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The Best Gas Chainsaws For Trees, Firewood, and Yardwork
Despite Advances in Battery Models, Sometimes There's No Replacement For A Trusty Gas Chainsaw.
Expert consulted: Bradley FordTest EditorFor raw tree-cutting power, you can’t beat a gas chainsaw. Battery-powered chainsaws have come a long way, making it easier to clear branches and handle light landscaping without much maintenance, but you need the additional torque of a gas saw for felling trees and breaking down firewood. Plus, these tools can still handle the small stuff–landscaping and trimming branches.
Whether you need a lightweight 12-inch top-handle model for pruning limbs and cutting down the occasional small tree, or a roaring 20-inch chainsaw for managing a wooded property, this guide will get you outfitted with the right gas chainsaw for your needs.
From Forest to Firewood: Best Pruning Saws ● Best Pole Saws ● Best Wood Stoves
The Best Gas Chainsaws
- Best Overall: Husqvarna 130 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw
- Best Value: Troy-Bilt TB4216 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw
- Best for Cutting Firewood: Stihl MS 250 18-Inch Gas Chainsaw
- Best for Large Properties: Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss 18-Inch Gas Chainsaw
- Best Heavy-Duty: Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
- Best For Yardwork: Echo CS-310 14-inch Gas Chainsaw
- Best Lightweight: Echo X-Series CS-2511T 12-Inch Gas Chainsaw
- Best Pole Chainsaw: DeWalt DXGP210 10-Inch Gas Pole Saw
The Expert: I’m a freelance writer who has written about landscaping, home improvement, gardening, and home security for publications like Bob Vila, U.S. News and World Report, Popular Science, Pro Tool Reviews, and Futurism. I’ve used my chainsaws at home to clean up after ice storms, prune branches, and even take down the occasional tree.
What to Look for in a Gas Chainsaw
Gas vs Electric
Before you get your heart set on buying a gas chainsaw, it’s worth taking a moment to figure out whether you actually need one. While it’s the most powerful option, a cordless electric chainsaw can handle trimming branches and general pruning without any of the maintenance that gas chainsaws demand. They’re also better for the environment, since they don’t burn fuel.
You’ll need the power and long runtime of a gas chainsaw if you plan to cut up large trees or logs into firewood or need to bring down large trees.
I’d also stress that you should only buy a gas chainsaw if you plan to use it somewhat regularly. You need to run the small gas engines in these chainsaws at least once a month to prevent the gas in the tank from going stale, and keep the engine seals from drying out. Also do keep in mind that most chainsaws have 2-cycle engines, which require mixed fuel. This is easy enough to do, as you can mix 2-cycle oil int your own fuel container or buy pre-mixed from most tool stores.
Cutting Bar length
The length of your chainsaw’s cutting bar determines its cutting capacity, or the maximum diameter of wood it can cut. As a rule of thumb, your chainsaw should be able to cut through any tree or branch with a diameter two inches smaller than the chainsaw’s cutting bar in a single pass. For example, a 16-inch chainsaw should be able to chew through any tree or log that’s about 14 inches or thinner. When you encounter a thicker piece of wood, you may still be able to take it down by cutting from both sides, using a technique called double cutting. Even then, though, the length of the chainsaw sets its cutting limits.
Most chainsaws you’ll find in a hardware store have bars that are 12- to 24-inches long. A short, 14-inch model will work well for cleaning up broken tree limbs and yard work. If you’re planning to cut firewood or full-grown trees, go for something in the 16- to 20-inch range.
Handle Style
Chainsaws typically have their primary handle and trigger housing on either the top or rear of the powerhead. Top-handle chainsaws are typically smaller and lighter, which makes them ideal for cutting a tree while perched on a ladder or in a cherry picker. Rear-handle chainsaws–which, for the record, also have a secondary top handle most of the time–are typically larger and made for bigger cutting jobs.
Weight
You do not want to use a chainsaw that you’ll have trouble holding steady, so weight matters. Most chainsaws can weigh anywhere from about 5 pounds for a top-handle model, to around 10- to 13-pounds for rear handle models, depending on the bar length and engine size. While weight corresponds to power, the most important thing is that you pick a chainsaw that you can hold steady for an extended period of time.
Engine Power
One of the biggest benefits of using a gas chainsaw is that you usually get a more powerful engine, which gives you more torque and cutting power. The larger your task, the more important it is that you prioritize engine power, measured in cubic centimeters (cc).
That said, bigger isn’t always better. While you might be tempted to go for the most powerful engine you can afford, keep in mind that larger engines are also heavier and consume more fuel. Instead, choose a chainsaw that can effectively get your usual jobs done, but isn’t a struggle to handle.
Safety First
Chainsaws have exposed blades that can measure well over a foot long, making them one of the most dangerous yard tools you can operate. To minimize the risk of cuts, they come equipped with safety features designed to decrease the risk that the blade comes into contact with you.
One of the most basic safety features on a chainsaw is a trigger lock, which requires you to depress a lock button and squeeze a trigger to start the chain. This design prevents the chainsaw from running should you lose your grip on it.
They also have a brake at the top, which engages a steel band to halt the rotation of the chain if you experience kickback while you’re cutting. Cheaper chainsaws have chain brakes that only engage when the guard is pushed or pulled forward by the hand or wrist. High-end chainsaws have a safer inertia chain brake, which will engage the brake with any sudden movement.
Keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to wear safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including safety glasses, chainsaw chaps, and heavy gloves, as well as hearing protection.
How We Selected The Best Gas Chainsaws
To select the best gas chainsaws, I leveraged my personal testing and experience with various models. I also consulted with the Popular Mechanics test team, which has tested every power tool under the sun, including chainsaws. Lastly, I read dozens of customer reviews from online retailers to see what customers have loved and hated.
Pros
- Easy start design
- Inertia activated chain brake
Cons
- Somewhat bulky
Husqvarna makes great gas chainsaws at every bar length and engine size you might want. I chose to highlight the 130, because its 16-inch bar powered by a 38cc engine creates a Goldilocks’ “just right” balance of size and power that will work for most homeowners. At about 10 pounds, it’s maneuverable enough for precision pruning, but boasts enough power and capacity to prune limbs and bring down small trees.
It also comes with features that homeowner’s will appreciate. A built-in fuel pump and choke controls make it easy to start, and built-in dampeners soften vibrations once it’s up and running. .
There’s also an inertia-activated chain brake that halts the chain if it senses kickback, reducing the risk of injury. If you aren’t sure what you need, this is a safe place to start.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 16 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Rear |
| Engine | 38 cc 2 HP |
| Weight | 10.4 lb |
Pros
- Large 42cc engine
- Vibration dampening technology
Cons
- Tough to start
Troy-Bilt isn’t known for its chainsaws, but it makes plenty of lawn machines that give you great bang for the buck. What the 16-inch TB4216 lacks in pedigree, it makes up with raw power. Its 42cc engine makes it one of the more powerful 16-inch chainsaws you can find. And while that large engine makes it a bit heavy for its size, it’s the perfect chainsaw for chopping down small trees or hacking up logs for firewood.
While it lacks the build quality of pricier brands, it has some nice additional features, like metal bucking spikes that make it easy to cut through thick logs. On the safety side, an inertia-activated chain break helps prevent injury from kickback, and an anti-vibration system keeps your arms from wearing out. Best of all, it costs significantly less than the other 16-inch chainsaws we love.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 16 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Rear |
| Engine | 42cc |
| Weight | 12.2 lb |
Pros
- Large cutting capacity
- Powerful engine
- Lightweight
Cons
- Can be difficult to start
If you’re cutting up a lot of firewood, then you’re going to need a chainsaw that’s up to the task. Stihl’s MS 250 comes equipped with an 18-inch cutting bar and powerful 45.4cc engine, which makes it capable of cutting wood up to 16 inches in a single pass or up to 34 inches if you’re double cutting. That makes it ideal for hacking up larger fallen trees into firewood, trimming branches, or even taking down a mature tree.
The MS 250 gets extra points for its intuitive controls. The choke, starting throttle, and on-off switch are all controlled via a single master control lever, making it easier to use. Most homeowners don’t need this much chainsaw, but it’s a great option if you have older, thicker trees around and a shorter chainsaw won’t get it done.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 18 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Rear |
| Engine | 45.4cc |
| Weight | 11 lb |
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Fuel-efficient
- Low-maintenance
Cons
- Heavy
I love the raw power you get with this 18-inch chainsaw’s large 50.2cc engine. That long cutting bar and rip-roaring engine make it perfect for pros who need to work fast and cover a lot of ground every day.
Stihl also claims to have substantially improved its fuel efficiency and reduced its environmental footprint relative to its predecessor, the MS 270. Lastly, it features a pre-separation air filtration system, which reduces the amount of dirt that ends up in the air filter, cutting down on cleaning time.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 18 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Rear |
| Engine | 50.2cc |
| Weight | 12.3 lb |
Pros
- Large cutting capacity
- Powerful engine
- Easy to start
Cons
- Heavy
To break down large trees that can measure a foot or more in diameter, you’re going to want a longer chainsaw. This beast from Husqvarna has a 20-inch cutting bar, giving you the capacity to cut through fallen trees up to 18 inches in diameter without double cutting. And with its 56cc engine, you can make quick work of even denser hardwoods. It also has a strong set of safety features, including an inertia-activated chain brake to minimize the risk of injury from kickback.
Frankly, the 455 rancher is longer and more powerful than the average homeowner needs. I’d only recommend it for serious arborists and tree cutters who already have some experience operating gas chainsaws.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 20 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Rear |
| Engine | 55.5cc |
| Weight | 13.2 lb |
Pros
- Easy to start
- Vibration reduction
- Powerful engine
Cons
- Short bar limits cutting capacity
Echo’s 14-inch C3-310 chainsaw is a compact, affordable option for trimming trees, clearing deadfall, and other light cutting. It’s easier to wield than the longer chainsaws we recommend, but it still packs a punch. It also has a bevy of features homeowners will appreciate, including an easy-to-use starter and a vibration reduction system that keeps your hands and arms from getting numb while you work.
Keep in mind that the relatively small 14-inch bar means this saw is best suited to cutting branches and light clearing work rather than bringing down large trees everyday.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 14 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Rear |
| Engine | 30.5cc |
| Weight | 10.3 lb |
Echo X-Series CS-2511T 12-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- High power-to-weight ratio
- Pro-grade build quality
Cons
- Limited cutting capacity
Echo claims this is the “lightest gas chainsaw in North America.” I’m not prepared to confirm that claim, but it’s fair to say that it is exceptionally easy to handle. It’s just over 5 pounds, or less than half the weight of the average gas chainsaw.
Echo designed this ultralight top-handle chainsaw for pro arborists to trim trees while dangling from ladders or lifts. It’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces and you shouldn’t get tired after using it for longer, more precise jobs. It’s a bit pricey, but worth the price of entry for its top-notch performance and that distinctive lightweight design.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 12 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Top |
| Engine | 25cc |
| Weight | 5.2 lb |
Pros
- Long reach
- Automatic oiler
- TrimmerPlus-compatible
Cons
- Heavy for a pole saw
DeWalt may be better known for power tools than for gas-powered yard machines, but this pole saw is no slouch thanks to its long reach and a powerful 27cc engine. It can extend to cut high branches up to 12 feet, thanks to a detachable 7-foot extension pole. It has an automatic oiler, too, so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to lube the chain.
The DXGP210 can serve as the foundation for a wider set of lengthy lawn tools. It’s compatible with the TrimmerPlus attachment system, so you swap out the saw for other lawn care tools, including a brush cutter and hedge trimmer.
DeWalt manages to keep the price of this pole saw well below what you’d pay for one from a brand known specifically for chainsaws. It’s a hidden gem if you’re a homeowner with out-of-reach branches to prune.
Key Specs
| Cutting bar length | 10 in. |
|---|---|
| Handle | Pole |
| Engine | 27cc |
| Weight | 12.3 lb |
Q+A with Yard Machine Expert Tony Carrick
How do I take care of a gas chainsaw?
If you want a chainsaw that starts smoothly and rarely stalls, then you need to take the time to properly maintain it.
Chainsaws need good air flow to keep the engine running smoothly, so check and clean the air filter before each use. Clean and lube the chain and check and adjust the chain tension before each use. Never leave old fuel sitting in the fuel tank. Add fuel stabilizer or drain the tank after you’ve finished cutting if you expect to leave the chainsaw sitting idle for more than a couple of months.
What should the chain tension be on a chainsaw?
It’s important to check the tension of the chain on your saw regularly. If it’s too tight, the chain will bind as you attempt to cut with it. If it’s too loose, the chain will come off the cutting bar. Ideally, the chain should fit snugly around the bar, but still have enough slack that you can pull the chain away from it.
To check your chain’s tension, perform a snap test. Pull a couple of links away from the chain and let go. When you release them, they should snap into position.
Do I have to mix gas for a chainsaw?
In most cases, yes, you will need to mix unleaded fuel with oil to put in your chainsaw. Gas chainsaws have two-stroke engines, which means they do not have a separate reservoir for oil like you’d find on a lawn mower or a car.
Check your chainsaw’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to fuel up your chainsaw, including the correct fuel-to-oil ratio. Do not attempt to run your chainsaws on straight unleaded fuel as it will ruin the engine.
Tony Carrick is a full-time freelance writer who specializes in technology, home improvement, DIY, home security, and outdoor recreation. He’s tested and written about everything from home security systems to power tools to gas grills. His product guides, how-to articles, and feature stories can be found in such publications as Bob Vila, Angi, U.S. News and World Report, Field & Stream, Futurism, and Switchful. When Tony isn’t writing, he can be found working on his latest home improvement effort at his home in North Carolina.
Brad Ford has spent most of his life using tools to fix, build, or make things. Growing up he worked on a farm, where he learned to weld, repair, and paint equipment. From the farm he went to work at a classic car dealer, repairing and servicing Rolls Royces, Bentleys, and Jaguars. Today, when he's not testing tools or writing for Popular Mechanics, he's busy keeping up with the projects at his old farmhouse in eastern Pennsylvania.
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