save you a lot of stress.
Pricing
The majority of people today are on a budget and really do not have money to throw around. If you are in this situation, you might find it helpful to take a look at the prices of various products before making a decision.
It is possible to find a good chainsaw at an affordable price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question One: How long can the chains of a chainsaw last?
Most chains can last up to five years. However, you might have to get a sharpener. This prolongs life.
It is important to remember that once the temper of the chain stops working, it might be time to buy a replacement.
Question Two: Why do kickbacks occur?
This occurs when the moving chain at the tail of the guide bar comes in contact with an object. It can also happen when the wood touches the saw chain in the cut. This is one of the most common and severe accidents.
Question Three: Can you start a chainsaw with the brake on?
You must always start with the brake on. Turn on the switch and open the choke (this enables the air-fuel to mix to the engine).
Final Thoughts
We feel that the Makita product just edges out the rest. With nice features and quite a premium look, it is the best little chainsaws out there.
You might think otherwise. So take a look at the product and choose the one you prefer. We hope you choose the right one.