Electric Chainsaws
Bar Lengths for Different Jobs
Bar lengths 30cm to 35cm (12 to 14inches) are suitable for cutting firewood, cutting small to medium branches, felling small trees, usually classed as lightweight infrequent work. And used mainly around the home gardenBar lengths 40cm to 50cm (16 to 20inches) are suitable for cutting firewood, cutting small to medium branches, felling small to medium trees, usually classed as medium weight frequent work. And mainly used on farms and building/construction trades.
Bar lengths above 50 cm (20inches) are suitable for cutting large logs for firewood, any branches, felling trees of all sizes, usually classed as heavyweight professional work in all types of forestry work
Costs
Purchase prices on smaller electric units are less than comparable sized gasoline units plus consumer ratings on inexpensive chainsaws such as the Poulans bought in box stores are not good.Some inexpensive saws (Mastercraft - actually made by Poulan) are rated very highly in consumer testing.
High end saws - longer blade lengths can be almost as expensive as a good gasoline chainsaw.
The convenience of not having to run gasoline (and hard starting in the winter) is one reason tradesmen and farmers are switching to electrics. (Farmers use them to cut open the large bales of hay for cattle)
Pros and Cons
The two basic types have both strengths and weaknesses:Electric chainsaws
Pro:
They’re lighter than gasoline chainsaws. The smaller electric chainsaws are ideal for most basic home garden work. No messing about with gasoline and mixing or getting gas:oil mix correctly done (or blowing out the engine if you make a mistake)
They start first time every time (assuming they're plugged in).
Con:
Electric chainsaws have obvious limitations. Not all areas have electric power and running power cords around is a limitation and hassle.
Battery driven units require reguilar recharging or replacement at the wrong time (in the middle of a job). I don't know about you but having to drag a cord around can be a problem for some folks.
Plus most electric chainsaws do not operate on more than 100' of heavy duty extension cord or the motors can be damaged by low voltage drops.
Gasoline chainsaws
Pro:They’re truly portable. They allow you freedom of movement without having to deal with cords and batteries.
Can be used for hours at a time.
Con:
They’re heavier than electric units. The exhaust, muffler, becomes hot and if you are not careful can cause burns.
They emit fumes, which can be a problem in confined work areas. Fuel and oil will need to be available to replenish the saw as necessary.
What do you need to know about buying an electric chainsaw?
The main issues for you as a buyer are suitability, servicing, and maintenance.As a rule of thumb, the major reputable brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, McCullough, Makita, and Black and Decker are a good guide to prices, servicing and maintenance.
Which kind of chainsaw do you need?
The main uses for this tool will define your choice for you.In most urban or suburban gardens, a lightweight electric chainsaw would most likely cover your needs at the best price and least amount of problems.
The main thing to look for is ease of handling, and a saw which is too heavy really isn’t recommended. Choose one, which feels comfortable, and is easy to lift and maneuver.
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