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The ease of cutting wood has evolved a great deal over the years. Nowadays, you can cut down firewood to stock for the winter quickly and tirelessly, thanks to the electric chainsaw. This powerful tool eliminates the tedious use of axes and machetes in felling trees. Therefore, whether you are a professional logger, or you are just trimming some branches in your yard, you need this resourceful machine. In this guide, we have reviewed the best three electric chainsaws on the market.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw
This unit features a tool-free blade tension system for quick and easy adjustments. It ensures low vibrations for smooth, fast, and safe cutting. It also features a hands-free oiling system for easy lubrication.
This tool is not suitable for large tasks that require a lot of power. Its battery drains fast, while its oiler does not always function properly.
DEWALT 60V Brushless 16” Cordless Chainsaw Kit
It features a low kickback Oregon Bar and chain for smooth and safe cutting. Tool-free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob make for easy adjustments. Has a compact and lightweight design for easy handling. This chainsaw produces minimal noise.
The bar oil leaks and requires constant attention. It’s not suitable for large tasks that require high torque.
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
Handheld chainsaws are common, compact power tools. You hold them with two hands, and they can make more precise cuts up close. Each features different-sized bar lengths that give you more control over their maneuverability. They also feature long or short blades. These chainsaws are more often used by artisans or those who want to cut firewood or trim lower branches or small trees.
Pole chainsaws are attached to long, narrow poles to reach higher places. The pole can extend to lop off tree branches that are too high to reach with handheld chainsaws. They are more commonly used by maintenance crews who keep tree limbs away from power lines. They can be more difficult to handle due to their awkward design.
Greenworks was founded in 2007 as Greenworks Tools. The company is a leader in designing battery-powered outdoor power tools such as the Greenworks 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw. Greenworks relocated its headquarters to Moorsville, North Carolina in 2016. It manufactures snow blowers, batteries, chainsaws, trimmers, edgers, and many more power tools.
Founded in Leola, Penn., DeWalt Products Company creates high-quality tools, machines, and hardware supplies. The company officially launched in 1924 and moved its headquarters to Lancaster, Penn. One of its best cordless electric chainsaws is the DEWALT DCCS670X1 60V Brushless 16” Cordless Chainsaw Kit.
This company began in 1910 when Duncan Black and Alonzo Decker opened a machine shop in Baltimore. The two manufactured a pistol-grip electric drill a few years later, which helped launch the company into a successful business. It is perhaps one of the most recognizable names in hardware, and one of its top-rated chainsaws is the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw.
The battery is one of the most important factors in cordless electric chainsaws. They come with either a 20-, 40-, or 80-volt battery that can last you several hours on a single charge. The larger-size battery means you can use the chainsaw longer before charging it again. Keep in mind that more difficult jobs will drain the battery more quickly. Many electric chainsaws will feature lights to let you know when the battery is getting low. Recharging a dead battery can take between an hour or two, depending on its size.
The chain should be in the best condition to help reduce the chances of kickback and potential injuries. Kickback is when the chain kicks against the wood and bounces back towards you. This can happen when the chain is loose or not properly connected with the object you are cutting. The chain should feel snug but still pull freely from around the guide bar when not in use. You can test to make sure the chain is properly set by pulling one or two drive links away from the guide bar (when the machine is powered off) and then releasing them. The chain should snap back into position if all is well.
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This robust and powerful 16-inch chainsaw by Greenworks comes equipped with a mighty 40V lithium-ion battery. This allows it to deliver more torque and power for more difficult jobs and tasks. The chainsaw comes with a brushless motor for enhanced torque delivery with minimal vibrations.
A great benefit of its design is it ensures less wear and tear over an extended lifespan. Also, the ergonomic design of the chainsaw makes it more comfortable to carry and use. Plus, it comes with a low kickback chain for enhanced safety. It’s also fit with a shield or hand guard to protect your face from shrapnel.
However, the chainsaw isn’t particularly durable or sturdy. Plus, the bar oil tends to leak from the saw, which might cause it to weaken or ruin the provided casing. Also, its tension mechanism is made of a lightweight plastic, which could be stronger and more reliable.
For a lightweight chainsaw that is compact yet powerful, consider the 10-inch BLACK+DECKER 20V cordless chainsaw. The machine features a 20V lithium-ion battery that delivers a large amount of power with an enhanced running time and longer lifespan so you can cut longer and more efficiently.
One of the best things about this chainsaw is it features a tool-free blade tension system for quick and easy adjustments on the go. It ensures low vibrations for smooth, fast, and safe cutting and reduced kickback. The chainsaw also comes with a hands-free oiling system for easy lubrication of the chain on the guard rail.
You will notice a few drawbacks with this chainsaw, however, due to its smaller size. The chainsaw is not equipped to handle larger tasks that require a lot of power. Also, you will find its battery may drain quite quickly when compared to other brands. And its oiler does not always function properly.
A: A cordless electric chainsaw is an upgrade from an older gas-powered saw model. Instead of using gasoline, this chainsaw is powered by a rechargeable battery to deliver the required power.
A: Yes, they are safe if used properly. You must familiarize yourself with the machine before using it. Also, wear the right protective gear and ensure proper maintenance practices.
A: You should sharpen a cordless electric chainsaw anytime you notice a decline in performance. For example, if your chainsaw has a lot of kickbacks or it is generating chips instead of sawdust, it’s time to sharpen it.
We recommend the Greenworks 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw since it is ergonomic, lightweight, safe, and durable.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly device, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw should be your pick. It is easy to use, efficient, and durable.
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