Things To Consider When Buying A Chainsaw
Chainsaws can be rather pricey purchases… Therefore we have compiled our knowledge into helping you ensure you buy the right one for you! If you have never bought a chainsaw before, it can be quite daunting looking at the range of options. Saving countless hours of manual labour, chainsaws are very powerful pieces of equipment and a staple item of garden machinery.
Types of Chainsaws
The Standard Chainsaw
Firstly, chainsaws are portable saws that have a set of teeth attached to a rotating chain driven along a guide bar. The standard chainsaw is typically what most people think of when it comes to hearing the word “chainsaw”. There are however different variations of the chainsaw which all fit different purposes – from felling large trees to basic garden maintenance.
Pole Saws
The pole saw is basically a chainsaw attached to a long pole. Often extendable, the pole can reach lengths of approximately 10-20 feet! Therefore allowing you to reach high up into the large trees to cut of branches and prune the limbs. Acting as a good secondary tool, the pole saw can’t function as a primary chainsaw. It has limited functionality because of it only being able to perform one select task.
Enclosed Saw
Enclosed Saws shield the user from the moving chain entirely. Reasonably small and lightweight, with maximum protection for the user, means this may be a good option if you haven’t used a chainsaw before! An example of an enclosed chainsaw is the Worx Jawsaw, this chainsaw is typically used for pruning. The chain is fully surrounded by a “jaw” for increased safety.
Chainsaw Power Options
Gas Powered
Gas powered chainsaws are undoubtedly the most powerful option. As a result, they are capable to carry out tougher tasks – working faster with less wear on the chain. In comparison to electric models, gas chainsaws are noisier and heavier and their engines require more maintenance. Typically, gas powered chainsaws run off a mix of petrol and two stroke oil. Ensuring you get the correct ratio, you will either need to make sure you keep pre-mixed on hand or make your own!
Electric (Corded)
A corded saw has approximately the same amount of power as a mid-range gas powered chainsaw. The main limitation on a corded chainsaw is the length of the cord – limiting their portability. Additionally, be cautious of the amps that the saw draws – you will need an extension that can handle the amount of power. To compare, electric chainsaws don’t have engine, but rather electrical motors which makes them a lot lighter. With little maintenance the electric option is probably the easiest to operate (not necessarily the best) alongside being the cheapest!
Electric (Battery)
With all the convenience of a gas-powered chainsaw, battery powered options have quickly risen in popularity! Battery powered chainsaws share the same level of portability as a gas-powered model without the burden of using fuel. Due to not using fuel, they are more economically efficient to the environment as they don’t release any emissions. Lithium-ion batteries however don’t come cheap, making them initially more expensive than a gas-powered model. Moreover, long term cost of ownership is undoubtedly cheaper, given you don’t need to purchase fuel to run them.
Barlaston Tool Shed Chainsaw Service Package
Chainsaws are an essential piece of equipment for many occupations. Therefore, it is crucial for your machinery to be working at its optimum. Here at Barlaston Tool Shed, our technicians can sharpen your individual teeth and fully inspect your chainsaw. We can also offer machine servicing on most garden machinery brands. If you have a gas-powered chainsaw, it is recommended that you get it serviced at least once a year (dependant on amount of use). View our servicing package here!
Other Chainsaw Features to Consider
Chain Type
To most DIYers, the standard chain that comes with the machine will be sufficient. On the other hand, various chains can suit different tasks more effectively, familiarise yourself on spacing options and teeth profiles.
Chain Brake
A great safety feature to look out for on a chainsaw is “chain brake”. Chain brake immediately halts motion of the chain almost immediately, preventing kickback.
Handle Position
Lighter and more compact, top-handle saws can often be used one handed. They are designed to be operated off the ground, for example pruning branches whilst climbing trees. With a top-handle model, the necessary controls are mounted near the top handle providing great accessibility to the user. It is said rear-handle chainsaws are a better choice for beginners and are better for sawing fallen logs/ground work. Rear-handle machines provide better handling and easier use however due to the weight, the user can fatigue quicker.
Anti-Vibration
On the topic of fatigue, chainsaws with rubberised handles and anti-vibration features are less likely to fatigue the user as fast. Particularly a good feature to have on a gas-powered model due to them having more vibration due to having a running engine.
Contact Us!
We provide a wide range of different services depending upon your needs. If you are looking to have your garden machinery serviced on a regular basis, or if you need a one off repair – we can help.
When you bring your machinery in to us we will provide you with a price and an idea of turnaround before you decide to proceed. This will leave you with peace of mind and ensure that you know exactly what is involved from the very start of the process.
For more info give us a call on 01782 479 888!