Which chainsaw is better to buy for home and garden? Survey of firm- producers. The best chainsaws for home and garden How much power does a chainsaw have

Any owner of a country house will definitely have to deal with the need to carry out wood sawing operations. This is especially in demand during construction or repair work, which are usually always located in private households. If the house has stoves, then replenishment of fuel supplies is constantly required. Plus, taking care of the adjacent plot: regular pruning of trees or a complete cut of old, unnecessary ones, trimming shrubs and hedges, etc. Even the organization of leisure often requires turning to the saw - when it is necessary to prepare fuel for the barbecue or summer grill.

It is quite possible to use the "grandfather" approach using ordinary and two-handed saws, an ax, a pruner, but it takes a lot of time, which is usually not enough, and requires considerable physical effort. It is good that in our time there is an opportunity to purchase a modern mechanized tool that greatly simplifies the performance of labor-intensive operations. So, chainsaws are in great demand, due to the convenience of working with them and complete autonomy - independence from the presence of a power source. But in order for the tool to really meet the expectations of its owner, you should definitely understand how to choose the right chainsaw, which you should pay special attention to when buying.

Experienced users who have been using chainsaws in their daily work for a long time will probably know the main selection criteria. But for those who are just going to purchase this useful “helper” for the first time, for a start it’s worth at least a little understanding of the chainsaw device - in order to make it clear what will be in question when evaluating tool performance.

How does a chainsaw work

The range of chain saws is very wide, as they are used in a variety of fields.

  • This is an indispensable tool both in companies engaged in industrial timber harvesting and in forestry enterprises that carry out regular work to clean the massifs from dead wood or unnecessary growth.

  • Chainsaws are used in the preparation of wooden parts of structures under construction, cutting window and door openings in log cabins from logs or timber, selecting the necessary grooves or spikes, and for many other operations.

  • The variety of domestic, economic use of a chainsaw has already been mentioned above - it is an indispensable assistant to a good homeowner.
  • Moreover, in the skillful hands of the master, the chainsaw becomes a tool for creating works of art - logs or decks turn into unique garden wooden sculptures.

But, despite such a wide range of uses, all chain saws They have roughly the same design and work on the same principle.

First consider the chainsaw from the outside:


The entire main structure of the saw is covered with a plastic or metal case (item 1). Inside there is a power unit (engine) and components and mechanisms that ensure its launch and operation. In the upper part, the housing has a removable cover (pos. 2), which, when removed, provides access to the power and ignition systems.

Any saw has two working handles. The front one - in the form of an arc encircling the body from above (pos. 3), and the back one (pos. 4), with controls located on it.

A tire (pos. 5) is installed in front of the chainsaw, with a saw chain stretched on it (pos. 6).

To start the power unit, a manual starter is used, the handle of which is located on the left side of the body (pos. 7). To pre-prime fuel into the carburetor, most models have a dedicated hand pump button (key 8). Most often it is indicated by the index "Primer".

Directly near the rear handle, so that you can easily reach with your finger, there is a toggle switch for turning on and off the engine ignition system (pos. 9).

There are always two fillers on the left side of the body - for refueling the saw with fuel (pos. 10) and for filling the tank of the chain and bar lubrication system (pos. 11). The mouths are closed with hermetic stoppers. The location of the necks may differ from the example shown in the figure, but there are always inscriptions or pictograms that clearly indicate the purpose of the filling tank.

Prices and model line of chainsaws CALIBER

chainsaw gauge

The engine speed is controlled by the throttle button (pos. 12) located on the rear handle of the saw. On top of the handle there is necessarily another key - a locking key (pos. 13), without pressing which it is impossible to transfer the control action to the throttle. This is one of the frontiers of safety at work.

A special safety shield (pos. 14) is always placed in front of the front handle, which is kinematically connected to the emergency chain brake.


On the opposite side of the chainsaw there is a metal or plastic casing (pos. 15) that closes the rotation transmission unit from the engine to the saw chain drive sprocket. There is also a mechanism for adjusting the chain tension, its lubrication, as well as two fixing nuts (pos. 16), fixing the installed position of the tire.

The internal combustion engine used in chainsaws is a single-cylinder, two-stroke. Its dimensions, respectively - the diameter of the cylinder and its volume, directly depend on the power and predetermine the purpose of the tool.


Two-stroke engines do not require a dedicated lubrication system. For normal operation mechanisms, it is sufficient to use a properly selected gasoline-oil mixture as fuel. The gasoline component burns out in the cylinder, and the oil component provides lubrication of the friction units.

The engine cooling system is air. For greater efficiency of heat transfer, the fins of the outer casing of the cylinder (pos. 1) are provided, and the engine flywheel has a peculiar configuration of a turbine with blades (pos. 5), which provide a forced powerful air flow.

The ignition of the working fuel mixture in the cylinder is carried out by a candle (pos. 2). The fuel supply from the carburetor to the cylinder is through a special connecting pipe (pos. 3). There must be a silencer (pos. 4), which reduces the noise of the unit and directs the exhaust to the side.

There is no gearbox with a change in the number of revolutions from the engine to the drive sprocket - the speed is regulated only by the throttle. But there is a clutch system (pos. 5) - the transmission of torque is carried out only when a certain level of speed is reached.


This mechanism works on the centrifugal principle. Clutch shoes (their number may differ in different models) are tightened to the center by a spring (pos. 2). The tightening force is calculated so that when idling, the pads do not come into contact with the inner surface of the drum (pos. 3), which is rigidly connected to the chain drive sprocket (pos. 4), and the rotation of the motor shaft (pos. 1) is not transmitted further.


With an increase in the number of revolutions, massive pads, overcoming the resistance of the springs under the action of centrifugal force, are pressed against the inner surface of the drum, and the torque is transmitted to the saw chain.

The bar with the chain has a slot for insertion onto the saw studs (pos. 6) and centering holes for the stopper (pin), the position of which can be changed with a special screw (pos. 5) - this is how the chain tension is adjusted.

Many models of chainsaws have a toothed chain catcher (item 7) in the same area. In the event of a chain break or flight, it must not allow injury to the worker's hands.

The oil supply channel from the tank for lubricating the chain and tire gears is also brought out here through the screw pump. Many models are equipped with an adjusting screw, with which you can change the feed rate.

The outer surface of the drum (pos. 3) also plays another function - it is part of the emergency chain braking mechanism.


When assembling the assembly, the drum is surrounded by a spring-loaded ring of steel strip (pos. 1). When the saw is not in working position, this belt is pressed against the drum by a spring. Before using the tool, the master presses the shield (pos. 2) back. In this position, the belt is loosened and the drum can turn freely.

What is it for? A chainsaw is a dangerous tool, and the chain moving along the bar can cause serious injury. Especially dangerous is the phenomenon of reverse impact - when the tire is thrown up or to the side. In the working condition of the saw, the protective shield in the rear position is very close to the hand of the worker holding the tool by the front handle. In the event of a sudden throw of the saw up or to the side, the back of the hand will involuntarily move the shield to the front position, the spring-loaded belt will compress the drum, and its rotation will be stopped for 0.5 - 1 second, which means that the movement of the chain will also be interrupted. The engine remains running.

The diagram under #3 shows a screw that changes the position of the pin when adjusting the chain tension.

True, the operation of such a brake requires special attention from the master. If you increase the engine speed without moving the shield to the rear working position, then it is easy to overheat the mechanism and even cause the polymer parts of the structure to melt and the entire mechanism to fail. And it is strictly forbidden to work without a functioning chain brake.

To start the engine - to transfer to it the starting torque, which will ensure the supply of a combustible mixture from the carburetor to the cylinder and create an impulse for sparking on the candle, a manual starter is used.


The design of the starter is simple. This is a drum with a cable (cord) wound around it, which ends with a handle located outside. The drum itself is located on a frame with a return spring - it ensures the cable is wound and the starter returns to its original position. The starter is located on most models on the left, coaxial with the engine crankshaft.

When the cord is pulled sharply, the drum is given a slight translational movement forward, so that its slots fall into the reciprocal protrusions of the engine flywheel, and rotational motion is transmitted to the flywheel and then to the crankshaft.

Access to service the carburetor and spark plug is by opening the top cover of the chainsaw.


Filter elements are also necessarily located here, providing purification of the air entering the carburetor. They require regular monitoring and cleaning - clogged filters often cause unstable engine operation or even the impossibility of starting it.

Many models have another external control element - carburetor air damper adjustment (among motorists, the name “choke” usually appears). Such an adjustment may be necessary to facilitate the cold start of the engine, before it is warmed up, especially in conditions of low winter temperatures.


Choke control lever ("suction")

There is a filter in the fuel tank that cleans the mixture from suspensions. There is no gas pump, as such, except for the “primer” for preliminary manual pumping. Equalization of pressure in the tank and outside (so that no vacuum is created during the production of fuel) is provided by a special breather on the tank lid. Its condition also requires regular “care”, since with a clogged breather, the chainsaw engine will constantly stall.

The layout of specific models of chainsaws, especially - different manufacturers may have certain differences. However, the basic scheme for all remains approximately the same.

For greater clarity of information about the chainsaw device - a demo video:

Video: device and principle of operation of a chainsaw

What is evaluated when choosing a chainsaw?

What tool evaluation criteria should I pay special attention to when buying a chainsaw?

Planned purpose of the tool

To begin with, you should really imagine how much work will be done on a chainsaw, and with what regularity. The choice of the required model primarily depends on this.

  • If there is a need to perform minor work with low frequency, for example, one-time logging for a fireplace or barbecue, pruning trees, performing simple operations when processing wooden blanks, then you can limit yourself to purchasing an inexpensive model belonging to the class of household chainsaws.

The smallest and lightest - household class chainsaws (garden)

These tools are usually designed for very short continuous operation - within 20 ÷ 30 minutes, and in total no more than 1.5 ÷ 2 hours per day. But even in this mode, it is not recommended to exceed the threshold of 20 hours of its use within a month. The motor resource of the unit is small, usually within 400 hours of operation, and in order for the chainsaw to remain an “assistant” for as long as possible, it requires an appropriate, very rational use.

The power of the power unit of a household chainsaw usually does not exceed 1.5 kW, and the cylinder volume is about 40 cm³. Household-grade saws usually have a very effective muffler, which reduces the noise effect from their operation to the minimum possible.

With all these shortcomings, these chainsaws also have undeniable advantages. It is compact and light weight. Such qualities make it possible to use a household-class tool for almost everyone, regardless of the level of physical fitness of a person.

  • The second class of chainsaws are semi-professional, or, as they are often called, “farm saws”.

An example of a semi-professional chainsaw ("farm")

This is already a fairly serious tool that can withstand several hours of continuous operation (about 4 hours a day). The power of the power unit reaches 2 ÷ 2.5 kW, the volume of the cylinder is up to 60 cm³.

Such a chainsaw is already quite suitable for any household needs, including for regular harvesting of firewood, dumping small trees and sawing them into logs, for performing various construction operations. Most often, it is these saws that carpenters use when building log or. Such saws are also used in logging, but only for cleaning trunks from knots and branches.

Prices and model range of ECHO chainsaws

echo chainsaw

The motor resource embedded in such a chainsaw is usually about 1000 hours. For the "arsenal" of the owner of a country house, permanently residing in it, this is, apparently, the best option.

Of course, both the dimensions and the mass of the chainsaw are already much higher than those of household-class tools, and working with it will require some preparation.

  • Finally, professional grade chainsaws. Their very name speaks for itself - they are designed for continuous operation during a work shift - up to eight or even more hours, under heavy loads.

The purchase of a professional-grade saw for the household looks completely redundant - there simply will not be loads for it that are adequate to its capabilities.

These chainsaws always have a powerful power unit (3 kW) and higher, with a cylinder volume of 60 to 90 cm³), a long tire is expressed that allows you to work with thick trunks, an “aggressive” shape and sharpening of chain teeth that can cut dense wood even on strong frost. The pledged motor resource is measured in thousands of hours.

A similar tool is used, as a rule, at logging sites. To use it in economic needs is both unprofitable and inconvenient. Chainsaws of this class are always massive and overall, so they will not be good helpers in construction either. The operation of the saw is always accompanied by a fairly high noise level: in forest conditions this is not important, but for home use unlikely to fit. In addition, working with a professional tool requires a very high physical fitness and appropriate qualifications of operators.

All other parameters for choosing a tool directly or indirectly depend on the chainsaw belonging to a particular class.

Types and parameters of bars and saw chains

Chainsaws are always equipped with regular tires. Their size (length) corresponds to the capabilities of the engine, and exceeding it is extremely dangerous - you can easily “kill” a drive that is not designed for excessively large loads.


The range of tire lengths is usually from 10 inches for a household class tool to 18 for a “farmer” one (professional ones can be much longer). For each specific model, the manufacturer indicates the allowable dimensions. The use of shorter tires is, in principle, possible, although not strongly encouraged. The installation of longer ones that go beyond the upper limit of the range is strictly prohibited.

Some models of exactly the same power and design may be sold with tires of different lengths. Here you can focus on the nature of the intended work - for trimming trees and shrubs it is better to have a shorter tire, as it will be more convenient to work with, and for sawing firewood - longer, taking into account the diameter of the logs.

Tires may differ in design.

  • Household and "farm" chainsaws are usually equipped with flat tires with low profile chains - they are more convenient to use for unloaded cuts and are the least susceptible to kickback. True, all this is due to reduced productivity.
  • For work at height, it will be more convenient to use a lightweight tire. These are two metal plates with a polyamide gasket in the middle.
  • The tires of professional chainsaws usually provide for the possibility of replacing the head with an end sprocket, since this assembly, with constant use, the tool wears out the fastest. For economic use, such a tire is not needed.

The main parameters of the bus are shown in the figure:


1 - the dimensions and position of the holes for the fasteners and the guide adjusting pin must correspond to the model of the chainsaw.

2 - the width of the guide groove, which provides wedding movement, but at the same time - and reliable retention of the chain on the tire. The size must match the thickness of the chain tooth shank.

3 - the pitch of the teeth of the end sprocket must correspond to those of the drive sprocket and the parameters of the chain.

4 - tire length (L), which has already been mentioned above.

As a rule, the main parameters of the tire are not only indicated by the manufacturer in the passport, but also applied to the product itself:


The saw chain consists of the following items:

1 and 2 - cutting chain links, alternately - left and right, having a certain angle of sharpening the edges. On each of their cutting links there is a protrusion - cut depth limiter (pos. 3)

4 - leading links through which rotation is transmitted from the sprocket, and the shanks of which keep the chain on the tire from transverse displacement.

5 - connecting links.

6 - rivets that collect all the links into a single structure.

The main parameters of the circuit are shown in the diagram:


a is the value that determines the chain pitch, the distance between the first and third rivets, divided in half.

This value is standardized. In saws of small and medium power, that is, belonging to the household and "farmer" class, chains with a pitch of 0.325 and 3/8 inches are used (this corresponds to 8.255 and 9.525 millimeters in metric terms). Such a strange at first glance gradation, using decimal and simple fractions, was chosen only to prevent confusion: 3/8 inch is equal to 0.375, which is easy to confuse with 0.325, and random discrepancies are excluded.

Chains with a pitch of 0.325 are distinguished by the lowest vibration indicators during operation, but their performance is also low. The "golden mean" is 3/8 inch, it is these chains that are found on most middle-class models. Professional chainsaws are equipped with chains with a pitch of 0.404, and sometimes even ¾ inch with a high tooth profile, often with special carbide tips.

The second parameter of the chain is the thickness of the drive link shank (marked “b” in the diagram) - this value has already been discussed above.

And finally, the length of the chain, if this element of the saw set is purchased separately, must correspond to the size of the existing tire.

The shape of the cutting sections and their sharpening may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. So, there are two main types of tooth shape - chisel and chipper. However, there are many intermediate options.


However, such subtle knowledge is only interesting experienced craftsmen- at the household level, the user will not feel much difference.

Another important note about the saw set. It is a common occurrence that chains and bars from one manufacturer are designed exclusively for chainsaws of the same brand. There are exceptions - but they are single and do not "make the weather." Thus, when choosing a saw, you should immediately assess the availability of the service or the availability in the region of the possibility of purchasing spare parts for this model.

Evaluation of the convenience of working with a chainsaw

It would be completely pointless to study the technical and operational characteristics of a chainsaw, if you do not “feel” it with your hands. This tool belongs to the group of increased danger, so it is extremely important that the chainsaw ideally “fits into the hand” of the master. And the owner himself must easily, without the use of excessive effort, direct the movement of the working saw bar.

To do this, when choosing, the ergonomics of a particular model must be evaluated.

  • The chainsaw must be balanced - when fully assembled, its center of gravity must be located in such a way that when the tool is lifted by the front handle, it would maintain balance. This is very important - you do not have to spend extra effort to keep the tool in a horizontal position, which means that fatigue from work will not come so quickly.
  • The mass of the chainsaw is also estimated - the physical capabilities of people are different, and what seems easy to one for another can become an unbearable burden.

  • Be sure to evaluate the location of the safety shield in front of the front handle. It happens that for some household models the distance between the working position of the shield and the handle is very small. It will not be easy for a person with a highly developed hand, and even dressed in a work mitt, to hold the tool when cutting - any movement can cause an emergency operation of the brake. Naturally, effective work under such conditions it will not - it will turn into a continuous torment, and may end with overheating of the brake drum. So, you have to choose a larger model.
  • The convenience of placing the hand on the rear control handle is evaluated. Pressing the accelerator key, after the safety key has been activated, should be comfortable for the fingers, without jamming. The toggle switch for interrupting the ignition circuit must be located in the presence of an instant shutdown of the engine in the event of such a need.

  • Even the smallest saw gives a considerable vibration load to the user's hands during operation - this causes rapid fatigue, and with frequent use of the tool, it can even lead to chronic diseases joints. Therefore, manufacturers try to minimize vibration effects by using special elastic or spring dampers between the body and the power unit and, in particular, between the body and the front handle of the chainsaw. At this point, too, it is worth focusing attention.
  • When choosing a chainsaw, be sure to ask the seller to refuel and start it. It is necessary to make sure that the engine starts easily, without problems, and runs smoothly, without failures, at idle. You should try the "acceleration" of the motor, that is, its adequate response to pressing the throttle control key. At the same time, it is possible to verify the regular operation of the clutch assembly (rotation should not be transmitted to the chain at idle), and the emergency brake (pressing the shield forward should almost instantly stop the chain).

When buying a saw, be sure to require it to be refueled and started - to check the correct operation of all components
  • When the chainsaw is running, you can assess the degree of its noise, as well as the direction of exhaust of exhaust combustion products - this will subsequently be important for choosing a workplace and position of the tool, taking into account the direction of the wind or the location of doors (gates, windows, ventilation hood) In workshop.

Which brand to choose?

And, finally, an important selection criterion is the manufacturer's warranty, the possibility after-sales service, purchase of replacement headset elements and spare parts.

The undisputed leaders in the production of chainsaws are STIHL and HUSQVARNA. The STIHL tool is more preferable from the point of view that in our area it is much easier to purchase a headset, consumables and spare parts for it. The products of the companies MAKITA, JONSERED, OLEO MAC, HITACHI, ZENOAH, PARTNER, ECHO and a number of others enjoy unconditional authority. Among Russian buyers, chainsaws of the Taiga, Ural, Interskol, Zubr, Energomash brands are quite popular.

Prices for popular chainsaws

Of course, you should buy a chainsaw only in a specialized store, where the originality of the product will be guaranteed and all manufacturer's obligations will be confirmed. Alas, we have to admit that in this area there are a huge number of fakes, outwardly practically indistinguishable from real models and giving themselves out only with separate “strokes”. But in work, they have nothing to do with the original, neither in terms of their effectiveness, nor in terms of the pledged resource, nor in ensuring proper security.

Video - How to choose the right chainsaw

And in conclusion - a few popular models from leading manufacturers of chainsaws:

ModelIllustrationShort descriptionPower, weightaverage price
HUSQVARNA 236 Small, light, but powerful household grade saw.
14” bar with 3/8” chain pitch and 1.3 mm groove width.
Tank volume - 0.3 l.
Optional Centrifugal Air Purifier for Carburetor
1400 W
4.6 kg
11500 rub.
Stihl MS 180 14 One of the most popular models for personal use.
Bar length 14ʺ, chain pitch - 3/8, groove width - 1.3 mm.
Automatic chain lubrication system.
Tank volume - 0.25 l.
1500 W
3.9 kg
13000 rub.
MAKITA EA3502S40B Chainsaw for household needs.
Bar length - 16ʺ, chain pitch and thickness - 3/8 - 1.3 mm.
Fuel tank volume - 0.4 l
1700 W
4.4 kg
16700 rub.
ECHO CS-510-15 Powerful saw of a semi-professional, "farm" class of the Japanese assembly.
Bar length 15ʺ, chain 0.325 pitch and 1.5 mm wide.
Increased security system, economical fuel and oil consumption for light design features.
Improved anti-vibration protection.
2600 W
4.9 kg
28100 rub.
ZUBR PBTs-450 40P Reliable and relatively inexpensive chainsaw domestic production, semi-professional class.
Tire 16ʺ, chain parameters - 0.325 - 1.5 mm.
Tank volume - 0.55 l.
Electronic ignition system, air pre-cleaning system, in-house designed saw set designed for durability without sharpening.
1800 W
6.4 kg
12700 rub.
Hyundai X 560 A semi-professional chainsaw with an extended bar that allows you to fell fairly thick trees and use it in construction work with log cabins.
Bar length - 20ʺ, chain 0.325 - 1.5 mm.
Engine decompressor system for easy starting of the unit.
Relatively low price against the background of high performance
3000 W
5.2 kg
16500 rub.
Video - Guide to choosing a chainsaw

As a rule, when buying a chainsaw, a lot of questions arise about its choice. People do not always understand what criteria should be followed when evaluating, so for a start it is worth considering the scope of this tool and the main characteristics. Before choosing a chainsaw for giving and at home, as well as which company and brand to give preference to, read our recommendations.

Chainsaw types

Chainsaws come in several types:

Household. Saws of this type are most often used for cutting tree trunks, harvesting firewood. They are not designed for long work, they are characterized by low power. Small dimensions and weight have a positive effect on ease of use.

Semi-professional. A more powerful type of chainsaw, suitable for a wide range of jobs: repair and construction, sawing trees. But the level of strength of the mechanism does not allow them to be used. long time breaks are needed.

Professional. This type of chainsaw compares favorably with the previous ones with its wide functionality and high power, which allows you to work with the tool for 8 hours without a break. The wear-resistant materials that make up this type of tool make a real life indicator of 1300 to 2000 hours. The most common chainsaws today are the brands Stihl (Calm) and Husqvarna (Husqvarna).

The life of a chainsaw is a concept that means the time elapsed from the moment the tool was purchased to the first repair. It also includes a 40% reduction in compression.

In order for the saw to serve you as long as possible, you should follow a few simple rules: choose the right operating mode during operation and avoid overloading. For efficient work, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the saw set and chain, because working with a dull saw, you increase the load on the central engine and, as a result, increase the likelihood of breakage.

The speed of work is also affected by the chain pitch, the profile of the cutting teeth and the suitability of the tool model to the conditions of its application.

What is the backlash problem

When the surface being cut and the end of the saw bar come into contact, a kickback occurs: the moment when the chainsaw jerks sharply towards the working person. To avoid unpleasant consequences, you need to use the inertial brake drive - this is the lever located at the left hand. At the moment of impact, the hand collides with the lever and the chain stops.

Anti-vibration system

An anti-vibration system is needed to prevent joint injuries and the occurrence of related diseases. To mitigate the negative effects, modern design chainsaws, all of its blocks are performed separately from each other.

Note! Another aspect of comfortable use of the tool is the ratio of power to weight. In this regard, it is necessary to choose the right model for a particular application.

Next, consider the types of tires and types of chains that are parts of the saw set. The consumer grade tool features a thin, narrow bar and low profile chain, making it the safest to use. In more powerful units, lightweight types of tires are used - this is necessary to reduce weight, and as a result, injury risk. It is also necessary that the length of the bar matches the power of the saw.

The chains, in turn, differ depending on the stride length. A short stride length minimizes vibration but reduces performance, and vice versa, a long stride length increases both vibration and tool performance.

The saw set includes a sprocket, sprocket, chain and bar, and all these components must be of the same company.

Note! The decisive factor in the efficiency of using a chainsaw is its power, which mainly depends on the correct ratio of the saw pitch and the volume of the engine cylinder. In each individual model, this ratio is different and depends on the scope of a particular tool.

The engine design of all chainsaws is generally identical - they are all two-stroke and carbureted. Also, all models are equipped with two gas tanks, the volumes of which may be different depending on the version: a tank for gasoline and oil. It is also recommended to add branded oil to gasoline, and it must have an octane rating of at least 92.

Note! For any chainsaw model, it is recommended to use a simple unused engine oil as a lubricant, although there is a special one created specifically for this purpose.

Pre-Purchase Check

Before starting the tool, it must be set up and adjusted, so read the instructions carefully and use the help of a specialist. After that, start the tool and let it work just like that - this is necessary so that its parts rub against each other and are lubricated. The launch mechanism itself is quite simple: you need to check the saw mechanism, pull out the choke and select the slack in the starting cable, then pull the cable strongly - after that the tool is completely ready for use.

Video

Overview of Partner and Stihl chainsaws:

What characteristics should a good chainsaw have, which brand to choose? If you live in a private house or are the owner of a summer cottage, then the presence of a chainsaw becomes especially relevant. How to choose a chainsaw? What chainsaw to buy for home, cottage? Let's take a look and compare the most popular construction market brands for details.

Before making the final choice, you need to figure out what goals you set for yourself. How often the saw will be used, what loads are expected. Even the factor who will work with her (male or female) also matters. What is the best chainsaw? For example, for seasonal firewood, pruning or small trees, a model that is not too powerful may be needed. If it is planned to cut a beam during the construction of a gazebo or a bath, then a more powerful unit will be needed here.

Semi-professional model of the middle class Tatra Garden MS 235, photo:

Chainsaw for a summer residence - which one to choose?

This tool is divided into three categories: household, semi-professional, professional saws.

Household chainsaws

Such models are designed for periodic work - about 20-30 hours a month. They differ in small dimensions, weight, they will perfectly help to prepare logs, firewood for a stove or fireplace. They can be used to cut boards during construction or cut tree branches. Such units are also called amateur, they have low power (1.5-2 kW), are equipped with low-profile chains that have a low vibration level. These tools are characterized by low productivity, but are easy to use, optimally solve your garden or small construction tasks.

Household model ECHO 260, photo:

Semi-professional chainsaws

This is a class of more powerful models (2-3 kW), they have more weight than household ones, they are designed for construction work, sawing trees, thick branches. If you plan to do construction (roofing, flooring), then a semi-professional gasoline saw will come in handy. It should be borne in mind that long-term loads (2-4 hours) are not recommended for such a tool.

Semi-professional model Stihl MS 230, photo:

Professional chainsaws

This category includes the most powerful tools when the work reaches industrial volumes. They can work continuously for more than 8 hours, their performance exceeds 2.5 kW, the most enduring models are 2.7-6 kW. It is reasonable to purchase such units if you yourself are building a large log house, bathhouse, gazebo. If you plan to work with thick tree trunks, then a professional saw is just what you need.

Professional models Stihl MS 880, Husqvarna 3120 XP, photo:

Which chainsaw to buy for the home - here you already have to choose. If there is serious construction work ahead, then a semi-professional or professional tool will be required. A lightweight, so-called household model will help solve country or garden needs.

Characteristics, general indicators of chainsaws

The power of the tool is the most important aspect on which the speed and depth of sawing material depend. Power should correspond to the weight of the tool - it is more convenient to work this way, and the result of your efforts will be of the highest quality. The more powerful the saw, the heavier it will be in weight, respectively, the more power the work process will require from you.

Let's look at the device of the saw, as well as the main working elements responsible for its performance. By their own structural features the petrol saw is a classic piece of machinery. The heart of the unit two stroke engine internal combustion. There is no gearbox as such. The single-stage chain drive makes the saw chain work, thereby carrying out the workflow. In addition to these main factors, modern saws have a cleaning system for the air entering the carburetor, a starter, a chain tensioner, a tire, a fuel tank, an ignition coil, a silencer, and others.

Chainsaw tires

One of the main indicators is the length of the bar - the longer it is, the larger the working area the saw can cover. The ratio of tire length to power must be balanced. Otherwise, with low power, you will exert extra effort, which will adversely affect the operation of the engine (wear). Always read the attached instructions, the maximum allowable tire length is always indicated in the passport. In semi-professional, household saws, tires up to 40 cm long are usually used, in professional models - up to 75 cm.

There are three types of tires: narrow, lightweight, long. Narrow tires are installed on household, so-called low-power saws, suitable for medium-sized work. They usually come with a low profile chain, and there is practically no kickback in such units.

Lightweight tires are made of steel. However, to make the workflow more comfortable and the saw itself light (for example, when working at height - on a tree or roof), a layer of polyamide is laid between the steel sheets of such a tire.

Long bars are used when sawing large diameter tree trunks. Saw bars with replaceable heads are also designed for high power professional chainsaws, designed for many hours of work.

Chainsaw chain

It is too important factor, which cannot be ignored when choosing a tool. The distance between the teeth of the saw is responsible for the chain pitch, determines it. The smallest step for household low-power saws is 0.325 inches. Such a chain is designed for a small load, with more active work it will quickly become dull. More powerful units have chains with a pitch of 0.404 inches - with this indicator, increased vibration is observed, while productivity increases. But it should be borne in mind that they are not designed to work with too hard or frozen wood. A larger pitch is used by powerful professional tools, such chains have hard alloy soldering (reinforced).

Chainsaw kickback protection

Kickback is one of the most dangerous factors when working with a gasoline saw. When the bar (especially its end) comes into contact with a hard surface of the material, the saw often kicks to the side. Here it is important to hold the tool, quickly stop the movement of the chain, the inertial brake is responsible for this action. The brake actuator is a lever that has two positions. Upon impact, your hand rests on this lever, thereby activating the inertia brake. Pay special attention to this nuance when choosing a saw model.

Chainsaw anti-vibration protection

The presence of vibration protection is relevant if you plan to work with the unit often, for a long time. During the working process, this tool vibrates in the hands, thereby causing circulatory disorders, followed by joint diseases. If you decide to buy a high-powered gasoline saw, then the presence of anti-vibration protection should be especially relevant.

Household saws, especially those with rubber gaskets (between the handles and the body) have very little vibration. Powerful units are characterized by strong vibration - this is understandable. In modern semi-professional, professional models, the motor and gas tank are located at a distance from each other - this is necessary to evenly distribute their mass relative to the entire structure. When choosing a saw, do not be too lazy to turn it on when buying, hold a working tool in your hands - so you can estimate the approximate degree of vibration.

Tools without protection are suitable for short-term, simple garden or construction work. In all other cases, it is better to choose a unit with protection. It happens that women choose their "assistant" for work in their summer cottage. This is just the option when it is preferable to choose a low-power tool with low weight, low vibration.

Chainsaw engine

As mentioned above, in all models petrol saws a two-stroke carburetor engine is installed, which has two tanks for filling fuel and oil. The fuel tank is about 2 times the size of the lubricant tank. This ratio is calculated so that the production of liquids occurs approximately the same time. Domestic-made tools can use 76th gasoline, motorcycle oil. When choosing a foreign-brand unit, it is better to use higher-quality gasoline and appropriate oils.

For the future, you should know that if you purchased a tool from a single manufacturer, then all spare parts for your saw should now only be of this brand!

Stihl MS 260 professional model, photo:

How to choose a chainsaw for price, quality?

So which tool is still worth choosing from the proposed variety? Chainsaw for home - what is it? The answer can also be found on thematic Internet forums. Real reviews buyers can influence your choice. For example, if you are considering a range of saws from domestic manufacturer, then the Taiga-245 can become a relatively inexpensive, universal option. The price is approximately 4200 rubles. The high-power Ural-2TE model, designed for professional work, will cost you from 18-19,000 rubles.

If we consider the unit from the point of view of "price-quality", then the tools from famous brands Makita (Makita), Husqvarna (Husqvarna) are the best suited for all types of work (large or light). For example, Makita DCS 340 or DCS 341 will be the best choice for a summer resident, due to its compact dimensions along with high performance. High-quality internal "stuffing" will provide comfortable, long-term use of this unit.

Husqvarna 340/350 multi-purpose saws can handle any task, while they have reliable anti-vibration protection, quiet operation. The price of a saw of this level varies from 13,500 to 20,000 rubles. The most durable, but the most expensive units are representatives trademarks Jonsered, Stihl. Regardless of whether it is a lightweight option or a powerful professional one, the cost of a saw can reach 25-30,000 rubles.

It doesn’t matter which model you choose, any one needs to be set up, adjusted, so to speak, “run in” before operation. Initially, the tool should work at low speeds (at least 40 minutes). Pay attention to the Russian translation (it must be mandatory) in the instruction manual if it is an imported model.

Although the Russian market is mostly filled with products of European brands, budget brands also find a buyer. Let's conduct a small analysis of gasoline units from the most frequently purchased companies, compare which chainsaw is the best from the consumer's point of view:

  1. Stihl is the undisputed leader among manufacturers of gasoline units. The very first saw in the world, equipped with an electric motor, was created by Stihl. Today, this German brand successfully produces models of all series - professional, household, so-called farmer's. There is a special category - for rescue work. These are really high-quality products, however, when buying, choose a reliable trusted intermediary company, as many fakes have been noticed on the market. The price of Stihl brand tools varies from 16,000 rubles (household saws) to 35,000 (semi-professional models), over 50,000 are already powerful professional units.
  2. Husqvarna is a Swedish company that has been manufacturing its products since 1689 (then it all started with the production of muskets). Today it is the world's largest manufacturer of home and garden equipment. Husqvarna produces petrol saws for all three categories, it is noteworthy that even the most "inexpensive" (compared to the rest of the series) models are of the highest quality, have a lot of positive feedback among consumers. The price of a Husqvarna saw starts at 13,500 rubles for household models, about 25,000 rubles. there are universal tools, and from 30,000 rubles. the professional range of products is launched.
  3. Dolmar is a German brand that is part of the Japanese concern Makita. Today, this company produces instruments under the names Dolmar, Makita, and Cub Cadet for MTD. If we consider the tools of the semi-professional and professional segment, starting at a cost of 25,000 rubles, then in our market you can often see Makita products. Moreover, the chainsaws themselves, components for them are manufactured by German enterprises. However, household series units, the cost of which starts from 10,000 rubles, are produced at factories in China.
  4. Champion is a young Chinese manufacturer that produces garden equipment (lawn mowers, cultivators, gas trimmers), as well as chainsaws. If you are considering a budget option specifically for giving or not large-scale construction work, choosing Champion equipment will be a good decision. The cost of household units from this company varies, not exceeding 20,000 rubles.
  5. Patriot is an American brand that produces a wide range of garden and construction equipment. The company's policy is the release of budget products without loss of quality. Prices start at 7,000 rubles, while the most expensive saw model will cost you about 15,000 rubles. All appliances are made in China. Despite user complaints that are easy to find on the Internet, Patriot gas saws can be considered excellent gardening equipment. You should not demand more from them, since the low cost is fully justified by the modest capabilities of this budget instrument.
  6. Partner is a technique that is produced in China, but at the same time the company is part of the Swedish concern Husqvarna. Today, Partner produces budget household-class chainsaws, the price of which ranges from 6 to 15,000 rubles. Tools from this manufacturer are characterized by positive user reviews, despite their low cost.
  7. Hyundai is a South Korean company better known to us as a car manufacturer. Along with this, this brand is a manufacturer of various garden equipment. Gasoline saws have a relatively low price (10-20,000 rubles), while users note the good quality of the motors. It is also worth mentioning the “minus” of products - a weak plastic case.

For domestic needs, you can also consider models from the manufacturer Carver, which differ in a fairly budgetary cost (5000-15000 rubles), acceptable quality.

The German company Huter, along with the production of electrical equipment, also produces a limited range of economy segment gasoline saws (5000-8000 rubles). Huter equipment is made by Chinese enterprises.

How to choose a chainsaw for a summer residence?

It is not possible to give a specific answer, if only because each of us has different requests, different amounts of proposed work. When choosing best saw should be based on individual needs. For occasional gardening or sawing wooden planks it is worth considering a number of household tools that differ in small dimensions. For regular construction or garden work, look to the farm (semi-professional) range.

If you have in cash, feel free to choose a unit from leading brands such as Husqvarna, Echo, Stihl. This is the best option, both in terms of its functionality, performance, and consumer reviews.

Good budget saws are offered by Makita. You can choose simple inexpensive tool from manufacturers Patriot, Huter, Carver, Champion. With careful handling, proper care, they will serve you faithfully for a long time.

Chainsaw attachments

The chainsaw was originally designed to cut wood, but it is often used as an auxiliary tool. It's all about the nozzles, with the help of which this truly indispensable tool becomes a device for drilling wells, pumping out water, cutting metal, and other works.

Nozzle-debarker, photo:

The use of attachments allows you to expand the potential of a conventional saw. Diaphragm-type carburetor, technical features of the centrifugal clutch (automatic clutch / disengagement) in the presence of a reliable engine open up new possibilities for using a familiar tool.

Nozzle-drill, photo:

To the output shaft of the saw, you can connect:

  1. Power cutter attachment, with its help you can cut bricks, tiles of various thicknesses, metal objects, even stone.
  2. Debarker (disk or drum) - will help cut grooves in the timber during the construction of log cabins, make the rounded surface flat, cut a groove in the log in any direction (longitudinal or transverse). The drum debarker will help remove the bark from the log, remove excess knots, branches, growths.
  3. The pump, with which it is possible to pump water, can be used when watering a garden or draining a flooded room. This nozzle has a bracket with grooves for connecting to the saw, as well as a pulley that makes the pump turbine rotate.
  4. Drill - it should be borne in mind that when this nozzle is connected to a chainsaw, the rotation speed of the auger (spiral part) will be slightly lower than that of a standard motor drill.
  5. Winch - can be used when moving heavy objects (for example, large tree trunks), towing or pulling cars, boats. It should be borne in mind that the potential of the traction force of the winch directly depends on the power of the saw. In addition to the nozzle, a tap-off block, anchors, rafter belts, hooks are additionally used.
  6. Outboard motor - the saw's chain boom is replaced by a gearbox with a gear ratio of 2: 1, a propeller is installed. Such a reconstruction will allow you to move on water at an approximate speed of 20 km / h, and gasoline consumption will be about 1 l / h.

When improving your unit, do not forget that amateur, semi-professional tools are not designed for continuous operation for up to several hours. The device will need to be given periodic rest.

Nozzle-petrol cutter, photo:

Which chainsaw is better to buy - reviews

For domestic (and not only) use, I would recommend ECHO chainsaws (purebred Japanese women). Reliable enough. The air purification system is excellent (better than Husqvarna or Calm). But which modification is better is up to you, household use is different for everyone. If you think about choosing ECHO, then first find out about the availability of spare parts. With ECHO spare parts there are problems with delivery (by time).

Konoplyov Sergey

If you need to constantly cut down the forest, then Shtil is just what you need, time-tested, reliable saw. If you rarely use, harvest a little firewood, and the diameter is not more than 250-300 mm, aspen, birch, then the best choice would be a saw like Stihl MS 180/30 - “lopper”. They are very light and economical. If the price is important to you, then I can advise you to purchase a saw from a domestic manufacturer Taigu. I have a Taiga 250 model. It has been serving for more than 7 years. Moderately used, not very often, but not rare. Winter-summer. If it is correctly run in, set up, there are no problems, for all the time I replaced the gasket under the cylinder head, I purchased an imported chain. And one forester friend advised me to buy it, he only said that it was necessary to purchase a tire, a chain from Shtil or other imported equipment - everything would be fine. He left his native tire, and bought a Canadian chain. One drawback of this saw, heavy, 8 kg, but more than offset by the price, it cost me $ 100. Reliable in operation, starts well, more powerful than analogues, gasoline 80, our own. The choice is yours, what you consider the main criterion, then choose.

I know one chainsaw - Husqvarna. He built a bathhouse from a bar, a temporary hut - there is no better assistant. Unpretentious. Easy. This company has many service centers. It was not necessary to turn to specialists, but this fact calms the nerves.

https://forum.rmnt.ru/threads/pomogite-vybrat-benzopilu.87694/

When thinking about which chainsaw to buy, pay attention to the country where it was produced, the brand name is secondary. Do not write down all Chinese saws as poor quality. With a detailed study of the models among them, you can also find decent options for homework.

Before choosing a chainsaw, visit the store, hold the tool - remember the weight, because you will have to not only hold it, but also perform work. Think before you choose a heavy professional model, calculate whether you can handle it. It may be worth choosing an amateur unit from a well-established manufacturer.

What should be a quality chainsaw? What brand to choose? What tool power is required for your tasks? We hope now it will be easier for you to decide, to make the right decision.

The operation of the chainsaw does not depend on weather conditions, the presence of precipitation and humidity. The tool is mobile and is not tied to an energy source, as is the case with power tools. In this regard, all chainsaws are the same, but according to their technical characteristics, they are usually divided into three groups, namely: household, semi-professional and.

Each category has its own advantages, knowing them, you can not go wrong with the choice! First you need to decide what power we need a chainsaw. Household chainsaws with a power of up to 2 kW are suitable for small jobs, the manufacturer's operating period is calculated within 35 hours per month.

Semi-professional from 2-3 kW are suitable for sawing trees of medium diameter, and the operating time is increased to 320 hours per month. Professional from 3 kW - designed for sawing trees of large diameters. In a month, such a tool can work 500 hours or more. When choosing a chainsaw for your home, keep in mind that the greater the power of the chainsaw, the greater its weight.. Accordingly, it will be harder for you to handle such a tool. Household models most often have a weight of up to 4.5 kg, semi-professional ones are produced in the range from 4.5 kg to 5.5 kg, professional ones from 5.5 kg and more.

An important factor when choosing a tool is the length of the tire. It depends on it what diameter of the tree you can cut in one go. Again, the length of the tire is related to the power: the more power, the longer you can put the tire. It makes no sense to put a long tire on a low-power saw - you will “ditch” the tool and you will not achieve the desired result. But on the contrary - a smaller tire for more power - you can. It won't harm the tool at all.

There is also such a thing as chain pitch - it determines the distance between two teeth. The smaller it is, the less noise and vibration the chainsaw creates in operation. But the speed of cutting will be small. Household tools have the smallest chain pitch. For home and garden perfect option- on small volumes, the speed of work does not matter, but the absence of unnecessary vibration and noise in a small yard will become a very tangible advantage.

According to their characteristics, household tools are designed for a small load and short work for several hours a day. A household chainsaw is convenient to use, as it has small size and weight. With such a chainsaw, it is easy to climb into hard-to-reach places: on a high ladder, on a roof or a pole, in order to cut an unnecessary branch when. The tool will help out as with garden work, and during construction in the country. Chainsaws are small, but at the same time consume little fuel. You should not save on the latter - use the A-95 brand of gasoline, without any additives and impurities.

Many sellers convince - it is better to buy with a margin! Manufacturers seem to play along with them, offering hundreds of models with the most different characteristics. Do not forget that you buy a chainsaw for rare use and a small amount of work. Why pay extra for additional functions: double air filter, additional gas tank, anti-vibration system, increased number of revolutions.

All these features are needed for a tool that is not let go of the hands.

When choosing a chainsaw, you should pay attention to whether it has a protective pedal, which is triggered by the so-called kickback, when the saw is thrown back when it comes into contact with wood, especially thin branches. Kickback accounts for the majority of all chainsaw-related injuries. Basically, this happens from inexperience with the tool or from improper use. If you are a beginner, then you should read the instruction manual before performing certain work. For example, never cut wood with the very end of the bar, and also never start sawing an object that is not firmly fixed. Always try to take a comfortable position and hold the instrument with both hands.

And finally - when buying a chainsaw, save within reasonable limits. Too cheap tools cost this way, because they are made of low-quality materials, which after several hours of work lose their properties: the plastic is deformed, the candle becomes dirty, the chain is tightened, the fuel filter is dirty. A good tool will rarely remind you of the need for maintenance.

During various works, gardeners and summer residents are faced with the need to use a chainsaw. Right choice tools can be made by independently understanding what is offered on the market and taking into account your needs.

Types of chainsaws - their capabilities and purpose

It is possible to choose a chainsaw, relying only on the opinion of neighbors and acquaintances, but it is better to figure it all out yourself. I want the chainsaw to serve without breakdowns for as long as possible. Each product has its own service life, for internal combustion engines it is determined by engine hours. The design of the simplest chainsaws includes about 500 hours, more complex ones can work twice as long. The more engine life, the more powerful engine– from 1 hp most simple models up to 8.7 for a professional instrument.

According to the growth of power and product class, their ability to work without interruption for a certain time increases. For a simple instrument, this figure is 1 hour and grows to 8 hours for the most complex ones. But as the capabilities of chainsaws grow, so does the price. The desire to choose the best model, from the point of view of the buyer, is sometimes completely unreasonable. You should consider what a chainsaw is purchased for. Indeed, for a short work in a summer cottage, an expensive powerful chainsaw is most often completely unnecessary.

In order to purchase a good chainsaw without spending extra money, you should clearly imagine how long it will work in the country or in the garden, what complexity of work is expected. It is according to these indicators that chainsaws are classified:

  • household - the simplest and most inexpensive, they can cut trees, cut firewood, perform other simple short-term work;
  • farm or semi-professional - for more complex work over a fairly significant period of time;
  • professional - the main purpose - logging.

The amateur class of chainsaws is the most low-power - up to 2 kW. This series includes units intended for occasional use - up to 1 hour per day. If the house has already been built, then they are quite suitable for minor repairs and garden maintenance. Vibration during operation for such models is negligible due to the use of low-profile chains. They are light weight and do not tire your hands. In terms of cost - the most budgetary.

Semi-professional tools are close to professional ones in terms of characteristics, but have a smaller working resource. Designed for work of medium intensity, but quite productive. You can work up to 6 hours a day with short breaks. They can be used not only for garden care, but also used in the construction of cottages. These are mid range chainsaws.

Professional chainsaws are designed for many hours of continuous work. They have the largest motor resource and performance, they are well balanced, which is why the hands get tired a little. One-handed chainsaws are also made at a professional level. Their purpose is to care for the crown. The design involves the use of only one hand, which is easy due to the well-located center of gravity. They are very light and compact compared to heavy professional chainsaws. Prices, as with all professional tools, are high.

Power indicators - how much is needed on the farm

Power is the main indicator that affects the ability to cut a tree, the depth of sawing and its speed. Therefore, having decided to purchase a chainsaw, you should have a good idea of ​​what loads it will work with. It is possible that the power will not be enough if frequent use is planned, sawing thick logs. Conversely, buying an overly powerful unit may be unnecessary, and besides, it is expensive. Yes, and to cope with a heavy saw is quite difficult.

For infrequent use, for summer cottages and gardens, an amateur saw with low power is quite suitable. Semi-professionals have an average power of 2.5 kW. It is enough to be 40 cm thick. For large construction, where there will be a lot, they will also prove to be an indispensable assistant. Their weight is 5-6 kg, it is not difficult to cope with them, even if you pick them up for the first time. Yes, and in the garden with such a saw it is convenient to work: you can not only cut down a tree, but also cut branches. However, there is no possibility of long continuous operation.

Professional-grade chainsaws are the most powerful: 2.7–6 kW. They, unlike semi-professionals, withstand many hours of daily stress. Able to work up to 2 thousand hours, which is a big plus. Therefore, they are used mainly for felling trees. For domestic needs, such a saw is hardly necessary, unless it is planned to build a log house or independently harvest firewood in large volumes. For those who do not have experience, it is difficult to cope with it due to the large weight, heavy load on the hands.

Tire - how it affects the capabilities of the tool

In addition to the purpose of the instrument and its power, the headset is of no small importance. Tires on chainsaws are used in three types:

  1. 1. Narrow - designed for use on household chainsaws. They are equipped with a low profile chain, which eliminates the phenomenon of kickback. Thus, the likelihood of injury is reduced.
  2. 2. Lightweight - made of two steel plates with polyamide packed between them. This design facilitates the weight of the unit, it is easy for them to work at height.
  3. 3. For professional saws - they have replaceable heads, which makes it possible to work for many hours.

In the ease of use and capabilities of the tool, such a parameter as the length of the tires plays a role. It must match the power of the device. It is more convenient to cut thick logs with a long tire, but if there is not enough power, then you will not be able to cut quickly. With insufficient power, a long tire will lead to unnecessary waste of gasoline and an early failure of the engine. Each model is designed for a tire of a certain length, and this should be taken into account. You can put a shorter one. There are brands of the same power, but with tires of different lengths.

If you plan to cut a tree of small thickness, better fit short bar - sawing speed will be higher.

Chain - sawing speed versus pitch

To decide on the purchase of a chainsaw, you should be aware of its capabilities, which depend on the chain pitch. The speed of sawing wood, as well as what species it can handle, depends on this parameter. The chain from all manufacturers has three identical steps. It should be borne in mind that when buying a product from a certain manufacturer, you will always have to purchase a chain from this company. The pitch may be the same, but the rest of the headset is different.

Hobby chainsaws are equipped with a low profile chain with a pitch of 0.325 inches. It gives a weak vibration, most suitable for short-term use. With a long load, it will instantly become dull. It should be borne in mind that the smaller the pitch, the smoother the chain moves in the tree, the cleaner the cut. Due to the small distance between the teeth, their number is greater, which explains the advantages.

3/8 inch or 0.404 pitch is used on farm and professional saws. Such a chain can cut thick logs, work for a long time. They have a wide saw cut, and therefore high productivity. The larger the pitch, the more powerful the engine must be. With all their virtues, they quickly become dull if they saw a frozen tree or dirt is captured. For sawing in such conditions, a carbide-tipped chain is bought.

Often, buyers ask the question of which chain cuts faster and does not require pressure during operation. It all depends, first of all, on her condition. Working with a blunt chain, cutting speed is out of the question. Moreover, the tire, sprockets, engine wear out. The condition of the chain should be constantly monitored. The tire and, accordingly, the chain along the length must correspond to the engine power. The most common length for a semi-professional tool is 35 and 40 cm.

Safety - protection against kickback and vibration

A kickback is a phenomenon when, during operation, the tire touches the tree at the very end. Then the saw bounces on the worker, which can lead to injury. Be sure to ask if the chainsaw has appropriate protection. The most commonly used protection-brake in the form of a lever. When working, it is close to the hand. When an impact occurs, the hand automatically presses the lever and the chain stops instantly. Another way to protect yourself is with a special shield. It is installed so that the hands cannot touch the working elements during cutting.

Some chainsaws do not have anti-vibration protection. If you work a little, then you can buy this one. It is not suitable for prolonged use: strong vibration can lead to joint diseases. When buying, be sure to hold a working tool in your hands to feel the level of vibration. On household models, rubber gaskets are sometimes installed, which greatly increases ease of use. Many household-grade tools do not have such protection.

Manufacturers - popular in the Russian market

Chainsaw owners speak differently about their manufacturers. It is difficult to say unequivocally which company to choose. Their products differ in price, quality and purpose. Be sure to find out about the availability of after-sales service, because anything can happen even with the purchase of the coolest model. Trade offers mainly products of European firms. Among all manufacturers, consumers primarily distinguish Stihl (Germany), Husqvarna (Sweden).

Their products are different high quality and long term service. Both companies produce chainsaws of all classes, even the most budget options have overwhelmingly positive reviews. The cost of quality products, of course, is high, as well as spare parts for them. The Oleo-Mac company (Italy) is little known in Russia, but it produces very high quality goods. Echo chainsaws (Japan) are in demand among consumers: light, compact, good quality.

The middle range in terms of cost and quality is represented by Al-ko, Makita. Their products will serve well for occasional use in the suburban area and for permanent use at a construction site. If you plan to use the unit occasionally, they buy Chinese-made products: Champion, Patriot, Partner, Carver, Huter. Despite prejudice against Chinese products, they correct operation able to last a long time.

Russian manufacturers are traditionally represented on the market with Ural and Druzhba saws. "Ural" is a professional chainsaw designed to perform the most complex and difficult work in the forest and at home. It is high-performance, but has a large mass - almost 12 kg. Only 4.5 kg weighs "Friendship". This is a good choice for work in the country: to prepare firewood, cut down a tree, remove dry branches.

Buying a chainsaw - how not to make a mistake with the choice

Even having decided on the model, people do not know, and even more people do not understand where to buy a chainsaw. Buying on the market is risky, because there is no guarantee of quality, and there is no question of after-sales service. A very big risk is to acquire a fake, especially from well-known European companies, because the prices for a "firm" on the market are lower than in stores. Buying free ads on sites is also an extremely risky business - there is no guarantee at all, even that the saw will start.

It is better to go to a store, an ordinary building one, and even better - a specialized one. In construction stores, prices are often unreasonably high, a small assortment, and fuzzy guarantees. This is not their main product, and therefore such an approach. Another thing is stores specializing in the sale of chainsaws or products of some company. There is a wide range of goods, qualified consultants. They have their own service network, give a guarantee and, of course, you can’t buy fakes there.

We talked about what to look for when choosing a saw. And now about what should be ignored if there is no extra money. After all, even in a company store they try to sell goods at a higher price, praising the additional features of some kind of modification. It will do nothing but waste money - chainsaws with or without bells and whistles work the same way.

The seller can praise the model, in which the chain is tensioned automatically. And if you think about it, is it really difficult to pull up with a key once a day? Or easy start? With proper care, any chainsaw will start well, otherwise no easy start will help.

As for the approach to choosing a price niche, there are several options:

  1. 1. You have a certain amount, and you want to select a model for it, the parameters of which you know. This is a possible option in good shop works, but at the same time there is a risk of buying an illiquid product.
  2. 2. Selection from a model range of well-known companies - the best option. They produce products of the widest range of prices, but even their cheapest product remains expensive.

So, you have chosen a company, decided on the class of the tool, with the price niche, took into account the desired parameters and became the proud owner of a brand new chainsaw. Now do not forget to carefully read, study the instructions and look at them from time to time. This is useful not only for safety at work, but will maximize the life of the tool.