The 7 Best Gas Chainsaws Reviewed in 2024 – Gas Powered Saws

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With the dizzying number of gas chainsaws available on the market, you will easily get lost and confused.

But don’t worry! We’ve gone through countless gas chainsaw reviews to compare each model to make sure you find the seven best gas chainsaw models available today.

Quick Overview

Winner

Husqvarna 20-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw (2)

Husqvarna 20-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Unrivaled engine power

Unanimous top 1 to 3 choice among chainsaw reviews

Built for heavy-duty sawmill cutting

Runner-Up

Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas-Powered Chainsaw (2)

Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas-Powered Chainsaw

70% fewer emissions

20% lower fuel consumption

Easy to start

Our Top 7 Choices For Best Gas Chainsaws

Best Gas ChainsawsPowerBar LengthPrice
1. Husqvarna 20-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw3.62 hp20″Check Price
2. Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas-Powered Chainsaw50 cc20″Check Price
3. Remington 4216 Gas-Powered Chainsaw42 cc16″Check Price
4. Husqvarna 120 Mark II Gas-Powered Chainsaw38.2 cc14″Check Price
5. Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw3.50 hp20″Check Price
6. Remington 4214 Chainsaw42 cc14″Check Price
7. Husqvarna 450E II 18-inch Fully Assembled Gas Chainsaw50.2 cc18″Check Price

7 Best Gas Chainsaw Models

#1 – Winner – Husqvarna 20-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Quick Facts

Unrivaled engine power

Unanimous top 1 to 3 choice among chainsaw reviews

Built for heavy-duty sawmill cutting

Husqvarna 20-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Type: Gas | Bar Length: 20″ | Power: 3.62 hp | Weight: 12.79 pounds

Performance

If you want a high-quality gas chainsaw for your work, the 20-inch bar Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the best one for you.

As a matter of fact, its performance and features are truly incredible. That is the reason why it is well-liked by gas chainsaw reviews and professionals everywhere.

The Husqvarna is even built for heavy-duty cutting of large trees for a sawmill, reassuring you that it has enough power to surpass any other type of chainsaw in this guide.

Its X-Torq technology is built into the power source: a 60 cc engine with monstrous 3.65 HP. They will give you enough power to operate its 24-inch bar and chain in the most challenging situations.

Design

Everything is included in a sleek and balanced design weighing only 12.8 pounds.

Also, it has a full control choke and spring assisted Air Purge Smart Start Technology. Some of its comfort and safety features include the LowVib Anti-vibration Technology and lower noise levels at only 104 dB.

Then, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is designed with a centrifugal air cleaning system that filters out and stops any sizable chunks of debris and sawdust from clogging the air filter.

This will help to prolong its engine life and lessen the maintenance required for its upkeep.

Lastly, the Husqvarna has some excellent options with a 16-inch bar. Though the 455 Rancher is more than capable of doing the same, a 14 to 16-inch length is ideal for cutting firewood. Overall, the Husqvarna 135 Mark II Gas Chainsaw is a good recommendation for a chainsaw with a 16-inch bar.

Is This the Best Gas Chainsaw for You?

The Husqvarna 460 gas-powered chainsaw offers features and specifications that are perfect for anyone who regularly engages in heavy-duty work.

All of its safety features are combined with its comfortable design that allows you to use this professional-grade chainsaw for hours with ease and comfort.

Here’s what you’ll love

Smart Start technology Built-in

Powerful 60cc X-Torq Engine

24-inch chain bar for challenging tasks

Easy access chain tensioning

Ergonomic Handles

Anti-vibration Technology

Easy to grip

Lightweight and well-balanced saw

Adjustable automatic chain oiler

Inertia Chain Brake

Chain Catch

Low Kickback

Here’s what you might not like

Automatic oilers can be troublesome at times

Overworking and overheating results in stalling

High-priced


#2 – Runner-Up – Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas-Powered Chainsaw

Quick Facts

70% fewer emissions

20% lower fuel consumption

Easy to start

Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Type: Gas | Bar Length: 20″ | Power: 50 cc | Weight: 17 pounds

Performance

The PR5020 chainsaw is made with a 20-inch guide bar that will allow you to use a chainsaw that is just on the cusp of professional-grade chainsaws. Hence, a massive 50 cc engine size powers everything.

If you need the best gas-powered chainsaw that requires more oomph in its engine than the other models we have recommended for suburban homeowners here, the Poulan Pro PR5020 may be the one you have been waiting for.

The Poulan Pro PR5020 is a model that is built for felling trees, bucking trunks, and splitting firewood. Despite its power, it comes at a pretty reasonable price, a low weight of 13 lbs, and a lower noise level of only 102 dB.

It’s not just the upfront cost that will keep your wallet happy, but also its long-term costs. The Special OxyPower Engine Technology allows you to save money for the long term. Since it creates 70% fewer emissions and 20% lower fuel consumption than other gas chainsaws.

Apart from that, this is not only good for the environment but you too. Because the emissions are lower, the air you breathe in will also be cleaner. The Poulan Pro PR5020 will allow you to breathe more easily and avoid the adverse long-term effects of inhaling all those fumes.

As a plus, the Poulan Pro PR5020 helps to filter air out more efficiently, lessening the time and effort required to clean it!

Design

However, it doesn’t stop there. This Poulan Pro PR5020 includes an Inertia-Activated Chain Brake to keep you safe during use. It has an effortless pull starting system that reduces the pull force you will need to use by as much as 30%.

The Poulan Pro PR5020 also has a purge bulb, which supplies the carburetor with fuel and makes it easier to start with fewer pulls.

To protect this essential part, the Poulan was ideally designed to protect the purge bulb and reduce the risk of its damage.

Note that its Side-Mounted Chain Tensioning System requires a unique tool (known as a scrench) for quick chain adjustments. It will not be challenging to do that because this system is integrated into its rear handle.

The Poulan features an Automatic (Fixed Flow) Oiler to keep your saw well-lubricated. Some may prefer an oiler with an adjustable flow; this depends on your preference.

Finally, it has a user-friendly combination choke/stop control that allows you to start these gas chain saws faster.

This Poulan Pro PR5020 feature will ensure you are given excellent reliability by lowering the risk of engine flooding if any stalling occurs.

Is This the Best Gas Chainsaw for You?

Reviews by users have praised this gas-powered chainsaw for its excellent value.

Despite some of its flaws, the Poulan Pro PR5020 is the best chainsaw for you if you want excellent value for your money. Likewise, if you need a reliable chainsaw without having to step into the professional chainsaw market.

Here’s what you’ll love

Automatic (Fixed Flow) Oiler

70% fewer emissions

20% more fuel efficiency

Effortless pull system

Easy start-up

Purge bulb is protected

Here’s what you might not like

Manual Tensioning System

Prone to flooding

No adjustable flow oiler


#3 – Remington 4216 Gas-Powered Chainsaw

Quick Facts

5-point Anti-vibration technology

QuickStart technology

14-inch bar option with the same exact features

Remington 4216 Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Type: Gas | Bar Length: 16″ | Power: 42 cc | Weight: 22 pounds

Performance

Remington has built a reliable reputation in the power tool industry. It manufactures various electric and gas chainsaws. Actually, the Remington 4216 gas chainsaw is an excellent option if you want a saw that offers superb value for money.

With the Remington 4216, you get a 16-inch bar and chain, which offers a beautiful balance between size and performance. Its size allows you to be more versatile with your chainsaw projects.

The power source is a robust 42 cc engine that can efficiently operate the bar and chain through most trees and tree branches without any trouble. This is all powered by 2-stroke fuel, which you must mix at a ratio of 40:1.

Design

There are several features we love with the Remington 4216.

Primarily, the Quickstart technology helps give you a smooth and fast engine start-up.

If you have ever used a chain saw before, you will know that it requires frequent starts and stops. This feature will make sure you use your time cutting and not wasting it by trying to start a machine in frustration.

Second, the Remington uses a top-of-the-line Automatic (Adjustable Flow) Oiler to give your bar and chain the perfect lubrication at all times (If you do not know what that is for, there is a section below that discusses the different methods of lubricating your chainsaw).

Third, the Remington uses a cushioned wrapped handle and 5-point Anti-Vibration System for reducing the stress and long-term damage that prolonged chainsaw use can cause to its operators.

Moreover, the Remington makes it more comfortable to hold and will be less likely to tire you out.

Ultimately, the Remington has a convenient Tool-Less Chain Tensioner system that is built-in. This will give you the ability to quickly adjust your chain tension before, during, and after use.

While its safety features include a Manual Chain Brake to protect you in case of kickback, which is less likely than with other gas chainsaws. This is because it is equipped with low kickback technology.

Not only that, the included Bucking Spikes let you mount the chainsaw on the trees you will be cutting, which makes it safer and more comfortable to use.

Everything is housed in a lightweight, compact, and durable die-cast chassis that is robust enough to last you for years to come. Usually, its weight is just between 14 and 15 lbs.

All these features are also in Remington’s 14-inch chainsaw, the RM 4214. If you prefer a 14-inch blade length with the same performance and features, it may be more suited for you.

Is This the Best Gas Chainsaw for You?

If you are a suburban lumberjack or casual chainsaw user who needs a versatile bar and chain length, the Remington 4216 is a compelling choice. No other chainsaw at this price point offers both an automatic oiler and a 5-point anti-vibration feature.

Here’s what you’ll love

Warranty for two years

Smooth and fast start-up

Automatic (Adjustable Flow) Oiler

5-point Anti-Vibration system

Tool-less Chain Tensioner System

Manual Chain Brake

Bucking Spikes

Side-mounted tensioner adjustment

Affordable

More versatile

Low kickback

Here’s what you might not like

None!


#4 – Husqvarna 120 Mark II Gas-Powered Chainsaw

Quick Facts

Anti-kickback chain for safety

For casual use

Simple tensioning adjustment

Husqvarna 120 Mark II Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Type: Gas | Bar Length: 14″ | Power: 38.2 cc | Weight: 4.85 pounds

Performance

The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is a small but powerful gas chainsaw.  It’s made to be simple to use because of its smaller blade and engine size.

This small model has a lot to offer with a 14-inch bar and chain length and a fuel power source. It gives decent cutting performance compared to other small gas chainsaws and comes with a two-year warranty.

Moreover, its 14-inch bar length, and powerful 1.8 horsepower 38 cc gas engine, makes it versatile enough for a lot of small chainsaw jobs.

This saw features a combined choke-stop control function that will make it easy to start this saw. Moreover, it minimizes any risk of flooding in the engine, which will guarantee that you can depend on this saw for all your needs.

Gas chainsaw reviews consider this one of the best small gas chainsaw models available in the market.

Design

This saw is extremely light because of its smaller chain size. Its weight is comparable to electric chainsaws.

An automatic fixed flow oiler will deliver perfect chain lubrication every time. This will make sure the Husqvarna 120 Mark II is easier to maintain and use.

You will also be safe and comfortable with this small saw. It includes an anti-kickback chain and a built-in chain brake.

Its X-Torq fuel management system will help you stretch your fuel efficiency and lower gasoline emissions, making this small gas chain saw environmentally and economically worth it. The engine is finely tuned to deliver maximum power for cutting through trees of varying hardness levels.

Its centrifugal air injection cleaning system will remove debris and large dust particles before they even clog your air filter. Its other advantage is that it will extend your engine’s life and reduce the need for filter cleanings and maintenance costs.

Is This the Best Gas Chainsaw for You?

If you are a homeowner or casual chainsaw user who wants one of the most powerful chainsaws available, the Husqvarna 120 Mark II will do well and is ideal for light tasks and occasional trimming and pruning.

Here’s what you’ll love

Efficient fuel consumption

Lower gas emissions

Powerful gas engine

Safety features are excellent

Built-in chain brake

Here’s what you might not like

Sometimes difficult to start

Requires getting used to


#5 – Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw

Quick Facts

Powerful engine output of 3.5 HP

CARB – compliant due to low emissions

Built for heavy-duty work

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Type: Gas | Bar Length: 20″ | Power: 3.50 hp | Weight: 12.8 pounds

Performance

The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a robust choice for doing heavy-duty work.

This gas chainsaw is well-powered, comfortable to start, quieter than others, and has a low vibration. Granted, it doesn’t come with anti-vibration properties, but it still deserves praise for its performance.

Besides, it is also lightweight and well-balanced to lessen fatigue during long days of work. The 455 Rancher only weighs 12.8 lbs or 5.81 kg and makes 104 dB of noise despite its monstrous engine.

In addition, its X-Torq technology is built into the 3.5 HP and 55.5 cc engine to give you a lot of power and torque to operate its 50.8 cm or a 20-inch chain bar without stalling issues. This is the same technology that uses fuel consumption efficiently and lowers its emissions.

The X-Torq technology is the reason why Husqvarna 455 Rancher has been certified as compliant with the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which makes it environmentally-friendly due to its lower emissions.

Design

The power source and all its feature-rich technology are housed in a smooth and balanced design weighing 12.8 pounds only. You will not waste time starting this up because Husqvarna has a full control choke and spring assisted Smart Start technology.

Aside from that, it is less harmful to you to use this during long workdays, as it has LowVib technology and lower noise levels. Anyway, we suggest you wear ear protection and safety gear!

We love the Centrifugal Air Cleaning System, which keeps larger dust and debris out of the air filter. This lessens your work because your chainsaw will last longer despite fewer cleanings.

If all those features are not enough to convince you about the Husqvarna 455, it has more. It even has an Inertia-Activated Chain Brake, Bucking Spikes, and an Automatic (Adjustable Flow) Oiler!

Note that the Husky 450E gas-powered chainsaw has a majority of the same features with a shorter 18-inch bar length. Many prefer the 18-inch, as it is not as heavy. But, we assure you that the 455 is still lightweight!

Is This the Best Gas Chainsaw for You?

If you need a heavy-duty gas chainsaw for the yard or neighborhood, you cannot get any better than Husqvarna 455 Rancher!

This powerful saw can deliver reliable performance without tiring you throughout the day and is pimped out with every imaginable feature!

Here’s what you’ll love

Smart Start technology built-in

Powerful 60cc X-Torq engine

20-inches chain for challenging tasks

Tool-less chain tensioning

Ergonomic handles

Low vibration

Better grip

Bucking Spikes

Automatic (adjustable flow) chain oiler

Inertia chain brake

Chain catch

Low kickback

CARB compliant

Here’s what you might not like

Automatic oiler can be finicky

Overheating if the fuel mixture too rich

More expensive than the 450E Husky


#6 – Remington 4214 Chainsaw

Quick Facts

Warranty for two years

Comes with bucking spikes

Same features as Remington 4216

Remington 4214 Chainsaw
Type: Gas | Bar Length: 14″ | Power: 42 cc | Weight: 14.72 pounds

Performance

The 14-inch bar and chain in the Remington 4214 make it an excellent tool for trimming small to medium-sized limbs and cutting down small trees. Normally, that is the size you will most likely encounter in your neighborhood.

But despite that shorter blade length, the Remington chainsaw is still capable of felling or bucking a large 28-inch trunk if you take two opposite passes with the blade on either side.

Furthermore, it features Remington’s QuickStart Technology to let you continuously work without having to waste time starting your saw. With its Automatic (Adjustable Flow) Oiler, your bar and chain will be well lubricated at all times.

Design

Everything is protected in a lightweight, compact, and durable die-cast chassis robust that makes it enough to last for years to come.

Besides its stellar performance and all these features, the Remington 4214 Chainsaw also has an anti-vibration feature!

With a Manual Chain Brake that protects you from kickback and Bucking Spikes that let you mount the chainsaw on the trees you will be cutting, the Remington has got your back.

Is This the Best Gas Chainsaw for You?

If you typically use your chainsaw in your yard or you are a casual lumberjack, you don’t need to spend on a top-tier commercial-grade gas-powered chainsaw. The Remington 4214 is more than capable for all your yard work and is comfortable with its low vibration technology. Indeed, this is the go-to gas chainsaw for any suburban homeowner.

Here’s what you’ll love

Smooth and fast start-up

5-point Anti-Vibration system

Manual Chain Brake

Bucking Spikes

Side-mounted tensioner adjustment

Compact

Durable

Affordable

Here’s what you might not like

Overheating due to clogged air filter

Heavy for its chain and bar length

Some users report receiving faulty items


#7 – Husqvarna 450E II 18-inch Fully Assembled Gas Chainsaw

Quick Facts

Shorter bars length, but high engine power

Fast and easy to start

Efficient fuel consumption

Husqvarna 450E II 18-inch Fully Assembled Gas Chainsaw
Type: Gas | Bar Length: 18″ | Power: 50.2 cc | Weight: 22.8 pounds

Performance

With its Smart Start technology, you can quickly get this chain saw up and running without wasting time pulling on a starter cord.

This Husky model’s engine’s high horsepower of 3.2 HP also includes its X-Torq technology, which supplies you with plenty of raw energy to power its 50.8 cm or 18-inch blade.

What makes this 18-inch chainsaw environmentally-friendly are its lowered exhaust emissions and efficient fuel consumption. Like the Husqvarna 460, the Husqvarna 450E also features technology to protect its air filter.

Design

The Husqvarna 450E II has a lower weight at just 11.3 lbs or 5.1 kg compared to other gas chainsaws.

Despite its size and power, the 450E saw is pretty lightweight. It is also equipped with LowVibe Technology, which makes it easier and more comfortable to use.

If you regularly do heavy or difficult work, the Husqvarna 450E is a miracle worker.

Its 18-inch bar length is powered by a robust 50.22 cc engine size that you can depend on during operation.

For all-around use, the Husqvarna 450E is a compelling gas chainsaw because it will not needlessly tire you out when you have to use it all day.

Is This the Best Gas Chainsaw for You?

Despite its smaller size and bar length, this Husqvarna 18-inches bar chainsaw is capable of heavy-duty work, even in difficult situations.

If you need a smaller and lighter saw that is still capable of the most difficult of cutting tasks, the Husqvarna 450E gas chainsaw is the Husky model for you.

As a result, its excellent value makes this a captivating choice, as long as you are comfortable with the manual chain tensioning system.

Here’s what you’ll love

Smart Start technology built-in

18-inches blade makes it versatile

50.2cc X-Torq engine

Adequate for difficult situations

Easy access chain tensioning

Ergonomic handles

Low vibration

Better grip

Lightweight saw

Inertia chain brake

Chain catch

Low kickback

Great price value

Here’s what you might not like

Factory chain dulls pretty quickly

Manual chain tensioning can be challenging


Advantages of Using a Gas Chainsaw

If you absolutely want a gas-powered chainsaw, you can skip this section. But if you are still weighing your options, then make sure to read on.

There are three types of chainsaws: gas-powered, corded electric, and battery-powered. To tell you the truth, each class is useful in some instances, and yet, each has advantages and disadvantages. To discuss further, below are the most significant advantages of gas chainsaws:

Raw Power

Gas chainsaws are the most powerful type of chainsaw you can buy. The chain spins faster and is more rigid to cut through the wood at a quicker rate.

Then, they have the most powerful engines available on any saw that gives you immense amounts of horsepower and torque.

For this reason, most professionals prefer gas chainsaws as it offers hours of usage and enough power to cut the biggest trees.

Guide Bar Length

All chainsaws come in all sorts of lengths. Still, gas chainsaws are no exception. This gives you the versatility to match the guide bar and chain to the job at hand. They also offer the longest guide bar lengths among all the chain saw types.

The longest blade you will find on a gas-powered chain saw is 72-inch (or 6 feet)!

Mobility

Unlike corded electric chainsaws, the gas-powered chainsaws allow you to cut wherever and whenever you want. The length of any extension cord does not restrict you. Plus, you aren’t limited by the remaining hours your battery has left.

Gas chainsaws do not have the limitations the other types have. All you need is a tank of fuel, and you are ready to work.

Safety Features

Since gas chainsaws are the most powerful among the three types we mentioned above, the injuries they can cause are also more catastrophic.

Hence, the manufacturers equip gas chainsaws with more advanced and robust safety features to keep you protected.

Some chainsaws include an Inertia-activated Chain Brake to automatically stop the chain from spinning when a kickback occurs (we discuss this in more detail later).

These advanced features are rare in other types of saws because they generally do not require them due to their decreased power.

More Choices

Gas chainsaws are the first type ever to be made, but they are still one of today’s most popular choices. Due to this, there are more options for gas chainsaws to choose from.

You can find a gas model for every user and every need. You won’t have to give up on any feature you like; there is a gas chainsaw suited for you.

In contrast, there are limited brands that manufacture electric and battery chainsaws, so your range of options is much more limited.

What to Consider When Buying Your Gas Chainsaw

Guide Bar or Blade Length

This is the most critical feature you need to think about when buying gas chainsaws.

The guide bar or “blade” is where the chain is connected to. It is powered by the engine to spin around and cut the wood.

To learn the right bar length for you, you need to determine the largest diameter of wood you will be cutting. Then, add about 2-inch to that length. In this case, it is useful to overestimate.

For example, if the largest diameter of branches you encounter is about 12-inch, then a 14-inch bar may be the best for you.

Keep in mind that a chainsaw with a longer bar will require more power from its engine to operate.

In short, the longer the bar length, the harder it is to control the chainsaw and the greater the risk of injuring yourself.

This is because the chainsaw becomes unbalanced or front-heavy. As the chainsaw will feel heavier the longer you hold and use it, fatigue becomes a significant factor. To illustrate, a 14-inch bar chainsaw is easier to control than a 24-inch bar.

For gas chainsaws, guide bars typically range between 12 to 71-inch. For the casual user or homeowner, a size between 12 to a 20-inch bar is the best. Anything above the 20-inch bar is already considered as a “professional-grade” chainsaw.

We compiled below some of the most common gas chainsaw lengths and the tasks they are most suited for:

  • 12 to 14-inch bar – pruning and trimming branches
  • 16 to 18-inch bar – cutting firewood and felling small trees
  • 20 to 24-inch bar – felling large trees and cutting thicker logs

Chain Tensioning System

All chainsaws need to be appropriately tensioned to keep the engine, bar, and chain operating at the optimum level.

Remember, the more you use your gas-powered chainsaw, the more frequently you need to check your saw for proper chain tension.

This is mostly true for new chainsaws, which have new chains that have yet to be broken in. New chains tend to stretch, so you will have to tighten them at first continually.

Here are the two types of systems for tensioning:

  • Scrench/Tooled Chain Tensioning – You will need a wrench to loosen the nuts on the chain bar and a screwdriver to tighten the tension. Saws with this feature generally come with a scrench for this, which is the name for the combination tool that has a wrench on one side and a screwdriver on the other. While it is more troublesome, it is not overly challenging to do.
  • Tool-less Chain Tensioning – These chainsaws let you tension your chain without needing other tools. Generally, you use a knob on the saw to adjust the tension. On top-tier models, these systems work well. If you buy one of the cheaper models, stay away from this feature as they can be finicky.

Oiler Type

All chainsaw models require you to lubricate the guide bar and chain. This oiling process keeps those components from getting overheated and damaged due to the high amount of friction they undergo.

This is mostly true regardless of the engine power you are using.

The method by which you oil the bar and chain will vary depending on the chainsaw you choose.

There are three oiling methods, and no one way is better than the other. It comes down to, one, personal preference, and two, the style that works best for you.

Personally, the one we love is the last option that will be discussed below.

The Automatic Oiler (Adjustable Flow) offers the best of the two other methods. It gives you a steady flow of oil to the bar and chain, which allows you to increase or decrease the amount of oil being used based on the task at hand.

  • Manual Oiler – You use a button to oil the bar and chain. You control when the oiling happens and how much oil will be used for lubrication.
  • Automatic Oiler (Fixed Flow) – This is a self-oiling system that gives a constant flow of lubrication to the chainsaw components. Nonetheless, you cannot increase or decrease this flow.
  • Automatic Oiler (Adjustable Flow) – Offering the benefits of both methods, this method is a self-oiling system that also allows you to adjust the amount of lubrication depending on your need.

Chain Brake

No matter how skilled or experienced all the chainsaw users, they might unexpectedly experience kickback from time to time. In reality, this is the most common cause of chainsaw injuries.

With kickback, the chain stops suddenly and undergoes a sudden rotational thrust.

As a result, all that power and force, which was previously being applied to cutting the wood, is redirected and reversed back into the chain bar. This forces the blade out of the wood and towards you, the operator.

Normally, it happens when the tip of the chain catches on a hard object or when the chain gets pinched between wood while cutting.

The chain brake is a safety feature that stops the chain from spinning when kickback occurs.

They can either be manual or automatic, which is activated by inertia. We recommend prioritizing this feature, even if it costs extra.

  • Manual Chain Brake – The chain stops spinning when there is physical contact with a wide bar that is located in front of the top handlebar. This wide bar typically hits your wrist to trigger the chain brake.
  • Automatic/inertia-Activated Chain Brake – The chain stops spinning whenever a sudden upward force on the bar is encountered. It operates using an internal mechanism and does not require physical contact to trigger the chain brake.

Either of these types is safe and effective for stopping a gas chainsaw. Yet, an automatic chain brake is more advanced between the two. Note that this increases the price of a chainsaw, but we think it is worth it.

Bucking Spikes

More likely than not, if you are looking at getting a gas chainsaw, you will be doing some serious cutting jobs. For that, bucking spikes are one feature to watch out for.

Bucking Spikes are sharp metal spikes that are connected to the chainsaw’s body and located at the base of the blade. To use it, you dig it into a tree trunk or log to support the machine while you cut.

This is a useful feature that makes it easier for you to take down thick trees, perform straighter cuts, and add extra protection against kickback. It allows the tree itself to support all that weight and power.

Chain Stoppers

Chain stoppers, also known as chain catchers, are metal or plastic guards designed to intercept a derailed or broken chain.

In that event, the chain should just hit the chain stopper instead of your hand. Make sure to follow this procedure, as these are mandatory on every chainsaw.

How to Safely Operate Your Gas Chainsaw

The Verdict

Winner

Husqvarna 20-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw (2)

Husqvarna 20-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the best gas chainsaw on this list. It has the most power in its engine and is a beast to use.

Despite that, this Husqvarna gas chainsaw is comfortable and safe to use for long periods. Its chain tension system is tool-less, and it has special features unique to Huskys.

This is the one to beat among all the chainsaws available on the market. If you want the most powerful engine, there is no other choice but the Husqvarna 460 Rancher.

Runner-Up

Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas-Powered Chainsaw (2)

Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas-Powered Chainsaw

The Poulan Pro PR5020 arguably gives you the most value among all the chainsaws here. Commonly, it was built to have measurably fewer emissions, lower fuel consumption, and reduced vibrations.

Rest assured, you can cut all the trees in your way with its powerful engine. This is one chainsaw you should consider if you want the most bang for your buck.


Final Words

When looking for the perfect gas chainsaw for you, you will realize that there is no overall best answer. The choice is personal and subjective, depending on your needs and personal preferences.

All in all, this guide has collected some of the top chainsaws available today. Each of these deserves your time and consideration because we are confident the right one for you is here.


Why You Can Count on Backyard Mike's Reviews

At Backyard Mike, we take pride in providing honest and unbiased reviews of the best chainsaws, log splitters, and pole saws for your specific needs. Our team of experts thoroughly researches and tests each product before recommending it to you. In addition, we take feedback from users of the product into consideration when writing our reviews. We believe in transparency and always disclose any potential biases or conflicts of interest. You can trust our reviews to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next outdoor power tool.


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Mike
Hi, I'm Mike - but my friends call me Backyard Mike. I'm the founder of this website, and I'm addicted to outdoor power tools. I love to work with wood and share my knowledge here on this website with you. You can find more about me here.