Chainsaws are a necessary tool for those who work in forestry, logging, and tree care. They can be used to cut down trees or clear paths through forests.
If you’re looking to purchase one, it’s important that you know about all the types of chainsaws available on the market today.
We’ve compiled 4 different types of chainsaws in this blog post so that you can make an informed decision before purchasing your next one; from gas-powered to electric, there is a type of chainsaw for every need!
Types of Chainsaws
There are many types of chainsaws available in this day and age; some specially designed for logging large chunks of timber and others more suited for trimming hedges or smaller logs. When choosing a chainsaw it is important to consider your needs, as they vary depending on the task.
Gas Powered Chainsaw
The first type is a gas chainsaw that has the powerful engine needed to cut through hardwood trees during heavy-duty jobs, but these are only recommended if you’re an outdoorist and have an ample supply of fuel because they produce harmful emissions that should not be inhaled.
Gasoline-powered chainsaws are the most powerful kinds of saws available on the market today. They’re perfect for heavy-duty jobs in logging and forestry, but they also require more fuel to operate (and therefore cost more).
It won’t run out of power like an electric model would if left running for too long. This means you can get a lot done with your gas-powered chain saw before needing to refuel it.
Gas-powered saws are also more expensive up front when compared to electric models which makes them less attractive for homeowners who want to take care of light tasks like trimming branches from their trees without needing to use anything but one hand!
However, these types do offer onboard safety features such as the chain brake system present with this design. This allows users the ability to stop cutting at any time in case something goes wrong or even before it does so you can move to a safer location.
Advantages
- Gas powered chainsaw is the most powerful chainsaw for the money
- They are portable and produce excellent cutting ability for cut longer periods of time
- They can capable of handling any type of project related to cutting wood
Disadvantages
- They are noisy, heavy, and expensive to maintain.
- They required regular maintenance otherwise you will end up getting a lot of problems like having a flooded chainsaw and being unable to start your flooded chainsaw.
- You will need to buy fuel and deal with the emissions generated by these chainsaws.
- These types cost more upfront when compared to electric models
Electric Chainsaw
Electric chainsaws come in two main types, corded and battery-powered. These units do not require a gas tank like other varieties since they are plugged into an electrical socket.
Corded Chainsaw
The second type is a corded chainsaw which doesn’t need any gasoline or power source other than your 120V plug, making it great for homeowners who want to take care of light tasks like trimming branches from their trees without needing to use anything but one hand!
A corded chainsaw might be a good choice for you if you don’t want to deal with gas and oil. These are lightweight and ideal for jobs like cutting branches or limbs that can easily be done in confined spaces. They’re also safer than gas-powered ones because they lack the danger of an exposed, hot engine.
These tools are quieter and easier to maintain than their gas counterparts and offer a clean alternative as well; no exhaust is released into the environment during use!
However, these types are less expensive and aren’t as powerful so don’t expect them to work wonders on hardwood trees during heavy duty jobs.
Advantages
- They are typically less noisy than gas-powered models.
- The electric versions come with less weight, so they’re easy for anyone to use over a long period of time without feeling exhausted.
- They can use electric power from the outlet and cut through branches or limbs that can easily be carried.
- These chainsaws didn’t generate any pollution when they run.
Disadvantages
- These require an extension cord of a certain length to work
- They aren’t portable.
- These are less powerful than gas-powered models so it’s not ideal for heavy-duty jobs.
Battery Powered Chainsaw
The next type of our list is a battery-powered chainsaw. Cordless chainsaws are powered by a rechargeable battery and they can operate up to about 30 – 90 minutes per charge. This kind works well for jobs like cutting firewood because the weight and size make it easier to use.
These machines may not be able to cut as deeply as gas-powered ones can go, but these models still pack enough power for light work such as trimming hedges or removing dead tree limbs.
On top of that, these models produce less noise than corded or gas-powered ones do!
Battery Powered Chainsaws are great for use in remote locations where traditional power sources or required fuel aren’t available. These types of saws also work well for people with limited mobility due to injury or illness, since they can do most of the work using one hand if needed.
The time it takes your blades to spin will depend on the voltage of your battery, so be sure not to exceed its capabilities when choosing this type of chainsaw from our list!
Advantages
- They are quieter and more environmentally friendly than gas-powered models
- Cordless chainsaws start up very quickly and require minimal effort.
- They are highly portable and best for an arborist.
Disadvantages
- They do require a battery, so you’ll have to be mindful of how long the battery lasts.
- If the power in your area is less than 100 Volts AC then these types of saws may not work for you at all because they need 240VAC or higher voltage and current!
- They aren’t good for fast cutting.
Every power chainsaw comes with two common types of handles: the top-handle and rear handle.
Top handle chainsaw: The top handle chainsaw is the more traditional type of chainsaw. This saw may not provide as much power or stability during large cutting tasks but they are better suited for quick cuts that need a lightweight tool.
Top handle chainsaw used to cut down tree branches that’s why it is highly used by arborists. Some models allow you to set it up on a stand or platform so that it can provide an overhead cutting position which makes them easier to use for taller people.
Rear handle chainsaw: The rear handle chainsaw is the most versatile type, as it can be used in any position and is easier to carry around with each cut.
It’s heavier and provides a better grip for large cutting tasks as this saw does not have to be carried around with each cut. This chain saw might not be as good for quick-cutting tasks but they are better suited when you need to cut bigger logs with precision.
Rear handle chainsaw provides the user with increased control over the tool while also being lightweight enough to be used by just about anyone.
Manual Chainsaw
Chainsaws date back to the late 1800s. They were originally manually operated with two handles but were later mechanized — a key moment in their evolution was the invention of a design that enabled power saws to be lighter and more compact.
The first chainsaws were called manual-chain saws – they consist of a chain with handles. Manual chainsaws are also known as pocket saws.
Operating these tools requires you to move the handles back and forth as manually cutting trees in half or chopping logs into smaller lengths. You have to work hard with your hands when you use a manual chainsaw.
This is a portable and versatile tool for cutting firewood and trimming trees. On top of that, many survivalists carry this with them in their travel kits as well.
Generally, shorter manual chainsaws need one person to operate while longer ones require two people.
Advantages
- The chainsaws are affordable for their low price.
- They are easy to use, even for beginners.
- These types of chainsaws are highly portable and easy to store.
- They don’t need any power source to operate
Disadvantages
- The chainsaws are not as effective or powerful when compared to other versions.
- They can only be used in certain types of materials like wood and timber that have a soft outer layer.
- These tools do need some maintenance after heavy use.
Some Additional Resources To Help You Learn More About Chainsaws:
The Bottom Line:
Chainsaws require a lot of power to work properly, so you need to consider the kind of job that they’re going to be used for before choosing a model.
I hope this guide has helped you understand the different types of chainsaws and which might work best with your needs! Whether you need it as part of your job or just want something handy in case there is ever a power outage, a chainsaw can be very useful.
One of the crucial things to consider before purchasing any chainsaw is to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the type of chainsaw that you are considering.
If you’re looking for a chainsaw that’s going to be used regularly, then opt for a gas-powered model.