Tackling outdoor projects can be a breeze with the right equipment, and small chainsaws are perfect for making quick work of trimming trees or cutting logs. These compact power tools offer exceptional convenience and efficiency for anyone interested in off-grid living or DIY landscaping tasks.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top small chainsaws available on the market specially designed to make your outdoor projects more efficient and effective. We’ve researched expert recommendations from trusted sources like Consumer Reports to help you find the perfect fit based on your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Small chainsaws are lightweight and maneuverable, making them ideal for off – grid living and DIY landscaping tasks.
- They are more affordable than larger chainsaws and less intimidating for beginners.
- When choosing a small chainsaw, consider factors like power source, size and weight, engine power and speed, chain length, and bar size.
- Some of the top options on the market include Greenworks 12 – Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw and STIHL MS 170.
Benefits Of Using A Small Chainsaw For Outdoor Projects
Small chainsaws are lightweight and easily maneuverable, making them ideal for smaller jobs, more affordable than larger chainsaws, and less intimidating for beginners.
Lightweight And Maneuverable
One of the key advantages of using a small chainsaw for your outdoor projects is its lightweight and maneuverable design. Especially for individuals interested in off-grid living, having a compact and easy-to-handle tool can make all the difference when working on various tasks around your property.
For example, consider the Milwaukee M12 mini chainsaw which weighs just about 6 pounds, allowing users to comfortably hold it with one hand while reaching those hard-to-get branches or logs.
This portability makes it perfect not only for quick jobs around your homestead but also means that you can easily pack it up and take it along during camping trips or other off-grid adventures – ensuring that you have a reliable tool by your side at all times.
Ideal For Smaller Jobs
One of the biggest advantages of using a small chainsaw for outdoor projects is its ability to handle smaller jobs with ease. These lightweight and maneuverable tools are perfect for cutting branches, limbs, and even small trees up to 6 inches in diameter.
They’re also ideal for reaching tight spots that larger chainsaws can’t access.
If you’re looking to trim your hedges or prune some overgrown bushes, a mini chainsaw like the Milwaukee M12 will do the job perfectly. These compact and handy tools are also great for cutting straying branches from hard-to-reach areas around your property without taking up too much storage space.
More Affordable Than Larger Chainsaws
One of the primary benefits of using a small chainsaw for outdoor projects is that they are more affordable than larger ones. While larger chainsaws can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, smaller options like electric and battery-powered models tend to be significantly cheaper.
This makes them an excellent option for off-grid living enthusiasts who want to invest in reliable equipment without breaking the bank. For example, the Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw is a powerful yet budget-friendly option that can handle most light to medium-duty cutting jobs with ease.
Less Intimidating For Beginners
Using a chainsaw for the first time can be intimidating, especially if you’re not used to handling power tools. That’s where small chainsaws come in handy. With their lightweight and compact design, they are less intimidating for beginners than their larger counterparts.
For instance, the Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw is a popular option for beginners due to its easy-to-use electric motor and safety features like automatic oiling that keeps the chain lubricated during use.
Additionally, the BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw has a lightweight design that makes it perfect for one-handed use and excellent control when trimming hedges or pruning shrubs.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Small Chainsaw
When choosing the perfect small chainsaw for your outdoor projects, there are several factors to consider such as power source, size and weight, engine power and speed, chain length and bar size.
Power Source (Electric, Gas, Or Battery)
Small chainsaws come in different power sources to cater to varying needs. Electric chainsaws are ideal for light-duty work and are more convenient than gas-powered ones since they require less maintenance.
They emit no pollutants, making them perfect for indoor use or environmentally sensitive areas, and they are quieter than gas-powered saws as well.
Gas-powered chainsaws deliver more power compared to electric or battery-operated models and can handle heavy-duty projects such as cutting large trees with ease. They provide consistent operation despite fluctuating voltage levels, ensuring optimum performance at all times.
Size And Weight
When choosing a small chainsaw, size and weight are important factors to consider. A smaller chainsaw is often more lightweight and easier to maneuver, making it ideal for those who are new to using power tools or those with limited upper body strength.
However, a larger chainsaw may be required for tougher cutting tasks.
Some popular small chainsaws that strike the perfect balance between size and weight include the Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw and the WORX WG309 Electric Pole Saw & Chainsaw.
Both are highly rated by consumers for their efficiency, portability, and ease of use. Additionally, brands like Stihl offer high-quality options that can handle tough jobs while still being easy enough for beginners to manage.
Engine Power And Speed
The engine power and speed of a small chainsaw are two critical factors to consider before making a purchase. The engine’s power is directly related to the saw’s cutting ability, while the speed determines how fast it can cut through wood.
Some models have variable-speed triggers that allow you to adjust the cutting speed according to your needs.
On the other hand, electric chainsaws like the WORX WG309 feature slower blade speeds but are still highly effective at handling smaller jobs like trimming branches or cutting firewood.
These models tend to be more lightweight and easier to maneuver than their gas-powered counterparts and require less maintenance overall.
Chain Length And Bar Size
Another essential factor to consider when choosing a small chainsaw is the chain length and bar size. The length of the chainsaw’s blade determines how much wood it can cut through in one pass.
If you plan on cutting small trees or branches, then a shorter blade will suffice. However, if you’re tackling larger projects such as felling large trees, then a longer blade is necessary.
For instance, if you need to clear stray branches from hard-to-reach areas within your property while off-grid living or hiking/camping outdoors, compact cordless models with a 6-inch cutting capacity like BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw and Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw will offer excellent dexterity.
While Husqvarna 120 Mark II Gas Chainsaws feature an easy-to-handle lightweight design with a 14-inch guide-bar that makes them perfect for novice users looking for power-up convenience without overwhelming weight.
Top Small Chainsaws On The Market
We’ve researched and narrowed down the top six small chainsaws on the market, including cordless and electric options from brands like Greenworks, BLACK+DECKER, WORX, DEWALT, STIHL, and Husqvarna.
Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw
The Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw is a great option for anyone looking for an efficient and effective small chainsaw. This cordless chainsaw offers the convenience of not having to deal with power cords or gas, making it ideal for outdoor projects in remote areas.
With its powerful battery, it can easily handle cutting through branches up to 10 inches in diameter. The compact size and lightweight design also make it easy to maneuver around tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas.
BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw
The BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw is a top-performing option for those looking for a lightweight, portable chainsaw option. With its cordless design, this chainsaw offers versatility in use without limiting mobility or range of motion.
It’s perfect for outdoor projects such as pruning small trees and cutting branches thanks to its 10-inch bar length and 20-volt lithium-ion battery that delivers long run time and rechargeable power.
Additionally, the BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw is easy to operate with no need for mixing gas or oil like traditional gas-powered chainsaws making it an excellent choice for beginners who want less complicated equipment to work with.
WORX WG309 Electric Pole Saw & Chainsaw
The WORX WG309 Electric Pole Saw & Chainsaw is an excellent option for off-grid living enthusiasts who want a versatile, efficient tool for cutting back branches and vines.
With its 8-amp motor and 10-inch bar, it can easily handle small to medium-sized trees. The pole saw feature makes it easy to access hard-to-reach areas without having to use a ladder or climbing equipment.
Additionally, the chainsaw component can be easily detached from the pole and used as a handheld chainsaw for more intricate pruning tasks around your property.
DEWALT DCCS620B 20V Max Compact Cordless Chainsaw
The DEWALT DCCS620B 20V Max Compact Cordless Chainsaw is a powerful yet lightweight tool that’s perfect for off-grid living. It features a brushless motor that provides excellent efficiency and runtime, making it ideal for cutting small trees and branches.
The compact design allows for easy storage and transportation in your backpack or trunk. Plus, the tool-free bar tightening system ensures quick adjustments on the go, while the automatic oiling system keeps the chain lubricated at all times.
With its ergonomic grip and low kickback chain, this chainsaw ensures comfortable and safe operation every time you use it.
STIHL MS 170
The STIHL MS 170 is a top-performing small chainsaw that’s perfect for those who live off the grid and need an efficient tool to handle outdoor projects like cutting wood and trimming trees.
This gas-powered chainsaw has a lightweight design, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver while working in tight spaces. With its impressive engine power, speed, chain length, and bar size, this little chainsaw can effortlessly tackle branches up to 16 inches in diameter.
Additionally, the STIHL brand is known for producing high-quality tools with exceptional durability and longevity that will keep you satisfied for years’ of use.
Husqvarna 120 Mark II Gas Chainsaw
The Husqvarna 120 Mark II gas chainsaw is a powerful and efficient tool for off-grid living. With its 14-inch bar and chain, it can handle small trees and branches with ease, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their own property or cut their own firewood.
Plus, the ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use even during extended periods of cutting. This chainsaw features Air Injection technology that helps ensure longer engine life by reducing the number of particles that enter the air filter.
The easy-to-access side-mounted tensioner allows for quick chain adjustments on-the-go, while the X-Torq engine delivers maximum power with minimal fuel consumption.
Best Practices For Using A Small Chainsaw
When using a small chainsaw, always wear protective gear and use proper cutting techniques to ensure safety. There are also maintenance tasks that you should keep in mind to prolong the life of your tool.
These practices will not only help you achieve better results but will also save time and money in the long run.
Wear Protective Gear
Safety should be a top priority when using any power equipment, including small chainsaws. It is important to wear protective gear like eye and ear protection, gloves, boots with steel toes and non-slip soles, and a helmet or hard hat.
For added safety, consider using chainsaw chaps or leg protection that can prevent serious injuries in case of kickback or accidental contact with the chain. In addition to wearing protective gear, it’s essential to maintain your chainsaw regularly and follow proper cutting techniques.
Use Proper Cutting Techniques
When using a small chainsaw for outdoor projects, it’s important to use proper cutting techniques to ensure your safety and the efficiency of the tool. Always make sure that you have a secure grip on the chainsaw with both hands, and position your feet firmly on the ground.
It’s also essential to let the chainsaw do the work instead of forcing it through branches or logs. Make sure you don’t put too much pressure on the saw as this could result in damage or injury.
If you’re unsure about how to properly use your mini chainsaw, consider watching tutorials online or talking to a professional for guidance.
Keep The Chainsaw Maintained
To keep your small chainsaw running smoothly, it is important to maintain it properly. This includes checking the chain tension regularly and sharpening the blades as needed.
Keeping the air filter clean can also help prolong the life of your chainsaw’s engine. Additionally, make sure to use high-quality bar oil and fuel to prevent buildup in the engine over time.
According to Consumer Reports, regular maintenance can improve a chainsaw’s performance and reduce its risk of malfunction or injury during use. For example, inspecting spark plugs for wear at least once per week can extend their lifespan and minimize downtime due to fouling or damage caused by debris ingestion into cylinder heads or combustion chambers.
Simple cleaning tasks like removing sawdust from cooling fins with compressed air after every use helps preserve optimal airflow which prolongs engine life while protecting against overheating during thermal expansion cycles.
Other Options For Outdoor Projects
Aside from small chainsaws, there are other tools you can consider for your outdoor projects such as handheld pruning saws, manual pole saws, and cordless hedge trimmers.
Handheld Pruning Saws
Handheld pruning saws are another option for outdoor projects that require trimming and cutting of smaller branches. These saws come in both manual and electric options, making them versatile tools to have on hand.
Manual handheld pruning saws, like the Fiskars Power Tooth Saw, are lightweight and easy to use for quick jobs. On the other hand, small electric chainsaws with a pruning attachment can make your work even more efficient.
Regardless of which type you choose, handheld pruning saws are great for working in tight spaces or hard-to-reach areas where larger chainsaws may not fit or be safe to use.
Manual Pole Saws
Manual pole saws are another option for off-grid living and outdoor projects. These saws feature a long, extendable pole with a cutting blade at the end, allowing you to reach higher branches without needing a ladder.
One example of a popular manual pole saw is the Fiskars Power-Lever Extendable Pole Saw & Pruner, which can cut branches up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter. Manual pole saws require less maintenance than power tools and they operate quietly, making them an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments.
Cordless Hedge Trimmers
Cordless hedge trimmers are a great option for those off grid living. They provide the convenience of not being tied down to an electrical outlet or dealing with messy gas engines.
A cordless hedge trimmer is ideal for trimming bushes and hedges without any tangling cords getting in the way. The Ryobi ONE+ 22-Inch 18V Cordless Hedge Trimmer is a popular choice among users, offering precision cutting and up to an hour of runtime on a single charge.
Plus, it’s lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around your property.
Comparison Between Small Chainsaws And Other Options
While small chainsaws are great for cutting small trees, branches, and logs under 6 inches in diameter, there are also other options available for outdoor projects. Handheld pruning saws can be useful for trimming bushes and smaller limbs while manual pole saws allow you to reach higher areas without climbing a ladder.
However, when it comes to efficiency and power, small chainsaws still come out on top. They offer faster cutting times with less effort than manual tools like pruning saws or pole saws.
Additionally, they don’t require as much physical exertion as using a handsaw or lopper would.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a small chainsaw is an efficient and effective tool for outdoor projects, especially for those interested in off-grid living. They are lightweight, maneuverable, affordable, and less intimidating for beginners.
When choosing a small chainsaw, consider the power source, size and weight, engine power and speed, chain length and bar size. Some top options on the market include Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw and STIHL MS 170.
Remember to wear protective gear when using any type of saw and keep it well-maintained for optimal performance. Other options like handheld pruning saws or cordless hedge trimmers can also be used depending on your needs.
FAQs:
1. What are the benefits of using a small chainsaw for outdoor projects?
Small chainsaws are lightweight, easy to handle and perfect for tackling smaller tasks such as pruning or trimming branches around your property. They also tend to be more affordable than larger models while still delivering sufficient cutting power.
2. How do I choose the right small chainsaw for my project?
Consider factors such as your specific needs (i.e. size & type of trees you’re working with), budget, safety features, durability and user-friendly attributes like ease-of-use before purchasing a small chainsaw that best suits your needs.
3. Can I use a small chainsaw on large trees or logs?
While some smaller models may not have the necessary power to effectively cut through extremely large trees or logs, many can easily handle tasks such as limb removal, tree trimming and general yard work for maintenance purposes.
4. What safety precautions should be taken when using a small chainsaw?
Always wear appropriate protective gear including gloves & goggles during operation in addition to taking care not operate unit without proper knowledge/understanding potential hazards associated with it – only individuals who feel comfortable doing so should attempt utilizing any type of sized chain saws safely-employing common sense practices regarding safe use is crucial.
