What Size Chainsaw Do I Need? (Detail Buyer Guide)

The most important thing to think about when choosing a chainsaw is what size chainsaw do I need.

Generally, saws are sized according to their bar length, but keep in mind that a longer bar will require a more powerful motor to be able to handle the extra length.

Saws are measured by their engine displacement—the larger the engine, the more power a saw has and the bigger logs it can handle.

When selecting a saw, you should also consider the type of job you’ll be using it for.

If you’re going to be cutting small limbs and branches, a smaller saw with less power will suffice.

However, if you plan on cutting larger logs and branches, a more powerful saw with a longer bar will be necessary.

The most important thing to think about when choosing a chainsaw is what size chainsaw do I need.

Generally, saws are sized according to their bar length, but keep in mind that a longer bar will require a more powerful motor to be able to handle the extra length.

Saws are measured by their engine displacement—the larger the engine, the more power a saw has and the bigger logs it can handle.

When selecting a saw, you should also consider the type of job you’ll be using it for.

If you’re going to be cutting small limbs and branches, a smaller saw with less power will suffice.

However, if you plan on cutting larger logs and branches, a more powerful saw with a longer bar will be necessary.

The most important thing to think about when choosing a chainsaw is what size chainsaw do I need.

Generally, saws are sized according to their bar length, but keep in mind that a longer bar will require a more powerful motor to be able to handle the extra length.

Saws are measured by their engine displacement—the larger the engine, the more power a saw has and the bigger logs it can handle.

When selecting a saw, you should also consider the type of job you’ll be using it for.

If you’re going to be cutting small limbs and branches, a smaller saw with less power will suffice.

However, if you plan on cutting larger logs and branches, a more powerful saw with a longer bar will be necessary.

Factors to Consider when choosing a chainsaw size

Engine Motor Size

The engine size of a chainsaw has a huge impact on the power output, so it’s important to consider engine size when choosing the right size chainsaw.

Chainsaw sizes range from small (as small as 14.5 ccs) to large and powerful (up to 51 ccs), so it’s important to consider the task you’ll be using the saw for.

Most gas-powered chainsaws that homeowners use have bars that are between 16 and 24 inches long and engines that are between 32 and 62 ccs.

Most mini engines need less power to run, but they don’t have as much cutting force.

Larger engines can produce more torque and greater cutting power, which is especially important for heavy-duty jobs. 

Battery Size

Most battery-powered chainsaws have engines in the range of 20 to 40 volts, which provides a good balance between power and size.

The larger the battery size, the more cutting force, and power you will get, but it is also important to consider the increased weight of the saw.

Battery-powered chainsaws are often lighter and quieter than gas-powered models, so if you’re looking for a more portable option, battery-powered chainsaws might be the way to go. 

Professional or heavy-duty tasks (Purpose)

What Size Chainsaw Do I Need?

If you’re looking for a chainsaw to take on professional or heavy-duty tasks, it’s important to choose the right size. 

Most chainsaws for professionals have engines that are at least 45 ccs and can handle larger guide bars.

For example, an 18-inch bar is usually recommended for professional-grade chainsaws. 

Additionally, a professional-grade chainsaw should have plenty of power to cut big trees and thicker branches.

On the other hand, chainsaws with shorter bar sizes can be used for lighter-duty tasks such as property maintenance, trimming, pruning, and cutting down broken tree limbs.

Guide bar Length

What Size Chainsaw Do I Need?

The size of the bar determines the size of the wood you can cut.

Smaller bars are used for trimming, pruning, and general property maintenance, while larger bars can be used for bigger tasks such as cutting down trees and thick branches.

The chainsaw comes with different bar sizes, ranging from 4” to 24”.

To cut a 12-inch tree, you’ll need a chainsaw with at least a 14-inch bar.

For larger trees, you may need a longer guide bar.

If you want to reduce your working time, choose a larger bar (18 inches) that can cut more wood at once.

Brands

When choosing a chainsaw size, it’s also important to consider the brand.

Different brands offer different features, so be sure to compare the features of different chainsaws to choose the best one for your needs.

Some popular brands include Husqvarna, Stihl, Echo, and Makita.

It’s also important to research customer reviews to get an idea of how reliable a brand is.

Price

Lastly, consider your budget.

Chainsaws range in price from less than $60 to over $1000, so it’s important to choose one that fits your budget.

It’s often best to opt for a higher-quality model that will last longer and perform better.

Sizes of chainsaws

What Size Chainsaw Do I Need?

Small-chainsaws – Best for Prunning & Limbing Small Trees)

Small chainsaws are usually electric saws that are best used for light-duty jobs such as pruning and limbing small trees.

Small chainsaws usually have bar lengths ranging from 4 to 10 inches.

Medium-Sized Saw (10-16 inches)

Medium-sized saws are best used for medium-duty jobs such as felling small trees, limbing larger trees, and cutting firewood.

They usually have bar lengths ranging from 10 to 16 inches.

Large-Sized Saw – For Professionals

Large saws are best used for heavy-duty jobs such as felling large trees and cutting thick branches.

They usually have bar lengths ranging from 18 to 24 inches.

Old School Millennial

FAQs

What size chainsaw do I need for general property maintenance?

Typically, you will need a medium-sized saw with a bar length of 14 inches or less for general property maintenance.

What size chainsaw do I need for cutting down trees?

The size of the chainsaw, you need for cutting down trees depends on the size of the tree.

For smaller trees, you will need a medium-sized saw with a bar length of 10 to 16 inches.

For larger trees, you will need a large-sized saw with a bar length of 18 to 24 inches or more.

It’s important to choose the right size for the job you’re doing to ensure efficient and safe operation.

Can a larger chainsaw handle smaller tasks?

A chainsaw that is too large for a task can be difficult to handle and cause problems.

For instance, a larger saw might have too much power and wear out quickly or be too heavy to maneuver easily.

However, a larger saw can handle smaller tasks if you use the right technique.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing a chainsaw size, it’s important to consider the engine size, purpose of use, guide bar length, brand, and price.

Smaller saws are best used for light-duty jobs, while larger saws are best used for professional or heavy-duty tasks.

Before you buy, make sure to read customer reviews to make sure you’re getting the best model for your needs.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can find a chainsaw that will suit your needs and budget. Good luck!

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Charlie Bass

Charlie has been a mechanic for over 25 years and has worked on everything from small engine gardening equipment to huge diesel-electric mining haul trucks, trains and even aircraft. This broad range of industry experience gives him a unique insight into almost anything mechanical especially with an engine, including gardening and landscaping equipment. He currently owns his own mobile mechanic business and lives with his family in Australia.

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