You are about to start learning about chainsaws. This tool is very strong and can make many outdoor jobs much simpler. But picking the right chainsaw is a big choice. It is important to know that getting the correct size and type of chainsaw makes you safer. It also helps you work better. For instance, this is true if you trim branches in your yard. It is also true if you cut down a big tree.
When you ask, "What size chainsaw do I need?" or "How big of a chainsaw do I need?", you are posing a key question that will guide you toward choosing the best tool for your work. This guide will help you consider all your options. Ultimately, it will ensure you make wise choices. This choice will match your specific cutting needs and your level of experience with chainsaw operation.
1. Understanding the Chainsaw
Before you can find the best chainsaw for your needs, it helps to understand these strong tools. Understanding chainsaw size, types, and how weight impacts movement will give you the knowledge. This knowledge will help you make an informed decision when selecting a chainsaw that meets your requirements.
Chainsaw Size
The size of a chainsaw mostly depends on its guide bar length. This is the metal part that the chain goes around. This length tells you how much the saw can cut.
Small Chainsaws 6-10 inches:
These small chainsaws are perfect for light jobs. You will find them good for cutting small branches. They also clear the brush. You can use them to cut small logs for starting fires. Their light design makes them easy to hold. Specifically, this is true if you work above your head or in small areas. If you wonder, "What size chainsaw do I need for minor garden work?", a small chainsaw is probably your answer.
Medium Chainsaws 10-16 inches:
This group has the most useful choices for many homeowners. A medium-sized chainsaw is great for cutting firewood. It also cuts limbs from fallen trees. It handles general yard work. You can cut logs that are twice the bar's length. This is if you cut from both sides.This size provides a good balance of power and ease of movement for many jobs.
Large Chainsaws 16 inches and above
For tasks like cutting down trees with diameters exceeding 18-20 inches or chopping large logs, a chainsaw with a bar length of 20 inches or more is typically required. These saws are powerful. They are made for heavy work. For example, if you ask, "How big of a tree can a 20-inch chainsaw cut?” You can expect a 20-inch chainsaw to cut trees with trunks up to approximately 30-32 inches wide. You do this by cutting from both sides. These bigger models often have stronger engines. Therefore, they push the longer bar and chain through thick wood.
Types of Chainsaws
Chainsaws come in different types. Each type has its good points and bad points. Your choice will depend on the power source. It also depends on how easy it is to carry. Finally, it depends on the kind of work you plan to do.
Gas Chainsaws
These are the strongest types of chainsaws. Experts like them. People who need to do tough jobs, such as cutting down big trees or a lot of firewood, also like them. Gas chainsaws give great power and freedom to move. This is because they do not need an electric plug. However, they are usually heavier and louder. Moreover, you must mix fuel for them. They also require regular maintenance, including changing spark plugs and cleaning air filters.
Corded Electric Chainsaws
If you have an electric plug nearby and your work area is close to power, a corded electric chainsaw can be a good choice for users with access to a power source, but the requirement for an extension cord may limit mobility and range.
They are lighter and quieter. They need less care than gas models. You will find it easy to start. Usually, this is with just a button push. Their main problem is needing an extension cord. This limits how far you can go. It can also be a danger to trip over.
Cordless Chainsaws
Cordless chainsaws offer the best of both convenience types. They are quieter and lighter than gas models. Additionally, they are easy to carry. They do not need an extension cord. Cordless Chainsaw is now equipped with improved battery power, allowing them to handle various jobs, from light cutting tasks to medium-sized logs effectively.
This includes light cutting to chopping medium-sized logs. The main things to consider are battery life and charging time. These can limit how long you can work without stopping.
Manual Chainsaws
An engine does not run these, but manual chainsaws are good for very small jobs or as a spare. They are often called hand chainsaws or pocket chainsaws. They are a chain with handles on each end, designed for portability and ease of use, making them suitable for light tasks or emergencies. This requires moving it back and forth to cut. You might use one for trimming very small branches. You could also use a manual chainsaw in survival situations. In such cases, being easy to carry and not needing fuel are very important.
Weight and Maneuverability of Chainsaw
The weight of a chainsaw directly changes how you control it. It also affects how fast you get tired. A heavier chainsaw, while often stronger, can be harder to move. This is especially true if you use it for a long time. It is also true if you work in hard positions.
When you pick a chainsaw, you need to balance power with weight. For light cutting or occasional use, a lighter electric or small gas chainsaw will be much more comfortable. It will also be safer for you to use. If you are doing heavy jobs like cutting down large trees, you will likely need a stronger, and thus heavier, gas chainsaw. In such cases, you should make sure you have the body strength and energy to use the tool safely. Think about how long you will use the chainsaw. Furthermore, think about the types of cuts you will make. A chainsaw that feels balanced, even a heavier one, can feel easier to handle than a lighter one that is not balanced.
2. What Size Chainsaw Do I Need?
Finding the right chainsaw size is very important for your safety. It is also important for how well you work. Your experience plays a big part in this choice.
Chainsaws for Beginners
If you are new to using chainsaws, safety and being easy to use should be your main goals. As a beginner, it is recommended to start with a chainsaw that has a guide bar length of 10 to 12 inches, as these are generally easier to handle and control.
Recommended Size
For new users, a chainsaw with a guide bar between 10 and 12 inches is usually best, as it provides adequate power for common home jobs without being too intimidating.
Recommended Type
Corded electric or battery-powered chainsaws are great choices for new users. They are lighter and quieter. They start easily. They also need less care than gas models. This lets you focus on learning how to cut correctly and stay safe. To clarify, you will not have to deal with the more complex aspects of running an engine. When you ask, "What size chainsaw do I need for occasional home use?", a 12-inch electric model is often a good place to begin.
Chainsaws for Experienced Users
If you have some experience using chainsaws and feel good with their power and how to hold them, you can look at bigger and stronger choices. This will let you do more types of jobs.
Recommended Size
Experienced users often find chainsaws with guide bars between 16 and 20 inches to be very flexible. This range provides flexibility for various tasks, from cutting firewood to trimming larger branches, depending on the specific model and its power. It even lets you cut down medium-sized trees.
Recommended Type
Gas chainsaws become a better choice for experienced users. This is because they have more power and can move freely. However, new battery-powered chainsaws. When you think, "What size of chainsaw do I need for more demanding yard work?", a 16-inch gas or strong battery chain saw will work well for you.
Chainsaws for Professional Users
Experts use chainsaws for daily, heavy work. Being strong, powerful, and working all the time are very important.
Recommended Size
Experts usually use chainsaws with guide bars from 18 inches up to 36 inches or even longer for special jobs. The exact size depends on the main work. This includes logging, tree removal, or building.
Recommended Type
Strong gas chainsaws are the usual choice for expert use. This is due to their raw power, long run times, and ability to operate in various conditions. These saws are built with robust components and advanced features designed to withstand rigorous use, ensuring longevity and reliability in professional settings. They often have special systems to stop shaking. They also have designs that are easy on your body. This helps you get less tired. If you are asking, "How big a chainsaw do I need for full-time logging?", you will be looking at models with 24-inch bars and above. These are designed for optimal cutting and long-term use.
3. How to Choose the Right Chainsaw Type and Size for Your Needs
Now that you understand the different parts of chainsaws, let us look at certain situations. This will help you pick the perfect tool.
Garden and Landscaping
Your garden and yard jobs can range from simple cutting to major redesigns. Each type of job requires a specific type of chainsaw.
Small Garden Maintenance:
For small garden jobs like trimming bushes, cutting back small shrubs, or cutting branches up to 4-6 inches wide, a small electric (corded or battery-powered) chainsaw with a 6-10-inch bar is perfect. These are light. They start easily. They also make less noise and fumes. You will find that a low-power electric chainsaw is more than enough for these needs. Look for models that are easy to hold with one hand. This is for careful cuts.
Large Landscaping Projects:
For large yard work, such as clearing extensive areas, removing larger shrubs, or preparing to move trees, you will need a stronger chainsaw. A medium-sized gas chainsaw, 14-18 inches, or a powerful battery-powered chainsaw is ideal. These provide the necessary power to cut through thicker materials. Meanwhile, they still move well for shaping and preparing trees.
Plant Pruning and Shaping:
For precise cutting and shaping of ornamental or fruit trees, a small, lightweight battery-powered chainsaw can work very well. A pole saw part for a multi-tool system can also be good. For thicker branches on larger plants, a 10-12 inch tool, such as the NewBeny 12 Inch Brushless Cordless Chain Saw, strikes a good balance.
Techniques for Pruning and Shaping: Always make sure your chain is sharp. This makes clean cuts that help plants stay healthy. Make sure you know the right cutting angles and ways to cut. This will stop you from hurting the plant.
Firewood Preparation
Cutting firewood is a common job for many homeowners. Picking the right chainsaw makes a big difference in how well and how safely you work.
Cutting and Splitting:
For cutting firewood, you will mostly be working with logs already on the ground. A medium to large chainsaw, such as the NewBeny 16 Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with Digital Display, is usually recommended. The exact size depends on the width of the logs you are cutting. For hardwoods like oak or maple, you will want a stronger saw with a longer bar. This is to make fewer cuts.
Cutting Techniques and Safety Measures: Always make sure the log is steady before cutting. Use a sawhorse or lift the log. This will stop you from cutting into the ground. Hold the saw firmly. First, keep both feet on the ground. Second, be aware of sudden pushes back from the saw.
Wood Storage and Drying:
While your chainsaw doesn't directly influence how you store or dry wood, the way you cut logs into manageable pieces makes stacking and drying much easier. A reliable, powerful chainsaw allows you to efficiently cut large logs into smaller sections suitable for stacking and seasoning. For most home use, a 16 to 20-inch gas-powered chainsaw offers the right balance of power and size to handle thicker logs and bulk cutting, speeding up the process of preparing firewood.
Additional Tips:
- Use a sturdy, well-maintained chainsaw with a larger bar (16-20 inches) for cutting thick, seasoned logs to reduce cutting time.
- For splitting and splitting large logs into smaller pieces, consider using a chainsaw with a bar length that matches the size of the logs you’re handling.
- Always wear protective gear when cutting and stacking firewood to prevent injuries.
Seasonal Use:
Winter (Cold Weather):
During winter, use a powerful, cold-weather gasoline chainsaw. These chainsaws provide the necessary torque and power to cut through thicker, larger logs efficiently. Make sure to use winter-grade fuel and proper lubrication to prevent engine issues in low temperatures. Gasoline chainsaws are more reliable for heavy-duty cutting during cold months, helping you process large firewood logs quickly.
Summer (Warm Weather):
In summer, opt for a lighter, electric or lithium-ion battery-powered chainsaw. These models are easier to handle during frequent or lighter tasks such as trimming, pruning, or smaller logs. The cooler operation and lower weight make them more comfortable for extended use, and they are ideal for preparing smaller or dried logs for storage and drying.
Transition Seasons (Spring and Fall):
During spring and fall, choose your chainsaw based on your workload: For cutting larger, seasoned logs for storage and drying, a 16-20 inch gas chainsaw is recommended for efficiency. For trimming and smaller cuts, a compact electric chainsaw will suffice and provide greater maneuverability.
Tree Removal and Felling
Cutting down trees is one of the most dangerous chainsaw jobs. It needs a lot of skill and the right tools.
Small Tree Felling:
For cutting down small trees (up to 12-16 inches wide), a medium-sized gas chainsaw (14-16 inches) or a strong battery chainsaw is right. You need enough power to make careful cuts. This is to ensures the tree falls where you want it to.
Safety Tips for Beginners When Felling Small Trees: It is essential to receive proper training in chainsaw operation and tree felling techniques before attempting to cut down any tree. First, always wear safety gear. This includes a hard hat, eye cover, ear cover, strong gloves, chainsaw pants, and steel-toed boots. Second, plan your way out. Third, look at how the tree leans. Fourth, understand how to make cuts for felling. Never work by yourself.
Large Tree Felling:
When it comes to felling large trees such as pines and oaks (diameter exceeding 18-20 inches), choosing the right chainsaw is crucial. For such sizable trees, a robust gas-powered chainsaw with a bar length of at least 20 inches is necessary. For particularly large trees, professional loggers often use chainsaws equipped with 30-inch or even 36-inch bars. It is important that the engine power matches the bar size to ensure efficient, safe, and fast cutting performance.
Techniques for felling large trees: Felling large trees requires meticulous planning and precise execution. The process involves determining the direction in which the tree should fall and making strategic cuts to achieve this. Wedges are often used to guide the fall, especially when working with heavy or leaning trees. Understanding the hinge wood—the part of the trunk that controls the fall—is vital for a controlled and safe felling process. This work should only be performed by experienced professionals with proper training. Specialized tools such as felling levers, wedges, and axes are commonly used to assist in the process. Safety measures and expert knowledge are essential to minimize risks and ensure a successful, controlled tree removal.
Professional Use
Experts need chainsaws that are tough, strong, and work well all the time. This is for constant, hard work.
Construction and Building:
On building sites, chainsaws are often used for cutting wood beams. They are even used for tearing things down. You will need a strong gas chainsaw. Typically, this is in the 16-20 inch range. This can handle rough use and different materials.
When choosing a chainsaw for demanding, high-intensity tasks, prioritize models built from high-strength materials that can withstand rigorous use. Look for chainsaws equipped with powerful, expert-level engines capable of handling prolonged and demanding cutting jobs. Additionally, features that reduce vibration, such as advanced damping systems, are essential—they help minimize operator fatigue during extended use. Reliability is crucial, so opt for models known for durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring that repairs can be carried out quickly and efficiently when needed. Overall, a professional-grade chainsaw should combine robustness, comfort, and ease of service to meet the toughest work environments.
Landscaping Service Companies:
Landscaping companies require a diverse range of chainsaws. These must handle a wide range of jobs. This process ranges from careful cutting to removing medium-sized trees. A mix of small battery-powered saws for detailed work and medium to large gas chainsaws for harder jobs is often best. Being able to do many things is key. Therefore, models with bars that you can change or add parts to can be helpful.
Forestry and Logging Industry:
In forestry and logging, chainsaws are the main tool for cutting down trees. They also cut off branches and chop up timber. You will need extremely powerful, tough gas chainsaws with long guide bars (24 inches and up). These saws are designed for maximum output. They have long run times. They can also handle the rough conditions of the forest. Features like heated handles for cold weather and good air filters are common. <
Homeowner Use
For casual, light-duty tasks around the yard, a small 12 to 16-inch electric chainsaw is usually sufficient. It’s easy to handle, quiet, and budget-friendly—ideal for occasional pruning, firewood chopping, or small tree trimming. An electric corded or cordless model would be most convenient for home use.
Commercial Users:
For professional contractors and heavy-duty forestry work, a larger 16 to 20-inch gas-powered chainsaw is the best choice. It offers the power, durability, and runtime needed for continuous, demanding jobs like large tree felling or timber cutting. A high-quality gas chainsaw will provide the reliability and performance required for daily, intensive use.
Chainsaws Seasonal Maintenance:
Always:
Regularly sharpen the chain for safer, more efficient cutting and check that the chain tension is correct—too loose or too tight can cause problems. Clean or replace the air filter frequently, especially if you use the chainsaw in dusty or dirty environments, to keep the engine running smoothly.
Preparing for Winter:
For gas-powered chainsaws, use fresh fuel and ensure you're mixing the correct oil-to-gas ratio to prevent engine issues during cold months. Store fuel in a proper container and add a fuel stabilizer if it will be stored for a while. For electric models, keep the batteries at the recommended storage temperatures—usually cool, dry places—to preserve battery life and performance.
Post-Winter Cleanup:
After winter storms or heavy snow, a powerful gas chainsaw can be more effective for clearing large, frozen, or tangled debris. Make sure the chain and engine are well-maintained, and inspect the saw for any damage caused by winter conditions.
Spring and Summer:
During the warmer months, when yard work is more frequent, lighter and quieter electric or battery-powered chainsaws are often more comfortable and convenient for tasks like trimming and pruning. Regularly check and clean the chain, and ensure the saw is properly lubricated to handle frequent use.
Additional Tips:
- Always store your chainsaw in a dry, protected place when not in use.
- Perform a thorough inspection before heavy seasonal work to catch any potential issues early.
- Consider sharpening the chain before the busy season to maximize cutting efficiency.
4. Conclusion
You have now looked at many parts of picking the right chainsaw. The path from asking "What size chainsaw do I need?" to picking your tool with confidence means understanding chainsaw sizes and types.It also means understanding how they fit into various roles. Remember, the best chainsaw for you is one that matches your exact needs, your skill level, and the types of jobs you will do.
5. FAQs
What is the best chainsaw size for occasional home use?
A chainsaw with a guide bar between 10 and 14 inches is usually the best choice for you. These sizes are easy to handle. They are simple to store. They are simple to store. They also provide enough power for everyday home tasks. They are not too strong or too heavy.
How do I choose between gas and electric chainsaws?
You should pick a gas chainsaw if you need the most power. You also need to move freely. You plan to tackle challenging tasks, such as cutting down large trees or gathering a lot of firewood. You should pick an electric chainsaw if you want it lighter and quieter. You also want it to start easier and need less care. This is if your jobs are usually light to medium.
What features should I look for in a chainsaw for tree felling?
For cutting down trees, you should look for a strong gas chainsaw. It needs a guide bar that is at least two inches longer than the trees you plan to cut. Key features include a strong engine. It also needs a chain brake for safety.
Can I use a small chainsaw for large tree removal?
You cannot safely or well use a small chainsaw for removing large trees. A small chainsaw, usually with a bar under 16 inches, does not have the power or bar length needed to make proper cuts for felling big trees. Trying to do so can be very dangerous. This can cause the saw to push back. It can also cause the bar to get stuck. Or, the tree could fall in a way you do not want.
What safety measures should I take when using a chainsaw?
Wear all your safety gear. This includes a hard hat, eye cover, ear cover, strong gloves, chainsaw pants, and steel-toed boots. You should always read your chainsaw's manual. You must understand how to start and stop the saw correctly. You must also know where the saw might push back. Never cut above your shoulders.
