First things first; you are here because you’re scouting for a chainsaw, right? If so, you have come to the right place! Everything is sorted out for you and you’ll have an easier time selecting a chainsaw that fits your needs. Here, we look at the basics of purchasing a chainsaw in a bid to help get value for your money.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Chain Saw
Before you head to your favorite online store to look for a chainsaw, it is important that you answer a couple of questions. Here’s what should be going through your mind.
What Will You Be Using the Chain Saw For?
How often will you be using the chainsaw? If you will be using the saw a couple of times during the years, say only during winter, the best electric chainsaw will take care of your needs. However, if you’re a lumberjack with lots of wood cutting to do, a gas chainsaw would be the best option.
Is This Your First Time to Use a Chain Saw?
If you don’t have prior knowledge on how to use chainsaws, be sure to choose a small unit that’s easy to handle. If you’re a beginner, a saw with a guide bar of 18 inches will suit you well. Nonetheless, if you’re a seasoned user who’s looking to replace an old model, a chainsaw with a 20 inches bar would be more appropriate.
What Kind of Environment Will You Be Using the Chain Saw?
If you reside in an area where there are bylaws to regulate the level of noise, you’re better off with an electric chainsaw. It is also the saw to choose if you can’t tolerate high levels of noise or if you intend to use the chainsaw indoors. Ideally, an electric chain saw is relatively quiet in comparison to a gas chainsaw.
Where Will You Be Cutting?
If you are using the chainsaw out in the fields where you’ll require freedom of mobility, choose a gas chainsaw. It is worth noting that despite the convenience, electric chainsaws come with a cord that reduces the freedom of movement.
Features to Look for in a Chain Saw
Now that you’ve answered the most critical questions, what features should the best chainsaw have? Below is a checklist of some of the most important features to look for in an electric chainsaw.
Anti- Vibration Features – These make the chainsaw more comfortable to use. They also reduce fatigue, which can come in handy especially if you have lots of wood to cut.
Spring- Assist Starting – This is a must have feature in a gas powered chain saw. The spring reduces the pulling force required to start the machine.
Automatic Oiler – This lubricates the chain as you cut through wood. Note that lubrication of the chain is paramount for efficient and safe cutting. If the oiler is automatic, it means that you don’t have to remember to activate it.
Chain Brake – The brake stops the chain when there’s unexpected movement of the saw. High-end models allow you to activate the chain brake manually.
Low Kick Back Bars – For reducing the risk of the chainsaw forcing back and up unexpectedly when cutting.
Tool-Less Chain Adjustment – Allows you to regulate the cutting chain tension fast and easy.
The Air Cleaning Feature – This works by getting rid of debris material before it gets to the filter. The air cleaner helps extend the life of your machine.
Other things to keep in mind include;
- Ergonomics – How comfortable does the chain saw feel in your hands? Is the handle balanced?
- How heavy is the chainsaw? Note that you can work longer if the machine is light
- Is the chainsaw easy to maintain?
The Bottom Line
The best chainsaw should offer nothing short of reliability. It should, at the very least guarantee years of use. It is, therefore, important that you choose a chain saw that will not only be in line with your needs but also with superior engineering. After all, you’ll want a chainsaw that’s built to last and with an exceptional performance. With the above tidbits, you can never go wrong.