There are a number of factors that go into selecting a quality chainsaw for general use.

For most, the price is the key factor, In fact, you wouldn’t be reading about the best chainsaw under $400 unless you fell into this category.

The truth is though that you also need to be thinking about how exactly you plan to use the chainsaw. Some other considerations include:

• The length of the bar – what diameter timber will you be cutting?
• Electric or gasoline powered – How noisy do you want it to be?
• How powerful is it? – Need to make sure you will have enough power to get through what you need to
• Top handle or rear handle – will you be up a tree using this – needing a hand free?
• Reputation of the brand – will you have to take it back to the shop for repair often?

The Best Chainsaw under $400: Husqvarna 970515528 445 18″ Gas Chainsaw

The versatility of this chainsaw is one of its main features. The 18-inch length ensures that you can do all that and more if you want to use it for tree pruning, cleaning up your yard, or cutting the firewood. Besides that, the side-mounted tensioning system ensures that if you want to adjust it, there is no need to pause your work for a long time.

An easy-to-access adjustment mechanism ensures that you can resume your work quickly after adjusting it.

Apart from this, the chainsaw offers quite a few features which set it apart.

Features:

• The effortless starting mechanism ensures that you can start cutting wood in an instant. You need not worry about pulling the cord or waiting for it to start for a long time.

• Of course, the chainsaw is highly durable. Along with durability, you can maneuver it quite easily as well. It allows you to cut the wood precisely. The ergonomic design coupled with 28 HP engine ensures that even if you want to use this chainsaw for long hours, there will be no problem.

• The chainsaw is designed to provide you with excellent cutting power with minimum fuel consumption.

• The chainsaw consists of an automatic oiling mechanism. The advantage of this mechanism is that, the chain will always remain lubricated, and therefore the efficiency of this chainsaw will not reduce.

• The chainsaw also offers you an anti-vibration mechanism. That way, you won’t have to worry about losing grip on the chainsaw because of excessive vibration. The low vibration mechanism will also make it easy to cut any wood.

• It incorporates an air injection mechanism. The job of this centrifugal mechanism is to remove the debris and dust with natural gear. That way, the filter won’t get clogged, and the engine also won’t suffer from extensive wear and tear. This increases the engine life significantly.

What sets this chainsaw apart from its competitors?

The various features that make this chainsaw easy to use, like its ergonomic design, anti-vibration mechanism, and quick tension adjustment, certainly make it better than many other chainsaws.

Pros:

• Extremely durable
• Highly versatile
• Easy tension adjustment
• Anti-vibration design
• Automatic oiling mechanism
• Ergonomic grip
• Sturdy engine

Cons:

• The plastic casing outside can be thicker.

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Makita XCU04PT LXT Chain Saw

This chainsaw’s brushless motor design is why it is on our list. While to the ordinary consumer, the fact that it is brushless might not matter much, but that certainly increases its reliability and the need for maintenance. That is why; you can use this chainsaw for a long time.

Features:

• The chainsaw offers you a variable speed trigger. Thus, you can choose fom three different speed levels according to your requirement. Switching the speed levels is easy as well.r

• In case you want to adjust the chain, you can do so without using any tools. The chain comes with an inbuilt lock-off design which prevents chain from self-engaging. That is why this chainsaw is so convenient to use.

• With various safety features like an automatic shutdown mechanism after a specific time, an on/off switch, and a built-in LED indicator, it is exceptionally safe to know the status of the chainsaw and to use it accordingly.

• The extremely high efficiency of this chainsaw due to variable speed trigger ensures that the battery can last for a comparatively long time. Because of the same, you need not worry about charging it again and again. That will help you save a lot of time.

What sets this product apart from its competitors?

This chainsaw’s low maintenance and highly reliable design are one of the reasons it is on our list.

Pros:

Extremely efficient design

Offers various safety mechanisms

Easy to vary the speed

Tool-less chain adjustment

Cons:

The chain needs tensioning more frequently.

3 Husqvarna 440 18 Inch Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a gas-powered chainsaw, this one is an excellent option. The reason is because of the air cleaning system which it has. Due to the same, it can remove the particulate pollutants before they reach the filter.

This certainly reduces the blocking of the air filter, and therefore you will not have to clean the air filter frequently. It certainly reduces a lot of the maintenance work. It offers numerous other features as well.

Features:

• The design of this chainsaw is such that despite being gas operated, it lowers fuel consumption. It does so with the help of an efficient X-Torq system. That reduces not only fuel consumption but also emissions. Because of the same, it becomes easier to do your bit for the environment.

• The power of 2.4 hp delivers at a speed of 9000 RPM. Because of the same, you can deal with any type of wood quite easily. Add to that the side-mounted chain tensioning mechanism, and it is easy to understand why you can easily control this chainsaw without getitng fatigued.

• Even though the amount of maintenance that this chainsaw need is pretty limited, you will still have to pull out the air filter to clean it. The advantage here is that the air filter has a quick release mechanism. That is why the procedure is not cumbersome when you want to access the air filter. With the help of an ergonomic handle, you can do that easily.

• To easily control the chainsaw, you get the option to stop it and control the choke. There are easier controls for the same. Consequently, controlling the chainsaw isn’t going to be a problem. The ergonomic handle further makes it easy to use this chainsaw.

What sets this product apart from its competitors?

The combination of high power and low fuel consumption, and lower emissions certainly makes this chainsaw an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Extremely efficient chainsaw
• Provides a high amount of power
• Low maintenance
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Some customers have mentioned that the packaging isn’t great.

4 Husqvarna 14 Inch 120i Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw:

Many times, it makes sense to buy a compact chainsaw. If your requirement is the same, this one with 14 inches is certainly a good choice. The battery-operated cordless design is also why it is so convenient. The compact design also makes it lightweight. Because of the same, using this chainsaw is certainly pretty easy.

Features:

• There is a unique keypad on offer in this chainsaw. In this, you will be able to choose whether you want maximum power on offer or whether you want maximum runtime. This is possible because of the save mode on offer. That way, you can decide the type of operation on which this chainsaw runs.

• To ensure that the chainsaw is completely safe to operate, it also has a chain brake. You can easily activate that chain break if you sense something is not going right. Apart from that, there is automatic chain oil. That way, the chain will remain lubricated, and therefore the chainsaw will operate at proper efficiency always.

• The low noise design ensures that you will not disturb anyone, even working in a residential neighborhood. That way, you can work anytime without having to plan the cutting sessions because of neighbors’ disturbances.

• A brushless motor has a significant advantage when going with the chainsaw. This one offers a brushless motor as well. Because of the same, it becomes easy for you to reduce the maintenance and use the chainsaw consistently without any breakdowns.

What sets this product apart from its competitors?

The excellent control mechanism, along with the low-maintenance design, makes this chainsaw a great choice.

Pros:

Extremely reliable

Compact design

Easy to operate

Offers various safety mechanisms

Cons:

Limited instructions

5 Sun Joe ION16CS 16-Inch Cordless Chain Saw

The next chainsaw on our list is once again a compact chainsaw. It is suitable for cutting logs up to 14.6 inches. The 600 W brushless motor ensures that you get enough power while cutting these logs.

Features:

• The quick charging mechanism of the rechargeable lithium-ion battery in this chainsaw ensures that you won’t have to wait a long time to charge it. Also, since it is an electric-operated chainsaw, you won’t have to worry about carbon emissions.

• The toolless chain adjustment mechanism ensures that you can do that easily if you want to modify its performance.

• The brushless motor once again reduces the need for any maintenance. That is why, even if you’re using this chainsaw daily, you will not have to worry about any breakdowns.

• The ergonomic handle design ensures you get an excellent grip and control over the chainsaw no matter what type of wood you are dealing with.

What sets this product apart from its competitors?

The compact size, the ergonomic handle on offer, and the brushless motor make it one of the best chainsaw under 400.

Pros:

Compact but ergonomic design

Low maintenance design

Tool-less chain adjustment

Quick charging mechanism on offer

Cons:

Battery capacity can be higher.

#5 Sun Joe ION16CS 16-Inch Cordless Chain Saw

The next chainsaw on our list is once again a compact chainsaw. It is suitable for cutting logs up to 14.6 inches. The 600 W brushless motor ensures that you get enough power while cutting these logs.

Features:

• The quick charging mechanism of the rechargeable lithium-ion battery in this chainsaw ensures that you won’t have to wait a long time to charge it. Also, since it is an electric-operated chainsaw, you won’t have to worry about carbon emissions.

• The toolless chain adjustment mechanism ensures that you can do that easily if you want to modify its performance.

• The brushless motor once again reduces the need for any maintenance. That is why, even if you’re using this chainsaw daily, you will not have to worry about any breakdowns.

• The ergonomic handle design ensures you get an excellent grip and control over the chainsaw no matter what type of wood you are dealing with.

What sets this product apart from its competitors?

The compact size, the ergonomic handle on offer, and the brushless motor make it one of the best chainsaw under 400.

Pros:

Compact but ergonomic design

Low maintenance design

Tool-less chain adjustment

Quick charging mechanism on offer

Cons:

Battery capacity can be higher.

#6 Echo Chain Saw

The powerful engine of this chainsaw is the reason why it is on our list. It offers you a 40.2 CC engine. Because of the same, the chainsaw can handle logs up to 18 inches. That is because of the 18” bar which it comes with.

Features:

• You get the chainsaw completely assembled. That is why there is no assembling needed.

• The gasoline-powered engine can offer you 5.3 hp. That is why it is suitable for cutting logs.

• The easy start mechanism ensures you do not have to worry about using the pull cord. With a button press, you can store the chainsaw.

• If you want to remove the air filter, it is certainly easy to remove. Because of the same, you can remove it easily, clean it, and put it back again. In terms of maintenance, the chain is equally easy to adjust. The point we are trying to make is that the maintenance doesn’t require much of your time.

What sets this product apart from its competitors?

The powerful gasoline engine and easy maintenance certainly make this chainsaw a good choice.

Pros:

• Easy to maintain
• Powerful gasoline engine
• Quick start mechanism
• Comes assembled

Cons:

• The grip can be better designed.

Whether you’re a carpenter, a DIY freak, or a wood enthusiast, you must know the struggle of handling a cheap and poor-quality chainsaw against thick wooden planks.

Without any doubt, the best tool for cutting huge wooden logs is a Stihl chainsaw.

A Stihl chainsaw might not seem practical at first, but take our word, this kid will take you a long way down the road.

You will need to adjust the oil flow from time to time to keep up with its maintenance. To do this you might ask, where is the oil adjustment on Stihl chainsaw?

If so… Read on..

Like every industrial machine, the Stihl chainsaw also has some technical aspects, though, they are not hard to figure out and manage.

Take the oil adjustment, for example!

We will teach you not just how to locate but also how to adjust the oil on a Stihl chainsaw.

Where is the Oil Adjustment on Stihl Chainsaw Located?

It is located on the sides of the motor housing or the undersides of the Stihl chainsaw.

050 Increase the chain oil flow on Stihl's professional chainsaws

Lubrication is necessary for every machinery, be it small-scale or industrial.

If you don’t oil your Stihl chainsaw regularly (whether in use or not), there are chances that it gets rusted and becomes useless.

To keep the expensive chainsaw in working condition, oil it regularly in the right amount on a weekly or monthly basis. Use the perfect amount of oil, neither too less nor too much.

So, where to regulate this oil flow? Use the oil adjustment.

The oil adjustment is a hole with an adjustment screw fixed inside it with the letter ‘E’ on it that stands for Ematic.

You have to first hold the machine in place and then turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise to turn the oil adjustment on. Turning up the oil adjustment increases the oil flow.

Similarly, you can turn down the oil flow by adjusting the screw clockwise direction. Don’t forget to start the throttle after using your loyal screwdriver to adjust the screw in place.

How do you adjust bar oil flow on Stihl Chainsaws?

You must have got the idea of how to set the oil adjustment by looking at the manual, but if you’re as dumb as we are, then high-five because we created this guide for your convenience. In this section, we will brief you in simple steps on how to adjust the oil flow on a Stihl chainsaw.

So let’s dive into your lesson:

1. Start the chainsaw and adjust it to half throttle.
2. Lubricate the running chainsaw bar with your spray oil over a light-colored surface.
3. Shut off the Stihl chainsaw until the chain stops running and cools down a bit.
4. Check the tank for the bar oil level (if no oil is dripping off the bar).
5. If the tank is not full, fill it using an oil formulated especially for lubricating chainsaw bars.
6. Set the chainsaw in an upside-down position.
7. Set it down on a covered surface if you have filled the tank and oil-sprayed.
8. Turn the oil adjustment screw to the right side to increase the oil flow.
9. If you want to decrease the oil flow, turn the screw to the left side.
10. Start the chainsaw again, and voila! Your Stihl chainsaw is properly lubricated.

Anatomy of Stihl Chainsaws:

Still confused regarding the parts of the complex machinery, let us give you a preview of the body parts of a Stihl chainsaw. Now, there’s some difference between a regular chainsaw and a Stihl chainsaw, and you may find it confusing at first but read this guide twice to get an idea.

The Cutting Chain:

If you have used the regular chainsaw, this part will not be new to you. The cutter is a long blade with sharpened teeth used to cut through huge wooden logs. The cutting chain comes in a variety of diameters to cut through different sizes or thicknesses of the wood.

The Bar:

The bar is the area where the cutting chain is attached. It measures from the tip of the cutting chain to the motor house of the machine. The length of the bar also varies according to the wood size and type; however, smaller bars are easier to handle and are safe as well.

The Clutch:

The clutch is a component that allows your engine to run freely at low speed without moving the chain physically. The clutch operates automatically as soon as the engine starts running at a certain speed. The clutch is found only in a petrol-powered chainsaw, and it should be maintained regularly. You can even replace the clutch from time to time so that your Stihl chainsaw is in good health.

The Flywheel:

A chainsaw cannot function properly without an efficient flywheel. Flywheel in Stihl or any chainsaws switches on the momentum to get the chain started and running. Without the flywheel, your motor won’t work, and for that, you will have to take care of the flywheel from being bent, broken, or jammed.

The Throttle:

There is an adjustable plate across the carburetor tube of the chainsaw; this tube is called the throttle. It controls how much air can flow through the tube and prevents the chain from being driven if the trigger is accidentally pushed.

In Summary

Dealing with a chainsaw, specifically a Stihl chainsaw, comes with a ton of risks.

Even if you’re oiling it, you have to be all eyes and mind while working with one, so don’t forget to read the manual thoroughly before getting into action.

You can speed up the reading process by watching Youtube manuals on using the Stihl chainsaw or reading articles on the web.

Lastly, always wear protective safety clothing like eye protection, head protection, hard hats, and cut-resistant boots. The mentioned accessories usually come with the Stihl chainsaws and are mandatory to use during industrial projects, so care for your safety first.

And have a good time with your new tool!

Carburetor adjustment is the process of setting a carburetor to enrich or lean the air/fuel ratio.

Carburetors can be adjusted through the use of an idler screw and needle, located on top of the carburetor.

This allows a user to change the position of the jet inside and affect air/fuel mixture. This can be done manually or through the use of electronic controls, such as the Stihl HT1000.

This article will go over how to adjust a carburetor on a Stihl chainsaw, as well as what not to do.

Requirements:

• Stihl 820 mower or another chainsaw with a carburetor that has an idle adjustment feature.
• Stihl HT1000 (or other carburetor RPM signal sender) reports the carburetor RPM.
• A manual throttle stop control (stops the engine from running).

Tools:

• Dremel with cutting disk(s) or multi-tool.
• Phillips screwdriver.
• Socket set or specialized stihl carburetor adjustment tool to remove/install idler screws (hardware store).

Before you get into the list below, watch this video:

CORRECT WAY To Adjust Or Tune The Carburetor On A Chainsaw (Step-by-Step)

Method 1: How to Adjust a Carburetor on a Stihl Chainsaw

1. Remove the throttle plate to expose the idler screw. Use two fingers, on one hand, to press down on the throttle plate and remove it, exposing the screw.
2. Press down on the Stihl chainsaw carburetor adjustment screws until it starts to move, allowing griping with one hand. Turn it counterclockwise until you hear a click.
3. Raise the idler screw into its final position by moving it slightly upward and pressing down again.
4. Remove the adapter from the carburetor housing and set it aside for re-installation later.

Method 2: Stihl Chainsaw Idle Adjustment

1. The second method is for carburetors without an idle adjustment feature. The first thing you need to do is remove the throttle plate and air filter housing.
2. Remove the two screws holding the throttle plate in place, and then remove it by pulling it out of the carburetor housing.
3. Remove the air filter housing containing the idle jet screw by unscrewing it from the carburetor body with a Phillips head screwdriver, using one hand to hold down on it and one hand to turn clockwise. Now, unscrew the idle jet screw completely.
4. Remove the idle adjustment adapter from the carb body. Next, use a pair of pliers to loosen and remove the spring from the central shaft.
5. Remove the idle adjustment screw by unscrewing it counterclockwise until it is fully removed. Remove the washer on top of it and set them aside for re-installation later.
6. Remove the idler screw and reinstall everything into their respective places.
7. Replace the idle adjustment adapter, and then install the idle adjustment screw. Make sure it is in the same place it was originally (or run a test drive to make sure).
8. Replace the air filter housing, and throttle plate, and then reinsert both screws from before. Tighten them in a clockwise direction until they are fully tightened (which may take some force).

You can now test your chainsaw with the new settings. Make sure to keep the throttle plate in the fully open position for testing. The goal is to get the RPMs at or near the setting that the HT1000 requires.

If this is not happening, you can try adjusting further lean or richer if necessary. However, do not adjust more than a few clicks at a time, and do not hold down on the idler screw while turning it. The carburetor can be damaged if this is done.

Method 3:

If you do not have a carburetor RPM signal sender or the carburetor’s idle adjustment monitor is somehow damaged or missing, you can use a throttle stop control. The stop control prevents the engine from running if it is in the process of taking apart. Using this method requires a few extra steps.

1. First, disconnect and remove the throttle cable from the throttle plate. Then disconnect and remove the air filter housing from the carburetor body.
2. Next, you want to take out the throttle stop control and put that somewhere safe.
3. Now it’s time to remove the idle adjustment adapter from the carburetor. You can do this by removing one screw first, then unscrew the two other screws at the end of the adapter. When you are finished, carefully remove it and set it aside.
4. Now, reconnect and install everything into their respective places. Re-install both screws holding on the air filter housing and throttle plate if they were previously removed. Tighten these in a clockwise direction until they are fully tightened (which may take some force).

You can now test your chainsaw with the new settings. Make sure to keep the throttle plate in the fully open position for testing. The goal is to get the RPMs at or near the setting that the HT1000 requires.

If this is not happening, you can try adjusting further lean or richer if necessary. However, do not adjust more than a few clicks at a time, and do not hold down on the idle screw while turning it. The carburetor can be damaged if this is done.

Method 4:

If you have another type of throttle control setup, you can still use a throttle stop control to perform the adjustments.

1. First, disconnect and remove the throttle cable from the throttle plate. Then disconnect and remove the air filter housing from the carburetor body.
2. Next, you want to take out the throttle stop control and put that somewhere safe.
3. Now it’s time to remove the idle adjustment adapter from the carburetor. You can do this by removing one screw first, then unscrew the two other screws at the end of the adapter. When you are finished, carefully remove it and set it aside.
4. Now, reconnect and install everything into their respective places. Re-install both screws holding on the air filter housing and throttle plate if they were previously removed. Tighten these in a clockwise direction until they are fully tightened (which may take some force).

You can now test your chainsaw with the new settings. Make sure to keep the throttle plate in the fully open position for testing. The goal is to get the RPMs at or near the setting that the HT1000 requires.

Summary

Now that you have successfully installed the HT1000, are you ready to start using your chainsaw with an easier, more precise throttle response? Just remember to keep the throttle at 25% or less after the blades stop turning on idle.

This is important to prevent over-revving and damaging the engine. Also, be sure to keep the throttle plate in your chainsaw fully open if you want it at a higher RPM.

A chain saw chain is made up of two pieces that are connected by pins or rivets. The pins are what the cutting edge (or teeth of the saw) run between.

The best chainsaw chain is made from high-standard steel. The cutting part of the chain is made from heat-treated alloy steel.

The following is a guide on who makes the best chainsaw chain;

Oregon S62

This is one of the best chainsaw chains you can get in the market.

You can buy it from almost any hardware store. It is strong and well made to give you long service after proper installation. It can be used on several other applications like mowers and woodcutters because it is well made.

Their chainsaw chain is made of high-grade alloy steel so that it can deliver consistent cutting performance despite the teeth being dulled. It has an epoxy coating on it for rust resistance. This is a universal toolchain for any purpose and is available at very affordable prices.

SUNGATOR 16-Inch

The SUNGATOR 16-inch chain is often used by chainsaw operators and hobbyists.

It is a very good product to take care of the cutting performance of your saw. It is made from very high-quality materials so that it can deliver superior cutting performance.

It has a lessened chance of seizing up and can keep offering the same cutting power for years if you use it properly.

Husqvarna DX52

This chainsaw chain is one of the best-made chainsaw chains in India. It is specially designed to fit the Husqvarna chainsaw and does not fit any other brands. It is designed for professional use but you can also use it for your purpose. It is a very good product to use on your saw and will serve you for a long time. The chain pitch size is 50×12 and this means that the saw will cut through a huge amount of wood.

AR-Pro Chainsaw

This is one of the original equipment manufacturers’ chainsaw chains. It is very good for professional use and is used by many industries to cut through many more logs. The chain length is 16″ and the pitch size is 3/8″.

This means that the cutting performance will be very good and therefore it will be a good investment. For a quality product that can give you very good cutting performance, this is a great buy.

Outdoor Stihl Chainsaw

This is a very good chainsaw chain that is widely used by all chainsaw users. It is a very efficient product and can cut through many logs for many years if you are careful about it.

The chain pitch size is 16″ which means that the saw will give you very good cutting performance. For an efficient product, this is one of the best chainsaw chains you can use and the price of this product is also affordable compared to other high-quality products.

Forester Saw Chain

This chain is quite affordable and a very good quality chain for use with your saw. It is strong and can cut through logs of all sizes.

The chain pitch size is 16″ which means that it will give you very good cutting performance. You can also buy this product from hardware stores and you will have no problems finding a store where you can get the product easily.

It will provide the best value for money.

Yionloe chainsaw Chain

This is a very good product that is used to cut through about any kind of tree. It is a very good quality chain for professional purposes and will fit your saw.

It is a chain link which means that it can be worn out over time. It can cut through any kind of tree and can be used on any saw.

Factors to consider when buying the best chainsaw chain

The price of the chainsaw chain

The price of the chainsaw chain determines the type of quality product you will get. If you have a large budget for your saw, you can choose an expensive brand so that you will get a very good product. There are also affordable chainsaw chains that will give you very good quality. It is crucial to know the type of saw you have and how often you use it before you go buy the best chainsaw chain.

Chain Length

You need to know the chain length of your saw before you can buy the best chainsaw chain. A chainsaw chain is designed to fit a particular brand and if it does not fit, you will have a problem cutting wood.

If you do not get the right size, it will not cut through wood properly and will be more prone to wear out very fast.

A chainsaw chain is available in a variety of lengths ranging from 16″ to 24″ but the 16″ size is the most common and therefore this is what you should buy.

Chain Pitch

The chain pitch of a chainsaw chain determines its performance and the amount of wood that it can cut in a very short time.

The higher the pitch, the more teeth it has, and therefore it must be strong for you to use it. A chainsaw chain with a large pitch does not perform very well but will cut through many trees if used for industrial purposes.

You must know what kind of tree you are cutting before you can buy the best chainsaw chain because there are very different types of wood.

Chain Gauge

The chain gauge of the best chainsaw chain determines the amount of power that it can provide for you. The higher the number, the more power it has. You need to look for a high-quality product with a large chain gauge as this will give you very good service and it will depend on how often you use your saw.

Safety

You need to keep your chain safe by properly and securely installing it.

This is very important since you will be spending a lot of money on the chainsaw chain. It only comes one time so you need to make sure that you are using it for the right purpose.

Keep your chain safely in place and properly lubricated too.

A chainsaw chain is a very important tool and you need to be sure that you get the best one. There are many factors to consider so ensure that you take note of them before you can buy the best chainsaw chain. The type of saw you have and how often you use it will determine the type of saw chain so look for one that fits your needs. If you want the chainsaw to give you long service, a quality product is essential for this.

As a homeowner, you’re most likely not going to be logging up to 8-hours a day and need a chainsaw that can do it all.

I’m not saying it wouldn’t be fun to try though!

So what is the best Stihl chainsaw for a homeowner like yourself?

The key is to think about the size of the logs you’re planning on cutting. What is the breadth of a standard log? What type of wood is it? Is it generally soft or hard woods you plan on cutting?

… Lots to think about…

Stihl Farm Boss MS 271

The MS 271 is an all-purpose saw that was built for people who are looking for a chainsaw that does it all. If you’re looking to buy a chainsaw this size, the MS 271 is your best bet. It can cut up to 36 feet per minute and the cutting depth will vary from 1/4″ for saplings, to 2″ for trees down to about 1/4″. It will offer a 0-3.5 HP starting engine that is capable of running on either gas or electric and the chain speed is 6,000 RPM.

This saw can be used in tight spaces and has a quick attach chain system that makes it easy to make adjustments on the fly without having to work too hard. It has a lightweight body that weighs under 18 lbs. and measures 54″ in length with the bar measuring 28-1/2″. The high-performance bar is 20″ long and is made from a lightweight magnesium alloy.

Stihl MS 170

Stihl MS 170 is a performance chainsaw that will offer you the greatest cutting power on the market. It has an entry-level engine that offers up to 6,000 RPM sprocket speed of 4,000 RPM in 3/8″ mode and up to 7,000 RPM in 1/4″ mode. It comes with a 1.7 HP engine that offers plenty of power for the homeowner to handle smaller jobs around the house.

This chainsaw weighs about 12 lbs, making it easy to handle and operate in tight spaces. The smaller design helps to reduce fatigue, leaving your arms feeling fresh longer so you can get the job done in half the time. It is not equipped with a vibration system, but it measures 26″ and has a low-kickback bar made from Stihl’s own proprietary alloy.

Stihl MS 362 CM

The MS 362 CM chainsaw is a powerhouse saw that will have you smiling each time you use it. It has an entry-level engine that offers up to 6,000 RPM sprocket speed and 3,600 RPM in 1/4″ mode. It’s a performance saw that uses a patented sprocket system to smooth out all of the vibrations that are generated between the engine and the chain during operation. This helps to reduce operator fatigue and makes it easier for you to maintain control over your saw when cutting.

It is equipped with a 1.8 HP engine that runs off of unleaded regular gasoline and has an easy start system. The low-kickback bar is 19″ long and weighs 3.2 lbs. It offers the user tree-cutting capability down to 1/4″ in diameter and 16″ in length, making it perfect for the homeowner who needs to cut brush, stumps and other smaller projects around their house, but doesn’t want to pay for an over-sized chainsaw that weighs over 30 lbs.

Stihl MSE 250 C-Q

This electric-powered chainsaw is perfect for both professionals and homeowners. It offers a 0.3 HP engine that runs up to 5,700 RPM and has a chain speed of 4,000 RPM. The electric motor is powered by a 7.2 V lithium-ion battery that offers up to 80 minutes of run time on the low setting, or enough juice for about an hour of work when the bar is running at maximum speed.

The MSE 250 C-Q is compact and lightweight, weighing just over 12 lbs. It comes with a low kickback bar that measures 16″ and has a speed range of up to 6,000 RPM. The saw is safe to run on electricity because the motor is enclosed in a spark-resistant casing called an ‘Optimed Safety System.

Stihl MSA 140 C-BQ

The MSA 140 C-BQ chainsaw is not one of the most expensive saws on the market, but it has been built with high-performance features that you won’t find in many other saws on the market. It uses a 0.5 HP engine that offers up to 4,000 RPM sprocket speed and 3,600 RPM in 1/4″ mode. The chain speed is also low with 4,000 RPM sprocket setting and 6,500 RPM in 1/4″ mode. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery that is capable of running for up to 65 minutes between charges.

The MSA 140 C-BQ is easy to start, runs smoothly and feels comfortable in the hand, reducing operator fatigue even after long hours of use. It weighs in at just over 11 lbs and has an 18″ low kickback bar.

Stihl MS 391

This saw is perfect for the homeowner who needs to cut firewood but doesn’t have the time to do it on a regular basis. It is equipped with a 0.5 HP engine that runs up to 4,000 RPM sprocket speed in 3/8″ mode and up to 5,500 RPM in 1/4″ mode; offering both a powerful engine and light-weight design. It has a low kickback bar that measures 16″ long and weighs 3 lbs. It has a tool-less chain tensioner that will help you keep track of your chain when it needs to be adjusted.

This saw has a comfortable handle that makes it easy to use and gives the user plenty of control over the saw for hours on end. It is designed for people who may need to do yard work but don’t have time to block off too much of their personal time for using a more expensive chainsaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

So What is the Best Stihl Chainsaw for a Homeowner?

Stihl chainsaws are some of the best on the market for a variety of reasons. They have been around for a long time, allowing them to develop an expert reputation that ensures that their saws offer the cutting power you need to get the job done in no time.

They come equipped with all the features you need, from an easy-to-adjust chain tensioning system to one of the most powerful engines on the market. Take your pick from the list above and you can’t go wrong.

Chainsaws are generally considered to be pretty robust.

However, with consistent use, every chainsaw will become blunted somewhat. This can lead to your chainsaw using a significant amount of extra fuel, along with unnecessary wear and tear to your chainsaw.

If you’ve never been shown, knowing how to sharpen a chainsaw isn’t all that obvious.

The trick to a good sharp chain is to make sure you sharpen it at the right angle.

But what is the best angle to sharpen a chainsaw?

This article will explain the things you need to consider to sharpen your chainsaw most effectively, depending on the model you own.

So, What is the best angle to sharpen a chainsaw?

While the exact angle might vary depending on the chainsaw you use, it is generally between 25 to 30 degrees for the top plate filing angle.

Each type of chain can be slightly different in its recommended sharpening angle. So for this reason, I have included a chart for some of the major chainsaw manufacturers below. However, you should find details of what is the best angle to sharpen a chainsaw in the manual that came with your chainsaw, or as a set of instructions included when you purchased the chain.

There are 4 key angles you need to think about when sharpening your chain, they are:

• Top plate filing angle
• Side plate cutting angle
• File down angle
• Depth gauge setting

If this seems a little overwhelming, I would highly recommend grabbing one of these kits to achieve the right angle just by following the etched guidelines in the tool:

If you’d like to see a Stihl chainsaw sharpening angle chart just click this link.

Husqvarna chainsaw chain sharpening angles

CHAIN	FILE DIAMETER	DEPTH GAUGE SETTING	FILE DOWN ANGLE	TOP PLATE FILING ANGLE	SIDE PLATE CUTTING ANGLE
X-CUT C83/C85/S83G	7/32″ 5,5 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	0°	30°	60°
X-CUT SP33G	3/16″ 4,8 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	0°	30°	60°
X-CUT S93G	5/32″ 4,0 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	0°	30°	60°
X-CUT SP21G	5/32″ 4,0 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	0°	30°	60°
H00	5/32″ 4,0 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	10°	30°	85°
H21, H23, H26	3/16″ 4,8 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	10°	25°	60°
H22, H25, H28	3/16″ 4,8 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	10°	30°	80°
H30	3/16″ 4,8 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	10°	30°	80°
H35, H37	5/32″ 4,0 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	0°	30°	80°
H38	4,5 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	0°	30°	75°
H46, H42, H45, H47, H48, H50, H47S, H48S	7/32″ 5,5 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	10°	25°	55°
H49, H51, H54, H58	7/32″ 5,5 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	0°	35°	85°
H56, H57, H56S, H57S	7/32″ 5,5 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	10°	25°	60°
H64, H64S	7/32″ 5,5 mm	0,030″ 0,75 mm	10°	35°	85°
H80, H81	7/32″ 5,5 mm	0,025″ 0,65 mm	10°	25°	60°
H82, H83	FLAT	0,025″ 0,65 mm	–	15°	90°

Oregon Chainsaw Sharpening Angle Chart

		FILE DIAMETER	DEPTH GAUGE SETTING	FILE DOWN ANGLE	TOP PLATE FILING ANGLE	SIDE PLATE CUTTING ANGLE
1/4″	25AP	5/32″	.025″	10º	30º	85º
.325″ Low Profile	80TXL	5/32″	.025″	10º	25º	70º
3/8″ Low Profile	90PX, 90SG	4.5mm	.025″	0º	30º	75º
	91P, 91PX, 91PXL	5/32″	.025″	0º	30º	80º
	91VXL, M91VXL	5/32″	.025″	0º	30º	80º
.325″	95VPX	3/16″	.025″	10º	30º	70º
	20, 21, 22BPX, M20, M21, M22BPX	3/16″	.025″	10º	30º	70º
	95TXL	3/16″	.025″	10º	30º	70º
	20, 21, 22LPX, LGX, M20, M21, M22LPX	3/16″	.025″	10º	25º	60º
3/8″	72, 73, 75V	7/32″	.025″	10º	25º	60º
	72, 75CJ, CK, CL	*	.025″	45º	45º	90º
	72APX, 72, 73, 75DPX, M72, M73, M75DPX	7/32″	.025″	10º	30º	80º
	72, 73, 75EXL, EXJ, LGX, JGX, LPX, JPX	7/32″	.025″	10º	25º	60º
	M72, M73, M75LPX	7/32″	.025″	10º	25º	60º
	72, 72, 75RD	7/32″	.025″	10º	10º	75º
.404″	27X, 27AX	7/32″	.030″	10º	30º	65º
	27R, RX, RA	7/32″	.030″	10º	10º	75º
	58CJ, CL, 59CJ, C, CL		.025″	45º	45º	85º
	58, 59J, L	7/32″	.025″	10º	25º	60º
	68LX, JX	7/32″	.030″	10º	25º	60º
	68CJ, CL	*	.030″	45º	45º	—

Now that you are aware of the angle you need to stick to, it is time to understand when you should sharpen the chainsaw?

When should you sharpen a chainsaw?

There are numerous indications that your chainsaw has become blunt. We will highlight these indications below to know when you need to sharpen the chainsaw.

Excessive dust residue:

You have to observe the pieces of wood which you are cutting. In case there is excessive dust residue coming along with the wood you are cutting, it is a clear-cut indication that the chainsaw teeth are losing their sharpness. The more you procrastinate on sharpening the teeth, the more dust will accompany your cutting wood.

Higher engine pressure:

After noticing the dust, you do not sharpen the chainsaw teeth; the pressure on the engine will increase. If your chainsaw has an indicator for the same, you will notice that easily. If it has different levels of force, you will need to switch to a higher level to cut the tree barks, which you use to cut earlier at the lower level.

If you cannot verify the same through both these features, you have to just hear the engine’s sound. The engine’s sound will be changed when it is under excessive pressure. That will let you know that the chainsaw teeth are losing their sharpness.

Bounces:

When the chainsaw teeth can’t cut through wood, the chainsaw is likely to bounce back.

This is, however, a pretty dangerous situation. If you can’t control the chainsaw in that phase, you might get injured as well. To avoid this, you have to sharpen the teeth of the chainsaw right away when you notice any of the above two problems.

Irregular cuts:

The chainsaw, which doesn’t have sharp teeth, will not be able to provide you with a precise cut. When you observe the pieces of wood which you are cutting, you will know right away when they are cut.

Any of these signs indicate that the chainsaw might be losing sharpness.

Now it is time to look at the benefits of a sharpened chainsaw so that you will know right away why you need to sharpen at the moment you witness any of these signs.

When should you replace the chainsaw chain?

You will know that it is time to replace your chainsaw chain when the longest portion of the cutting tooth is less than 4 millimeters or if you find cracks or chips in the teeth.

Accessories to Help Sharpen Your Chainsaw Chain:

Benefits of a sharpened chainsaw:

The benefits of a sharpened chainsaw include:

1. Proper balance:

When the chainsaw has sharp teeth, it will not bounce back. In that case, the balance will be much better as well. You will be able to inflict precise cuts as well.

2. Low cutting time:

The amount of time you will require to cut through the branches or barks will be pretty low. This will ensure that you can cut more food at the same time.

3. Irregular cuts:

One of the main problems with the blunt chainsaw is that you won’t get regular cars. On the flip side, when the chainsaw is sharpened, you won’t have to worry about irregular cuts.

4. Reduced engine noise:

While chainsaws make a significant amount of noise, it increases, even more, when the chainsaw is blunt. Once you sharpen it, the engine noise will decrease. That is why it will become easier to use the chainsaw for a long time with the help of earmuffs.

These benefits make sharpening the chainsaw a necessity rather than a luxury.

In Summary

So, the best angle to sharpen a chainsaw is usually between 25 to 30 degrees. Now that you are aware of the same, you have to look out for the signs of a blunt chainsaw and opt for resharpening it whenever you notice any of those signs.

Husqvarna vs Echo Chainsaws – Which is the Better Choice?

The Husqvarna is a popular choice for many people wanting to buy a chainsaw.

The main reason for this is brand recognition as they have been around for over 125 years, with their first-ever chainsaw being manufactured in 1903. Husqvarna is one of the most trusted brands in the industry when it comes to chainsaws – making them a great choice, regardless of experience with chainsaws.

Echo Chainsaws are also very popular.

They are often used by professionals but are also available in different sizes for different needs and budgets. Echo has been in the industry for over 40 years and there is no sign of them slowing down their production any time soon.

They make great chainsaws as well, but are they better than Husqvarna?

Generally speaking, Husqvarna is known to produce higher-end products – in comparison with Echo, and therefore carry a higher price point because of this.

Some people may find this out of their budget range, but you can get some great deals on Husqvarna for home use too!

Lets make some comparisons – Husqvarna vs Echo Chainsaws

Below are the two chainsaws we will be comparing in this article. They have been chosen as they are the most similar in terms of engine size and saw design.

Echo CS400

The Echo CS400 is light enough to use all day long, yet solid enough to handle any workload you can throw at it.

When you’re using this saw in the winter, or when temperatures are below 5 degrees there is a is plug in the housing you can shift to deal with the cold.

And as the day warms up, move the plug back and keep going.

• The CS400 has a large capacity point .41 Litre fuel tank.
• Has a .28 Litre bar and chain oil tank
• No tool required – easy access – to the spark plug and air filter
• Front spiked bumper
• Throttle lock-out on top of the handle
• Easy to access on off switch
• Large capacity primer
• Anti-vibration handle.
• Adjusting the chain is pretty straightforward. There are two nuts to loosen then turn one screw to make the adjustment – easy!

Husqvarna 435

The Husqvarna 435 chainsaw is another great option – this competition is a tough one!

With a 40.9cc engine and weighing 4.4kg. This allows for fast and efficient cutting of branches and trees.

The 435 has an adjustable chain tensioning system that makes it easier to maintain the chain. It also has a low kickback bar that reduces the risk of injury

Power output 2.2 hp Power output 1.6 kW

• Smart Start® – The engine and starter have been designed so the machine starts quickly with minimum effort. Resistance in the starter cord is reduced by up to 40%.
• Weight (excl. cutting equipment) 4.4 kg Lubricant Oil tank volume 0.25 l
• Recommended bar length, min-max 13-18 in Bar length (inch) 16 in Chain type SP33G

Here are some of the tech specs spoken about on the Husqvarna website.

• Power output 1.6 kW
• Cylinder displacement 40.9 cm³
• Maximum power speed 9000 rpm Idling speed 2900 rpm
• Clutch engagement speed (±120) 4300 rpm
• Fuel consumption 652 g/kWh
• Electrode gap 0.5 mm
• Ignition module air gap 0.3 mm
• Oil pump type Fixed flow Exhaust emissions (CO2 EU V) 813 g/kWh

There’s two simple features that I really appreciate about this model:

1. Simple replacement and cleaning of the air filter – can be removed very simply and replaced.
2. To make your felling super accurate they have put a ‘felling line’ on the body of this model meaning you won’t be off at all.

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Our Thoughts

So there you have it, that is the specs for the Husqvarna vs Echo showdown. If you’re still finding it confusing making a decision solely based on the specs of the two saws, I think the key thing to weigh up is whether you want to invest in a very well known brand in Husqvarna, or rather what we believe to be a ‘younger’ yet very sturdy competitor.

I have been in your shoes.

My decision was to go with the Echo model. It has been great, and servicing has been very simple. I would highly recommend it, however I think you would be satisfied with either of these two options.