13 Best Gas Chainsaws (Review) In 2022

Adrienne started her professional life as a gardener at her local parks department and went on to train at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh where she was the first female student on the prestigious and world-renowned horticultural course run by the Botanic garden. An experienced and award-winning garden writer and past editor of some of Britain’s favourite gardening magazines, Adrienne has for over 30 years, inspired gardeners with a breadth of gardening know-how plus creative and decorative ideas. One of her main aims is to make gardening accessible, even to the smallest green fingers, with her clear advice and straightforward step-by-step instructions. Adrienne loves to travel and has visited, given talks and met ordinary home gardeners in far flung places like China, South Africa, Philippines and Caribbean as well as the UK.
- The Best Gas Chainsaw
- 1. Remington Full Crank 2-Cycle 14" Gas Powered Chainsaw
- 2. CRAFTSMAN Full Crank 2-Cycle 16" Gas Chainsaw with Auto Chain Oiler
- 3. SALEM MASTER 2-Cycle 16" Gas Powered Chainsaw
- 4. Husqvarna 120 Mark II 16" Gas Chainsaw
- 5. Husqvarna 20" 450 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- 6. Poulan Pro PR4016, 16" 40cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
- 7. Garwinner 52cc 18" Gas Power Chainsaw
- 8. ORCISH 52cc 2-Cycle 18" Gas Powered Chainsaw
- 9. Poulan Pro 18" 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
- 10. SALEM MASTER 2-Cycle 18" Gas Powered Chainsaw
- 11. SALEM MASTER 2-Cycle 20" Gas Powered Chainsaw
- 12. Husqvarna 24" 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- 13. Remington Full Crank 2-Cycle 18" Gas Powered Chainsaw
If you are considering buying a chainsaw but don't know where to start, then you are in the right place for guidance.
A chainsaw can be used for an array of gardening activities, from small scale pruning and trimming, right up to chopping wood and felling trees. Whether you are a professional gardener working daily, or an amateur who just needs to tidy up shrubbery now and then, there is a chainsaw that is right for you.
Here, we look specifically at gas chainsaws, but if you are still not sure if a gas model is the best option for you, then take a look at our best electric chainsaws article. In both reviews, we consider the best chainsaws available to suit your specific needs and address frequently asked questions to help you make a decision.
The Best Gas Chainsaw
1. Remington Full Crank 2-Cycle 14″ Gas Powered Chainsaw




Key Features
42cc full crank 2-cycle engine
Premium 14-inch bar and chain
Lightweight, durable poly chassis
Light in weight (13.4lbs)
Quickstart technology
Adjustable auto chain oiler
3-point anti-vibration system
Ergonomically-designed handle
Our best choice is a Remington 2-Cycle 14 Inch Gas Chainsaw, which can quickly fulfill the needs of most home gardeners. This is ideal for felling smaller trees and cutting small to medium branches. With quick start technology, anti-vibration features, and a lightweight build this is an easy to use model, even if you have not used a gas chainsaw before.
The durable poly chassis ensures durability and power but in an easy to handle model, and it has a high resistance to any kickback, so isn’t difficult to control.
Pros
Quickstart technology
Automatic oiler
Automatic chain tension adjustment
Tool-less access
Cons
Occasional leaking of oil when stored
In terms of maintenance, this chainsaw requires very minimal effort. The auto chain oiler function, with a viewing window, will keep the chain perfectly lubricated for you, and the automatic chain tensioner system will make chain adjustments as you work. The tool-less access also means you can change filters and spark plugs easily.
Some reviewers have found that the oil compartment does leak when the saw is in storage, but aside from that, it is a reliable, easy to use efficient chainsaw.
2. CRAFTSMAN Full Crank 2-Cycle 16″ Gas Chainsaw with Auto Chain Oiler




Key Features
42cc full crank Craftsman 2 cycle engine
Premium 16-Inch bar and low-kickback chain
Lightweight, durable poly chassis
Easystart technology
Adjustable auto chain oiler with easy view
3-point anti-vibration system
25lbs before fuel
The Craftsman 16-inch Chainsaw comes with much the same features as our best choice, making it an easy to maintain, safe design. It has anti-vibration functions, an automatic shut off if any kickback occurs, and includes bucking spikes to attach to your tree for added stability when operating.
The Craftsman also has the automatic oiling mechanism and chain tension adjustments to help keep it operating optimally and is very easy to start. As with the Remington, it has tool-less access meaning you can change spark plugs or air filters very easily.
Pros
Minimal vibration
Includes bucking spikes for better stability
Automatic oiling
Chain brake applies when kickback happens
Carry case included
Cons
Cumbersome for a 16inch model
Reliability
The drawback of this machine is that for a 16-inch model, it is heavy. At 25lbs before you have added any fuel, holding it for long periods and using it for cutting above shoulder level is going to be challenging. There have also been concerns regarding the durability of this chainsaw.
3. SALEM MASTER 2-Cycle 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw




Key Features
42cc 2.1hp gas chainsaw
16inch bar and chain
2-cycle engine
Low-kickback chain
Engine speed up to 8500 rpm
Auto oiler
Ergonomic design
Quick stop chain brake
14.6lbs
Our budget pick of the Salem Master 16 Inch Chainsaw is ideal for people who want an inexpensive saw for occasional use. It is excellent value for money. For its price point, this chainsaw performs well, with respectable engine speed and a sturdy chain. It can handle most home users’ chainsaw needs and has reassuring safety features.
The ergonomic design of the Salem Master means it has a shock-absorbing, non-slip handle and is lightweight. As a result, it is easy to maneuver, even on taller shrubs and comfortable to hold for a considerable period.
Pros
Safety switch
Slip-free handle
Front handguard
Lightweight
Affordable
Cons
Durability
Quality of casing
While the chain and motor are of excellent quality, the product is let down slightly by the quality of the covering and pull string. However, it is still a great option if you don’t plan on any heavy-duty, frequent operations.
4. Husqvarna 120 Mark II 16″ Gas Chainsaw




Key Features
Compact chainsaw
Easy start-up
38.2cc motor
2-cycle engine
Low kickback safety features
Lightweight chainsaw
Automatic oiler
16-inch guide bar and chain
Simple tensioning system for quick adjustments
Exclusive X-Torq engine reduces fuel consumption and emissions
10.7lbs without cutting equipment
Husqvarna 120 Mark II Gas Chainsaw is one of the lighter, easy to maneuver gas chainsaws that can comfortably cut through thin branches and is perfect for pruning. When it is fully assembled and full of gas, it weighs about 17lbs. Although the 38cc motor is a little less powerful than some other 16-inch blades, it still performs adequately. As with many similar brands, it has the automatic oiling and tension adjustment function, so maintenance is pretty low key.
Most Husqvarna models come fitted with an X-Torq feature, which means that fuel consumption and gas emissions are reduced, making it a more energy-efficient chainsaw. They also have good anti-vibration systems, which helps with the comfort level.
Pros
Automatic oiler
Lightweight
Includes oil and bar cover
Affordable
Cons
Difficult to start
The biggest drawback of the Husqvarna 120 is the start function. Despite it saying that it has a quick start motor, it isn’t straightforward to operate. You will also have to assemble it with a flathead screwdriver when it arrives.
5. Husqvarna 20″ 450 Rancher Gas Chainsaw




Key Features
X-TORQ design
50.2cc motor
20inch bar and chain
2-cycle engine
11.2lbs without equipment
Flip-up tank cap
Air Injection to remove larger dust and debris
Smart Start
Sound power level, guaranteed (LWA) – 115 dB(A)
Snap-lock cylinder cover – no tools
Bucking spikes
Maximum power speed: 9000 rpm
450 Rancher is a more powerful gas chainsaw from Husqvarna. It still comes with the X-Torq engine to help reduce gas emissions and make it up to 20% more energy-efficient, but this has a much more powerful motor and high rpm.
With a 20-inch blade and a 50cc motor, there isn’t much that this saw doesn’t cut through. This Husqvarna model also has an air injection feature that removes any large dust particles or debris before they hit the filter. As a result, you don’t have to clean the filter so often, and the engine life is preserved for longer. The ergonomic design of the 450 Ranger makes it easy to handle when using for long periods of time.
Pros
Low vibration
20inch blade
Powerful motor
Air injection
Flip-up cap for easy refill
Ergonomic handle
Tool-free access to filters and spark plugs
Cons
Reliability
Cost
Doesn’t come with a cover
As with the other Husqvarna model, there are concerns around the reliability of this chainsaw, particularly when you are trying to get it to start. This machine is best for people who intend to use it and maintain it regularly as it has a price point that is considerably higher than many other models.
6. Poulan Pro PR4016, 16″ 40cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw



Key Features
40cc, 2-cycle engine
16inch bar length
Ideal for medium-duty clean-up and cutting
Auto oiler system
Effortless pull starting
OxyPower technology
13lbs
The Poulan Pro PR4016 comes with a 16-inch blade and a 16inch bar and chain, making it best suited for small trees and trimming.
Gas chainsaws from Poulan come with a few unique features. For example, the EPS is their Effortless Pull Starting mechanism, which is a spring-assisted cord and purge bulb to make it easier to start. Their chainsaws are also powered with OxyPower, which is their patented technology to deliver greater fuel efficiency. This is predicted to give you 20% lower consumption and 70% fewer gas emissions.
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Pros
Spring-assisted pull cord
Antivibration system
Oxypower – fuel-efficient consumption
Lightweight
Tool-less access for chain tensioning
Cons
Requires initial assembly
Challenges with the pull cord – requires some practice
The PR4016 model is also fitted with a SuperClean air filter system to prolong the engine life and reduce the frequency of air filter changes.
This is a reliable product for small to medium garden work, although the start-up system does require a bit of practice to get it starting consistently.
7. Garwinner 52cc 18″ Gas Power Chainsaw




Key Features
18-inch bar and chain
8500 rpm
Ergonomic low vibration cushion wrapped handles
52CC with 2-stroke motors
Low kickback safety features
Electronic ignition for powerful smooth running
Air filtering system
Automatic lubricating system
Integrated chain brake
16.87 lbs
Automatic tightening function of chain
Garwinner 52cc Gas Power Chainsaw is a powerful machine with a lot of the standard features of an 18-inch chainsaw. It has safety features, an air filtering system to preserve the engine and filters, and an automatic oi lubricating system to ensure smooth running.
At just over 16lbs it is a reasonable weight for a gas chainsaw, and the comfortable, padded handles make it quite easy to move around.
Pros
Powerful motor
Low vibration
Oil lubricating system
Air filtering system
Comfortable handle
Cons
Leaking of the gas cap
Limited reviews
The reported fault of this chainsaw is that it tends to leak from the gas cap if not held upright. The Garwinner chainsaw is a new model, and there are limited reviews available.
8. ORCISH 52cc 2-Cycle 18″ Gas Powered Chainsaw



Key Features
52CC motor
18Inch 2-Cycle chainsaw
Safety switch prevents accidental starts
U-shaped handle
Guide plate
Auto oiling
17.86lbs
The Orcish 52cc Chainsaw comes with a powerful 52cc engine and an 18-inch blade and chain, so is best used for medium-duty cutting, and not professional use. This is another relatively new product that comes with limited online reviews if you wish to do further research.
As you would expect from a budget choice, it doesn’t have all the frills of some of the more advanced gas chainsaws, but it is still an effective machine. Its safety features include a guide plate, a well-positioned u-shaped handle, and a safety switch to ensure there are no accidental starts.
Pros
Powerful motor
Guide plate
Auto oiling
Easy to start
Cons
Quite a complex assembly
Loud
The Orcish weighs in at 17.86lbs, so average weight for its side and has auto-oiling to keep the maintenance required minimal.
In comparison to other similar powerful models, it is quite loud and can be a little fiddly to first assemble. This is one of the best gas-powered chainsaws if you want an affordable brand that will operate without too much difficulty. It is a great starter model.
9. Poulan Pro 18″ 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw




Key Features
42cc, 2-stroke engine
18″ blade and chain
Ideal for medium-duty work
Oxypower technology
Effortless pull starting
Ergonomic design
Onboard scrench
13,25lbs
Includes: Carry Case, Extra Chain, Built-in Scrench, 2-Stroke Oil
Here we have another gas chainsaw option from Poulan Pro. 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw is quite similar to the PR4016 version, except it has a more powerful motor and a slightly longer blade of 18 inches. It is also one of the best gas-powered chainsaws in terms of safety features.
It comes with the OxyPower technology to reduce emissions and fuel consumption and is relatively compact for an 18-inch blade, meaning it is easy to move around. They have also included a reduced kickback guide bar for safer, smoother cutting. If there is a significant kickback, the chain brake will operate automatically.
Pros
Additional inclusions of a spare chain, case, and oil for the gas mixture
Power
Lightweight, compact design
Affordable
Great for storm clear ups and felling medium trees
Cons
Temperamental starts
No tool-free access
There appear to be some issues with the starting the saw, not when using from cold but when restarting during your operation when it is hot. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully to master this. It may also overheat from time to time, but cools down and is ready to restart quite quickly.
Unlike other models, we have reviews, there is no automatic chain tensioning, and you will need a tool to do this regularly. It does not have tool-free access.
10. SALEM MASTER 2-Cycle 18″ Gas Powered Chainsaw




Key Features
58cc 3.0hp engine
18-inch bar and low-kickback chain
8500 rpm
Auto oiler
Ergonomic design
Quick stop chain brake in the front guard
Safety switch to protect against accidental starts
Air cleaner
17.96lbs
Visible oil tank
If you want a powerful machine that starts quickly and easily, SALEM MASTER 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw is one of the best chainsaws available. It comes with a reasonably sized 18-inch blade and has a low kickback chain which will minimize jams when using.
As part of the ergonomic design, the handle is both non-slip and shock-absorbing, making it easy to use for long periods. This is highly efficient, smooth-running saw with adequate safety functions.
Pros
Starts easily
Powerful (58cc)
Easy to maneuver
Mixing bottle for gas included
Good value
Cons
Recommended for use only by experienced chainsaw users
Confusing fuel mixing instructions
Oil often leaks
This Salem Master does attempt to be user friendly, with an automatic oiler, air filter, and measured mixing bottle for fuel. However, it is let down by the fact that the instructions are exceptionally confusing and can only really be interpreted by those that are used to handling a gas chainsaw.
11. SALEM MASTER 2-Cycle 20″ Gas Powered Chainsaw



Key Features
62cc 3.4hp powerful engine
20-inch bar and low-kickback chain
8500 rpm
Auto oiler
Ergonomic design
Quick stop chain brake
Air cleaner
17.96lbs
Compared to the 58cc Salem Master model, 62cc 2-Cycle 20″ Gas Powered Chainsaw is an upgrade in terms of power and blade size.
With a 62cc motor and 3.4 horsepower, there is very little that this chainsaw can’t cut through. The Salem Master is used by both professionals as well as homeowners and can handle felling trees and cutting large limbs very easily. If you are not used to gas saws, a smaller, lighter version may be easier for you.
Pros
Quick and powerful for felling trees
Relatively easy to start
Can replace the bar and chain with a larger size if needed
Multiple safety features
Cons
Instructions are confusing
A little heavy
Although, as with the other Salem model, the instructions make assembly a little confusing, the number of safety features and the ergonomic design makes it more manageable. The air cleaning system also continuously eliminates emissions when operating.
12. Husqvarna 24″ 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw




Key Features
60. 3cc
3.62hp
13.2lbs
24-inch guide bar and chain
2-cycle engine
Automatic chain oiler
Simple, side-mounted chain tensioning
9000 rpm
X-torque design
21lbs
460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw is a beast of a machine, designed for professional-grade use. It is pretty heavy but capable of cutting through 24-inch trees with no trouble. It is not best suited for pruning or delicate work.
The Husqvarna 460 Rancher has a large motor, so you have to be comfortable in controlling in this, but it comes with the XTorq engine which gives you energy-efficient use and reduced fuel emissions. This also means you will have to refill it less frequently.
Pros
Flip-up cap for easy filling
Ultra-powerful
Air filtering to preserve high performance
X torque design for energy efficiency
Reliable
Variety of safety controls
Cons
Heavy
Large design
Temperamental to start
On the downside, several reviews do state that it can be temperamental to start, but once running, it is highly effective.
This particular model also has an oil pump that can be adjusted to operate optimally in different conditions. This will help to improve performance and extend the longevity of the chainsaw.
13. Remington Full Crank 2-Cycle 18″ Gas Powered Chainsaw




Key Features
18-Inch bar and chain
42cc full crank 2-cycle engine
Quickstart technology
Adjustable auto chain oiler
3-point anti-vibration system
Tool-free access
21lbs
The RM 2418 is one of the best gas chainsaws from Remington in terms of versatility. It is delicate enough to use for gentle trimming and pruning, but also tough enough to handle chopping wood.
Remington is a reliable brand, and this saw comes with all the safety functions you could need, including an anti-vibration system and low kickback. It is ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue and increase comfort for the user. The RM2418 is also one of the few machines that comes complete with a carry case and bar oil.
Pros
Tool-less oil
Automatic and manually adjustable chain oiler
Ergonomically designed
Case and oil included
Cons
Heavy for an 18-inch saw
Oil leakage
Some users may find this a little heavy if they are used to using alternative 18-inch saws, and it often leaks oil in certain positions. Aside from that, it is a reliable, effective, and affordable chainsaw.
Features To Consider With Gas Chainsaws
Bar Length
The bar length of a gas chainsaw refers to the length of the blade. This varies from model to model, generally between 12 and 72 inches. You will need to select the best gas chainsaws suited to your needs bearing in mind that the longer the blade is, the harder the saw will be to handle. 12 - 14inch is best used for pruning, 16-18 inches is better for cutting firewood or small trees, and 20inch+ is suited for felling larger trees.
We recommend only using a long blade if you are an experienced chainsaw handler - a guide bar length of over 20 inches is referred to as a "professional- grade" saw.
Fuel
Gas chainsaws come in either a 2-cycle or a 4-cycle variety. The 2-cycle model means that you need to mix gasoline and oil together and add this mix to the tank.
The 4-cycle model has one tank for oil and one tank for gasoline, so there is no need for mixing.
For the 2-cycle models, the manufacturer provides instructions on the best gas and oil to mix and how much. It is usual to have a ratio of between 1:50 and 1:25.
Gas / Electric
The machines we have used above are all gas models, meaning you need to fuel them with oil and gas. If you are not sure if a gas chainsaw is right for you, then please see our electric chainsaw reviews.
Very broadly speaking, electric powered chain saws are easy to use and tend to be lighter and more compact than gas versions. Their power source is either a power cord, which is best if you have a small garden and a large extension lead or rechargeable battery.
Gas chainsaws are more powerful and aren’t restricted by the power cord or battery life. They are, however, more expensive and heavier to use.
Maintenance
Chainsaws may be quite heavy-duty machines, but given that they come in to contact with all sorts of dirt, debris, wet wood, and thick trees, regular maintenance is essential to retain their performance.
Each saw will have specific instructions from the manufacturer, but here are some general guidelines to prepare you before a chainsaw sale:
- Oil Levels - you will need to that oil levels are kept adequately topped up so that the chain and bar are lubricated. This will keep it running smoothly. Most machines come with an automatic lubricating function, but you will need to watch the oil supply.
- Sharpening - frequent sharpening is vital to keep the saw sharp, which increases efficiency and safety. How often it is sharpened will depend on how often you are using it, and in what environment. With an electric chainsaw sharpener, you can do this yourself, but many hardware stores will do it for you at little cost.
- Cleaning - after each use, be sure to remove any debris such as sawdust or dirt from the saw. Check the individual instructions on how to clean each part correctly to avoid damage and rust.
- Air Filter - check this after each use and when necessary, replace it or clean it with soapy water.
- Carburetor - to keep the carburetor running smoothly, which will allow you to start the engine easily, make sure you clean this after each use. This is done by spraying it with either a fuel additive or compressed air.
Weight
If you have a large area to work with, or plan on using the chain saw for a long time, then the weight is going to be a crucial factor.
Gas-powered chainsaws typically range from 10lbs to 25lbs, before fueling, so there is quite a difference to consider. You need to select a saw that you can comfortably hold without getting fatigued quickly, and that is light enough for you to maneuver around, especially if you have tall trees to tackle.
Gas Chainsaw FAQ
Q: Are electric or gas chainsaws better?
There are pros and cons to both types of chainsaws, so which is best really comes down to its intended use.
Electric chainsaws are quieter than gas, start easily, are easy to maintain, and usually compact and lightweight compared to a gas chainsaw. Electric chainsaws will have a shorter blade than gas versions and cut slower, meaning they are ideal for small cutting activities, such as tidying shrubbery and trimming small trees.
Gas-powered chainsaws are best suited for heavy-duty activities as they are powerful, can have exceptionally long blades, and cut through wood very quickly. Unlike electric chainsaws, you are not restricted by power cord length or battery life. Because of their power, gas chainsaws are more challenging to handle, are heavier, and create a lot more noise and smoke than an electric model. Their fuel tanks also require more maintenance to keep them operating as intended.
Q: What fuel do I need for my gas chainsaw?
The best gas chainsaw deserves the best power source, which comes in the form of fuel.
To correctly mix oil and gas for your chain saw you will need ethanol-free gasoline (89 octanes or higher) and 2-cycle, or two-stroke oil.
These should be mixed thoroughly in a container, according to the manufacturers' ratios, before you add them to the machine.
Q: Do I need to sharpen the blade?
Chain saw blades will need regular sharpening to perform at its required standard. How often you get the chains sharpened will depend on what you are cutting, as if you are working with a lot of dirt or debris this increases the frequency. Most professionals recommend sharpening after two tanks of gas have been consumed.
Sources
Chainsaw Safety - Ag Safety and Health
Operating a Chain Saw Safely - MU Extension
Chain Saw Safety Policy - UF Environmental Health & Safety