How to choose a chainsaw

A chainsaw is a great tool. for working with wood. It allows you to solve various problems. But first you need to choose the right model. To do this, several criteria must be taken into account.

What characteristics to look for when choosing a chainsaw

When choosing a tool, there are a number of parameters to consider. This will allow you to select the appropriate model for certain conditions and increase the efficiency of its use.

Scope of application

The number of tasks that a chainsaw can handle is quite large. It is used for collecting firewood, felling wood, trimming branches, sawing building materials, etc.

The weight of the tool is significant and exceeds that of chain saws, both corded and cordless. But at the same time, it allows you to perform more complex work and lasts longer.

The equipment is portable. There is no connection to a stationary power source. This expands the scope of application.

Class

This factor determines how long the tool can work without interruption, as well as its power. The following classes are distinguished:

1. Amateur. Lowest power, not exceeding 2 hp. The engine life is no more than 400 hours. Suitable for light work on a summer cottage.
2. Farmer's. These are semi-professional models with a power of no more than 3.4 hp.Resource up to 800 hours. They have more endurance than the previous class, but are not suitable for daily use.
3. Professional. The most powerful tool, the service life of which exceeds 2500 hours. Continuous operation can reach 10 hours. Used on construction sites.

There is also a one-handed type. It is compact and lightweight. It has low power, 1.4 hp. Suitable for pruning small branches and curly sawing.

Tire length

This parameter affects how thick the wood can be cut at one time. It all depends on the type of work to be done.

For trimming branches and cutting down thin trees, a tire up to 35 cm long is suitable. If felling work is planned, then this parameter should be up to 60 cm. This will make the process easier. The length of the bar does not match the width of the element that needs to be cut.

Chain pitch

This indicates the distance between adjacent chain teeth. The performance of the equipment depends on this. For minimal work in the country, a chain pitch of 0.375 is suitable. If you need to prepare firewood, then choose a parameter of 0.325. In construction, professional types are used with a value of 0.404.

Weight

The lighter the tool, the more convenient it is to work with. Weight is affected by engine size and unit power, so if a high-performance model is required, it will be quite heavy. Professional devices can weigh up to 9 kg. For household purposes, equipment is produced whose weight is about 5 kg.

Gas tank

Amateur and semi-professional types can work no more than 4 hours a day, so their engine capacity is small. A large amount of fuel is not required. Gas tanks do not exceed 0.5 liters in volume.

Professional types work more and are highly productive. They are equipped with gas tanks with a volume of more than 0.5 liters, so as not to constantly interrupt for refueling.

Useful features

In addition to the main characteristics, there are additional features. Among them:

1. Chain brake. This will prevent injury in the event of a kickback. When the chain jams, the hand moves straight, by inertia. She will simply bump into the protective shield and the equipment will stop.
2. Primer. Allows you to make starting easier if you have to work with a cold tool.
3. Anti-vibration system. It allows you to reduce the load on your hands. This is especially true for professional models, which are already quite heavy.

We pay attention to the manufacturer and determine the price

When choosing a tool, you need to focus on its cost and manufacturer. The price is influenced by many factors, including engine features, model class, etc. Simple household types will cost approximately 6–10 thousand rubles. The cost of farmer's can reach up to 20 thousand rubles. The most expensive are professional chainsaws. Their price can be 40 thousand rubles.

The manufacturer is also important. Each of them strives to make their products more convenient and functional. Thus, Partner models have the ability to automatically lubricate the chain. ECHO products have a muffler to reduce noise levels and remove exhaust gases. Stihl tools are equipped with a special engine that reduces fuel consumption and emissions.

The presence of additional features and improved parts affects the cost.