WORX JawSaw vs Alligator Looper : Two great rivals. How do they compare?
The JawSaw and the Lopper from Black+Decker both target the same market, namely homeowners who have a need to prune and limb small branches under 4-inches in diameter. They are both effective at cutting wood but I prefer the ergonomic design of the JawSaw, and the safer design. It’s well-engineered, with a built-in enclosed mini-chainsaw blade that does all of the cutting for you. The Alligator Lopper uses a scissor-like cutting motion, requiring more effort than the JawSaw. These are both great for light-duty wood cutting. Let’s compare features:
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Great Options for Safe Wood Cutting
The JawSaw weighs 1.1 lbs. more. If you’re elderly, or have a weaker upper body then the weight will be important to you. When we’re in our twenties we’re unstoppable but as we grow older we have to accept that we have our limitations. It’s important that you can safely carry and hold any power tool, especially a chainsaw, as your personal safety depends on it.
VIDEO : A Closer Look at the JawSaw by WORX
Did you know that every year, there will be approximately 28,000 chainsaw injuries in the US alone. Close to 3 million chainsaws are sold every year. These are staggering statistics. I suspect the numbers are even higher today as these statistics are from 2004. Unfortunately, too many people overlook the inherent danger of using a traditional chainsaw. If you’re interested in the JawSaw, it means you’re smart enough to know that you’re better off buying a safer design. I applaud you for taking the initiative and knowing your limits. The JawSaw is a fantastic cutting tool, and so is the Lopper-Style from Black+Decker and 20V Craftsman version.
The WORX JawSaw is a unique power tool created for homeowners who value safety when working in their yard. It has a smart design that I’m certain you’ll love if you’ve ever been intimidated by a chainsaw. Let’s face it, the thought of using a chainsaw frightens a lot people, and for good reason — they’re dangerous. In fact, chainsaws are the most dangerous power tool consumers can buy — and that’s where the WORX JawSaw beautifully slots into the market.
Craftsman V20 Lopper is a scissor-style cutting motion as the Alligator Lopper
The Craftsman V20 (CMCCSL621D1 is a better design than the Black + Decker Lopper. As you can see, it’s a more modern design, engineered for durability, with a similar cutting mechanism to the WORX JawSaw. The quality is excellent and it feels good in your hands. It’s great to see more manufacturers recognizing the market need for a safe chainsaw. It’s a market that has been relatively unchanged for decades. As technology moves forward, the possibilities increase for powerful cutting machines that are both safe to use and capable of handling thick wood.
For now you’ll have to settle for cutting wood under 4-inches. The Craftsman V20 has the same limitation. That’s my only complaint, but it’s minor, all things considered. I’m just happy that more people are buying these type of cutting tools.
Also available as a corded-electric : WG307 JawSaw / 5 Amp
The corded-electric ( WG307) version is the same model as the battery model except for the fact that it requires an extension cord, which means you have to deal with managing an extension cord as you work and it’s .2 pounds heavier, which is insignificant.
The Black & Decker Alligator Lopper is another product that takes aim at the chainsaw market but the JawSaw is a safer design. If you’ve never heard of WORX, don’t worry, they actually make a wide variety of affordable home products, including chainsaws, lawn mowers, the Aerocart wheelbarrow, and more.
The Alligator Lopper is the main competitor to the JawSaw.
Either the Alligator Lopper or JawSaw will accomplish the same task — cutting wood up to 4-inches. If you need to cut larger pieces of wood then you’ll have to get a chainsaw, which require most skill to use, and demand that you wear the proper safety gear. Sadly, most people don’t invest in safety clothing because they assume that accidents won’t happen to them. Safety should always be your top priority which is why I recommend one of these products for basic pruning around the yard.
WORX JawSaw is a Safer Chainsaw
The best description I can give for the WORX JawSaw is that it’s a much safer chainsaw. Period! It’s engineered with an enclosed bar and chain in order to eliminate your odds of causing serious harm. It’s been designed for the average homeowner who just want to get work done around the house without having to worry about injuring themselves. If you need to cut branches up to 4″ in diameter then the JawSaw is a great choice. It will truly make your life easier, and more importantly, safer.
If you’ve ever used a chainsaw then you know the dangers of kickback, but WORX has eliminated the risk by enclosing the chain in the metal housing.
The WORX JawSaw is very low maintenance as you don’t have to deal with gas, and it has an automatic tensioning system that keeps your chain at the optimal tightness so you don’t have to adjust it manually. Also, it has an automated oiling system that keeps the chain lubricated, all you have to do is add oil when the oil indicator tells you to do so. It’s straightforward and relatively easy to use as far as power tools are concerned.
The old cliche that states “a picture is worth a thousand words” should be updated for the 21st century, in this case, a “video is worth a million words.” It’s amazing how much a video can convey about a product. Sometimes words and images are not enough. You’ll learn a lot from watching this informative video review on the WORX JawSaw.
VIDEO | A Closer Look at the JawSaw
The WORX JawSaw is ideal for pruning, limbing, trimming and cleaning up after a storm. It’s lightweight and ergonomic making it comfortable to work with for long periods of time. You have three different models to choose from which I’ll cover in detail but here’s a quick overview:
- WORX Electric JawSaw: WG308 (6 inch, 5-Amp) — with Extension Handle
- WORX Battery JawSaw: WG320 Max Lithium Cordless (6 inch, 20 Volt)
- WORX Electric JawSaw: WG307 (6 inch, 5-Amp)
Here are the common features shared among all the models:
- Enclosed bar and chain protects you from accidents.
- Auto-tension system.
- Weight: 12 lbs.
- Cuts branches up to 4 inches.
- No threat of kickback injury.
- Metal teeth grips wood firmly for increased stability.
- Blade housing designed to safely cut on ground.
- Automatic chain oiling system with built-in oil level indicator.
Learn more about WORX chainsaws, including the WORX JawSaw on our comprehensive review article on the WORX chainsaw product line, including the JawSaw.
WORX JawSaw WG308 | Electric
Features:
- Bar measures 6 inches; 4-inch maximum cutting length; weighs 11.7 pounds
- This model(WG308 ) consists of a jawsaw (model#WG307) and an extension pole (model#WA0163).
- Electric pruner/chainsaw with extension handle for cutting extra-tall branches
- 5 amp saw is powered entirely by electricity, with no gas, oil, or noxious emissions.Enclosed jaw guard around chain keeps cuts focused and fingers safe.
- Cuts limbs up to 12 feet high; easy-to-use single-bolt Auto-Tension system
OVERVIEW —
The WORX JawSaw WG308 is the most popular JawSaw model because it combines the electric JawSaw and an extension pole attachment which allows you reach up to 12 feet. You can buy the extension pole separately (WA0163) but it’s cheaper to purchase the WG308 package, rather than buying them individually.
VIDEO | A Closer Look at the Electric JawSaw
The WG308 JawSaw is powered by a 5-Amp motor and all models are constructed with the same 6″ bar and chain.
This WORX JawSaw is ideal if you also need to prune and cut branches that are within 12 – 20 feet off the ground, depending on how tall you are. Traditionally, you’d have to call an arborist to trim your trees or use a pole saw if you wanted to do it yourself, but for the average homeowner using the JawSaw is a safer way to go.
If you don’t need to trim trees above the ground then there’s no point in buying this particular package, in that case just choose either of the two other models, which I’ll discuss shortly.
The one disadvantage of the WORX WG308 is that you’ll need to use an extension cord and I know a lot of people hate the thought of having to manage the extension cord as they do yard work. If you’re that type of person then the battery-powered JawSaw is the way to go. But don’t let the extension cord scare you away. You’ll get used to it. It’s a small nuisance, but it’s the cheapest model. Thankfully, the WORX lithium-ion battery model (WG320) allows you to work with 100% mobility and freedom.
If you want a long extension cord, like 100-foot for versatility, we recommend a 14 gauge cord like this US Wire 63100 (below). It’s fairly inexpensive.
The WORX JawSaw weighs 12 lbs on its own so when you add the extension pole it adds a few more pounds, making it noticeably heavier and more challenging to balance when its fully extended. If you’re physically fit and strong then you won’t have a problem, but if you’re not in good shape or elderly then you may have trouble using it safely. Please exercise caution when you’re working with any power tools.
WORX JawSaw WG320 | Battery
Features:
- Cut or trim materials up to 4 inches in diameter
- Innovative auto-tension feature guarantees optimum tension at all times
- Features an automatic chain oiler with oil level indicator
- Blade housing allows for safe cuts directly on the ground
- Powerful and lightweight MaxLithium battery delivers long-lasting performance
The WORX JawSaw WG320 is the premiere model because it’s completely cordless. It’s powered by a 20-volt lithium-ion battery that will last least an hour. As with most battery powered tools, the harder you push it the quicker your battery drains.
If you plan to do a lot of yard projects in the future that involve pruning or limbing then you should consider buying an extra battery. Yes, they’re expensive but you’ll need it for longer cutting tasks. When you’re working you can have the other battery charging.
Tip: When using the JawSaw let the saw do the work, which means, don’t force it. Let the saw do the cutting. Don’t push it beyond its capabilities. This isn’t a gas chainsaw so you’ll have to be patient when cutting. It’s a great tool if you use it the way it was designed.
If you’ve read other articles from Chainsaw Journal you’ll likely know that my preference is always to buy battery operated products. Why? Because personally I love the convenience of being able to work without having to worry about cords. I know it’s a personal choice but I’m okay with spending a little more money for convenience if I know I’ll be using the product a lot over the long-term, but that’s just me.
It’s important to think about how you intend to use the JawSaw in the future to help you decide which model is the best one for you.
WORX JawSaw WG307 | Electric
The WG307 JawSaw is the corded model without the pole extension. That’s it. It’s the cheapest model as well. I suppose that’s another thing that I’ve failed to mention, the JawSaw is cheap but I don’t mean that in a bad way. It’s very well made and inexpensive.
One of the main reasons why it’s so affordable is because WORX manufactured millions of these which makes the cost to manufacturer lower than if it were a niche product. Honestly, this is a great cutting tool if you’re a homeowner who needs to cut branches under 4-inches, but this is not designed for heavy-duty use. Sorry, but this is for light-duty cutting. Sometimes you just need a gas chainsaw to get the job done.
If you want an extra chain for your WORX JawSaw the replacement part is the WORX WA0161.
Watch this video review on the WORX JawSaw WG307:
The JawSaw is a unique product that’s perfect for homeowners who aren’t comfortable using a chainsaw and only have to cut wood under 4″ in diameter. It’s great to see companies working on innovative products for consumers. Chainsaws are dangerous and need to used with proper safety gear. The JawSaw is a much safer alternative.
