How to choose an inexpensive chainsaw for your garden. How to choose a chainsaw? Which brand of chainsaw should I buy? Chainsaw chain

Choosing a good tool is not easy. Today, the publication’s experts decided to figure out which chainsaw is better if there are more models on the market than the requirements for this tool?

What types of chainsaws are there and which brand should you choose?

A chainsaw (chainsaw) is a hand-held chain saw with an internal combustion engine, usually a two-stroke.

The design of the chainsaw consists of:

• engine;

IMPORTANT! Modern chainsaws use a single-cylinder, two-stroke carburetor engine as their engine. It has a maximum speed of 13,500 rpm, which automatically puts forward strict requirements for the oil added to the fuel mixture.

• clutches;
• ignition systems;
• carburetor;
• fuel system;
• air purification systems;
• starter;
• tires;
• chains;
• chain brakes;
• chain tension mechanism;
• chain lubrication systems.

Types, characteristics and important functions

Classification of chainsaws

	Low power tools with minimal functionality. They are comfortable, lightweight and designed for 20 hours of use per month.
Semi-professional	They are used for repair and construction work and for felling trees.
Professional	With high power (>2.5 kW) and a wide range of functions. They are used in the form of shaft saws. They work 8 hours without a break. The resource ranges from 1300 to 2000 operating hours.
One-handed	Used to care for tree crowns. Compact and lightweight. The design feature is that the handle is located not at the back, but under the right hand - from above, exactly above the center of gravity.

IMPORTANT! The main technical characteristic of a chainsaw is power, which ranges from 1.5 kW to 7 kW.

Saw sets are distinguished by length. A long tire is more suitable for felling (cutting) large diameter trees; the short one has a higher speed, therefore it is suitable for harvesting firewood, processing boards, cutting branches or small trees.

The chain pitch can be:

• 0.325 inches for amateur low-power saws. Characterized by reduced vibration;
• 3/8 inch and 0.404 inch are installed on powerful chainsaws: professional and semi-professional.

IMPORTANT! Working with a chainsaw is always a risk and increased danger. We advise you not to neglect basic rules and means of protection.

Protection functions

Chainsaw review

Let's compare which is better - a chainsaw or an electric saw? Distinctive features:

Photo 1 - Makita UC3530A electric chain saw

Pros of a power saw

1. It is better to use an electric saw to cut wood and saw thin boards, and the cut will be smooth and even;
2. produce minimal vibration and little noise;
3. easy to use;
4. much cheaper.

Cons of electric saws

1. powered by electricity, connection to the mains is required;
2. when actively moving the electric saw, it is necessary to monitor the cord so that it does not get tangled under your feet and does not fall under the working chain of the saw;
3. Can only be used under favorable weather conditions.

Photo 2 - Chainsaw Stihl MS 180-14

Pros of a chainsaw

1. autonomy;
2. can be used in any weather, but in severe frost it may not start.

Cons of a chainsaw

1. It is necessary to monitor engine lubrication.

Nuances when working with a chainsaw

The carburetor is the part of the engine that is responsible for mixing oxygen and fuel in the right proportions. Violation of the proportions leads to either excessive fuel consumption or poor engine performance. The carburetor design is the same in all saws, Russian ones are no exception. But the Chinese are structured differently.

A check will show whether you have adjusted the speed correctly:

1. gently press the accelerator;
2. If the engine speed immediately increases to max, it means that it works normally when accelerating.

• What speed should it be?

The maximum is considered to be from 2800 to 15000. If something goes wrong, turn screw L 1/8 turn counterclockwise. The maximum number of engine rotations per minute is 11,500 - 15,000. At higher speeds, the ignition process is disrupted.

• What compression should a chainsaw engine have?

Normal compression is considered to be 8-12 atmospheres (0.8-1.2 MPa). Below 8, the engine will not produce the required power, and there will not be enough torque for stable operation of the tool.

Candle selection

Candles differ in the geometric parameters of the body, diameter, and thread length.

We recommend spark plugs from Shtil, Oregon, Brisk, NGK, Champion, Bosch.

IMPORTANT! To unscrew the spark plug, use a spark plug wrench, which is usually included with the chainsaw.

Cheap chainsaws: which brand to choose?

Stihl MS 361-16

Makita EA3203S-40

Champion 142-16

Usually, when buying a chainsaw for the home, budget options are considered. An inexpensive model can be chosen from well-known manufacturers - Makita, Husqvarna. Among the Bosch and Partner models there will definitely be a cheap one.

Don’t ignore the domestic manufacturer: Corvette and Interskol are not inferior in quality to foreign brands.

Rating of the most popular chainsaws in terms of reliability and quality in 2017

Name	Manufacturer country	Advantages
Makita	Japan	Leader in electric and petrol tools
Husqvarna	Sweden	Reliable, powerful and durable tools
Stihl	Germany	Lightweight and compact, suitable for both home and garden
Echo	Japan	They have automatic chain lubrication and smooth speed adjustment; good at cutting trees

The best chainsaw models according to ThisDom

View	Model	Manufacturer country
Household	Champion 142-16	USA
Household	Champion 55-18	USA
Household	Makita EA3203S40B	Japan
Household	Makita DCS 4610-40	Japan
Household	Makita DCS4610-35	Japan
Semi-professional	Sturm GC99456	Germany
Semi-professional	Energomash PT-99456	Russia
Semi-professional	Patriot Garden 5220	USA
Professional	Husqvarna 365	Sweden
Professional	Stihl MS 361	Germany

IMPORTANT! Pay attention to Hyundai (South Korea) and Huter (Germany).

Chainsaw Ural

Photo 3 -

The Ural chainsaw, first released in 1935, can still be bought today. Initially, it was the technical equipment of the army. Ural -2 is an improved model and 80% of logging in the country is still carried out using it.

Weight - 11.7 kg, chain pitch - 0.404 inches; groove width – 1.6 mm, total number of chain links – 64.

Chainsaw Stihl

Photo 4 -

Swiss chainsaws for home, agriculture and forestry, firewood harvesting, tree work and rescue operations.

Stihl saw chains have good guiding properties and high cutting performance.

All driving chain links have special small lubrication channels, which receive adhesive oil, which enters the chain hinges and is evenly distributed over the sliding surface of the guide bar.

Photo 5 - Stihl MS 390

All cutting teeth are made of steel. I treat the cutting edges of the teeth using electrolytic chrome plating for additional wear resistance, which increases the sharpening intervals of the cutting teeth.

The wear resistance of the entire supporting surface of the saw chain is increased by induction hardening.

Almost all Stihl saw chains have markings on the cutting teeth that indicate the degree of wear. It helps you navigate when sharpening and maintain its angle.

Chainsaw Shtil: characteristics of manufactured models

Model	Description
	Used for domestic purposes; compact and lightweight; equipped with an IntelliCarb system carburetor and a compensator, which makes it possible to optimize the performance of the saw; two modifications are offered; the chain is an endless closed ribbon of 50 links.
	Sturdy, powerful saw; refers to a professional instrument; an indispensable assistant when cutting thick tree trunks; equipped with an anti-vibration system and a STIHL decompression valve-compensator; the presence of an inertial chain brake, carburetor heating; there is regulation of the supply of chain lubrication.
Stihl MS 361-16	Dynamic saw with ideal specific gravity and power of 3.4 kW; ultra-low vibration level; Suitable for precise cutting of logging work, for thinning small scaffolding, for construction work in a country house.
	Light weight; economical fuel consumption; equipped with an anti-vibration system, inertial chain brake; carburetor with a special compensator; used for collecting firewood, construction and cutting down small trees.
	One of the most successful models with a unique electronic ignition system; the starting mechanism is light and fast; There is a manual switch and an anti-vibration system.

Husqvarna chainsaw

Photo 6 -

Husqvarna produces chainsaws of various models, both for professionals and just for amateurs, with high power and an advanced air filtration system.

Model characteristics

Model	Description
	Equipped with an economical 1.9 hp motor; starts easily even at sub-zero temperatures; engine volume - 38.2 cm3; fuel tank capacity - 0.3 liters of gasoline; Vibration is prevented by built-in shock absorbers and metal springs.
	Has an accelerated supply of gasoline and quick engine start; on the side it is possible to adjust the chain tension; there is an anti-vibration device; engine power is 2 hp, tank capacity is up to 0.4 liters of gasoline.
	A professional model that is used in complex work (logging or construction); weight 6 kg; motor power 4.5 hp; there is a magnesium crankcase, which ensures high speeds; equipped with anti-vibration devices, an air purification system and free engine starting; transparent tank capacity – 0.77 l.
	Household model for cutting boards, trees, logs; weight 4.4 kg; powerful 2 hp engine; tank capacity – 0.45 l; there is a built-in X-Torq system and soft handles; vibration is reduced by the LowVib device.
	A semi-professional model that is used both in everyday life and for felling forests; quick engine starting under any climatic conditions; equipped with a double-action chain brake and a special limiter; engine power 2.6 hp; engine volume – 40.2 cm3; Fuel tank capacity – 0.41 l.

Chains of Husqvarna

Photo 7 - Chain and tires Husqvarna 15″ 0.325″ 1.5 mm 64 star H25

Husqvarna models provide different chain lengths, but chain pitch and performance should be taken into account. They are divided into household (low-profile) and professional (high-performance).

Installing a professional chain for household saws is not recommended, as it greatly reduces
tool performance. High-performance chains are made from special seals that do not dull for a long time.

• Which chainsaw is better - Shtil or Husqvarna?

Photo 8 -

Pros of Stihl

1. ideal technical characteristics;
2. low level of vibration;
3. light weight of the connecting rod and crankshaft;
4. at maximum loads – smooth start and stable operation;
5. increased service life due to two working protrusions;
6. stable operation of the piston group; affordable price;
7. has an effective cooling system;
8. reaches operating speed quickly;
9. durable, reliable, trouble-free.

Cons

1. the noise level is significantly higher compared to Husqvarna;
2. The components are quite expensive.

Photo 9 - Husqvarna 357XP

Pros of Husqvarna

1. despite its simplicity, a reliable saw;
2. no problems with repairs;
3. at maximum load – low noise and vibration levels;
4. excellent noise reduction system;
5. economical fuel consumption thanks to the innovative X-Torq system;
6. high torque thanks to a powerful piston group and crankshaft;
7. easy and smooth start;
8. efficient cooling system;
9. affordable price.

Cons of Husqvarna

1. greater weight compared to Stihl;
2. expensive components.

Chainsaw Taiga

Model

Description

Reliable high power saw; actively used in everyday life and in forestry; has a fairly significant weight of 8.95 kg excluding fuel; equipped with a two-stroke engine with a displacement of 75 cm3; gives an output power of 2600 W at 7000 rpm; the internal combustion engine has a built-in cylinder Ø 50 mm; dimensions – 900x280x300 mm; usually equipped with a saw set based on a 40 cm bar and chain with a pitch of 9.3 mm; has a floatless membrane carburetor.

Chainsaw Echo

The Japanese chainsaw Echo is the best answer to the legendary Shtil.

Model	Description
	A professional chainsaw that is used for processing wood of any density; has a two-stroke engine with one cylinder; working volume 34 cm3; air cooling; power 2.16 hp; speed – 13500 rpm; at max load – fuel consumption 0.74 kg/h; automatic supply of oil to the chain; There is no feed intensity adjustment; manual starter with “easy start” system and primer; there is a protective shield between the chain and the handle; Comes with a tire in a protective case, a saw chain, and a set of tools.
	Professional tool for household use; equipped with a two-stroke engine with a displacement of 35.8 cm3; air cooling; power – 1.46 kW; max rotation speed – 13500 rpm; started by CDI electric ignition and the “Easy Start” system with a primer; automatic chain lubrication with oil; it is possible to adjust its supply; at maximum load, fuel consumption is 1.12 l/hour; For safety, it is equipped with a protective shield in front of the handle and an inertial brake on the saw chain; using the side adjusting screw, the chain is tensioned, the weight of which is 3.6 kg; there is a chain catcher and a protective guard for the rear handle; on the muffler - casing; The set includes a saw chain with a cover and a bar; small screwdriver and T-key (10x19 mm).

Chainsaw chain and other components

The chain is the most important and essential component of any chainsaw. It bears the load, so it wears out quickly.

The chain is selected according to the following parameters:

1. tail thickness;
2. cutting depth and profile height;
3. chain length, tires and number of teeth;
4. type of links.

IMPORTANT! Chains are also classified according to the method of cutting wood.

What does longitudinal and transverse type of chains mean? Longitudinal chains are oriented for cutting wood along the grain, and transverse chains are oriented for cutting across.

The pitch determines how the circuit works:

• 0.325 inches - low-power household, non-professional chains. Performance - 3-3.5 hp;
• 0.375 inch – Victory chain or 3/8 with 4.hp;
• 0.404 inches - designed for professionals, with a power of 5.5 hp.

Chainsaw chain oil

• What kind of oil is used in a chainsaw?

All chainsaws are equipped with a two- or four-stroke engine and two tanks, one of which is filled with gasoline, and the second with oil to lubricate the saw chain. If the oil is selected incorrectly, the oil pump may be damaged.

For lubrication, oil is selected depending on the use of the chainsaw. In the warm summer period, mineral formulations are used, in other cases - synthetic or semi-synthetic oils, but always purified.

IMPORTANT! Do not use used oils to lubricate the chain. There is a high risk of clogging the fuel system and breaking the tool.

Some nuances to consider when choosing a lubricant:

1. zoning should be minimal;
2. resistance to low temperatures;
3. thick, liquid disperses faster;
4. It is preferable to use vegetable-based oil or adhesive oil.

Specialized oil manufacturers:

• Bio-Kettenol;
• Divinol;
• VegOil;
• Ravenol;
• Shell;
• Castrol;
• Mobil.

What kind of gasoline should I fill?

1. AI-92 is usually used in modern devices: Makita, Partner, Husqvarna, Shtil, Echo. You can also fill in AI-95;
2. AI-80 is suitable for domestic instruments Ural and Druzhba.

IMPORTANT! In any case, fuel consumption should be minimal.

• What should be the proportion of oil and gasoline?

When using a two-stroke engine, clean fuel is purchased separately and mixed with oil in proportions of 1:50. It is structurally impossible to install an oil pump in such an engine, so pouring pure gasoline into the chainsaw is strictly prohibited!

IMPORTANT! The quantities and proportions are indicated in the instructions for use.

Domestic chainsaws work well with oil M-12TPU, M8-V, M8-V, TP, MGD-14M.
Foreign options: 2.5 liters of FI-80 gasoline per 100 g of oil. In foreign models, fuel consumption is minimal, and the proportions are 1:40 or 1:50.

Sharpening chainsaw chain

The cutting edge of a chain tooth is characterized by:

1. width;
2. thick;
3. sharpening angle.

To sharpen a chain, you need a file and a holder with lines. When the chainsaw is used intensively, the chain is sharpened several times.

• How to sharpen?

1. pre-fix the tire;
2. Make turning movements smoothly away from you, and constantly turn the file;
3. first sharpen the teeth in the same direction;
4. sharpen the remaining teeth.

• What angle?

With a chainsaw, it is better to purchase a special template with which you can easily set the optimal values ​​of the tooth angles and control the values ​​of the rear angles of the upper and end blades, as well as the front angle of the edge.

The use of a template is especially important for assessing the value of the clearance angle of the upper blade, since this angle is very difficult to determine, and it must be maintained within a limited range of 50 to 60°.

The sharpening angle measurement is determined by the angle between the top cutting edge and a line perpendicular to the chain guide.

The sharpening angle of the chainsaw chain can be changed depending on the type of work.

The greater the hardness of the wood, the lower its value should be. The optimal angle value is considered to be 10-12° for longitudinal cutting and 25-30° for cross cutting.

Compact and budget chainsaw Huter BS-45M

Andrey Kravchenko:

I bought it for gardening work. It starts quickly with a half turn if you start it cold. There is vibration.

Disadvantages: instructions and weight.

Valery Zhigunov:

I took it for collecting firewood and for small jobs. If you need to break the throttle cable, you have to break the warranty seal, which is very inconvenient. The best model for home use.

Disadvantages: problems with candles.

Quiet and fast chainsaw Champion 137-16

Konstantin Loginov:

Good equipment - extra cloth, oil, keys. I sawed everything - branches, small trees, firewood. Super price for such a toy. There were problems with the blocker: for it to work, you need to press hard.

Disadvantages: dust passes through the filter and settles on the carburetor.

Ivan Shumeiko:

If you take it for the dacha (chopping some firewood and trimming trees), the chainsaw is excellent. Doesn't take up much space, uses oil sparingly.

Disadvantages: the chain becomes dull quickly, cannot be stored in a cold room.

Ergonomic and durable

Vyacheslav Boyko:

It works like a Swiss watch and is quite quiet. Uses oil sparingly and does not dry out the chain. For household use, you won't find a better tool.

Disadvantages: price.

Alexey Nikolaenko:

For serious tasks with large volumes it is rather weak. If you haven’t had Shtil before, you won’t notice any shortcomings.

Disadvantages: the sprocket is jammed.

Convenient PARTNER P340S

Mikhail Piotrovsky:

Good plastic, sawing for the third season, haven’t sharpened yet. Maintains chain/power/bar length balance. A mixture of 1:40 is not suitable, it is better to take 1:50.

Disadvantages: minimal equipment and poor vibration protection.

Alexander Voychuk:

At idle it rattles quietly, but when cutting, the sound is tolerable. I sawed an old country wooden house with nails. Not disappointed. The engine runs well and has only stalled once in 3 years of use. After starting, do not press the gas immediately, let it warm up for a minute.

Disadvantages: no fuel level.

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 blocking the sun on the site, 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. It is ideal for cosmetic repairs and 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 with proper use, 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 forests, because their power allows them to cut trees even in the most difficult areas, and their high resistance to wear and 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 chains there is a single standard that determines cutting speed and ability to work with hard material, and more specifically with link pitches 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, either via a brake lever or a protective shield. 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

Harvesting firewood, preparing for the installation of construction timber, crowning large trees and other labor-intensive sawing work require the availability of appropriate tools. How to choose a chainsaw that fully meets the stated requirements?

The difficulty of making an independent choice lies in the breadth of the range. A large number of leading and lesser-known manufacturers specialize in the production of chainsaw equipment for various purposes. Which brand should you choose based on power, efficiency and reliability? Without proper experience it is quite difficult to do this.

Chainsaws for household use are the most affordable, most of them have a short service life of 500 to 1000 m/h between repairs. Simple in design, inexpensive chainsaw for a summer residence or private household is designed for a fairly wide range of household work.

• Moderate, up to 2 horsepower power units. The exception is a number of domestic models made in China with a power of up to 3.5 hp.
• Availability of a saw set up to 40 cm long.
• Minimal operating comfort.
• Short (up to 40-60 minutes) continuous operation time.

The cost of a household chainsaw, depending on the brand and level of equipment, varies from 3,600 to 8,000 rubles. Budget models are included in the product range of well-known European and Asian manufacturers. A good chainsaw doesn't have to be expensive. A tool that is worthy in terms of basic indicators can be selected from the budget list.

Features of the professional range

Chainsaw equipment in this category is distinguished by high quality materials and the use of modern processing technologies. Power units with power from 6 to 8.5 hp. allow you to effectively use the advantages of saw sets with a length of 45 to 75 cm.

Professional chainsaws are equipped with:

• modern easy start systems;
• booster pumps;
• vibration dampers;
• fuel equipment heaters;
• air intakes with effective, multi-stage air purification.

Despite their great popularity, the price range of Shtilev chainsaws can be called moderate. The cost of the household, farm and professional model range has stabilized at 17, 35 and 50 thousand rubles, respectively.

Chainsaw range from the Swedish brand Husqvarna

Positive reviews from professionals and ordinary users confirm the quality of the presented model range and consumable components from this manufacturer. The list of popular offers includes models, and.

Husqvarna products successfully compete with the best models of Stihl chainsaws and other leading manufacturers. The cost of a branded household-grade chainsaw is 14-16 thousand rubles. For 25-26 thousand you can buy a farm saw that is decent in all respects; purchasing a professional model will cost 30-35 thousand rubles.

The main disadvantage of the products of both manufacturers is the high cost of branded spare parts and consumables. For many owners, the problem is partially solved by using lower-quality and durable, but affordable, Chinese-made analogues.

Products of the Italian concern Emak

This manufacturer's product range includes several versions of the basic models of Oleo-Mac and Efco chainsaws. Despite the affordable price and high quality level, the demand for Italian chainsaw imports is small. The reason for this phenomenon is the lack of effective after-sales service, the difficulty of exercising rights to warranty repairs, and a significant shortage of spare parts.

The list of sales includes a large selection of budget-level chainsaws, such as Oleo-Mac GS 35-16, costing from 15 to 22 thousand rubles. Farmer and professional class models are sold in the price range from 25-28 to 40 thousand rubles.

Asian brands

The Japanese corporation Kioritz Corporation is represented on the Russian market with chainsaws of the Echo brand. The quality of the products is inferior only in certain parameters to the standard quality of the branded European range.

This disadvantage is compensated by a wide selection of models costing from 12 to 65 thousand rubles, with a service life increased to 2000 hours between overhauls. On the Russian market, the concern's products are represented by models, and others.

• Known for the excellent quality of household and professional tools, the Japanese company Makita initiated the production of modern chainsaws after merging with the German company Dolmar. Accordingly, the entire model range goes on sale under two brands.
• At the request of the MTD concern, several versions of the popular Cub Cadet chainsaw are produced in parallel. Farm and professional grade products, costing from 12-15 thousand rubles, are produced in Germany.

The production of budget chainsaws of the same name has been moved to China. According to experts, equipping German chainsaws with Chinese parts did not significantly affect the durability of budget chainsaw equipment, however, the number of positive reviews has recently decreased significantly.

European chainsaws made in China

The transfer of chainsaw production to Chinese enterprises had a negative impact on the ratings of products of European and American brands. In particular, a decrease was noted in the following categories: Champion, Partner and Patriot.

The cost of budget chainsaws of these brands ranges from 6 to 10 thousand rubles, the price of the most advanced developments does not exceed 20,000 thousand rubles.

The growth of the rating was positively affected by the transfer of state-owned engineering enterprises to a higher quality level. An example is the budget, from 5 to 15 thousand rubles, series of chainsaws of the Carver brand. The number of criticisms regarding the quality and reliability of German Huter chainsaws assembled in China has also decreased.

Domestic marketing policy is focused exclusively on sales, so any manager is not interested in the wishes of the consumer, but in his financial capabilities. When choosing a saw for use in a summer cottage, it is better to focus on real reviews on independent Internet resources and construction forums.

A chainsaw is a necessary tool for summer residents and gardeners. In a private home, such a tool would also come in handy. For example, for preparing firewood for barbecues, pruning trees and building gazebos, etc.

Previously, only hand saws and hacksaws were used, but thanks to technological progress, today it is possible to purchase an excellent chainsaw.

Amateur chainsaws

The most common class of chainsaws is amateur.

Semi-professional chainsaws

If you are not tasked with cutting thick logs and using the tool every day, then a power of up to 2 kW will be enough for you. A chainsaw for the home with a power of up to 2.5 kW is also perfect for building a wooden log house.

It is important to know that the more power a chainsaw has, the heavier it is. And it will not be easy to manage it.

Below we will look at some of the nuances of choosing chainsaws depending on their technical characteristics.

How to choose a tire for a chainsaw?

Exists three main types of saw bars:

• Flat narrow. They are put on amateur chainsaws. A narrow bar is usually paired with a low profile chain and has no kickback. This is necessary to reduce injuries when working with this chainsaw.
• Lightweight tires. Made of steel, they consist of two special plates with polyamide packed between them. This design significantly reduces the overall weight of the chainsaw. And working with such a tool becomes much easier.
• Tire with replaceable heads. Installed on professional chainsaws with high power, which work continuously for ten hours a day.

In addition to the type of tires, you should also pay attention to their length.

With long tires it is convenient to saw thick wood, as the cut is deeper. But if such a tire comes with a low-power mechanism, then its strength will not be enough for quick sawing. You will start cutting slower, and the chainsaw motor will wear out instantly.

All instructions for chainsaws indicate the recommended bar length. This figure must not be exceeded. You can reduce the size.

And if you have a choice between models of the same power, then for a small volume of wood it is better to choose a chainsaw with a smaller tire, since its sawing speed will be much higher.

Chainsaw chain

The cutting speed is also determined by the chain pitch. All chainsaws have three main chain steps. Therefore, it’s up to you to decide which chain to choose for your chainsaw.

Chain pitch 0.325 dm have amateur low-profile chains. This is the standard size for quick cutting. Such a chain will not withstand prolonged loads and will instantly become dull.

Have high power chain pitch up to 0.404 dm. They work for a long time and are capable of sawing large volumes of wood. But even such chainsaws will not cope with frozen and dirty wood. For these purposes, special chains with carbide tips are produced.

When choosing a chainsaw for your dacha, you automatically become a consumer of only this brand, since saw components from different manufacturers will not fit together.

Thus, all components of the unit must be produced by one factory, and if they break down, you will need to look for a part of the same brand.

Kickback protection

Backlash- this is the rebound of the saw when working towards a person. Kickback occurs when the end of the tire hits a tree. When choosing and purchasing a saw, be sure to check whether the selected model has protection against this phenomenon.

Protection in chainsaws against kickback is two types:

• using a special brake;
• using an additional shield.

Brake It is much more common in chainsaws. It looks like a lever - a shield. When the tool is operating, the lever is set to the closest position to the hand, and with a reverse blow, the hand will automatically press the lever, and it will be moved to the position of stopping the movement of the chain.

Additional shield prevents the operator's hands from coming into contact with the dangerous mechanism when operating the saw. It is installed at the end of the saw set. This protection is not provided in Swedish chainsaws.

Anti-vibration protection

When choosing and purchasing a chainsaw for your home, ask the seller to check it and hold it in your hands.

Lightweight amateur saws should not vibrate much. To reduce vibration, rubber gaskets are installed in such chainsaws. They are located between the handles and the saw body.

In professional powerful saws, the engine and fuel tank are spaced away from each other to evenly distribute the total mass over the entire structure. Chainsaws without special anti-vibration protection are suitable for those who work for a limited time.

The longer you work, the more vibration will affect your hands, and this will lead to inevitable joint disease.

Chainsaws for women

Some gardening work is done by women. Low-power chainsaws are suitable for women's hands, as they are light in weight and have little vibration. More powerful models are not suitable for women.

If there are no problems with it on your site, then it’s better to buy an electric saw. It is easy to use and its maintenance is much simpler. You don't have to change the oil or add gasoline. Any woman can handle this unit without any problems.

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 closer look and compare the brands most in demand in the construction market.

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 units; they have low power (1.5-2 kW) and are 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, and accordingly, the more effort the work process will require from you.

Let's look at the structure of the saw, as well as the main working elements responsible for its performance. In terms of its design features, a gasoline saw is a classic mechanism. The heart of the unit is a two-stroke internal combustion engine. 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 pitch values ​​are used by powerful professional tools; such chains have carbide (reinforced) soldering.

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 tools from the famous brands Makita and Husqvarna are ideally 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, 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 with an 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. These are really high-quality products, but 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. You shouldn’t demand more from them, since the low cost 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 that is better known to us 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. Choosing the best saw should be based on your 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 the money, 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 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 - the chain saw boom is replaced with a gearbox with a gear ratio of 2:1, and a propeller is installed. 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 fell wood, then Shtil is just what you need, a 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 off all Chinese saws as being of poor quality. If you study the models in detail, you can also find decent options for homework among them.

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.