Battery-powered chainsaws have grown in popularity over the years. They tend to be a lot quieter than their gas-powered counterparts and are more accessible to the everyday handyperson. Not everyone in need of a chainsaw is a contractor or lumberjack, and that’s where battery-powered chainsaws come in. They are useful for everyday tasks like cutting firewood or small DIY home projects. So, if you’re in need of a battery-powered chainsaw, you’ve come to the right place!
- Important Factors to Consider When Buying a Battery-Powered Chainsaw
- Top 9 Battery-Powered Chainsaws 2023
- 1. Best Overall Battery-Powered Chainsaw: Dewalt 20V Max XR
- 2. Best Premium Battery-Powered Chainsaw: Black+Decker 20V Max
- 3. Great for Long-Lasting Use: Greenworks 12-Inch 40V
- 4. Great for New Users: Greenworks G-Max 40V
- 5. Easiest to Operate: Black+Decker 40V Max
- 6. Best Budget Battery-Powered Chainsaw: Worx WG322 20V
- 7. Great for Safety & Ease of Use: Black+Decker 20V Max Alligator Lopper
- 8. Great for the Environmentally-Conscious: Makita XCU03PT1 18V X2
- 9. Best for Professionals: Dewalt FlexVolt 60V Max
- Buying the Best Battery Powered Chainsaws
- Cordless vs. Gas-Powered Chainsaws
- Choosing the Best Battery-Powered Chainsaw for You
- Most Important Features to Consider
- Let’s Talk About Batteries
- Let’s Talk About Oiling Systems
- FAQs on Battery Powered Chainsaws
- Additional Tips About Battery-Powered Chainsaws
- Other Relevant Tools for Homeowners
- Final Thoughts
Important Factors to Consider When Buying a Battery-Powered Chainsaw
Chainsaws are diverse in price, features, and power, so narrowing down your options is key. Below we’ll talk about the basics you’ll have to think about when picking out a battery-powered chainsaw.
Differences Between Battery-Powered and Gas-Powered Chainsaws
Aside from the obvious (gas versus electric power), gas-powered chainsaws are louder than battery-powered ones, clocking in at around 105 decibels. You will need to wear gear to protect your hearing when using either type. In regards to weight, gas chainsaws will most likely be lighter, averaging around 11-12 pounds; battery chainsaws for home use can weigh anywhere from 11 to 15-plus pounds. When it comes to landscaping in your home garden, battery-powered chainsaws have gas ones beat: you can work faster around your yard and won’t have to take the time to refill the gas tank before you can get started. You just push in the battery and get going!
How to Choose the Best Battery Chainsaw
Think about the following tricks and features in a chainsaw over more quantifiable technical details. The most powerful or largest chainsaw doesn’t mean it’s the best!
Choose Performance Over Voltage
The voltage of the battery is not the be-all, end-all determining factor in how much power your chainsaw will have. The advancement of lithium-ion, brushless motors and computer chip controls in battery-powered models ensures that your chainsaw performs efficiently and safely. So when it comes to choosing the best chainsaw for you, focus more on how it performs over the balance between input/output voltages.
Choose Something That Will Run for a Long Time
Look for a chainsaw that will allow you to do as much work as possible on one battery charge. This will ensure that you will spend less time waiting for it to recharge and more time using it (recharging takes longer than refueling a gas chainsaw). Many products out there will provide only one battery pack with your purchase, and since some chargers can take several hours to power up your battery, how long it runs on one charge is an extremely important factor to keep in mind.
The Most Important Features to Look For
While there are tons of little details that distinguish chainsaws, the following, listed below, are the most important.
Handles
Thicker handles are more comfortable to hold, so if your hands tire out easily, be sure to take this into consideration. Also look out for handles that have rubber surfaces as they provide additional padding for comfort as well as an extra firm grip.
Weight
Battery-powered chainsaws range in weight from 11 to 15+ pounds. Overall, weight is not as important as the chainsaw’s general balance since you only feel its full weight when it is not in use. However, it can be quite a task to lug around a heavy chainsaw, especially if you’re working long hours. Please be aware that most of the weight will be from the battery, and the ones that last the longest for a full charge tend to be the heaviest.
Balance
How comfortable a tool feels varies from person to person. However, we have to admit that there are some designs that just work better than others. An excellent battery-powered chainsaw with good balance will cut straight through an object without the need to twist it. To check a chainsaw’s balance, hold it in front of your body with your left hand on the front handle: the saw should balance fairly flat. If it’s a bit front-heavy, that’s okay, but if the cutting end of the saw lifts towards you, that means you will have to put more effort into carrying it around safely.
Bucking Spikes
Bucking spikes enable a saw to cut through wood efficiently. They sit on the saw’s body and along the bar, anchoring the saw in place while the bar pivots through the cut. The spikes enable you to use a lifting motion on the rear hand as opposed to pushing down. Because of this, the saw is able to cut through objects with maximum power while ensuring that you don’t experience vibrations or jerking. Battery-powered saws don’t have spikes as long or sharp as gas ones, but they still perform effectively.
Safety Features
Most chainsaws have similar forms and basic operational features. Battery-powered chainsaws differ from this when it comes to their switches and triggers. The chainsaw of your choice should be equipped with a two-step trigger design that prevents you from accidentally activating the motor. Some chainsaws will have triggers that are large enough for two fingers to fit on them while others may have extra-long triggers that leave more room for you to vary your grip stance for better comfort. Triggers that are the most comfortable in feel will retract flush with the handle, ensuring that you don’t have to push your fingers against a raised bump while using the chainsaw.
Warning Alerts
In addition to the two-step trigger design, most battery-powered chainsaws require you to turn them on with a power button before you can actually power them up. Some are designed to start running with a single grab once it is powered on, but they most likely will have a timeout feature. Usually, battery-powered chainsaws will have small LED “ready” lights that glow when you turn them on. Some may also have separate warning lights to let you know when conditions are unsafe or to alert you when the brake is on.
How Easy It Is to Adjust
Chainsaws bars will need to be adjusted regularly. New chains will stretch out quickly, so you will have to readjust it several times while you break it in. If your chain tightens up, this can mean that your bar doesn’t have enough oil, so don’t loosen the chain until you check that it’s oiled properly. The bar of the saw should be designed for either tool-free or screwdriver-wrench adjustment.
Top 9 Battery-Powered Chainsaws 2023
1. Best Overall Battery-Powered Chainsaw: Dewalt 20V Max XR
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x 20V Lithium-Ion Battery
- Best Used For: Construction, Outdoor Cutting
General Info
The 12”, low kickback Oregon bar and chain runs at about 25.2 feet per second and can cut through trees up to 16” in diameter. It is also extremely light in weight (8.8 lbs.) which means that it will run safely and comfortably. Additionally, you are able to tighten the chain to the bar without tools.
The auto-oiling system design makes sure that the chain and guide bar are always properly lubricated. Unfortunately, this chainsaw runs through oil unusually quickly, so make sure to check the oil level indicator often. If it is less than a quarter full, simply take out the battery and refill the tank.
Battery Life & Durability
The high efficiency, brushless motor ensures that your chainsaw will run for a long period of time. It should last you for several hours of work before you need to recharge it.
Safety & Ease of Use
The automated starting feature makes it easy for you to get the chainsaw going. This is especially important if you have to do any work while on a ladder or while up a tree.
Its light weight makes this chainsaw easy to maneuver. If needed, you can operate the Dewalt 20V Max XR with just one hand, which makes it easier for you if you’re dealing with large amounts of foliage and need a free hand to move things out of your line of sight. There is one issue with the mechanism for tightening, however. At times, it can flex quite easily, and sometimes, the chain may jump off from the bar.
Customer Service
Dewalt products come with a limited warranty package that includes: 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract and/or 90-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Chain bar runs at 25.2 ft/s
- Works for several hours on one charge
- Automated starting feature makes it easy to turn on
- Can operate easily with just one hand
- Comes with a comprehensive limited warranty package
Cons
- Runs through oil fairly quickly
- Chain may flex or jump off the bar at times
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Lithium Battery, 1x Battery Charger
- Best Used For: Clearing Wind/Storm Damage, Cutting/Pruning Small Trees, General Yard Cleanup
General Info
Like the Dewalt 20V Max XR, the Black+ Decker 20V Max is equipped with a tool-free blade tension system, making chain adjusting easy work. The Oregon bar and chain is 10” in size.
This chainsaw is equipped with an automatic oiling system and coupled with the clear window on the oil tank, you’ll find it easy to keep track of the levels. There have been some complaints about the oiler not working properly.
Battery Life & Durability
You can count on the 20V max lithium-ion battery to run for a very long time. It keeps its charge up to 5x longer than comparable models.
Safety & Ease of Use
The Black+Decker 20V Max weighs only 7.2 pounds, making it easy to move around and transport across your yard. It also has a wrap-around handle that is made for your comfort and can be controlled easily for safety.
Customer Service
This product comes with a two-year home use warranty.
Pros
- Comes with battery and battery charger
- Tool-free blade tension system makes chain adjustments easier
- Lasts up to 5x longer than comparable models
- Wrap-around handle makes it comfortable, safe, and easy to control
- Comes with a 2-year home use warranty
Cons
- May encounter some issues with the auto-oiling system
3. Great for Long-Lasting Use: Greenworks 12-Inch 40V
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Lithium Battery, 1x Battery Charger
- Best Used For: Outdoor Cutting
General Info
The 12” steel chain and bar is equipped with a tool-free chain tensioning mechanism. The ⅜-inch chain pitch gives your chainsaw enough power to cut through trees and tree limbs with minimal kickback.
There is an automatic oilier featured on the Greenworks 40V. The oil tank is translucent, making it easy to see when it needs refilling.
Battery Life & Durability
The high-performance lithium-ion battery has enough power to cut through loads of trees and tree limbs without it tiring out too quickly. Simply charge overnight to ensure that your battery runs for the day’s work ahead. If you do run into issues with your battery losing power too quickly, this may be an issue with the motor, not the battery.
This specific chainsaw can work with other battery types if you want to purchase additional ones. The best options are the G-Max 2.0 Ah battery and the G-Max 4.0 Ah battery, both made by Greenworks.
Safety & Ease of Use
It has a wrap-around handle like the Black+Decker 20V Max. This design makes it easy to control the chainsaw for overall safety. Its weight (7.7 lbs.) also makes it easier to maneuver and carry around the yard.
Customer Service
You get a 4-year limited warranty with your purchase.
Pros
- Designed with tool-free chain tensioning mechanism
- High-performance lithium battery lasts for a long time
- Wrap-around handle makes it easy to control
- Comes with 4-year limited warranty
Cons
- May experience motor issues that cause the battery to die quickly
4. Great for New Users: Greenworks G-Max 40V
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Battery, 1x Battery Charger
- Best Used For: Cutting Firewood, Small Tree Felling, Limbing, General Trimming and Home Tree Maintenance
General Info
The chainsaw is made to be used by both professionals and novices. The brushless motor ensures that it will run for a long period of time with 30% more torque and more power. This means there will be less wear and tear on the chainsaw, ensuring that you can use it for the long haul.
You may find that the chain falls off several times during initial use. To fix this, simply adjust the tightness of the chain with the cover off and tighten the cover nut as best you can afterwards.
Battery Life & Durability
With a single charge, you can be sure to use this chainsaw for several hours. The Greenworks G-Max 40V boasts up to 75 cuts per charge which means you can focus on the work in front of you instead of how much battery power you have left. The battery will need to be recharged every few months, and with a built-in smart technology that prevents it from overcharging, you won’t have to worry if you sometimes forget to remove the battery from the charger.
Safety & Ease of Use
Because this one’s a bit heavier in weight (10.36 lbs.), it’s a bit more difficult to lug around for long periods of time. With that said, it is designed to have a low kickback on the chain brake for ease of use and general safety. Not only that, but this high-powered Greenworks chainsaw is built to work year-round. Additionally, the brushless motor decreases motor vibration by 70%, making it more comfortable to use.
Customer Service
This product comes with a 4-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Great option for novices
- Motor runs for longer with 30% more torque
- Battery has built-in smart technology to keep from overcharging
- Low kickback on the chain brake makes it safer to use
- Comes with a 5-year limited warranty
Cons
- Chain may fall off while breaking in
5. Easiest to Operate: Black+Decker 40V Max
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Battery Charger Bar, 1x Chain Scabbard
- Best Used For: Pruning Branches, Cutting Fallen Limbs
General Info
The 12” Oregon bar and chain on the Black+Decker 40V Max has a tool-free chain tensioning mechanism that makes easy work of chain adjustments. It can cut up to 5 meters per second.
This chainsaw is also designed to oil the chain automatically. However, some buyers have experienced ongoing issues with leaks. Be sure to call customer service if this happens, and they’ll help you troubleshoot the problem as best as they can.
Battery Life & Durability
The Black+Decker 40V comes equipped with a lithium-ion battery that has a long runtime and a long battery life overall. It can stay charged up to 5x longer than comparable products.
The charger that comes with your purchase can recharge a spent battery in approximately 4-5 hours. It even has an easy-to-follow LED system to let you know when your battery is recharged and ready to go: it will continuously flash green while it’s charging and stay green once it’s fully charged.
Safety & Ease of Use
Because of age or body strength in general, it may be difficult for some people to pull a cord on a gas-powered chainsaw to get it started. With the Black+Decker 40V Max, you won’t have to bother with this at all. Just press the trigger forward, and you’re ready to go! The wrap-around handle and lightweight design is not only comfortable but makes it easier for you to move your chainsaw around into different cutting positions.
Customer Service
A 2-year limited warranty comes with your purchase.
Pros
- Cuts up to 5 m/s
- Recharges in about 4-5 hours
- LED charging light makes recharging easy to understand
- Wrap around handle and light weight makes it easy to maneuver
- Comes with 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- May experience issues with oil leakages
6. Best Budget Battery-Powered Chainsaw: Worx WG322 20V
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Battery, 1x Battery Charger
- Best Used For: Pruning Branches, Cutting Fallen Limbs
General Info
The ⅜” chain pitch is tough enough to cut through 6’ trees at 12 feet per second, making it as powerful as comparable products. Some have found that the blades on the chainsaw do not spin fast enough to cut cleanly through wood, leaving behind jagged edges.
The tool-free chain system makes easy work of adjusting the tension on your saw with little to no effort, and the auto-oil design keeps your chains well lubricated while in use. Just be sure to keep an eye on the oil levels in the tank.
Battery Life & Durability
Worx WG322 20V uses the same batteries that the brand uses on their Jawsaw and lawnmower products. They’re super powerful and a great choice for homeowners to use for everyday yard work.
Safety & Ease of Use
Weighing in at only 6.2 pounds, you’ll find this chainsaw easy to maneuver and tote around the garden. It is also compact in design for your comfort. A sheath for your bar and chain comes with your purchase to keep your chainsaw safe when it is stored away.
Customer Service
You can request the Manufacturer’s Warranty from customer service.
Pros
- Cuts through 6’ trees at 12 ft/s
- Great for everyday yard work
- Easy to maneuver at only 6.2 pounds
- Comes with a bar and chain sheath
Cons
- Blades may not spin fast enough for super clean cuts
7. Great for Safety & Ease of Use: Black+Decker 20V Max Alligator Lopper
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Charger, 1x Lithium Battery, 1x Wrench, 1x Oil Bottle for Bar & Chain
- Best Used For: Pruning Tree Branches, General Yard Work
General Info
Looking more like a pair of scissors than a chainsaw, the Black+Decker Alligator Lopper can cut tree branches up to 4” in diameter. This is a great tool to use to cut up fallen limbs after storms or for general garden care. The alligator lopper ensures that you can grab-and-cut things in one easy motion. A heavy-duty cutting bar is included in your purchase. You can use this to cut up thick branches and logs.
Though it does have an auto-oiling system, you are not able to check the oil levels by sight or with a dipstick. This may cause issues related to overfilling or running out of oil while in use.
Battery Life & Durability
The Alligator Lopper is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery that keeps its charge up to 5x longer than comparable products. Additionally, you can get up to 150 cuts on 1-1.5” branches in a single charge. If that’s not enough, you can use this powerful battery with other tools in the 20V-Max product line if you choose.
Safety & Ease of Use
Overall, the chainsaw weighs a total of 6.8 pounds (one of the lightest in this product list), making it easy and comfortable to handle. The special alligator lopper design has metal guards that cover the jaws and quickly snap back over the blades when you’re finished with each cut. This ensures that you stay safe from the cutting chain. If that’s not enough, the lopper cuts from side-to-side instead of top-to-bottom, which means that you won’t run into any issues with burying the cutting chain in the dirt when it’s in use. It does require two hands to operate it, but the control you get with it is priceless.
Customer Service
You can return this product for a refund using the shipping address. Additionally, you can request the Manufacturer’s Warranty from customer service.
Pros
- Can cut trees up to 4” in diameter
- Grabs-and-cuts objects in one easy motion
- Get up to 150 cuts per charge (of 1-1.5” branches)
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Metal guard design on jaws keep you safe from the cutting chain
Cons
- Can’t check oil levels properly
8. Great for the Environmentally-Conscious: Makita XCU03PT1 18V X2
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Charger, 4x Batteries
- Best Used For: Basic Tree Care, Landscaping, General Home Garden Care
General Info
The 14” Makita chainsaw is the perfect choice for homeowners who do a lot of work in their gardens. It features a brushless motor system design with a ⅜” chain pitch that functions as powerfully as any gas-powered chainsaw. The Makita needs little to no maintenance, and boasts 0% emissions!
The tool-free chain system makes it easy to adjust the chain tension quickly and efficiently. There is a large oil filling port located on the chainsaw with a view window that helps you clearly see when oil levels are running low. Some have complained of the automatic oiler not working properly.
Battery Life & Durability
Some users have said that they could cut up to six 20’ pine trees in one charge! Overall, it can last for up to an hour of continuous use. The built-in LED switch turns the saw off when it has been idling in order to prolong the battery life. This can be annoying at times, because it only needs to idle for about 4 seconds before it shuts off automatically.
Chainsaws get dirty easily, but the Makita works to protect itself from the dirt, dust and debris that kicks up with seals that protect the internal components of your chainsaw. This, in turn, extends its overall lifespan.
Safety & Ease of Use
You can count on hassle-free cutting with this chainsaw with its lightweight, top handle design. It’s easy to lug around and operate in your yard, and the lock-off level ensures that the chainsaw won’t start up accidentally.
Customer Service
You can request the Manufacturer’s Warranty from customer service.
Pros
- 0% emissions
- Battery lasts up to an hour of continuous use
- Protective seals keep internal components safe from dust, dirt and debris
- Lightweight, top handle design makes it easy to operate
- Lock-off level ensures it won’t start up accidentally
Cons
- Oiler may not always work properly
- Some find the automatic shut-off design unhelpful
9. Best for Professionals: Dewalt FlexVolt 60V Max
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Kit Comes With: 1x Lithium Battery, 1x Charger, 1x Hard Bar Cover
- Best Used For: Outdoor Use, Professional Use
General Info
The 16” Oregon bar and chain makes this a handy tool for bigger, outdoor jobs, offering up to 70 cuts per charge. Its tool-free chain tightening mechanism is easy to use when you need to make adjustments. The chain might start to jump the bar near the front of the saw when in use. If this happens, it is most commonly due to the retaining bolt used to attach the chain to the sprocket.
The auto-oiling system keeps your chains lubricated during use. If you need to refill it, simply quarter turn the oil cap.
Battery Life & Durability
Featuring a FLEXVOLT battery, the Dewalt chainsaw is super powerful and can be used over prolonged periods of time. This will lessen your need for frequent charging and help you focus solely on the work at hand.
Safety & Ease of Use
This chainsaw feels sturdy and is equipped with a chain brake for kickback protection. Though it is not as light as other models, its ergonomic design makes it easy to handle. You may find that the safety switch is quite stiff.
Customer Service
Like the Dewalt 20V Max XR, the Dewalt FlexVolt comes with a limited warranty package that includes: 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract and/or 90-day money back guarantee.
Pros
- Up to 70 cuts per charge
- 16” Oregon bar and chain is great for major outdoor work
- Long Lasting FLEXVOLT battery means you don’t have to recharge often
- Ergonomic design makes it easy to handle
- Comes with limited warranty package
Cons
- Chain may jump the bar at times
- Safety switch is quite stiff in feel
Buying the Best Battery Powered Chainsaws
Running the gamut from private-label junk to contractor-grade equipment, it’s important to put your research in before buying a battery-powered chainsaw. Read the following guide to understand what’s most important for you.
Cordless vs. Gas-Powered Chainsaws
Gas-powered chainsaws tend to be a lot louder than battery-powered ones. However, you will still need to wear protective gear for your ears when using either one. Weight-wise, gas chainsaws are generally lighter, but battery-powered chainsaws work faster as they don’t need to be filled up with gas before or during use.
Choosing the Best Battery-Powered Chainsaw for You
These days, battery voltage doesn’t mean much because of advanced design and performance of lithium-ion, brushless motors and computer chip controls in chainsaws. So instead of focusing only on voltage, pay close attention to how the chainsaw performs. Additionally, you’ll want to choose a chainsaw that has a long-lasting battery. This will ensure that you spend more time using it and less time waiting for it to charge up.
Most Important Features to Consider
- Handles: Thicker handles are more comfortable to hold, and if they also have rubber surfaces for additional padding, they will be easier to grip.
- Weight: Battery-powered chainsaws will most likely be heavier than gas-powered ones. If you’re going to carry them around for long periods of time, you may want to go for a lighter model, but please be aware that most of the weight is in the battery. The heavier they are the longer they last on a single charge.
- Balance: An excellent battery-powered chainsaw with good balance will be able to cut straight through an object without needing to twist it. To check the balance, hold it with your left hand on the handle in front of you: if it is fairly flat, it has good balance.
- Bucking Spikes: These enable your chainsaw to cut through wood efficiently. Battery-powered chainsaws won’t have spikes as long or sharp as gas ones, but they still perform well.
- Safety Features: Most chainsaws will have a two-step trigger design to keep your chainsaw from turning on accidentally. They can be large enough for two fingers to fit on it, or they may be extra long so you have more room to vary your grip stance. The most comfortable ones will retract flush with the handle.
- Warning Lights: Most battery-powered chainsaws will have a button featured for you to turn on the saw before powering up the chain with a two-step trigger or single grab design. Additionally, they usually have an LED “ready” light that glows when you turn it on. Others may have separate warning lights to alert you about unsafe conditions or when the brake is on.
- Adjusting Ease: You will need to adjust the chainsaw bar regularly. New ones will stretch out quickly and need constant adjustment, while chains that tighten suddenly may need more oil. The saw bar will have either a tool-free or screwdriver-wrench adjustment design.
Let’s Talk About Batteries
Some users may be happy using only the battery that comes with your purchase. Others, however, may want to invest more money in expanding their chainsaw kit with additional batteries to further extend their work time with the saw. If that’s the case for you, here’s some additional information on how to choose the best batteries to add to your chainsaw kit.
Voltage
As we’ve already stated, higher voltage doesn’t always equal higher power. Battery power is measured in watts which is the voltage multiplied by the electric current. So if you have a battery with a lower voltage, don’t fret. All you have to do is produce more current (amps) to raise its voltage.
Amp-Hour vs. Watt-Hour
To compare the energy storage between batteries with different voltages, use this equation: Volts x Amp Hours = Watt Hours. This will help you figure out which battery to choose, depending on the amount of power you’re looking for.
Battery Life
A fully charged lithium-ion battery will decrease from its maximum voltage to a lower one as soon as you use it. This is called the nominal voltage, and this is the actual level at which the battery will perform when in use. So if you see a brand that has labels like “60V Max,” please keep in mind that the battery will actually work at about 54V (approximately 90% of the maximum voltage). When you don’t see words like “Max” next to the voltage number, that means the battery is most likely displaying its nominal voltage.
Let’s Talk About Oiling Systems
Your saw will not be able to run for very long without bar and chain oil. Most saws will be oiled up and ready to go straight out of the box, but some models may have issues with oil. Here are some things to look out for.
The Environment
If you’re concerned about using oil that is harmful to the environment, there are biodegradable, vegetable-based oil options out there for you. With a little research into bio-oils, you can rest easy knowing that using them will have less of a negative impact. Check out some oils available online here.
The Oil Tank
You’re likely to have a translucent window on your battery-powered chainsaw that allows you to see how much oil there is in the tank. Some models may have windows that are too small and too dark to see the oil level accurately, however. Look for one that is large and clear enough to measure oil levels easily.
The Oil Reservoir
No one likes oily fingers, so having an oil tank that is easy to fill up is priceless. Be on the lookout for oil caps that have lugs that are easy to turn while you’re wearing gloves; you might also want to go for ones that have flip-up tabs which are even easier to grip. Just be careful not to overfill your tank, don’t exceed the max fill line.
Avoiding Oil Spills
Bar chain oil is thick and super sticky. Filling oil tanks is usually an easy job, so here are a few things to consider:
- Narrow necks can lead to spills, and when it’s cold outside, the oil will run even thicker and pile up around the neck, making cleanup a difficult job. Use a funnel to avoid the problem.
- Necks that are set at an angle make filling the oil tank even more tricky.
- Tanks with plastic filters at the inlet may restrict the amount of room for the oil to run through.
- Poke a small hold in the foil at the cap of your oil bottle, so you can pour with a smaller stream.
- You could also reuse a syrup bottle with a pull-to-open top to control the amount of oil you pour. Just be sure to clean it first!
FAQs on Battery Powered Chainsaws
Are Battery-Powered Chainsaws Safer to Use?
There is no such thing as a “safe chainsaw.” You should always be cautious and attentive when using power tools of any kind. However, one safety bonus of a battery-powered chainsaw is that it doesn’t have a cord that you could potentially trip over. They also can turn on and off instantaneously.
How Long Do They Last?
You can use a battery-powered chainsaw in one go for about an hour. The battery will last for a long time if taken care of properly.
Do You Need a License to Use Them?
You don’t need a license, but in many states, you need to be at least 16-years-old to operate any chainsaw.
How Long Should You Run Them For?
The lithium-ion battery in these chainsaws can run for about 1-2 hours. They are safe to use until the battery dies.
Should You Let Them Warm-Up?
It is recommended that you do this for any chainsaw. Warming your chainsaw up gives you time to check that everything is working properly before you actually use it to cut something.
Additional Tips About Battery-Powered Chainsaws
- Loosen the chain on your chainsaw at the end of the day, especially if you live somewhere that gets cold. Cold weather causes chains to tighten which may damage its parts.
- Snug the nuts on your chainsaw evenly. If one is tighter, it can cause the other to loosen.
- It is common to lose bar nuts if you’re using your chainsaw regularly. Some chainsaws are designed with captive nuts that won’t fall off. You may also want to look out for saws that have storage slots built into them: you can keep spare nuts in those compartments.
- Check out this article on Chainsaw Maintenance for tips on how to properly care for your tool.
Other Relevant Tools for Homeowners
Chainsaws aren’t the only tools you’ll need to take good care of your property. Consider some of the following to take your DIY and landscaping game up a notch.
- Riding Lawnmowers: You’ve outgrown your push mower, we promise. A riding lawnmower will turn a chore into a satisfying afternoon.
- Snow Blowers: Shoveling is hard work that’s even harder on your back. Join the many who have realized the numerous advantages of snow-blowing.
- Pressure Washers: Pressure washing is so satisfying there’s a whole YouTube genre for aficionados. A nice high-powered rinse restores everything from concrete to house paint, adding value and making things look brand new.
- Hearing Protection: Just because battery-powered chainsaws are quieter than their gas-powered counterparts doesn’t mean you should skimp on hearing protection. Check out our list of favorite hearing protectors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a basic chainsaw for small DIY projects or for an expensive one with all the latest tech, you’ll be sure to find the right one if you just know what you’re looking for. This list is sure to provide you with the best options on the market today.