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The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is one of the best chainsaws for firewood in 2023, designed for homeowners who need a heavy-duty firewood chainsaw without the high cost. This is a very well-priced chainsaw designed specifically for people who don’t want to spend a lot of money but still demand quality and reliability (as you should). Hard to beat for overall value. We discuss it in detail later.
Table of Contents...
- 1 Best Firewood Chainsaws in 2023
- 1.1 Best Chainsaw for Large Firewood : Husqvarna 460 / 24″
- 1.2 60V Craftsman — Excellent Cordless Firewood Chainsaw
- 1.3 General Guidelines | Firewood Chainsaw
- 1.4 A Few More Picks for the best chainsaws for cutting firewood:
- 1.5 Husqvarna 445 EII
- 1.6 Husqvarna 450 / Gas Chainsaw
- 1.7 Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf / Excellent Firewood Chainsaw
- 1.8 Overview | Echo CS-590
- 1.9 GreenWorks — 80V Cordless Chainsaw
- 1.10 Modern Day Battery Power
- 1.11 Makita EA5000PRGG / Firewood Gas Chainsaw
- 1.12 Extras
- 1.13 Diameter of Wood
Best Gas Firewood Chainsaw — Husqvarna 455 Rancher
Time-tested gas power from Husqvarna is hard to beat when it comes to raw power for homeowners. The 455 Rancher has been around for years, and a stunning example of reliability. If you have large volumes of firewood you intend to cut year after year, this is at top of its class specifically for homeowners.
Heavy-Duty Firewood Cutting — Husqvarna 455 Rancher
You can rarely go wrong with a Husqvarna chainsaw. They have a range of powerful gas chainsaws for homeowners and professionals. The 455 Rancher has been a top seller for years, and for good reason — it’s exceptional for the price.
This is an ideal saw for landowners or homeowners who require a high powered and heavy duty chainsaw, and perfect if you cut a lot of firewood.
Features :
- 55. 5cc 20 inch gas chainsaw with guide bar and chain
- 2 cycle engine with Intertia activated chain brake for safety while operating
- Comes with Husqvarna chainsaw Bar cover and 2. 6 ounce bottle of pre-mix fuel Included, Bar and chain oil must be purchased Separately
- Automatic chain oiler delivers a steady supply of bar and chain oil for safe and effective use
- Side-mounted chain tensioning system allows for quick chain adjustments while working
- Quick-release air filter facilitates easy cleaning and replacement of the air filter
Best Firewood Chainsaws in 2023
IN 2023, What’s the best chainsaw for cutting firewood? How thick is the diameter of the wood you’ll be cutting? Nowadays, battery powered (cordless) chainsaws are appropriate for most homeowners, but some people need to cut thick logs and therefore gas chainsaws are what you need. Remington and Husqvarna are two brands that make affordable gas chainsaws. Husqvarna released the affordable 120 Mark II (read review) a couple years ago, and it continues to be a good option.
Chainsaws come and go, but the good ones stick around for years. We’ve lost a few chainsaws this year but the new ones are better than ever — Quickly climbing the top seller list.
Best Light-Duty Firewood Chainsaw — 40V Battery — WORX WG384
Fast Facts — WORX WG384
- ✓ 14″ bar & chain
- ✓ Auto-tension chain
- ✓ Lightweight : 10.4 lbs
- ✓ Auto chain oiler
- ✓ Great for beginners
- ✓ Well-priced. Affordable.
- ✘ Not as powerful as gas
- ✘ Limited battery life — can’t run all day, unless you get a 2nd set of batteries.
- ✘ Won’t cut down your 30″ oak tree, sorry.
💬 What factors are influencing your decision at the moment? Money? Specific project? Long-term vs short-term purchase? A chainsaw you will grow into over time? Safety? Electric vs Gas?
The most important things you need to figure out before you buy is, what is the diameter of the wood (on average) that you’ll be cutting. Take that number and get a chainsaw with a bar and chain 2-inches shorter.
For example, if you know you’ll never cut branches or logs over 10-inches in diameter, then a chainsaw with a 12″ bar and chain will be ideal. But, if you want to fell trees 18-inches in diameter then you need a 20-inch chainsaw.
Yes, you can cut trees thicker than the diameter of your bar and chain BUT, two things you need to think about :
- Cutting will slow down as you go beyond your bar and chain
- Safety — it’s more likely you will have kickback and/or your chain will snag on wood, especially if you have a dull chain.
Best Chainsaw for Large Firewood : Husqvarna 460 / 24″
The 460 Rancher is the ultimate powerful gas chainsaw for homeowners. This is way too much chainsaw for most people but if you have a need for cutting a high volume of firewood, then this might be exactly what you need. This is not a chainsaw for beginners. With a 24″ bar and chain this requires previous experience and all of the proper safety gear. Well, you should be wearing safety equipment with any chainsaw.
Features :
- 3.62-HP X-Torq engine
- Anti-vibration system
- Automatic oiler
When using a chainsaw, safety first. Period. End of story. Don’t take risks with your life. If you don’t know what you’re doing, just buy the firewood locally.
VIDEO | How to Cut Firewood with A Chainsaw
Best Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood?
This year is a good year for chainsaws, as new models have come out from big brands, like Westinghouse, Worx, Husqvarna and Sun Joe. I call this the year of the battery-power chainsaws as they are beginning to rival gas, and someday soon may make gas models obsolete. Have you heard of Tesla and Elon Musk? It’s coming.
Unlike smartphones, chainsaw designs are relatively static, but with battery technology increasing, it seems the rate of change in the industry is going up quickly, which is a good thing, since the most powerful cordless chainsaws are as powerful as gas these days.
Cordless : 100V Battery Chainsaw. As good as gas — Sun Joe iON100V (18″ bar and chain).
Fast Facts — Sun Joe iON100V-18CS-CT
- ✓ Cuts wood up to 17.5-inches wide (tree trunks, limbs and branches)
- ✓ Stunning Power : 100 Volts of battery power, with 1500W motor
- ✓ 18-inch bar chain
- ✓ Tool-free chain tensioner.
- ✓ Onboard auto-oiler keeps the bar and chain fully lubricated for continuous cutting
- ✓ Protective hand brake
- ✓ Safety switch to prevent accidental starts
- ✓ Instant Start. Easy.
Before putting your money down to buy a chainsaw for firewood you need to ask yourself a few questions to help focus your attention. Cutting firewood is a demanding task that requires a well-made chainsaw. Unlike tasks such as pruning and trimming, cutting firewood requires a lot of power.
60V Craftsman — Excellent Cordless Firewood Chainsaw
Craftsman is still going strong in 2023. The brand was bought by Stanley Black & Decker in 2017 for $900 million. They’ve created some excellent new tools, including their 60V chainsaw, It’s well-designed, and feels comfortable in your hands. You won’t be disappointed.
Features :
- Extended run time: brushless motor on this cordless chainsaw with high performance 60v 2.5 ah battery pack for long runtime
- Precise cutting: bubble level of battery chainsaw allows for precise and level cutting
- Minimal maintenance: Auto oiling with tool free tensioning
- low kickback: 16-inch low kickback bar and chain
- Versatrack compatible: use the integrated hook to hang this tool directly on the versatrack wall organization system (sold separately)
- Full lifetime warranty
Although you can buy a cheap chainsaw, if your primary application is firewood cutting I recommend you spend the money and buy the right chainsaw for the work you need to do. Not only is this a wise investment from a monetary point of view but also for safety reasons. A quality chainsaw is engineered with safety in mind. Safety should always be your top concern.
Anti-vibration technology is essential for firewood cutting. High vibration can cause serious damage to your hands, forearms and arms over time so you need to purchase a chainsaw that will protect you from hand-arm vibration syndrome — and, I recommend buying a good pair of anti-vibration gloves to give you another layer of protection.
Questions to ask yourself:
- How much wood will I be cutting year after year? How many cords of wood?
- What’s the diameter of wood I will be primarily cutting 90% of the time?
- How much weight can I comfortably hold and carry?
- What type of wood will I be cutting most of the time? Hardwood or softwood?
- What’s my budget? What can I afford?
- How much experience do I have?
- Should I hire a professional?
Compact Gas Chainsaw | Husqvarna 120 Mark II : 16-inch (read review)
When it comes to buying the best chainsaw for firewood size does matter. The size I’m referring to is the overall engine power, or more specifically, engine displacement, commonly referred to as ‘cc’ (cubic centimeters).
When making a decision, base it on the overall power of the chainsaw (cc’s) not the size of bar length. The bar can be changed, the powerhead cannot. Well, you can always buy a new chainsaw but my goal is to help you find the right chainsaw. Don’t focus on the bar length when making a purchase, the powerhead is what truly matters on the initial purchase.
Chainsaws are sold in a variety of bar lengths but a powerful chainsaw can typically handle a larger bar length.
For example, you might buy a gas chainsaw with a 16″ bar and chain but it might be able to handle an 18″ bar and chain for greater cutting capacity. Every chainsaw powerhead has a maximum length size for its bar and chain. Refer to the manufacturers website to find out the details for the specific model you’re buying.
A longer bar adds extra weight to the front of your chainsaw and makes it more challenging to control. I would only recommend adding longer bar and chain if you’re an experienced chainsaw user. There is a science to using a chainsaw. The bar length needs to be appropriate for the engine size. For example, you would never add a 24″ bar to a 45cc chainsaw. The power has to be able to handle the size and weight of the bar.
A larger bar will slow down your chainsaw cutting speed, whereas a smaller bar will increase your cutting speed.
It’s much better to put on a smaller bar and increase the overall cutting speed of your chainsaw. This is by far the smarter (and safer) road to take. Be conservative and don’t strain your chainsaw beyond what it was designed for. Safety needs to be your top concern and overloading an under-powered chainsaw with a large bar and chain is dangerous. Not only does it throw off the overall balance of the chainsaw but it increases the odds of injury due to kickback.
► We’ve updated our comprehensive GUIDE on the BEST Chainsaws for Homeowners. Check it out. Our latest recommendations. Plenty of new chainsaws.
General Guidelines | Firewood Chainsaw
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A Few More Picks for the best chainsaws for cutting firewood:
In order to choose the best chainsaw for cutting firewood, you have to consider the full magnitude of your needs. Some of the smallest and most affordable options are sufficient for cutting enough firewood to keep a small home or cabin warm all throughout the crisp months of fall and winter. If you have a large ranch to run or plan on cutting firewood and selling it, however, you’ll need a high-powered, heavy-duty machine that won’t gum up or wear down before you get the job done. Following are seven of the top chainsaws currently on the market, each of which boast a unique array of benefits and the ability to accommodate a specific set of needs.
There’s much more information after the chainsaw reviews — we cover topics such as:
- What’s the best way to split the wood?
- Safety Gear & tips
- Tips when cutting felled trees into logs.
- What to consider when choosing the best chainsaw for home use.
- How to cut firewood.
Husqvarna 445 EII
Updated model : Excellent Firewood Chainsaw
18″ bar & chain / 45.7cc / 2.8 HP / 13.8 lbs / 9,000 RPM
Documents:
- View or download the MANUAL for the Husqvarna 445.
- View or download the PRODUCT SHEET for the Husqvarna 445.
Read our in-depth review of the Husqvarna 445.
Features — Husqvarna 445EII : e-Series
- X-TORQ – Delivers lower fuel consumption and reduced exhaust emission levels in accordance with the world´s most stringent environmental regulations
- AIR INJECTION – Centrifugal air cleaning system removes larger dust and debris particles before reaching the air filter. This results in reduced air filter cleanings and improved engine life
- SMART START – The engine and starter have been designed so the machine starts quickly with minimum effort
- EASY TO START – Combined start/stop switch, Smart Start and fuel pump make the saw very easy to start
- SNAP-LOCK CYLINDER COVER – Saves time when changing spark plugs and cleaning
- Quick-release air filter
- Smart Start / Felling marks
- Combined choke/stop control
- Snap-lock cylinder cover
- Three-piece crankshaft
- LowVib
- Air Purge
- Inertia activated chain brake
- Visible fuel level
Overview | Husqvarna 445
The Husqvarna 445 is a 16-inch, gas-powered chainsaw that will provide flawless performance throughout the years. This saw can move through ash, honey locust, mulberry, oak, elm and other hardwoods with ease. Hardwoods are slower growing than softwoods and this tends to make them significantly more dense.
You can determine which types of trees you have on your property by looking at the seed structure and the annual changes that your trees undergo. Hardwoods lose their leaves each year whereas softwood trees are conifers and remain evergreen. If you have a lot of falling leaves on your property as opposed to year-round needles, you’ll need a veritable powerhouse like the Husqvarna 445. Best of all, this chainsaw works just as well on wet wood as it does on dry. It’s perfect for typical households, small farms and medium to large-sized properties, but it isn’t cut for heavy commercial use.
Video | Watch the 445 in action
Given that this is a gas-powered unit, you can take it to any downed trees on your property after a storm, even before the electricity has been turned back on. It starts easy and gets excellent power while providing incredibly easy handling. This chainsaw is sleek and at just 10.8 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for both limbing and pruning. You can use this unit to collect sufficient firewood for warming all areas of your home throughout the winter and take advantage of it for year-round yard clean-up and landscaping projects. This model is designed to continue functioning correctly even when the outdoor temperatures plummet.
Learn more about the streamlined 445 firewood chainsaw on the Husqvarna site.
Tech Specs:
- Cylinder displacement : 50.2 см³
- Cylinder displacement : 3.06 cu.inch
- Power output : 2.8 hp
- Maximum power speed : 9000 rpm
- Fuel tank volume : 0.95 US pint
- Fuel consumption : 481 g/kWh
- Electrode gap : 0.02 in
- Weight (excl. cutting equipment) : 11.2 lbs
Makita EA4300F40B | Pro-Grade
16″ bar & chain / 42cc / 3 HP / 13.8 lbs / 13,500 RPM
Documents:
- View or download the MANUAL for the Makita EA4300F40B.
- View or download the PARTS LIST for the Makita EA4300F40B.
Learn more or buy on Amazon.
Features:
- Easy Start, spring assisted starter with optimized engine management reduces force required for starting.
- Tool-less filter access for fast and convenient maintenance.
- Compact lightweight design, weighing 10.8 lbs (excluding bar & chain).
- Large metal bucking spikes for increased safety and productivity.
- Touch & Stop single lever control shuts off engine with a simple touch.
- Two point inertia/mechanical chain brake.
- Slide-out baffle can be configured for efficient cold weather operation.
- Primer pump designed for easy cold starting.
- Advanced vibration dampening system engineered to minimize vibration.
- Ergonomic: Smooth rounded surfaces for easy cleaning and overall comfort.
- Large fuel and oil tank openings with S-form caps for easy operation.
- Chain compartment is easy to clean and clears chips away efficiently.
- Industrial quality centrifugal clutch.
- Reversible sprocket nose bar with oil retaining feature for improved bar and chain lubrication.
- One year warranty. 30 day satisfaction guarantee.
Overview | Makita EA4300F40B
With rubberized, ergonomic grip handles, the Makita EA4300F40B is incredibly easy to maneuver and use. This 16″ electric chainsaw is lightweight, affordable and perfect for households that want to collect sufficient firewood for keeping their homes warm.
When it comes to choosing the best chainsaw for cutting firewood, you have to consider the layout of your property and your own, unique needs. Gas-powered units are ideal for homes in remote locations that are prone to extended power outages as the result of severe storms. Electric-powered units like the Makita EA4300F40B, however, are preferred among consumers who are eager to limit their carbon impact and want chainsaws that offer overall efficiency.
This unit has a tool-less blade and chain adjustment that make both maintenance and use easy and hassle-free. Users get smooth start-ups with the trigger switch and the included soft start feature as well as a built-in limiter that will keep problems like motor burnout at bay. This limiter will reduce power to the chainsaw motor whenever the saw gets overloaded or starts to gum up on heavy loads, which is good news if you plan on moving through a lot of wet wood or have sappy, softwood trees across your property that need to be cut back.
If you want to minimize your work and get the job done fast, this could be the best option for you. With an automatic chain oiler and easy-view window for checking oil levels, keeping the Makita EA4300F40B in top condition is guaranteed to be a pain-free task. While you’ll love this option if cutting firewood for a single home, it isn’t the best unit for clearing away deadfalls on large-acreage properties nor should it be used by people who want to cut lots of extra firewood to sell.
Learn more about the fast-cutting EA4300F40B firewood chainsaw on the Makita site.
Tech Specs:
- Engine Displacement (cu.in./cc) : 42 cu.in. (2.6 cc)
- Max. Engine Speed : 13,500 RPM
- Power Rating : 3 HP/2.2 kW
- Fuel Tank Capacity : 16.2 oz.
- Oil Tank Capacity : 9.5 oz.
- Chain Pitch : 3/8″
- Chain Gauge : .050″
- Net Weight (w/o bar & chain) : 10.8 lbs.
- Standard Guide Bar : 16″
- Overall Length : 15-1/2″
- Shipping Weight : 15 lbs.
Includes:
- (1) 16″ Guide Bar (442-040-661)
- (1) 16” Saw Chain (195400-8)
- (1) 16″ Chain Cover (952-010-640)
Husqvarna 450 / Gas Chainsaw
18″ bar & chain / 50.2cc / 3.2 HP / 13.8 lbs / 9,000 RPM
Documents:
- View or download the MANUAL for the Husqvarna 450 chainsaw.
- View or download the PRODUCT SHEET for the Husqvarna 450 chainsaw.
✓ Learn more : Husqvarna 450 vs 450 Rancher : How are they different?
Features:
- Best for extended use in firewood cutting, large to medium size tree cutting, storm clean-up and good for small size tree cutting and trimming and pruning.
- X-Torq Engine uses less fuel and produces lower emissions; Equipped with SmartStart.
- LowVib anti-vibration system minimizes operator fatigue.
- Air injection centrifugal air cleaning system that removes larger debris particles before reaching the air filter reducing air filter cleanings and improves the engine life.
- Side-mounted chain tensioner: easier access to chain tensioning device.
- Cylinder decompression valve: ensures less effort for easier starting.
- Felling/bucking spikes: provides better leverage while cutting.
- Snap-lock cylinder cover: easy access to the air filter and spark plug for routine maintenance.
Learn more about the well-balanced 450 chainsaw on the Husqvarna site.
Overview | Husqvarna 450
The Husvarna 450 is the best chainsaw for cutting firewood if you own a small ranch or farm and don’t plan on firing this unit up on a daily basis. It is compact yet durable and powerful. With an 18-inch bar, this saw is also capable of accommodating a 20″ bar for bigger, tougher jobs. It can move through both wet and dry wood with ease. It weighs just 13.4 pounds and has a power output of 3.2 HP.
Not only is it great for firewood, but you can also use it to prune and limb your trees, pare off hazardous branches or cut deadfalls down to size. When you invest in the Husqvarna 450, you’ll get the patented X-Torq engine that lowers fuel use by 30 percent and carbon emissions by an impressive 60 percent. With the combination choke-stop control, you won’t have to pass long frustrating minutes simply trying to get your chainsaw on or worry about your engine flooding.
You can use this model on oak, ash, mulberry, elm and other challenging and dense hardwood types without having it slow down or gum up on the tough spots. It’s also great for moving through countless truckloads of pulpwood for those who live in heavy paper production areas.
The Husqvarna 450 additionally has an innovative forged 3-piece engine crankshaft that is built to last and boasts a centrifugal cleaning system that is designed to keep the engine in top condition throughout the years by removing larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter. With this crankshaft, you’ll have far fewer problems to troubleshoot, even if you’re regularly putting your Husqvarna up to a number truly challenging tasks.
Tech Specs:
- Power output : 3.2 hp
- Maximum power speed : 9000 rpm
- Fuel tank volume : 15.22 fl oz
- Fuel consumption : 504 g/kWh
- Idling speed : 2700 rpm
- Electrode gap : 0.02 “
- Torque, max. : 2.6 Nm/7200 rpm
- Equivalent vibration level (ahv, eq) : front / rear handle 2.3/2.7 m/s²
- Sound pressure level at operators ear : 104 dB(A)
- Sound power level, guaranteed (LWA) : 115 dB(A)
- Chain pitch : .325″
- Recommended bar length, min-max : 13″-20″
- Weight (excludes bar & chain) : 10.8 lbs
Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Detailed Review
20″ bar & chain / 60.3cc / 3.62 HP / 16.6 lbs / 9,000 RPM
Read our full in-depth review of the Husqvarna 460 for more details.
Documents:
- View or download the MANUAL for the Husqvarna 460 chainsaw.
- View or download the PRODUCT SHEET for the Husqvarna 460 chainsaw.
Features:
- 60.3cc X-Torq engine delivers power with lower fuel consumption and reduced exhaust emissions.
- Forged three-piece crankshaft for maximum durability for the toughest applications.
- Quick air release filter facilitates cleaning and replacement.
- Centrifugal air cleaning system improves engine life by removing large dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter.
- Easy to start with combined start/stop switch, Smart Start and fuel pump.
- Side-mounted chain tensioner for easy access.
- 7° offset handle reduces fatigue.
- Excellent anti-vibration system protects your hand and arms from vibration.
- Inertia-activated chain brake protects you if kickback occurs.
Learn more about the workhorse 460 chainsaw on the Husqvarna site.
Overview | Husqvarna 460
The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is still one of the most impressive, gas-powered units in its class, which can be used on large-sized residential properties and medium-sized ranches and farms with optimal results. The three-piece, forged crankshaft is incredibly durable and will consistently stand up to some of the toughest jobs throughout the years without wearing down or running slow.
This unit is CARB compliant and has a completely ergonomically designed body for easier handling and greater comfort overall. At just 16.6 pounds, this chainsaw can do everything you need to get done but it is a little on the heavy side so make sure your in good physical shape if you expect to use this for long periods of time. Although, you will eventually get strong just by using it on a regular basis. Cutting firewood is great exercise; forget going to the gym, just cut wood all day long.
This chainsaw is flexible enough for cutting firewood and handling year-round landscaping jobs. Beyond an easy-to-access, side-mount tensioner, you’ll also get a quick release air filter that makes checking, cleaning or replacing the unit air filter a breeze. You’ll also get an easy and assured start in all-weather, making this the go-to unit for those who want to cut wood in the dead of winter. It starts every time making this a very dependable friend when you need it to most. Trust me, in an emergency, like a major storm, you need a reliable and powerful chainsaw to cut fallen trees and help out your neighbors.
No matter how cold the weather gets, you can always rely on the Husqvarna 460 Rancher to function like it should.
Tech Specs (Husqvarna 460):
- Power output : 3.62 hp
- Maximum power speed : 9000 rpm
- Fuel tank volume : 14.88 fl oz
- Fuel consumption : 437 g/kWh
- Idling speed : 2700 rpm
- Electrode gap : 0.02 “
- Torque, max. : 3.4 Nm/7000 rpm
- Equivalent vibration level (ahv, eq) front / rear handle : 3.5/4.5 m/s²
- Sound pressure level at operators ear : 104 dB(A)
- Sound power level, guaranteed (LWA) : 114 dB(A)
- Chain pitch : 3/8″
- Recommended bar length, min-max : 13″-24″
- Weight (excludes cutting equipment) : 12.79 lbs
Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf / Excellent Firewood Chainsaw
18″ bar & chain / 50.2cc / 3.3 HP / 17 lbs / 13,800 RPM
View or download the MANUAL for the Echo CS-590.
Learn more or buy on Amazon.
Features:
- 59.8cc professional-grade engine.
- Heavy-duty, easy-access air filter for improved air flow and easy cleaning.
- Tool-less air filter cover for easy access.
- Decompression valve for easier starting.
- Side-access chain tensioner for easy chain adjustment.
- Digital ignition system for smooth and quick acceleration and stable idle.
- G-Force Engine Air Pre-Cleaner for reduced air filter maintenance.
- Translucent fuel tank for easy fuel level check.
- Tall profile bar and 72LPX pro chain for excellent cutting performance.
- Dual-post inertia chain brake handle with hand shield for increased durability and safety.
- Adjustable clutch-driven oiler for reduced oil consumption.
- Automatic, adjustable clutch-driven oiler for reduced oil consumption.
- Standard: Front hand guard, Rear hand guard, Anti-vibration device, Spiked bumper, Throttle control lockout, Chain brake, Chain catcher, Spark arrestor muffler, Kick guard
Watch this video review to see it in action:
Overview | Echo CS-590
Cutting firewood has long been hailed as a cathartic exercise. This is no less true when you have high-powered tools that help you get the job done fast. During the winter months, few things are as personally gratifying as burning wood that you’ve hewn on your own. With the right chainsaw, you’ll also have the ability to quickly and easily resolve problems caused by falling or weak limbs, downed trees and other, heavy, organic debris that’s been tossed into your yard by a powerful storm.
Ultimately, chainsaws are empowering and having a good one on hand will make you more self-sufficient all year round. You can get a heavy-duty chainsaw for all your woodcutting needs in the Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf. This durable unit features high-quality commercial-grade 59.8cc engine fitted with a 20-inch cutting bar and a decompression valve so that stater rope pulling is both seamless and easy.
The Echo CS-590 ideal if you own a farm or large yard or a business that requires high-volume of wood cutting. This chainsaw has enough power to handle a 24-inch bar. It is one of the most durable and flexible models in its class and will easily handle softwood or hardwood with an impressive amount of efficiency.
This chainsaw receives high praise from chainsaw enthusiasts for it’s build quality and overall cutting speed. If you don’t believe me, just read the forums and read the comments of experienced chainsaw users.
The Timber Wolf is made for efficiency and ease of use. At just 17 pounds, this model is a fair weight for the power it puts out. It features an automatic chain oiling system for preventing unnecessary wear and tear and for limiting the amount of routine care that must be performed throughout. It also has a very effective setup for easy tension adjustment and an air filter that’s a breeze to access and clean. With lots of wood to cut, you can minimize your labor and still get fast, excellent results when using this chainsaw.
Learn more about the underrated Echo CS-590 chainsaw on the Echo site.
Tech Specs:
- Engine Displacement (cc) : 59.8
- Max. Engine Speed : 12,000 to 13,000 RPM
- Fuel Tank Capacity (fl. oz.) : 21.8
- Oil Capacity (fl. oz.) : 10.1
- Gas: Use 89 octane unleaded.
- Fuel mixture ratio: 50 : 1 ratio with ECHO Power Blend X, ISO-LEGD (ISO/CD 13738) and JASO M345-FC/FD two-stroke, air-cooled engine oil.
- Dry Weight (lb) : 13.2 (without bar & chain)
- Available Bar Lengths (Inches) : 18″ & 20″
- Oiling System : Auto /Adjustable /Clutch-driven
GreenWorks — 80V Cordless Chainsaw
80V Chainsaw — Excellent Battery Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood
Read our full in-depth review of this modern battery chainsaw — the GreenWorks 80V cordless chainsaw.
Before I even get started with this chainsaw let me just say one thing — 4 year warranty!
Okay, now that I have that out of the way, let’s talk about the saw.
Modern Day Battery Power
This chainsaw may be an unorthodox choice to some people but once you understand the truth about this chainsaw you’ll understand why it’s on my list.
First, this is an 80V battery chainsaw which happens to be the equivalent of a 45cc gas chainsaw. In comparison, the Husqvarna 445 is powered by a 45.7cc engine, which means that the GreenWorks 80V is comparable to a light-duty gas chainsaw. Currently, the GreenWorks 80V is the most powerful battery chainsaw on the market, so this is no ordinary cordless chainsaw.
GreenWorks Batteries
It ships with a 2.0Ah battery, which will give you about 30 minutes of cutting-time, depending on the diameter and type of wood you’re cutting. But, you also buy a 4.0Ah battery which will provide you with up to an hour of cutting time. If you have a 2nd battery you can actually use the chainsaw all day as the 2.0Ah battery only takes 30 minutes to fully charge and the 4.0Ah battery takes 60 minutes to fully charge.
Batteries currently available for the GreenWorks 80V Chainsaw:
- 4.0 Ah GreenWorks GBA80400 | 80V Lithium-ion battery
- 60 minutes to fully charge. Lasts up to one hour.
- 2.0 Ah GreenWorks GBA80200 | 80V Lithium-ion battery
- 30 minutes to fully charge. Lasts up to 30 minutes.
GreenWorks has promised to release more powerful soon: A 360Wh 5.0 Ah battery that will charge in 70 minutes and a 460Wh 6.4 Ah battery will charge in under 90 minutes. Lastly, in the Fall, they will release a Battery Backpack that charges in 3 hours.
This GreenWorks models truly is a modern chainsaw in every respects. It’s built tough, and feels solid in your hands. Designed for comfort and long-term use. It’s also relatively lightweight compared to gas chainsaws weighing 13.7 lbs. If you value convenience and power then this truly is the ultimate chainsaw for homeowners. It’s not designed for heavy-duty cutting like the Husqvarna 460 so make sure the majority of your wood is under 14″ and you’ll just fine with this saw.
The only drawback is the price of buying an extra battery — which I recommend. The last thing you want is to run out of battery in the middle of a project, or if you’re doing cleanup after a storm, you won’t have power to charge the batteries so you’ll want to make sure both batteries are fully charged.
Most people think of a gas chainsaw for cutting firewood but battery technology is changing fast and this GreenWorks 80V model is definitely one of the best chainsaws fore cutting firewood for home use.
VIDEO | A Closer Look at the Greenworks 80V
This saw is part of a full line of tools that share the same 80V battery, so in theory, you can own one battery and run multiple tools. In the long run this is a smarter approach if you plan on owning a variety of lawn power tools.
- View or download the MANUAL the GreenWorks 80V chainsaw.
- Read the original press release for the GreenWorks 80V line of tools.
Features:
- 4 year warranty.
- 80V Lithium-ion takes the lead in highest and most powerful gas-free cordless system.
- Capable of 150+ cuts with fully charged 2.0 Ah battery.
- DigiPro digital controlled brushless motor for 30% more torque and 70% less vibration.
- Equivalent to 45cc gas engine.
- Steel bucking spikes and durable metal wrap around handle.
- Electronic chain brake for safe operation.
- On board chain tensioning tool.
- Automatic oiling system keeps chain lubricated for the best cut performance.
- 18-inch bar and chain.
- One battery system, multiple tools, professional grade quality and performance.
- Less maintenance, light weight and simple electric start.
- No Gas, no fumes, no need for winterization.
- Compatible battery and charger models GBA80200, GBA80400 and GCH8040 (charger). (Additional high capacity batteries coming soon).
Learn more about the convenient GCS80420 80V chainsaw on the GreenWorks site.
Tech Specs:
- Model : GCS80420
- Certification(s) : ETL
- Bucking Spikes : Steel Bucking Spikes
- Chain Brake : Yes
- Bar Length : 18 inch
- Chain Pitch : 3/8 inch
- Chain Gauge : 0.05 inch
- Chain Tensioning : Side Adjust
- Chain and Bar Oiler : Automatic oiler
- Oil Tank Volume : 1.9 oz capacity
- Translucent Oil Tank : Yes
- Wrap Around Handle : Yes
- Drive Links : 62 chain links
Makita EA5000PRGG / Firewood Gas Chainsaw
20″ bar & chain / 50cc / 3.9 HP / 11.9 lbs (powerhead only) / 13,800 RPM
Documents for the Makita EA5000PRGG
- View or download the MANUAL
- View or download the PARTS LISTS
Features:
- Magnesium housing is both durable & lightweight (Powerhead is 11.9 lbs.)
- Easy Start spring-assisted starter with optimized engine management for quick starting with less force.
- 13,800 RPM with faster acceleration for more efficient cutting performance.
- Compact design engineered with smooth rounded surfaces for easy cleaning and operator comfort.
- Large dual spike bar for increased productivity.
- Touch & Stop single lever control shuts off engine with just a touch.
- Slide-out baffle can be configured for efficient cold weather operation.
- Two point durable inertia/mechanical chain brake.
- Chain compartment is easy to clean and clears chips away efficiently.
- Lateral chain tensioning for easy adjustment.
- Advanced Vibration Dampening System engineered to reduce vibration.
- Large fuel and oil tank openings with S-form caps for easy operation.
- Adjustable automatic chain lubrication for efficient operation.
- Reversible sprocket nose bar with oil retaining feature for improved bar and chain lubrication.
- Floating rim sprocket for easy maintenance and improved chain life.
Tech Specs
- Engine Displacement (cu.in./cc): 3.1 cu.in. (50 cc)
- Max. Engine Speed: 13,800 RPM
- Power Rating: 3.9 HP/2.9 kW
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 oz.
- Oil Tank Capacity: 9.1 oz.
- Chain Pitch: 3/8″
- Chain Gauge: .050″
- Net Weight (w/o bar & chain): 11.9 lbs.
- Standard Guide Bar: 20″
- UPC Code: 088381-662659
Includes:
- (1) 20″ Guide Bar (443-053-661)
- (1) 20″ Saw Chain, 3/8″, .050″ (523-102-072A)
- (1) 20-24″ Chain Cover (952-020-660)
Extras
You’ll find lots of important information related to cutting firewood, firewood in general and choosing the best chainsaw for cutting firewood. This section will continue to evolve and grow over time.
Diameter of Wood
When choosing a chainsaw for cutting firewood it’s important to determine the diameter of wood you will be cutting 90% of the time. Obviously, wood sizes will vary but your purchase should be geared toward the size of wood you will be cutting most of the time.
This is important because you want a chainsaw that can quickly and efficiently cut through wood. The power of the chainsaw must match your requirements. You never want to buy an under-powered chainsaw. Not only will it slow you down but it can also be dangerous.
Now, what about the occasional 22″ log you have to cut? Don’t worry, your chainsaw can still handle it but you’ll have to slow down, be patient and make double cuts. My point is if you expect to be bucking 22″ logs all day then then you’d be a fool to buy a 45cc chainsaw. Buy a chainsaw based on the wood size you’ll cut the majority of the time and it will be money well spent.
Your chainsaw bar should always be about 2″ longer than the wood you are cutting. Why? To prevent kickback. When the tip of you chainsaw digs into the ground or encounters wood, kickback is likely to occur.
If you plan on cutting a lot of firewood then you can do what other chainsaw enthusiasts do and buy two chainsaws. One small chainsaw for limbing and/or cutting small trees and a more powerful chainsaw for all the big stuff.
It’s important to consider the fact that a powerful chainsaw gets heavy quickly when you’re limbing so in this case, it’s actually much safer to use a smaller chainsaw to remove branches form a fallen tree. Of course, you have to take into account your budget and how long, in terms of time, you’ll spend cutting, at one time.
If you spend hours of a time felling trees, limbing and bucking then, yes, this is the smarter (and safer) way to work.
Safety Gear | Firewood Safety Tips
Firewood Videos:
Why wet firewood is a waste to burn?
Wear the following safety equipment:
- Head protection: Yes, your head must be protected at all times.
- Eye Protection: Protect eyes from flying chips, sawdust and twigs or branches.
- Hearing Protection: Protect your ears.
- Cut Resistant Pants or Chaps: Ballistic nylon or Kevlar pads prevent or lessen the severity of cuts to the legs.
- Safety Toed Boots: Steel toes prevent crushed toes and non-slip soles and heels help prevent falling and tripping.
- Anti-vibration gloves: Provides a safe grip while protecting your body from vibration damage.
- Snug Fitting Clothes: Reduces chance of accidentally contacting your chainsaw chain or getting caught by a bush or a tree.
Recommended:
- Chainsaw with a Chain Brake: Keep your manual nearby for reference.
- Saw File / Chainsaw Sharpener: Always keep your chain sharp.
- Axe or Hammer and Felling Wedges.
- No-Spill Gas Can: Keep your gas can far away from where you work.
- First Aid Kit and Training: Accidents can happen. Be prepared.
- Fire Extinguisher In case a fire starts or your chainsaw ignites.
What to consider when choosing the best chainsaw for home use?
Read our complete chainsaw guide to learn everything you need to know.