How Big a Chainsaw Do I Need?

To determine the right chainsaw size, consider the type of work you’ll be doing and the size of the wood you’ll be cutting. For smaller jobs, you can use a chainsaw with a bar length of 14-16 inches.

For medium-sized tasks, a 16-20 inch bar length is suitable. For larger jobs, you should consider a bar length of 20 inches or more. A chainsaw is an essential tool for any homeowner or professional arborist. Choosing the right chainsaw size depends on the nature of work you intend to perform.

With a myriad of chainsaws sizes on the market, it can be challenging to know the right size to buy. A chainsaw too small for your job will result in frustration, while a chainsaw too big will be difficult to control. In this article, we will help you to figure out how big a chainsaw you need to buy.

Understanding Chainsaw Sizes

When it comes to choosing the right chainsaw for your needs, size is a crucial factor. Understanding how to measure chainsaw size and identifying the different types of chainsaws and their applications will allow you to make an informed decision.

Here are some factors to consider before choosing a chainsaw size:

How To Measure Chainsaw Size

Chainsaw size refers to the length of the cutting blade, which is measured from the tip to where it enters the chainsaw’s body. The size of a chainsaw is denoted by the length of the guide bar in inches. The most common guide bar lengths are 16, 18, and 20 inches, but they can range from 10 to 36 inches.

Different Types Of Chainsaws And Their Applications

There are two main types of chainsaws: gas-powered and electric. Each type has its own pros and cons and is suitable for different applications.

Gas-powered chainsaws:

• Suitable for heavy-duty tasks due to their power and mobility
• More durable and long-lasting than electric chainsaws
• No restrictions on power source and suitable for areas without electricity
• More maintenance required with gasoline refills, oil changes, and filter cleaning

Electric chainsaws:

• Lightweight and quiet, making them suitable for lighter tasks and indoor use
• Low maintenance required with no gasoline or oil refills
• More economical and environmentally friendly

Factors To Consider Before Choosing A Chainsaw Size

Before deciding on a chainsaw size, consider the following factors:

• The size of the tree you plan to cut
• The type of wood you plan to cut: Softwood or hardwood
• The frequency of use and your experience
• Your physical strength and comfort level with the chainsaw size
• Availability of spare parts and maintenance services

Choosing the right chainsaw can make your woodcutting tasks easier, efficient, and safer. By considering the factors and understanding the chainsaw’s sizes, you can find the perfect tool for your needs.

Small Chainsaws

How Big A Chainsaw Do I Need: Small Chainsaws

Chainsaws In The Under 14-Inch Range

Chainsaws in the under 14-inch range are considered small chainsaws. They are ideal for light and smaller tasks such as pruning, cutting small branches, and simple landscaping tasks. Although small, they are powerful enough to handle these tasks with ease but don’t expect them to cut through large and thick trees.

Ideal Applications For Small Chainsaws

Small chainsaws are ideal for homeowners, farmers, and gardeners who have small tasks to perform around their property. Here are some of the ideal applications for small chainsaws:

• Pruning trees and cutting small branches
• Maintaining the shape and size of hedges and bushes
• Trimming small trees
• Removing small limbs and branches that may pose a hazard
• Small landscaping tasks

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Small Chainsaws

Small chainsaws have advantages and disadvantages that you will need to consider before you decide if they are right for you.

Advantages:

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Easy to maintain
• Affordable
• Perfect for light tasks
• Ideal for small and hard to reach places

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
• Not as durable as larger chainsaws
• Limited cutting capacity
• Slower cutting speed

How To Choose The Right Small Chainsaw Size

Choosing the right size of the chainsaw is crucial to ensure you get the most out of your tool. To choose the right small chainsaw size, you will need to consider the following:

• The tasks you will be performing: If you will be performing mainly light tasks, a smaller chainsaw will suffice. However, for more demanding tasks, you will require a more powerful chainsaw.
• The size of the trees and branches: Smaller chainsaws are ideal for small trees and branches, while larger chainsaws are suitable for bigger trees and thick branches.
• The size and strength of the operator: A small chainsaw is ideal for a small and petite operator, while a larger chainsaw is suitable for a taller and stronger operator.

Small chainsaws are perfect for light tasks such as pruning and cutting small branches, and maintaining the shape and size of hedges. When choosing the right small chainsaw size, consider the tasks you will perform, the size of the trees and branches, and the size and strength of the operator.

With proper maintenance and care, small chainsaws will serve you well for years to come.

Medium Chainsaws

Chainsaws In The 14 To 18-Inch Range

Medium chainsaws are great for tackling jobs that are beyond the reach of smaller chainsaws but not quite big enough to require a larger, heavier chainsaw. Chainsaws in the 14 to 18-inch range are perfect for home use, like trimming trees, cutting up firewood, and pruning branches.

These chainsaws are also suitable for light to medium-duty work such as limbing small trees.

Ideal Applications For Medium Chainsaws

Medium chainsaws are perfect for jobs that require more power and longer bars than small chainsaws but don’t need the brute strength and weight of a larger chainsaw. Some ideal applications for medium chainsaws include:

• Trimming trees
• Cutting up firewood
• Pruning branches
• Limbing small trees
• Clearing small trees and branches after a storm

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Medium Chainsaws

Like all power tools, medium chainsaws come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

• Medium chainsaws are more powerful than small chainsaws, making them suitable for a wider range of tasks.
• They are lighter and more maneuverable than larger chainsaws, making them easier to handle and less tiring to use.
• Medium chainsaws are more affordable than larger chainsaws, making them a great choice for homeowners and occasional users.

Disadvantages:

• Medium chainsaws are not suitable for heavy-duty tasks such as felling large trees.
• They are not as powerful as larger chainsaws, so they may struggle with thicker, denser wood.
• Medium chainsaws are louder than smaller chainsaws, which can be a concern for some users.

How To Choose The Right Medium Chainsaw Size

Choosing the right size for a medium chainsaw comes down to the type of work that needs to be done. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right size:

• Bar length: Bar length should be considered based on the size of the wood being cut. For heavy-duty jobs, longer bars are preferred, while shorter bars are suitable for lighter tasks.
• Power: More power can handle thicker, denser wood, but it usually comes at the cost of additional weight and higher price.
• Weight: Lightweight chainsaws are great for extended use and handling, but heavy duty jobs often require a more substantial chainsaw.

Final thoughts: medium chainsaws are a great all-purpose chainsaw for homeowners, occasional users, and even some small businesses. They are powerful enough to handle most home and garden tasks with ease while being light and maneuverable enough to prevent fatigue during extended use.

When selecting an appropriate medium chainsaw, it’s essential to consider the type of work to be done and the saw’s specifications.

Large Chainsaws

How Big A Chainsaw Do I Need: Large Chainsaws

When it comes to big jobs, big chainsaws are the way to go. These powerful machines can make short work of large trees and thick logs. But how big of a chainsaw do you really need? In this section, we’ll look at chainsaws in the over 18-inch range, their ideal applications, advantages and drawbacks, and how to choose the right size for your needs.

Chainsaws In The Over 18-Inch Range

Chainsaws in the over 18-inch range are considered to be large, heavy-duty machines. They are designed for professional arborists, landscapers, and loggers who need the power and performance that a smaller chainsaw can’t provide. Here are some key points to consider:

• Chainsaws in this category typically have engine sizes ranging from 50cc to over 100cc, which translates to more power and speed for cutting through thick logs and trees.
• The bar length of these chainsaws usually starts from 18 inches and goes up to 36 inches or more, allowing for longer cuts and more coverage in less time.
• They are heavy machines, weighing from 12 to 25 pounds, which can cause fatigue and muscle strain when used for extended periods.

Ideal Applications For Large Chainsaws

Large chainsaws are ideal for tackling big jobs that require more power and longer cutting bars. Here are some example applications:

• Removing large trees, especially hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry.
• Cutting thick logs for firewood or lumber.
• Clearing land for new construction or for agricultural purposes.
• Trimming large hedges and bushes that require high-speed cutting.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Large Chainsaws

Just like any other tool, large chainsaws have their pros and cons. Here are a few key points to consider:

Advantages:

• More power and speed for cutting through thicker logs and trees.
• Longer bars for longer cuts and more coverage in less time.
• Ability to handle heavy-duty jobs that smaller chainsaws cannot.

Disadvantages:

• Heavy, which can lead to fatigue and muscle strain.
• More difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
• More expensive than smaller chainsaws.

How To Choose The Right Large Chainsaw Size

Choosing the right chainsaw size depends on the job at hand. Here are some factors to consider:

• Bar length: The length of the bar determines the maximum diameter of the log that can be cut. Choose a bar length that is slightly longer than the diameter of the thickest logs you need to cut.
• Engine size: Consider the power and speed requirements of the job. A larger engine will allow for faster and easier cutting, but comes at a higher cost.
• Weight: Consider how long you’ll be using the chainsaw and the weight you can handle comfortably. Choose a weight that you can manage without tiring quickly.

Large chainsaws are powerful tools that can make quick work of big jobs. However, choosing the right size and type of chainsaw is critical to maximizing productivity and efficiency with minimal physical strain. By considering your intended applications and selecting a chainsaw that is ideal for those specific needs, you’ll be well-equipped to take on the task at hand.

Frequently Asked Questions Of How Big A Chainsaw Do I Need

What Size Chain Do I Need For My Chainsaw?

The size of the chain you need depends on the size of your chainsaw’s guide bar. The chain must be the right length to fit snugly around the bar without sagging. Check your chainsaw manual for the recommended chain size.

What Type Of Chainsaw Is Best For Heavy-Duty Jobs?

For heavy-duty jobs, such as felling large trees, it’s best to use a gas-powered chainsaw with a long bar length. Electric or battery-powered chainsaws may not have enough power or runtime to handle the job.

How Often Should I Sharpen My Chainsaw Chain?

It’s recommended to sharpen your chainsaw chain after every 2-3 uses, or whenever you notice it’s not cutting as efficiently as it should. Dull chains can pose safety hazards and cause unnecessary strain on your chainsaw’s motor.

Conclusion

After going through this blog, it is crystal clear that choosing the right chainsaw is essential to ensure efficient and safe cutting. You need to determine the size that best suits your cutting needs, your experience level and physical capacity.

A chainsaw that is too small will slow down your work while a chain saw that is too big can cause accidents and lead to fatigue. As a beginner, it is wise to start with a small saw before moving up to bigger models.

On the other hand, professional lumberjacks or arborists may need bigger saws to handle larger materials. Always keep in mind the safety measures you should take when using a chainsaw, and never operate one without protective gear. With these guidelines in mind, you will be able to select the perfect chainsaw that will suit your needs while keeping you safe.

So, go on and make your choice!