How to choose a chainsaw? Which brand of chainsaw should I buy? Choosing a chainsaw - a reliable tool for home and garden Good chainsaw how to choose

What characteristics should a good chainsaw have, which brand should you choose? If you live in a private house or own a summer cottage, then having a chainsaw becomes especially important. How to choose a chainsaw? Which chainsaw should I buy for my home or dacha? Let's take a look and compare the most popular construction market brands for more details.

Before you make your 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 exactly will work with her (man or woman) also matters. Which chainsaw is the best? For example, for seasonal firewood collection, trimming branches or small trees, you may need a not very powerful model. If you plan to cut timber when building a gazebo or bathhouse, then a more powerful unit will be needed.

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

Chainsaw for the dacha - which one to choose?

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

Household chainsaws

Such models are designed for periodic operation - approximately 20-30 hours monthly. They are small in size and weight, and are great for preparing logs and firewood for the stove or fireplace. They can be used to saw boards during construction or trim tree branches. Such units are also called amateur; they have no high power(1.5-2 kW), equipped with low-profile chains that have a low vibration level. These tools are characterized by low productivity, but are easy to use and will 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, and are designed for construction work, cutting down trees and thick branches. If you plan to do construction (roofing, flooring), then a semi-professional gasoline saw will come in handy. It should be taken into account 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 work reaches industrial volumes. They can operate continuously for more than 8 hours, their productivity exceeds 2.5 kW, the most durable models are 2.7-6 kW. It makes sense to purchase such units if you are building a large log house, bathhouse, or gazebo yourself. 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 your home is up to you to choose. If there is serious construction work ahead, you will need a semi-professional or professional tool. A lightweight, so-called household model will help solve your 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 cutting the material depends. The power should correspond to the weight of the tool - this makes it more convenient to work, 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 strength the workflow will require you.

Let's look at the structure of the saw, as well as the main working elements responsible for its performance. According to their own design features The gasoline saw is a classic mechanism. The heart of the unit is a two-stroke engine internal combustion. There is no gearbox as such. A single-stage chain drive makes the saw chain work, thereby carrying out the work process. In addition to these main factors, modern saws have a system for cleaning the air entering the carburetor, a starter, a tensioning mechanism for the chain, a tire, a fuel tank, an ignition coil, a muffler, 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 bus length and power must be balanced. Otherwise, with low power, you will make additional efforts, which will negatively affect engine performance (wear). Always read the included instructions; the maximum permissible tire length is always indicated in the passport. In semi-professional, household saws, bars up to 40 cm in length are usually used, in professional models - up to 75 cm.

Tires come in three types: narrow, lightweight, and long. Narrow tires are installed on household, so-called low-power saws, suitable for small jobs. They, as a rule, 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 working process more comfortable and the saw itself to be light (for example, when working at height - on a tree or roof), a layer of polyamide is laid between the steel blades of such a tire.

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

Chainsaw chain

This is also an important factor that cannot be ignored when choosing a tool. The distance between the saw teeth is responsible for the chain pitch and determines it. The smallest pitch for household low-power saws is 0.325 inches. Such a chain is designed for a light 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, and productivity increases. But it should be borne in mind that they are not designed to work with wood that is too hard or frozen. Larger step rates are 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 saw bar (especially its end) comes into contact with a hard surface of the material, the saw is often thrown abruptly to the side. Here it is important to hold the tool and quickly stop the movement of the chain; the inertial brake is responsible for this action. The brake drive is a lever that has two positions. When an impact occurs, 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 important if you plan to work with the unit often and for a long time. During the working process, this tool vibrates in the hands, thereby causing circulatory problems and resulting joint diseases. If you decide to buy a high-power gasoline saw, then the presence of anti-vibration protection should be especially important.

Household saws, especially those with rubber gaskets (between the handles and the body), have very low vibration. Powerful units are characterized by strong vibration - this is understandable. In modern semi-professional and professional models, the engine 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 lazy to turn it on when purchasing, hold the working tool in your hands - this way you can assess the approximate degree of vibration.

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

Chainsaw engine

As mentioned above, all models of gasoline saws have a two-stroke carburetor engine, which has two tanks for filling fuel and oil. The fuel tank is approximately 2 times larger than the lubricant tank. This ratio is calculated so that the production of liquids occurs at approximately the same time. Domestic tools can use 76 gasoline and 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 separate manufacturer, then all spare parts and components for your saw should now only be of this brand!

Professional model Stihl MS 260, photo:

How to choose a chainsaw based on price and quality?

So which instrument is still worth choosing from the variety offered? Chainsaw for the home - what is it? The answer can also be found on thematic Internet forums. Real customer reviews may influence your choice. For example, if you are considering a range of saws from a domestic manufacturer, then Taiga-245 could be 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 and Husqvarna are ideal 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, thanks to its compact dimensions along with high performance. High-quality internal “filling” will ensure comfortable, long-term use of this unit.

Universal saws Husqvarna 340/350 can cope with any task, while they have reliable anti-vibration protection and 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 of the Jonsered and Stihl brands. Regardless of whether it is a lightweight version or a powerful professional one, the cost of the saw can reach 25-30,000 rubles.

It doesn’t matter which model you choose, any one needs to be configured, adjusted, so to speak, “run in” before operation. Initially, the tool should operate at low speeds (at least 40 minutes). Pay attention to the Russian translation (it must be required) in the operating instructions if this is an imported model.

Although the Russian market is mostly filled with products from European brands, budget brands also find their buyers. Let's do a little analysis of gasoline units from the most frequently purchased companies and 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 electric motor, was created by Stihl. Today, this German brand successfully produces models of all series - professional, household, so-called farm. There is a special category - for rescue work. It's really quality products, however, when purchasing, choose a reliable, trusted intermediary company, as many fakes have been spotted 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 there are already powerful professional units.
2. Husqvarna is a Swedish company that has been producing its products since 1689 (then it all started with the production of muskets). Today it is the world's largest company producing equipment for the home and garden. Husqvarna produces gasoline saws in all three categories; it is noteworthy that even the most “inexpensive” (compared to the rest of the series) models are of the highest quality and have a lot of positive reviews among consumers. The price of a Husqvarna saw starts at 13,500 rubles for household models, about 25,000 rubles. universal tools cost, and from 30,000 rubles. a 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, as well as Cub Cadet for MTD. If we consider tools in the semi-professional and professional segments, with prices starting from 25,000 rubles, then in our market you can more often see Makita products. Moreover, the chainsaws themselves and their components are manufactured by German enterprises. However, household units, the cost of which starts from 10,000 rubles, are produced in factories in China.
4. Champion is a young Chinese manufacturer that produces garden equipment (lawn mowers, cultivators, gasoline trimmers), as well as chainsaws. If you are considering a budget option specifically for a summer house or small-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 gardening and construction equipment. The company's policy is to produce budget products without loss of quality. Prices start at 7,000 rubles, with the most expensive saw model costing you about 15,000 rubles. All equipment is made in China. Despite user complaints that can easily be found on the Internet, Patriot gas saws can be considered excellent gardening equipment. There is no point in demanding more from them, since there is no high price is fully justified by the modest capabilities of this budget instrument.
6. Partner is equipment produced in China, but the company is part of the Swedish concern Husqvarna. Today Partner produces budget household 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 company from South Korea We are better known as a car manufacturer. Along with this, this brand is a manufacturer of a variety of 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 the products – the weak plastic case.

For household needs, you can also consider models from the manufacturer Carver, which have a fairly budget price (5,000-15,000 rubles) and acceptable quality.

The German company Huter, along with the production of electrical equipment, also produces a limited range of gasoline saws in the economy segment (5,000-8,000 rubles). Huter equipment is produced by Chinese enterprises.

How to choose a chainsaw for your garden?

It is not possible to give a specific answer, if only because each of us has different requests, different amounts of expected work. When choosing best saw should be based on individual needs. For periodic gardening procedures or cutting wooden boards It is worth considering a number of household tools that are small in size. For regular construction or gardening work, pay attention to the farmer (semi-professional) model 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 functionality, performance, and consumer reviews.

Makita offers good budget saws. You can choose a simple, inexpensive tool from the manufacturers Patriot, Huter, Carver, Champion. With careful handling and proper care, they will serve you faithfully for a long time.

Chainsaw attachments

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

Debarker nozzle, photo:

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

Drill attachment, photo:

The following can be connected to the saw output shaft:

1. A petrol cutter attachment, with its help you can cut bricks, tiles of various thicknesses, metal objects, even a stone.
2. Debarker (disc or drum) - will help to cut grooves in timber during the construction of log houses, make a rounded surface flat, cut a groove in a log in any direction (longitudinal or transverse). A drum debarker will help remove bark from a log, remove excess knots, branches, and 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 attachment has a bracket with grooves for connecting to the saw, as well as a pulley that causes the pump turbine to rotate.
4. Drill – it should be taken into account that when connecting this attachment 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 taken into account that the potential traction force of the winch directly depends on the power of the saw. In addition to the nozzle, a branch block, anchors, rafter straps, and hooks are also used.
6. Boat motor - saw chain boom is replaced with a gearbox with a gear ratio of 2:1, installed propeller screw. This 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.

Petrol cutter attachment, photo:

Which chainsaw is better to buy - reviews

For household (and not only) use, I would recommend ECHO chainsaws (purebred Japanese). Quite reliable. The air purification system is excellent (better than Husqvarna or Shtil). But which modification is better is up to you to decide; household use is different for everyone. If you are thinking about choosing ECHO, first find out about the availability of spare parts. With ECHO spare parts there are problems with delivery (time-wise).

Konoplev Sergey

If you need to constantly cut down wood, then Shtil is just what you need, time-tested, reliable saw. If you rarely use it, prepare a small amount of firewood, and the diameter is no 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 price is important to you, then I can advise you to buy a saw from the domestic manufacturer Taiga. I have the Taiga 250 model. It has been in service for more than 7 years. Used moderately, not very often, but not rarely. In winter and summer. If you run it in correctly and set it up correctly, there are no problems, during this time I replaced the cylinder head gasket and purchased an imported chain. A forester friend advised me to buy it, he just said that I needed to buy a tire, a chain from Shtil or other imported equipment - everything would be fine. I kept the original tire and bought a Canadian chain. This saw has one drawback: it’s heavy, 8 kg, but it’s more than compensated for by the price; it cost me $100. Reliable in operation, starts well, more powerful than analogues, 80 petrol, our native one. The choice is yours, whatever you consider the main criterion, then choose.

I know only one chainsaw - from Husqvarna. He built a bathhouse and temporary hut from timber - there is no better assistant. Unpretentious. Easy. This company has many service centers. I didn’t have to turn to specialists, but this fact calms my 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. Don't write everything down Chinese saws, as poor quality. When studying the models in detail, you can also find among them 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 working actions. Think before choosing 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 a quality chainsaw be like? Which brand should you choose? What tool power is required specifically for your tasks? We hope now it will be easier for you to decide and make the right decision.

Anyone knows what a chainsaw is, but only very few know how to choose it correctly. Chainsaws are divided into 3 types - household, semi-professional and professional. Of course, there are also electric saws, but due to the fact that they do not run on gasoline, we will not consider them. Each type is only suitable for certain tasks, so it's especially important to know which chainsaw is best for you and why. How to choose a good and inexpensive chainsaw for your home? You will find the answer to this question in our article.

First of all, you need to decide what you need a chainsaw for, how and for what purposes you will use it. If you plan to use your chosen chainsaw often and put a lot of stress on the tool, it makes sense to purchase a better and more reliable device than typical budget Chinese ones. And if you need a chainsaw only because regular work is long and hard, and there are several branches or small trees block the sun, a household option is also suitable for you. What is the difference between professional units and non-professional ones? First of all, the operating power, which is less, the lower the class of equipment. An amateur tool is best suited for a small summer cottage, and a good professional saw can be used to cut down wood, which is what lumberjacks do.

Any chainsaw has a certain wear life. For a regular household saw, the average value is 500 hours, but for more serious devices a better degree of protection is provided. Cheap household chainsaws are equipped with low-profile chains - a low-profile axle has lower performance and is more susceptible to wear, but working with it is much easier and safer than with a bulky design. You can work with an amateur saw for no more than 50-60 minutes without breaks, but long-term use can break the tool or even break the chain, which is unsafe in any case. The power of a simple chainsaw usually varies between 1-2 kW.
At the same time, this design has a number of objective advantages - a manual non-professional chainsaw weighs little, your hands don’t get tired from it as much as from a more powerful brother, but, of course, you won’t be able to fell wood with a household version. In addition, if you operate a light chainsaw in extreme conditions, you will spend more on consumables than if you immediately bought a professional unit. You can look for a good model in ours. But for a dacha or small garden, an amateur chainsaw is best suited. Perfect to perform with redecorating, it is also suitable for small construction work. What's more, a low-profile chain tends to reduce vibration during operation, which will only make your job easier. In general, with such a chainsaw you can not only take care of the site, but also let your imagination run wild; you will be limited only by the power of the design. The next class of chainsaws - semi-professional - is very different from the basic one. It cannot be said that the prefix “semi” makes such models something in between, between beginner and professional. A semi-professional saw is closer to a professional one, with one exception - such chainsaws are not designed for long-term, daily loads. The vast majority of semi-professional models are designed for 1000 hours of operation, and the power of such a chainsaw is, on average, 2-3 kW, and the weight is from 5 to 7 kilograms.

A semi-professional tool is well suited for construction work - it can cut trees with a trunk diameter of up to 40 centimeters, but your hands get tired much faster when working with a saw than with an amateur saw, not least because it weighs one and a half to two times more than usual. With a semi-professional unit, you can fell wood on a moderate scale - with daily use, the low-profile chain will quickly wear out, but it will definitely withstand 4-5 hours of not the most complex sawing per day. Sharpening chains is also important for work, so we recommend that you read our recommendations on that. Such a saw would be a top option for a person who already has his own plot of land, but does not yet have a house on it - a semi-professional tool does an excellent job with all types of woodwork; with its help you can raise a bathhouse or other building from scratch.
Be sure that when correct operation such a tool will serve you faithfully for a long time even after construction is completed. As for professional equipment, most likely, if you come to the store to buy a heavy chainsaw, you know in advance all the characteristics and safety rules. But, if you are a beginner in the difficult field of a lumberjack, we will help you choose the right chainsaw. A professional chainsaw can be very dangerous in the hands of an inexperienced user. This species is most often seen in films and videos, as it has an impressive size and produces a lot of noise. It is unlikely that you will be able to use the capabilities of a heavy chainsaw to the maximum, even when building a bathhouse or house from scratch. Professional units have the highest productivity of all chainsaws - These are purchased by construction and forestry enterprises for industrial needs.
The power of a heavy chainsaw ranges from 2.5 to 6 kW; its mandatory attribute is a high-profile sawing chain. A professional chainsaw usually costs several times more than a household chainsaw. You should not assume that the highest power here is the key to high-quality and correctly performed work. When operating a chainsaw with a high-profile chain, you should carefully observe safety precautions. The teeth of the chains in such saws are reinforced with inserts made of hard alloys, which greatly increases their wear resistance. However, if you have never held a chainsaw in your hands, you will not be able to cope with this monster. Professional chainsaws consume a lot of fuel, and consumption increases in direct proportion to the power of the equipment.
Heavy chainsaws are often used for felling trees, because their power allows them to cut trees even at the most difficult areas, and high wear resistance and a service life of up to 2000 hours allow the unit to be used daily in extreme mode for 10-12 hours. Protective uniforms are required when working with forests - at least a protective helmet and gloves. If you don’t have enough strength to hold your beast, the chainsaw can bounce off the log right at you, and no one has canceled the sawdust flying in all directions, not to mention the “accidental” break of the chain due to overheating. The heavy saw weighs from 5 kg, so only an experienced lumberjack can work with it - a beginner will not have enough strength and skills to do this.

Extra options

Like any motorized device, a chainsaw requires a break-in before starting to operate. In the vast majority of cases, a chainsaw is based on a two-stroke engine, careful care of which will extend the life of the device and keep you healthy. How to choose a chainsaw based on price and quality? In addition to power and service life, any chainsaw has several secondary characteristics, each of which must be taken into account when purchasing. For example, the type of tire and its length determines the range of work that your chainsaw can handle.
Tires come in three types: narrow, lightweight and with replaceable heads. Most often, the type of tire corresponds to the class of the chainsaw. A narrow and flat tire guarantees minimal risk of injury during operation and is usually installed on amateur chainsaws complete with a low-profile chain; the likelihood of a kickback (rebound of the chainsaw) is also minimized. Lightweight steel tires consist of two steel plates held together by a polymer core. The weight of a saw with a narrow bar will be lighter than with any other, and therefore it will be easier to work with this one - an excellent choice for a summer resident. But tires with replaceable heads are large in size, have the highest performance and, as you probably already guessed, are installed on professional units. On a short-length bar, the chain develops the highest speed, little fuel is wasted, but you won’t be able to cut a thick tree trunk with this one. The length of the tire must correspond to the engine power, otherwise the result may not be what you expect.
The accompanying instructions indicate the maximum possible bus length, exceeding which threatens to significantly reduce the efficiency of the device. With a long bar, productivity will be higher, thick trees can be cut, and the cutting furrows will be deeper. In addition to the size and composition of the tire, an important attribute is the chain that is attached to this tire. For all circuits there is single standard, which determines the cutting speed and ability to work with hard material, and more specifically with a link pitch of 0.325, 3/8 and 0.404 inches. The very first option, 0.325 inches, is found in low profile chains. We have already looked at the features of low-profile chains; there is nothing new here. Powerful semi-professional and professional. the units have a chain pitch of 3/8 and 0.404 inches. Such a chain will last a long time and is not afraid of difficult conditions. Of course, even such chains are not universal, and just like any part of the structure, they are subject to wear.

To work with the most complex materials, there are chains whose teeth are made of hard alloys or coated with a special high-strength coating. Most modern chainsaws are equipped with kickback protection via a brake lever or protective screen. It is important to understand that a chainsaw is a tool, working with which carries health risks, and therefore requires increased caution. It is not so important which brand of chainsaw you choose. The main thing is, do not neglect the rules, follow the instructions in the instructions and do not buy a chainsaw that is not suitable for your physical parameters and tasks, and if you have already reached the point of purchasing, use the tips from our article

The chainsaw has long become a faithful assistant to man. Wherever you need to fell a tree, saw it into pieces, saw off branches, prepare logs or timber for construction work, you can hear the characteristic sound of the engine and the squeal of the saw. Few households will not have this simple and reliable tool. The chainsaw even became the heroine of a whole series of horror films. There are hundreds of devices on the market from dozens of companies - how to choose the right chainsaw for your home?

Types and main indicators (parameters and functions) of chainsaws

There are several types of chainsaws

• Household ones are used during the construction of small wooden buildings- sheds or gazebos, pruning garden trees, sawing trunks for firewood and other things. Such a low-power device is made from inexpensive materials and has the most simple design, and can withstand an hour or two of use per day. The price of such devices is low.
• Semi-professional chainsaws are a more serious unit. They can be used in building houses, felling thin trees, and trimming branches in logging operations. These models are more powerful and can work continuously for several hours. They cost significantly more than household ones.
• Professional devices are powerful, more than 5 liters. With. engine made from the best materials and are intended for continuous operation at least eight hours. They also have a longer tire and a larger fuel tank. They are used in logging. Their resource is several times greater than the resource household devices.

The chain pitch is the distance between adjacent teeth of the chain; the performance of the device depends on it. Larger pitches are used in professional powerful devices; they have a higher cutting speed, but also higher vibration. Performance is also related to chain width. It varies from 1 mm for the lightest household devices to 5 mm for professional powerful units. When purchasing a spare chain, in addition to its length, you must also check its width.

Tires and tool safety

The length of the bar determines the maximum cutting depth. Typically, household models are equipped with tires of 25-40 cm, while professional models can have a tire up to a meter.

The engine power and torque must match the length of the tire.

Despite technical feasibility If you install a long bar from a semi-professional saw on a household model, you should not do this: constant overload of a weak motor will lead to increased wear and failure.

All models are equipped with security systems. If a dangerous situation arises, to stop the chain, it is enough to push the special lever with the back of the hand holding the handle. The inertia brake will work and the chain will stop in a split second, before it can cause any damage. To choose a safe unit, you need to check the ease of movement of the lever and the time it takes for the chain to completely stop.

Which chainsaw to choose for your dacha?

There is no single answer to this question, since there are no two identical people and no two identical dachas. Everyone has their own needs, their own list and volume of planned use. Best choice chainsaw will be different in each specific case.

To choose a chainsaw for your dacha, you need to decide what types of activities will be carried out at this dacha. A good chainsaw is not necessarily the most powerful or the most expensive. It is more important that its resource matches your tasks and physical capabilities.

Work productivity is important when you have a large amount of work to do. And when periodically pruning trees and shrubs, the light weight of the device will be more important, which you will have to carry around the entire garden, cut from ladders and at outstretched arms.

Household chainsaws

If you need to choose a chainsaw to occasionally work in the garden for one-time garden work or to cut logs for firewood, then the best chainsaw is a household model.

They have a small recommended monthly service life of 20-30 hours. Its small size and weight will allow an elderly person, woman or teenager to use the device without getting tired. This is the best chainsaw for the home. The use of a low-profile chain allows vibration to be reduced to a minimum, which makes it even easier to use the chain saw for home use.

Semi-professional chainsaws

Semi-professional class models have more power, but also larger dimensions, weight and fuel consumption.

It makes sense to choose a chainsaw of this level if you have a medium-sized construction project, cutting down thin trees, or cutting them for firewood.

It is important not to forget that the maximum continuous operation time should not exceed several hours, as indicated in the product data sheet.

Choosing a chainsaw of this type - powerful, heavy and voracious - is reasonable if you are building a large log house or thick trees fall over a large area.

Without a break, such a professional-class unit can work for over 8 hours, the motor power reaches 12 hp. s., and the tire is slightly shorter than a full meter.

These reliable chainsaws have a service life three times greater than that of household devices.

But they also cost several, or even several tens of times more.

Characteristics and general characteristics of chainsaws

Engine power determines other performance characteristics, such as:

• depth of cut;
• cutting speed;
• tire runout.

Significant characteristics of the degree of operational safety are:

• kickback protection;
• vibration protection.

Chainsaw tires

The longer the bar, the thicker the wood you can cut. The motor power must be sufficient for this.

The following types of tires are widely used:

• narrow, used on low-power units household use;
• lightweight, assembled from two strips of steel connected by a layer of polyamide;
• elongated, used on powerful units for cutting thick trees.

Chainsaw chain

To successfully select a device, study the circuit parameters.

The thickness of the chain must correspond to the thickness of the tire; chains with a thickness of 1 to 5 mm are used. The chain pitch, or the distance between its teeth, is 0.3 inches for low-power tools and reaches 0.5 inches for high-power professional machines.

Chainsaw kickback protection

When the end of the tire hits the surface of a tree, a sharp jerk to the side may occur. Great importance in this case has the ability to instantly stop the chain. The inertia brake is activated by a lever located next to the handle. During the jerk, the hand rests on the lever and the brake is activated.

Chainsaw anti-vibration protection

Prolonged exposure to vibration has a harmful effect on all systems of the human body.

To choose the right tool for long work, it is necessary to check the presence of a vibration protection system in it.

To do this, elastic shock absorbers are installed on the saw between the handles and the body of the machine.

The chainsaw engine is its heart, and in the same way needs to be treated with care. When purchasing, plan for appropriate care and periodic maintenance.

Modern engines are sensitive to the quality of fuel and oil poured into them. And if Ural and Druzhba agree to run on 76 gasoline and M6 oil, then for imported models it will be cheaper to buy the gasoline and oil that are indicated in the user manual. Repair and replacement of components will definitely cost more.

The same applies to periodic replacement of spark plugs and fuel filters.

How to choose a chainsaw based on price and quality

To choose the right chainsaw, you should read thematic forums and user reviews about which brand they used in certain specific conditions.

There are many good reviews, for example, about the Taiga-246 model. This is a good choice if you are looking for a budget unit for a variety of applications. The Ural series of chainsaws is suitable if you need a powerful, professional machine. Unfortunately, there are many complaints about domestic manufacturers regarding the reliability of their products.

If we take into account the price-quality ratio, then the more expensive, but also more reliable Makita and Husqvarna come out ahead. These companies produce fairly light and compact amateur models with low vibration levels and very modest fuel and oil consumption. The high-quality materials and modern design solutions used in their production ensure high reliability and make gardening easy, safe and convenient. Such models will cost up to 20 thousand rubles.

The leaders in terms of reliability and service life can be considered saws from the Johnsered and Shtil companies. They also lead in price - up to 30 thousand rubles.

To choose a saw and not regret your choice, remember that a break-in period is required before starting work use.

The engine should run at low speeds for half an hour to an hour so that its parts get used to each other better and the lubrication gaps between the parts reach the design values, ensuring a reliable and constant supply of oil in all operating modes. If you immediately give full throttle, the scuffs formed on the rubbing steam will significantly reduce the service life of the engine and the chainsaw as a whole.

Of the variety of models offered on the Russian market, both budget and the most expensive models find their buyers. Based on the results of consumer preferences, the following analysis was carried out:

1. Stihl is one of the recognized technology leaders. This company was the first to market a power hand saw. Shtil and its subsidiaries produce a very wide range of gasoline-powered mobile devices - chainsaws, motor drills, lawn mowers, trimmers, etc. It makes sense to choose this company if you are looking for a reliable, easy-to-use and productive chainsaw in any category - from household to professional , including specialized equipment for rescue operations. Price range from 16 tr. for amateur models up to tens and even hundreds of thousands for professional and specialized ones.
2. Husqvarna is a company from Sweden, the oldest on the market. Today it has the largest market share in household equipment and supplies. The company's products are different high quality and the reliability of even the most inexpensive amateur instruments. Price range - from 14 thousand rubles. for an amateur series and from 30 tr. for professional.
3. Dolmar is a German concern that is part of the Makita group of companies. He also owns the Kab Cadet trademark. You should be careful - semi-professional saws of these brands cost from 25 thousand rubles. are produced in Japan and Europe, but amateur models cost from 11 thousand rubles. assembled in China.
4. Champion is a fairly new manufacturer on the market from China, offering a wide range of gasoline and electric garden tools, motor drills and saws. At very affordable price amateur devices up to 20 tr. The quality of Chinese chainsaws is more than satisfactory.
5. Patriot is a US manufacturer, but all production is located in China. The quality is quite acceptable, but you have to be aware that for 8-15 tr. the saw can only be made from inexpensive materials. This significantly limits the resource of the device, and they can be considered as household, but not professional equipment.
6. Partner is the Chinese subsidiary of Husqvarna. Advanced Constructive decisions parent company and the Swedish quality control system implemented in Chinese factories makes it possible to ensure high quality even for inexpensive amateur cars at prices ranging from 5 to 15 thousand rubles. However, resource limitations are exactly the same as for Patriot products.
7. Hyundai, a South Korean industrial giant famous for its auto products and consumer electronics, also plays a role in the tools market. Their chainsaws have an affordable price of 9-21 tr. have high quality engines. Cheap materials make the case rather weak.

There are dozens more manufacturers on the market, but due to low sales volumes, experimenting with purchasing their products can be risky.

Chainsaw attachments

The design of a chainsaw motor, proven over a century, is capable of operating stably under the most different slopes, except perhaps in the “upside down” position, gave rise to many ideas for using this reliable drive for various additional work.

The following is connected to the working shaft:

1. Petrol cutter attachment for cutting stone, concrete and other durable materials.
2. Debarker - Disc allows you to make grooves in a log or timber, leveling the curvature of the surface). The drum allows you to debark trunks, cut down branches, branches and burrs.
3. A motor pump connected to the working shaft through a pulley system. Particularly convenient and safe for pumping water in conditions where there is no power supply, for example, in flooded areas.
4. Motor drill - in winter, when there is nothing special to cut with a chainsaw, it can be converted into an indispensable assistant for ensuring ice fishing.
5. Motor winch - here the scope of improvement work will be one of the most serious. It will be necessary to make a reliable frame, mount on it an engine, a gearbox, a gear system, a winch drum with a reliable stopper, and controls. In addition, it will be necessary to design and manufacture devices for attaching the winch frame to tree trunks, drive-in anchors, or to a counterweight of sufficient mass to perform lifting and transport operations. You will also need to purchase reliable cables, hooks and other slinging equipment.
6. Boat motor - the design was first developed after the Second World War in Indochina. The fishermen there couldn't afford it boat motors, but they could afford a chainsaw. And they adapted it as an engine for their boats. A long bamboo pole was placed on the working shaft and lowered into the water at a slight angle. And at the other end they placed a wooden screw. Such parts did not last long, but were quickly replaced. In our conditions, we use a metal pipe, gearbox and propeller from an old outboard motor. This device makes it possible to reach speeds of up to 10-15 km/h; up to a liter of fuel will be consumed per hour.




There are also ideas for converting a chainsaw into a snow blower, power station, moped, go-kart, buggy, snowmobile, snowmobile and even a mini-helicopter. The authors of all these exotic designs need to remember what time of continuous operation is permissible for the used saw, and interrupt their journey in a timely manner to cool the engine. In addition, homemade vehicles are prohibited from being used on public roads and in airspace outside specially designated areas. Everyone can choose a way additional use chainsaws according to your needs and technical capabilities

Possible problems

The most common problems with gasoline devices:

• Do not start the engine. You should check the gasoline level. If there is enough gasoline, you need to clean the fuel filters and a special sump, and blow out the gasoline hose. Check the condition of the spark plug and clean it from carbon deposits. On modern engines, it is impossible to check for the presence of a spark by shorting the high-voltage wire to the housing.
• Business interruptions. It is possible that water may get into the fuel. In this case, you should replace the fuel with high-quality fuel. It is also possible that the cylinder jacket to the crankcase is loosened; the nuts should be tightened more tightly.
• Motor overheating. Clean the slots in the air radiator jacket. Check the percentage of oil in the fuel using the table in the owner's manual.

You should not try to fix the remaining faults yourself if you are not sure that you have sufficient skills, but contact a service center. Unskilled do-it-yourself repair can completely disable the unit, and no warranty obligations will not act

Even at the beginning of the last century, the process of felling trees was a difficult and labor-intensive process, but in the 20s the first chain saws began to be produced. From now on technical progress did not stand still, and today many are produced various models. So that you can choose a good chainsaw that is not inferior in quality and reliability to its professional counterparts, we have compiled a rating of the best chainsaws for the garden and at home, which included a wide variety of models from popular manufacturers of this category of products.

Basic criteria for choosing a chainsaw

Before you start buying a chainsaw, you need to decide what you are going to use this tool for. It is no secret that the cost of this type of tool is determined by a combination of factors such as power, operating time - that is, class. Modern chainsaws are divided into three main classes:

1. Household. These saws are great for garden work and simple repairs.
2. Semi-professional are used for more complex work, including construction.
3. Professional saws are the most powerful and reliable among chainsaws, designed for industrial felling.

Chainsaw power

The performance of a chainsaw directly depends on the engine power. The maximum power rating for this gas-powered tool reaches 7 kW, which corresponds to 9 hp. Such saws are used in logging. The power of household devices does not exceed 2.5 hp, semi-professional ones are produced with engines up to 3.5 hp, and professional ones have a power of up to 6 hp.

Weight

Low-power household devices weigh the least. Increasing the power of the saw usually entails increasing the mass of the tool. The average weight of gasoline chain saws ranges from 3 to 6 kg.

Fuel consumption

An additional aspect when choosing a gas-powered tool is its efficiency. Household-grade products are the most economical, while professional ones, on the contrary, are more voracious. The volume of a chainsaw tank is traditionally calculated for 40 minutes. work, so the larger the fuel tank of the model, the greater the fuel consumption will be.

Additional criteria for choosing a chainsaw

Additional, but important “little things” when working with gasoline chain saws include:

• Anti-vibration system. Its presence is necessary when working with the tool for a long time.
• Air filter. Protection from dust contamination ensures longer operation without the need for early repairs.
• Reliable brake - important criterion instrument safety. Depending on the manufacturer, they can be equipped with an anti-vibration and kickback protection system, the so-called inertia brake.
• The length of the bar determines the length of the cut. When choosing a tool, do not forget that the linear size of the bar must be consistent with the power of the saw.
• Long tires on low-power units will lead to their rapid failure.

We will review chainsaws of each class and make a rating of the best models, according to user reviews.

The best inexpensive chainsaws (up to 10,000 rubles)

Household series saws are the most common class, having a minimum functionality, but perfectly suitable for work in the country, in the garden and for small construction work. In addition, due to their short service life (from 400 to 1000 hours), compactness and low weight, they are relatively cheap. If you are looking for a tool for household needs, then a household saw is the best in terms of price and quality.

The Chinese model of the Husqvarna chainsaw, produced under the Partner P340S brand, is a household-class tool and is intended for short-term gardening and construction work, and collecting firewood. This budget chainsaw is ergonomic and easy to use. It is equipped with a reliable braking system, has a low level of vibration and noise, which is rare in tools of this class, and is distinguished by high quality components and good fit of parts.

Advantages:

• a fuel pre-priming pump significantly improves engine starting, especially in the cold season;
• light weight;
• anti-vibration system reduces the load on the operator’s hands;
• low consumption of fuel-oil mixture.

Flaws:

• demands on the quality of fuel and oil;
• there is no window for visual monitoring of the remaining oil and fuel;
• there is a possibility of spontaneous unscrewing of the intake manifold fasteners during operation.

The inexpensive but good chainsaw Echo CS-353ES-14 is an excellent saw for preparing firewood in the country or at home, or cutting down small trees. The presence of carburetor heating allows you to use the Echo CS-353ES-14 in winter. Steel springs and rubber shock absorbers, which this model is equipped with, significantly reduce vibration during operation. The use of advanced Japanese technologies makes it possible to combine maximum comfort in use and high performance. Even though it is produced in China.

Advantages:

• ergonomic design;
• best in power in its class;
• easy and quick to start;
• The presence of the G-Force air purification system allows you to clean the air filter less frequently.

Flaws:

• inconvenience of refueling;
• absence of a window for monitoring the remaining fuel and oil.

The Makita EA3202S-40 chainsaw is a convenient chainsaw belonging to the household appliances segment and has a 1.81 hp engine. Thanks to the electronic ignition and primer, it starts easily. This model Features active vibration damping, SafetyMatic chain brake and variable oil pump. Unlike previous models from this manufacturer, it has virtually no complaints from users. Among the household saws reviewed, the Makita EA3203S-40 is one of the best chainsaws in the rating. Although Makita is recognized as the best company is a manufacturer of power tools; gas-powered tools of this brand are also worthy of attention.

Advantages:

• light weight, easy start;
• convenient chain tightening;
• low noise level during operation;
• large volume of fuel tank;
• possibility of adjusting the oil supply to the saw chain;
• The best in its class in terms of price and quality ratio.

Flaws:

• One drawback, according to user reviews, is the sensitive start button, but this is rather a matter of habit.

The best semi-professional chainsaws

More serious tools include semi-professional or farm-grade chainsaws. Possessing average power and a higher service life, models of this class are suitable for operation up to 5 hours a day, but with significant interruptions in operation. A good semi-professional saw will become an indispensable assistant when running a personal utility or farm. Preparation of firewood for winter season, construction and renovation work, clearing an area of ​​old trees - chainsaws of this class can handle all this perfectly.

The lightest saw in the rating, Echo CS-260TES-10, is designed to work with any type of wood. This chainsaw is light and convenient, weighing only 2.9 kg; a special coating on the body increases its wear resistance. Thanks to the light weight of the saw, it can be used at heights and safely carry out the necessary work with one hand. Electronic ignition and easy start system allow you to work in any conditions. The oil pump is made according to a professional design and supplies lubricant to the saw chain only during the sawing process. The engine power allows you to install a longer tire.

Advantages:

• light weight;
• small dimensions;
• easy start;
• reliability in operation;
• Conveniently suitable for one-handed operation.

Flaws:

• Monitoring user reviews did not find any complaints about the performance of this model.

One of the best all-purpose semi-professional saws, the Oleo-Mac 941 C-16 provides maximum productivity when working. Thanks to the presence of a three-jaw clutch, a chrome-plated piston, as well as a crankshaft and connecting rod made of forged steel, the chainsaw has high reliability and characteristics that bring it closer to the class of professional saws. Easy starting is ensured by an electronically controlled magneto, and an automatic oil pump ensures zero oil consumption at idle. According to the owners' reviews, this is a high-quality, durable and convenient chain saw.

Advantages:

• powerful two-stroke engine;
• easy starting in any weather conditions;
• reliability;
• ease of use.

Flaws:

• high noise level;
• inconvenient location of the chain tensioner mechanism.

Husqvarna saws are rightly considered one of the best. The Husqvarna 450E chainsaw is no exception. In terms of reliability and quality, it ranks among the best semi-professional saws. With a small weight, it has a fairly powerful 3.2 hp engine. An ergonomic handle, quick access to the filter and spark plug (the cylinder cover is secured with latches), fuel level indication and markings for the direction of tree felling make it much easier for the operator to work with the Husqvarna 450e.

Advantages:

• easy starting even after a long period of inactivity;
• reliability of components;
• efficiency;
• good power reserve.

Flaws:

• high price;
• expensive spare parts.

The most popular chainsaw in the ranking, the Stihl MS 260, occupies the leading position of semi-professional saws. Due to its versatility, power and durability, it is deservedly popular among lumberjacks and builders. Suitable for both felling and construction work. With a relatively low weight, it has a good reserve of power, which allows it to be used throughout the day in any conditions. It is equipped with tires 37 and 40 cm long, but its power allows you to install long tires up to 50 cm.

Advantages:

• ease of launch;
• low vibration level;
• high quality chain and tire;
• ease of maintenance and cleaning.

Flaws:

• are missing.

The best professional chainsaws

Professional-grade saws are used for continuous operation over a long period of time, have high performance and reliability. The ability of such a tool to work 8 hours a day for many years is achieved through the use of durable, wear-resistant materials in its manufacture. Such saws are intended primarily for felling timber on an industrial scale, but are also used in construction and the procurement of firewood in large volumes.

The Husqvarna 395XP professional saw is used for sawing hardwood. It has quite high performance and power of 7.1 hp with low weight for a tool of this class. High engine torque ensures fuel economy. The model is equipped great system vibration protection, easy start function and quick start and a centrifugal air purification system. For long-term operation, the saw is equipped with an ergonomic grip that does not tire your hands when loaded.

Advantages:

• adjustable oil pump;
• durable crankcase made of magnesium and aluminum alloy;
• quick-release air filter mount;
• high power.

Flaws:

• high noise level, it is simply impossible to work without headphones.

The Stihl MS 661-28 chainsaw is designed for extreme workloads and has high performance and power. This is the best model for harvesting large-sized wood. This model is equipped with “non-losing” nuts for fastening the chain sprocket cover, which is very important when working in the forest. The anti-vibration system is quite high quality; the saw does not create a load on the body. The presence of a compensator ensures efficiency and constant power of the unit. The carburetor is heated and has a winter-summer mode switch.

Advantages:

• power and high performance;
• easy start;
• single-lever control provides comfort during operation;
• effective anti-vibration system.

Flaws:

• high price compared to competitors.

Gasoline chain saw from Italian manufacturer The EFCO MT 8200 is perfect for both logging and construction work and for owners country houses. The model is equipped with a decompressor, thanks to which even a beginner can handle starting the chainsaw. The controls are conveniently located on the saw handle. Due to the original electronic coil, the cooling of the mechanism is improved. Light weight and anti-vibration system create comfortable operation.

Advantages:

• easy start;
• convenient control;
• reliability and durability.

Flaws:

• are missing.

Which chainsaw is best to buy?

We hope that our review of the best chainsaw models for home and garden in 2019 will help you decide which tool to choose for your tasks. In this category of gas-powered tools, when selecting devices, our experts were guided by such parameters as operational reliability, build quality, functionality and, most importantly, user reviews who had already had the opportunity to evaluate the quality of each chainsaw presented in the rating.