The 10 Best Professional Chainsaws
Tackle any Tree with the Best Professional Chainsaws on the Market
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A basic chainsaw might be perfect for a weekend warrior looking to trim some branches, but it’s not going to cut it for anyone working in forestry. If you’re going in the field and cutting down 60-foot trees regularly, you need to invest in a professional chainsaw that can handle years of even the most demanding work. It’s important to purchase the chainsaw that’s best for your needs. It needs to saw through tough timber with ease, be easy to handle, and last for years.
But with a higher price tag than residential models, purchasing one of these hand tools is a major investment. And with so many options out there, figuring out which model to buy can be confusing. You need to look at a variety of factors like performance, price, design, specs, and features. Don’t worry if this all seems a bit overwhelming – you came to the right place! You’ll find the perfect chainsaw in our buyer’s guide.
In this article, we’ll show you the best professional chainsaws on the market today. We’ll also explain exactly what you should be looking for when you go out to purchase one of these powerful hand tools. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly which chainsaw can tackle the heavy-duty demands of your career.
With so many options out there, narrowing your search down to the best model can be confusing. That’s where we come in! We took a look at the top professional-grade chainsaws on the market and put them to the test. We compared them based on performance, power, features, design, durability, and price.
In the end, these 10 models were clearly a cut above the rest. So if you’re ready to invest in a tool that can handle the most demanding work conditions, we recommend you take a good long look at one of these impressive professional saws.
You might also enjoy: Review of the Top Chainsaw Chaps
View the Best Professional Chainsaw on the market, Below.
- Husqvarna 455 Rancher
- Makita EA6100PRGG 20″ Chain Saw
- CRAFTSMAN S165 2-Cycle 16 ” Gas Chainsaw
- ECHO CS-310-14 2-Stroke Cycle Chainsaw
- Husqvarna 460 24” Rancher
- Poulan Pro PR5020 50cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
- Echo CS-590-20AA Gas Chainsaw
- Husqvarna 545 Mark II Gas Chainsaw
- Poulan Pro PR4218 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
- COOCHEER 62CC 2 Stroke Gas Chainsaw
1. Husqvarna 455 Rancher
Best for Smooth, Vibration-free Performance
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is a powerhouse. It's capable of a maximum power output of 3.49 hp, thanks to its 55.5cc motor. That’s enough power to cut through even the hardest wood with ease! The inclusion of X-Torq technology helps it consume less fuel while outputting a minimal amount of fumes. And for added comfort and safety, it features a comfortable rubber-coated handlebar and produces almost no vibrations - this is all thanks to its patented LowVib technology.
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is one of the best professional models out there. It’s can reach a max speed of 9000 RPM, and the 20-inch bar length means it’s capable of making quick cuts through even the thickest wood. Its smooth, vibration-free performance means less user fatigue and better control. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to start, despite being a gas-powered chainsaw. Gas chainsaws are usually pretty reliable, and this one tops our list.
Check Price on Amazon ➞2. Makita EA6100PRGG 20″ Chain Saw
Best Professional Chainsaw for Less Vibration
The Makita 20” 61cc Professional Chain Saw (EA6100PR) is designed to vibrate less. It has a 61cc engine that delivers 4.6 HP of power. The Easy Start spring-assisted starter helps the saw fire up with ease. It comes equipped with a heavy-duty air filter system, which extends the saw's life. In addition, there is a Touch & Stop single lever operation that's been engineered to kill the engine for added convenience and safety.
Other features include an easy-to-clean chain compartment so you can clear out unwanted wood chips from the machine. The advanced vibration dampening system reduces the machine's vibration, making it easier on your body during operation.
Check Price on Amazon ➞VIEW ON HOME DEPOT ➞
3. CRAFTSMAN S165 2-Cycle 16 ” Gas Chainsaw
Professional Chainsaw with Easy Start
The Craftsman S165 2-Cycle 16" Gas Chainsaw provides power with less vibration. It features a low kickback chain that slices through wood effortlessly. The saw is lightweight but built for durability, with a polymer chassis that can handle prolonged use without causing excessive user fatigue. It has been designed with Easystart technology for easy pull starts. The ergonomic balanced design has a three-point anti-vibration system that creates a highly maneuverable and remarkably balanced saw. The saw comes with a manual increase/decrease for oil flow. It helps ensure that the saw's chain stays fully lubricated while in use.
Check Price on Amazon ➞4. ECHO CS-310-14 2-Stroke Cycle Chainsaw
Small but Mighty Workhorse Chainsaw
The ECHO CS-310-14 2-Stroke Cycle Chainsaw is a gas-powered chainsaw with an anti-vibration handle and an automatic oiler. The chainsaw also comes with a chain, bar, two-stroke oil tank, an operator's manual, and a 14-inch bar length. But don't let the ECHO chainsaw's small size fool you! The chainsaw has ample power to take care of most cutting jobs. The chainsaw also features an 8.5-ounce fuel tank capacity.
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5. Husqvarna 460 24” Rancher
Best Chainsaw for Power at a Reasonable Price
This Husqvarna chainsaw features a longer guide bar and a powerful 60cc two-cycle engine. The X-Torq technology allows the engine to deliver high torque over a wide velocity range. For ease of use, it’s designed with Smart Start technology and a side-mounted chain tensioner. Plus, this sturdy 21lb chainsaw is easy to control thanks to an ergonomically designed handle and less vibration.
Backed by a powerful engine, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is a true powerhouse. It’s capable of producing high torque even at the highest RPMs. Add this power to the oversized 24-inch guide rail, and it can handle the toughest job in record time. It runs smoothly and is easy to handle. Put this all together, and it’s clear to see why it’s one of the most popular professional models on the market today.
Check Price on Amazon ➞6. Poulan Pro PR5020 50cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
Top Professional Chainsaw for Reduced Emissions
The Poulan Pro PR5020 50cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw features innovative OxyPower engine technology that gives you the power to tackle any cutting job. The engine also has 70 percent fewer emissions while using 20 percent less fuel. The engine has an effortless pull start system, making it 30 percent easier to start, reducing the wear of the saw's starter mechanism.
The saw's handle features a combo tool to let you perform all the necessary maintenance the saw might need during its lifetime. There is a purge bulb that gives the carburetor fuel, so it requires fewer pulls to start. The user-friendly choke/stop control enables fast start times and even greater reliability. Also, it reduces the engine's risk of flooding.
Check Price on Amazon ➞VIEW ON HOME DEPOT ➞
7. Echo CS-590-20AA Gas Chainsaw
Best Functional Chainsaw
The Echo CS-590-20AA Gas Chainsaw has a digital ignition switch that adjusts the engine's timing. There is also a side-access chain tensioner that helps you adjust the chain even further. The design of the choke prevents unwanted engine flooding when you're trying to start the machine. This highly functional chainsaw boasts a heavy-duty build and is designed for optimum function. The easy-access air filter offers impressive filtration. The clutch-driven oiler cuts down on oil consumption when operating this chainsaw.
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8. Husqvarna 545 Mark II Gas Chainsaw
Best Chainsaw for Safety
The Husqvarna 967690628 545 Mark II is a 50cc gas saw that features an X-Torq engine and magnesium crankcase for maximum power. The SmartStart starter makes starting the saw a breeze. With the AutoTune carburetor, the chainsaw runs smoothly with reduced vibration. The saw comes with a Husqvarna X-Cut chain and an X-Force bar.
There is a side-mounted tensioning system so you can make rapid adjustments when in use. The Inertia activated chain brake is also an added safety feature that prevents injury from kickback. Easily clean away sawdust and wood debris from the air filter with the quick release design. The chainsaw comes with a two-year consumer warranty that can be extended up to five years.
TRACTOR SUPPLY CO ➞9. Poulan Pro PR4218 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
Top Choice Chainsaw for Low Fuel Consumption
Poulan Pro PR4218 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw features OxyPower for maximum fuel consumption without losing power. Also, the engine produces reduced emissions. You can say goodbye to oiling the chainsaw. It has an automatic gear-driven oiler that helps to lubricate the bar and chain. It reduces wear and helps to eliminate maintenance.
With the SuperClean filtering system, you'll achieve longer engine life and lower fuel consumption without any power reduction. The effortless pull starting system has a spring assist cord that makes it easy to pull. There is also a purge bulb for simple starts. You'll even get to reduce the number of cord pulls substantially.
The ergonomic design and anti-vibration features help eliminate user fatigue. There's also an integrated storage compartment with a locking cover so you can carry out chain tensioning when needed.
Check Price on Amazon ➞10. COOCHEER 62CC 2 Stroke Gas Chainsaw
Best Professional Chainsaw for Safety Features
The COOCHEER 62CC2 Stroke Gas Chainsaw features 3.5 HP with a 62CC engine. The two-stroke motor produces lower emissions and reduces fuel consumption, reaching speeds of up to 8500 RPM. The 20-inch bar has a low-kickback chain for added safety, and the Super Air Filtration System prevents dust from clogging up the motor. It features a split sprocket internal structure with three-tier gas filtration.
When the chainsaw's engine becomes hot, it won't turn off. This makes it ideal for operation in the summer months. The built-in automatic chain oiler keeps the chainsaw functioning. The chainsaw is made from ABS plastic materials that can withstand high temperatures. The valve throttle switch ensures greater safety during operation. It features a luxury handle to minimize the machine's shake, making operating the saw more comfortable on the hands, forearms, and wrists. The saw is equipped with guide plate sets to protect the chain and prevent rusting. A low heat exhaust helps ensure safer operation during drought conditions.
Check Price on Amazon ➞What to Look for When Buying a Professional Chainsaw
There are tons of chainsaws on the market today, but not all of them are right for professional use. If you want to purchase a model that can handle the demands of your job, there are a few things to consider.
Engine
Professionals usually need a chainsaw that can handle a serious workload. You want a roaring gas chainsaw that can slice through the toughest conditions with ease. Sure, there are electric and cordless chainsaws out there, but only a gas-powered model will do for real heavy-duty work. That’s why the first thing you should consider is the engine and how much power it delivers. When it’s time to cut down large trees or saw through wood, you need the output that a gas-powered chain saw offers.
When shopping for a professional chainsaw, you need to evaluate the power of the engine. The tool’s power output is measured in cc. The higher the cc, the more powerful the chainsaw will be. Generally, a chainsaw that’s used for professional work should offer somewhere between 35 and 80cc’s of power.
But while someone who’s felling small trees can make do with a model that sits in the lower end of this range, true heavy-duty work will likely require a model that’s on the higher end of the spectrum.
Bar Length
Any chainsaw will eventually harvest wood, but you don’t want the job to take forever. A slow cutting speed is going to be time-consuming. More importantly, it’s going to wear both you and your tool down, sapping you of energy and shortening the lifespan of your chainsaw. That’s why you need to consider the type of work you’ll be performing if you want to purchase the right chainsaw for the job. First, consider the average width of the trees you plan to cut.
Are you going to be cutting down small trees measuring 8 inches in diameter, or are you felling sycamores measuring 60 feet high? A smaller sized chainsaw that can handle really thick cuts will offer a larger cutting capacity and higher performance.
Focus on the chainsaw’s bar length. The bar is the long part of the tool that protrudes out from its body, securing the chain. The longer the bar is, the deeper and faster the chain can cut. Models offer bar lengths ranging from 10 to 24 inches. While models with bar lengths in the teens might be capable of handling average workloads, really thick cuts will call for a model measuring closer to the 20 or 24-inch mark.
Ease of Use
A chainsaw is a powerful tool, but it can also be dangerous. You don’t want to purchase a model that’s too heavy, has awkward handles, or feels off-balance. Combating issues like these will take a toll on your body. Even worse, they can make your motions unsteady, increasing your risk of injury. To prevent this, look for a model that isn’t too heavy for you to handle.
Also, gauge the feel of the tool. You want to purchase a chainsaw that feels centered and balanced. It should also be designed with ergonomic handles that allow you to maintain a comfortable, firm grip. Remember, you’ll be using your professional chainsaw for hours each day. Taking these factors into consideration will reduce fatigue, boost your efficiency, and allow you to maintain better control over your power tool. If you need to cut wood precisely, we recommend a track saw, as reviewed here.
Maintenance
It’s only natural for a tool that’s used to chop down large trees and saw through lumber to be on the receiving end of a lot of wear and tear. Left unchecked, this wear and tear can shorten the life of even the best chainsaw. That’s where maintenance comes in. Proper maintenance will keep your new professional powerhouse running like new. But you don’t want to lose valuable time while your tool is out being serviced. Luckily, professional chainsaws are built with productivity in mind.
They can be disassembled and put back together quickly and easily. This means you can swap out the worn or damaged part, reassemble the tool, and get back to work. That’s why it’s important to make sure that the model you select is designed with this type of easy maintenance and repair in mind.
What Chainsaw Does Professional Loggers Use?
Professional log splitter loggers work in extreme conditions. They’re in the field cutting down massive trees on a daily basis. That’s why they can’t count on a run-of-the-mill consumer-grade chainsaw. Instead, they turn to pro chainsaws that can handle the demands of their job. These professional versions deliver the increased performance, power, and durability they’re looking for. Designed to provide easy handling for tough conditions that log jacks encounter daily, these pro-grade chainsaws offer the specs and features needed to conquer extreme conditions.
While there are plenty of options to choose from, all commercial-grade models have the following things in common. These workhorses will feature a longer bar length, a more powerful engine, and a sturdier design. These features will allow them to make quick cuts through thick wood with a minimum amount of hassle.
Professional-grade chainsaws also tend to have a more balanced design and a top handle. These design features allow you to comfortably handle the tool for extended periods of time while providing extra safety features and control for downward cuts. And since loggers will be using their professional saws for hours per day, most professional models are built to withstand years of abuse. This is usually evident by the extended warranties offered on many of these companies.
While consumer chainsaws might have a limited period of coverage, most professional chainsaws will come backed with a 1 or 2-year warranty. So while professional models might look similar to their residential-use counterparts, there are some clear differences, namely improved power, comfort, cutting ability, and durability. These features will allow the tool to last longer and provide the speed and efficiency needed to get the job done.
Choosing the Professional Chainsaw That’s Right for You
Arborists, landscapers, harvest wood woodcutters, and log jacks encounter tough conditions that a run-of-the-mill residential-grade chainsaw simply can’t handle. To get these jobs done efficiently, you need the power, speed, and durability that only a professional chainsaw can provide. These tough hand tools are designed to slice through thick hardwood like butter. But when shopping for a professional-grade chainsaw, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.
You want a model’s power and bar length to reflect the type of conditions you’re going to encounter. For example, if you’re trimming branches and cutting down thin trees, a chainsaw with between 30 to 40cc of power and a guide bar between 12 and 18 inches will give you the power and cutting capacity you need.
But for cutting thick 60-foot trees down in record time, the best bet is to find a tool with at least 50cc of power and a guide bar measuring between 20 and 24 inches. This will ensure it can chew up those thick trees safely and quickly, saving your tool from unnecessary wear and tear. This will end up saving you time and money in the long run.
Don’t forget to sharpen your chain! Nothing can slow a chainsaw’s performance down like a dull chain. While a sharp chain allows you to slice through wood with almost no physical force, a dull chain will require you to push the guide bar through the wood while barely making a dent. Not only will it take forever to cut anything, but it creates a safety hazard and can cause premature wear on your tool. The good news is that it’s easy to know when it’s time to sharpen your chain.
You’ll know your chain is dull when you have to force the tool to cut or when it spits out fine dust instead of larger wood chips. When either of these things happens, it’s time to take your chain off and sharpen or replace it. This will guarantee that your tool continues to perform well while ensuring your safety and the long lifespan of your professional chainsaw.
Did You Know?
For safe operation, it’s important to choose the right maximum bar length and follow the safety instructions. The bar length of your chainsaw should be 2 inches longer than the wood you’ll be cutting. This means that someone cutting 18-inch trees regularly should purchase a model with at least a 20-inch guide bar.