Can cut firewood all day long. (Buy from Amazon)
The ECHO CS-590 was released in 2013 and in 2014 the ECHO CS-590 Timber Wolf chainsaw won the Dealers Choice Award from Power Equipment Trade magazine — over 1,000 lawn and garden power equipment dealers participated in the survey. Have no doubt, this is an impressive chainsaws that customers love.
The ECHO CS-590 Timber Wolf has proven itself to be dependable, well-made and worth the money. In this article we review it alongside a couple other gas chainsaws to see how it compares.
It’s impossible to carry out some tasks in your garden unless you own a chainsaw. You could call in a professional, but these days average people are deciding to do the work themselves. It’s partly down to new technology inside chainsaws making them accessible to anyone.
Everyone should be able to cut down small trees, trim dangerous branches, and perform many other tasks when the need arises. It’s obvious why models like the Echo CS-590 are getting so much attention. You just need to be careful you don’t buy any old chainsaw you see.
Very low vibration. Comfortable to use and hold. (Buy from Amazon)
Battle Between Gas And Electric Chainsaws
First of all, electric chainsaws do have their benefits. Unfortunately, they have a lot of downsides too. It’s why you shouldn’t trust anyone when they say corded or cordless models are the best choice for homeowners with a small garden.
It will always come down to the specific needs of each individual. Sometimes gas-powered chainsaws will be the obvious choice, which has to do with all their main advantages. We’ll take a look at them so you’ll know if they’re the right choice for you.
A Selection Of Quality 20″ Gas-Powered Chainsaws
If you’re still interested in gas chainsaws we’re going to look at a few quality 20 inch models today. Each one is slightly different and it will give you a couple of options to choose from. Here are the top features you’ll get to enjoy:
- Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf Gas-Powered Chainsaw
- Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw
- Makita DCS6421RFG Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf
Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Digital ignition makes it very easy to start.
Features:
- 59.8cc professional-grade, 2-stroke engine for outstanding performance
- Automatic, adjustable clutch-driven oiler for reduced oil consumption
- Available in 18″ and 20″ bar lengths
- Decompression valve for easier stater rope pulling
- Dry Weight : 13.2 lbs. / 5.99 kg
More information:
- ✓ View or download the MANUAL.
- ✓ View or download the SAFETY MANUAL from ECHO.
- ✓ Read an official press release from ECHO
- ✓ Read the press release for winning the Dealers Choice Award
Overview | Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf
Comes With A Professional-Grade Engine
You can have an excellent bar and chain, but all the power comes from your engine. You won’t be left disappointed when you pick up the Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf chainsaw. It’s capable of cutting through anything you throw at it.
This is because it’s loaded with a quality 59.8cc professional-grade 2-stroke engine. It delivers an unbelievable performance, which includes the runtime. The fuel tank has a maximum capacity of 21.8 ounces.
Enough power to handle all of your wood cutting needs. Well-balanced.
It Won’t End Up Wasting Lots Of Oil
A dry chainsaw is never going to cut through anything, so you want one with the ability to lubricate itself. It will extend the longevity of your chain while making life a little less annoying.
The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf takes things up to an even higher level. It has an adjustable clutch-driven oiler, so you’ll reap the self-lubricating benefits while saving extra oil at the same time.
A Translucent Fuel Tank Helps You Out
You don’t want your chainsaw to start running out of steam when you’re in the middle of a job. There isn’t usually much you can do when it’s impossible to tell how much fuel you have left in the tank.
Echo decided they would alleviate this problem by making the tank translucent on their CS-590. As long as you keep an eye on the tank while you’re working you’ll know exactly when it’s time to top up.
VIDEO | Why Buy ECHO? See how their products are made
You Won’t Find It Hard To Get Running
The Echo CS-590 isn’t lucky enough to have an electric start button, so you will have to pull on a cord. Fortunately, they’ve still tried their hardest to make it as easy as possible for you.
This is because it has a decompression valve on the chainsaw, which will help you get it going on your first attempt. It’s also going to work when it’s cold in case you need to use it during winter.
The Filter Won’t Need Cleaned Out Much
We spoke earlier on about the importance of keeping your chainsaw well-maintained. The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf does it in a couple of different ways. First of all, it’s simple to access the air filter.
Once inside you’ll be able to clean it within seconds. The G-Force Engine Air Pre-Cleaner blows out any debris, so it will reduce the amount of times you’ll need to perform filter maintenance over its lifetime.
VIDEO | CS-590 Timber Wolf
Metal Bucking Spikes Give You Stability
Cutting into wood with any kind of chainsaw is difficult, but it’s harder when you’re using a 20 inch bar. Any task would be a lot more pleasant if you felt in complete control while you were working.
The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf managed to get around this by adding metal bucking spikes, which will stop the bar from slipping. The fact it only weighs 17 pounds is a big bonus in this category too.
Visit the ECHO site to learn more about their product line-up.
Husqvarna 455 Rancher
Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Very-well balanced chainsaw. Perfect for homeowners.
Features:
- The X-torq engine technology reduces fuel consumption up to 20-percent and emissions up to 60-percent, Low vibration
- Facilitates cleaning and replacement of the air filter
- Allows for easier starting and reduces the risk of engine flooding
- Centrifugal air cleaning system removes larger dust and debris particles before reaching the air filter
- 20-Inches long 55-1/2cc 2-stroke gas-powered chain saw; CARB compliant; this results in reduced air filter cleanings and improved engine life
✓ View or download the MANUAL.
Overview
Comes With X-Torque Engine Technology
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher comes with a 55.5cc 2-stroke engine, so it’s more than capable of performing heavy-duty tasks. This well-designed engine comes with special x-torque technology too.
Gas chainsaws aren’t amazing for the environment, but the 455 Rancher emissions will be cut by up to 60 percent. It’s also going to reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 percent increasing your runtime.
The Chainsaw Doesn’t Vibrate Too Much
When we talked about the Echo CS-590 you’ll have noticed it had bucking spikes for increased stability. You’ll find them on this model too, but it will also have LowVib technology to stop it from shaking.
If your chainsaw doesn’t vibrate too much it will be easier to control. It will also help with fatigue when you’re holding it for long periods of time, so you won’t need to keep putting it down.
VIDEO | Watch it in Action
Built-In Side-Mounted Chain Tensioner
The chain will always need to be tense to get the job done. If it’s lose you won’t be able to cut through anything. You need to make sure it’s set at the correct tension before you switch your chainsaw on.
Different models offer different ways you can do this. On the Husqvarna 455 Rancher you’ll need to do it manually, but it won’t be as hard as you think. The side-mounted chain tensioner is easy to access.
Has A Centrifugal Air Cleaning System
You want your engine to last an extremely long time, plus it’s a bonus if you can go for months without cleaning the air filter. The centrifugal air cleaning system will help you achieve these goals.
It will remove large dust and debris particles before they even get a chance to go near your air filter. The adjustable oil pump will increase the time between maintenance work on your chain too.
For more size & power consider the Husqvarna 460 Rancher (24″ — 60.3cc)
For larger trees we recommend the Husqvarna 460. (Buy from Amazon)
Includes Chain Brake For Added Safety
You’ll get a maximum power speed of 9,000 RPM, so it’s not the kind of tool you’ll want to kick back in your face. Although a chain is designed to help you they’re not exactly 100 percent reliable.
When your safety is on the line you’ll want multiple features to protect you. The 455 Rancher has an inertia activated chain brake. If the saw kicks back it will stop the chain as quickly as possible.
It Was Designed For Increased Comfort
When you’re using the Husqvarna 455 Rancher you’ll notice it’s been designed with maximum comfort in mind. The ergonomic front handle makes it much easier to hold when you’re performing any tasks.
The maximum weight comes in at only 12.8 pounds too, which is wonderful for a 20 inch gas-powered chainsaw. It’s even comfortable to get up and running thanks to its SmartStart technology.
Learn more by reading our indepth review of the Husqvarna 455 Rancher.
Makita DCS6421RFG
Professional 20-inch, 64cc, Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Professional quality chainsaw is built for heavy-duty cutting.
Features:
- Easy-starting automatic half throttle lock
- Chain compartment is easy to clean and clears chips away efficiently
- Slide out baffle can be configured for efficient cold weather operation
- Large metal spike bar for increased productivity
- Two-point durable inertia/mechanical chain brake
- Decompression valve reduces force required for starting
- High power-to-weight ratio: weighs only 13.9 lbs. (with chain)
- Maximum engine speed of 13,500 RPM
- Lateral chain tensioning for quick and convenient chain adjustment
- Advanced vibration dampening system engineered to reduce vibration
✓ View or download the MANUAL or the PARTS LIST for the Makita DCS6421RFG.
Overview | Makita DCS6421RFG
It Has A Great Power To Weight Ratio
Power doesn’t count for anything if a chainsaw is too heavy to handle. In an ideal world, every tool would have the perfect power to weight ratio. The Makita DCS6421RFG definitely comes pretty close.
The 64cc engine gives you 4.7 HP and it spins at 13,500 RPM. It’s greater than anything we’ve seen so far, yet it only weighs 13.9 pounds. The fuel tank capacity of 24.5 ounces guarantees a long runtime.
Slide-out baffle can be configured for efficient cold weather operation.
Slide Out Baffle Helps In Cold Weather
One of the biggest problems when you’re using gas chainsaws is dangerous emissions. They’re not like electric models and you can’t start them up indoors. It means they need to work efficiently when it’s cold.
The slide out baffle on the DCS6421RFG will ensure you don’t run into any problems in winter. It also has a decompression valve to drastically reduce the amount of force you’ll need to get the engine running.
The Chain Compartment Is Easy To Clean
It would be great if all the debris flew into the air while you were working, but it’s sadly not going to happen. You’ll need to clean it out if you want your chainsaw to work properly when you use it again.
This is sometimes tough depending on the chainsaw model you use. The chain compartment is easy to access on the DCS6421RFG, so you’ll never have to spend too long getting rid of the chips clogging it up.
Magnesium housing for improved durability & less weight (only 13.9 lbs.)
It Is Built To Last A Very Long Time
Gas-powered chainsaws have so much power they’re capable of performing heavy-duty tasks, especially if they have long bars. That means when they’re being built they have to be designed to last a long time.
If they’re unable to handle themselves they’ll constantly be in need of repair. The magnesium housing on this Makita model is extremely durable while being light enough to keep the weight down.
An Advanced Vibration Dampening System
Lateral chain tensioning allows you to adjust the chain, so it will help with vibrations. The real work will come from the advanced vibration dampening system designed to offer you lots of benefits.
We’ve already looked at stability and comfort today, plus when you’re in control you won’t end up in any unnecessary danger. LowVib is a key feature if you plan on using the chainsaw to its maximum potential.
Worth the money due to the durable components used. (Buy from Amazon)
Metal Spike Bar Increases Productivity
You know a large metal spike bar increases stability, which keeps you safe while also making each job feel easier. The one thing we’ve not touched on so far is the speed you’ll be able to work at.
When you’re in full control of the bar your productivity will skyrocket, but this won’t put you at risk. The bucking spikes on the Makita DCS6421RFG are bigger than on models like the Echo CS-590
Visit the Makita site to learn more about this chainsaw and their extensive line of tools and power equipment.
The 20″ Echo CS-590 Will Cut Through Anything
If you want a gas-powered chainsaw the Echo CS-590 is the perfect choice, plus there are a few more options available to you. They’re all ideal if you don’t think electric models will meet your requirements.
You’ll need to come to a final decision before you can start enjoying your purchase. If you need any help it’s probably worthwhile reading all the unbiased Amazon reviews from past customers.
Advantages | Gas-Powered Chainsaws
Don’t be fooled into thinking a gas chainsaw like the Echo CS-590 is archaic. The latest models contain lots of wonderful technology while retaining their main advantages. Here are some of the top reasons to purchase an Echo CS-590:
They’ll Offer You A Lot More Power
When you step outside it’s not just about trimming a few branches or cutting some logs. You also want to make life easier on yourself. If you want to do that you’ll need a chainsaw offering you more power than an electric one.
You won’t have to wait around for ages while the blade slices through your wood. It will fall through it like you’re slicing into a chocolate cake. You’ll also be able to handle difficult tasks an electric model couldn’t touch.
You Can Take Them Anywhere With You
Even if you buy your chainsaw to use at home you don’t need to keep it there. In fact, you’ll discover lots of occasions when you can use your tool somewhere else. You won’t be able to do the same thing if you rely on an outlet.
Don’t be fooled into thinking you won’t need an outlet if you own a battery-powered chainsaw. When the juice runs out you’ll still have to recharge it. Carrying a little extra gasoline with you is much easier.
Poulan PRO PR5020 | Homeowner Gas Chainsaw
If you’re on a budget this is a good option. (Buy from Amazon)
You’ll Have Access To A Longer Bar
You might have small trees in your garden, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the branches won’t be thick. Electric chainsaw bars aren’t too long, so they’ll make it awkward and dangerous to cut certain things.
When you reach bar lengths of 20 inches you’ll generally be looking at gas chainsaws. Those couple of inches might seem insignificant, but they’ll come in very handy for various tasks over the years.
They’re Easy To Get Up And Running
If you have gasoline in your garage you’ll be ready to go at all times. This is helpful after a storm when you can’t plug anything into your sockets. Cordless models are sometimes hard to get up and running too.
Unless you’ve charged them beforehand they’ll be useless. You’ll have to wait a long time for them to recharge. Gas-powered chainsaws can be up and running within a few minutes 100 percent of the time.
Disadvantages | Gas-Powered Chainsaws
You’ve seen the best gas-powered models like the Echo CS-590 will offer you, but what about all the negatives? Like any power tool they’ll have their disadvantages too. We’ll take a look at the big ones and why they’re not as bad as they sound:
They’re Heavier Than Electric Models
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out gas models will be heavier. After all, they’re longer and more powerful. Even though they’re not extremely lightweight it’s not the end of the world.
Gas chainsaws are only a little heavier than other models and if you’re not weak you won’t notice a huge difference. Your body will start to fatigue sooner than usual, but all the extra power will help you complete jobs quicker.
The Noise Levels Will Be A Lot Worse
Electric chainsaws will always be quieter than gas models, but they’re not completely silent. When you’re cutting through wood it will be noisy. Will the difference in noise levels cause you additional problems?
Your neighbors are the only ones it will impact in a negative way. You should be wearing hearing protection no matter which model you buy. Wearing better ear defenders will solve everything straight away.
It’s Not As Easy To Get Them Running
Any electric power tool takes around a second to start. You press a button and they’re ready for action. Gas-powered chainsaws require you to pull a cord, plus they’re not as friendly in cold weather.
Modern models like the Echo CS-590 will take some of the effort out of your hands. They’ll never be as easy to start when compared to electric chainsaws, but new technology means they’re easier to start than in years gone by.
They’ll Require More Maintenance Work
You don’t really have to do much when you own an electric chainsaw. The maintenance work takes care of itself 95 percent of the time, but gas-powered chainsaws will require a bit more work to look after them.
Fortunately, they require a lot less maintenance than you’d have expected years ago. New features do lots of the work for you. They will only take up a little more of your time should you decide to use one.