Chainsaw at Menards had to laugh. Menards tree trimmer

Chainsaw at Menards. had to laugh

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schlot

Minister of Fire

Passed by the chainsaw display area at Menards this weekend. I noticed they had an EFCO and took a look at it. Now I’m no chainsaw expert but even I knew there was something wrong with how they installed the chain on this one.What makes it worse is that there is a diagram showing them how to install the chain right on the case!

While I was looking at it a younger salesman walks by and asks if I needed help. I said no but politely said they had the chain on backwards. He jokingly said something like “Well it keeps the customers from using the chainsaws on them (store employees)”. I mentioned that I thought it would help from making a customer angry and wanting to use it on them in the first place.

Needless to say he laughed and walked away. I took a look at the remainder of the saws and there was another saw with the chain on backwards also.Got to love a big box store!

Poulan Pro 50cc.20″ Bar Olympic 251 Echo CS3450. 16″ Bar Gransfors Bruk 22 ton Speeco splitter on indefinite loan from the FIL A big ole steel maul. orange to be precise

Backwoods Savage

Minister of Fire

Very common. Look around at the wagons and lawn mowers too. Many times you’ll find the valve stem on the inside of the tire. “Hold my beer. I have to jack it up and crawl under this thing to put some air in the tire.”

Over 50 years heating with wood; Woodstock Fireview; STIHL Farm Boss 290 STIHL 180; 20 ton MTD Splitter One ornery wife.

Thistle

Minister of Fire

Granberg Mk III Alaskan 36″ Mill McCulloch Super Pro 125C.404 General 30″ roller nose bar McCulloch Pro Mac 610 16″ McCulloch 10-10 Automatic 16″ McCulloch 1-42 Husky 2100CD Husky 288XPW 24″,28″,36″,42″ Full Chisel,Skip Tooth Poulan Pro Super 380 20″ Full Chisel Poulan 3400 20″ (Dad’s old green machine-Retired now,still runs great all tuned up.) Echo 280E Top Handle 12″ Husky 327P5x Pole Saw Fiskars X25 Original Sotz Monster Maul with re-welded handle Stanley 20 lb Sledge. Plumb 12 lb Sledge Wetterlings,Mueller Helko Twisted Wedges Old 4 6 lb wedges,ancient 16 lb wedge (yes really!) Plumb 3 5 lb Single Double Bit Axes Saving for a STIHL 090 Severe Wood Addict

ArsenalDon

Minister of Fire

Quadra-Fire Isle Royale heating 3,000 square feet perfectly. Husqvarna 1827EXLT 27-Inch 414cc SnowKing Gas Powered Two Stage Snow Thrower With Electric Start, Power Steering Trac Hydro Drive Husqvarna 460 Rancher Chain Saw

Fiskars X27 splitting Axe. A Modern Miracle

BrotherBart

Yep. I never buy the one off the floor.I want it in the crate and want to put it together myself. Learned that lesson after the third Sears edge trimmer many years ago.

Made an exception on the log splitter in 1988. You could buy them in the crate or pay more for assembled with the hydraulic fluid already filled. Bought it in the crate at Lowe’s. Pulled up to the dock to load and the kid said “Damn. That thing is heavy and on the top rack. Would it be alright to give you this assembled one here?”. No problem. I’ll take thirty bucks or so in hydro fluid. Dropped the trailer in the parking lot and hooked up and took it home. Went back for the trailer and went in and asked the department manager for the manual and warranty paperwork since it wasn’t with the splitter.

Guy glared at me and handed me the stuff and said “Your the one huh?”. Chuckled and left and went home and tightened every bolt and nut on that splitter.

Two Englander 30-NCLs Heat Redefined (One a spare in waiting), Englander 25-PDVC Poulan Pro 405 65cc, 2 Husky 142s, Chusky 5200, Poulan 1975, 1988 Duerr Splitter

Lots of people make’em. Lots of people sell’em. Hearth.com shows you how to use’em. All posts now gluten free and contain no trans fats.

Menards Masterforce 80V OPE

Are you looking for an Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) tool to buy into? If so have you ever heard of Masterforce or Menards? Don’t worry if you haven’t. Today we are going to get you familiar with Menards, Masterforce, and the Menards Masterforce 80V OPE Line.

If you are familiar with Menards and Masterforce, feel free to skip down to the Masterfocre 80V line of products.

Who is Menards

If you are in the midwest, chances are you have heard of Menards. However, if you are on the coast, Menards is probably a name you don’t know.

Menards started in 1958 by John Menards Jr. He started out building pole buildings. As his reputation increased, so did his offerings. Today Menards is in 14 states in the midwest. So as you can see, they have come a long way since 1958.

Menards is a home improvement center but it’s not your typical store. When Menards stocks their store, they go big. If you look at other home improvement centers, they might have an aisle or two of lights where Menards has a huge variety of lights, fans and more. Same with the lumber. Actually Menards will rival most dedicated lumber yards. When it comes to product, selection, and price, Menards just can’t be beaten. Heck, you can even get some groceries and personal care products as well.

Who is Masterforce

You might not have heard of Masterforce before and if you haven’t don’t sweat it. Maybe you live on the coast and never heard of Menards. If so, then Masterforce is a new name for you. Heck, even if you live in the midwest, you might not have heard of Masterforce.

So who is Masterforce? Masterforce is the house brand for Menards. (See all their products at Menards website). Right now Masterforce has products such as power tools, hand tools, accessories, and more. Today we are here because now they are offering OPE tools, which we will cover in a bit. But first I want you to understand Masterforce.

So as you would guess, Menards is a distributor so they are not in the business of manufacturing tools. So who do they use for their tool line? This was the question I wanted answering because it would tell me a lot about the commitment of Menards, the quality of the products, and if this is something I can back.

Let’s just say Menards doesn’t hold back and they work with some of the best manufacturers in the world. They work with companies that build quality tools, reliable battery platforms, and tools that offer great features.

So when I look at Menards and their commitment, I know Menards is going all out since they are working with some of the best in the business for their house brand. I know the quality is there, so I know it’s a brand I can back.

The Partnership

As you would guess, I think this is the perfect partnership. Menards is in 14 states and has a ton of foot traffic because people love the stores. As Menards is expanding their stores, they are expanding the line of tools they offer under the Masterforce brand.

With offering a quality tool in a store that has tons of foot traffic, I am glad to see Menards is expanding the house brand Masterforce into OPE and I think this is a great partnership.

Masterforce The Brand

Before we jump into the OPE tools, I want to talk about three features of these tools so I am not repeating myself for each tool.

• Brushless – All Masterforce 80V OPE tools have brushless motors which means they are efficient, have longer run times, and increase the longevity of the tools.
• Rapid Charger – Masterforce 80V tools come with a Rapid charger. The charger will charge a 2Ah battery in 30 minutes and a 4Ah battery in an hour.
• Warranty – All 80V Masterforce OPE tools have a 4-year warranty.

Menards tree trimmer

Menards is a great place to go for any tools you might need for your home project. You can find anything from tile saws to drum sanders. But, rather than buy each tool, you may want to rent to save money. Chances are high you’ll only use that tool once or twice as well.

So, what tools can you rent at Menards? Here’s a complete list. Keep in mind that not all stores rent out every piece of equipment listed.

Crazy Fast Chainsaws

Menards Tools for the Outdoors

• Post hole diggers
• Lawn rollers
• Post drivers
• Dethatchers

Menards Tools For Your Floor

• Tile saws
• Sandpaper and sand discs
• Floor pads and backer pads
• Edger discs
• Floor scrapers
• Drum sanders
• Floor sanders
• Floor polisher
• Floor staplers
• Floor rollers
• Floor edgers
• Carpet install kits
• Carpet seam irons
• Carpet stretchers
• Carpet kickers
• Carpet blowers
• Carpet cleaning machines
• Circular scrub brushes

General Construction – Power tools and

• Hammer drills
• Framing nailers
• Finish nailers
• Roofing nailers
• Foggers and fogger filters
• Miter saws
• Table saws
• Foamboard staplers
• Reciprocating saws
• Air compressors
• Outdoor extension cords
• Shingle cutters
• Industrial outdoor cleaners
• Industrial carpet cleaners
• Odor removers
• Fabric and upholstery cleaners
• Urine and spot removers
• Pressure washers
• Commercial drum fans
• Insulation blowers

Ladders and Scaffolding

• Scaffold base plates
• Scaffolding
• Scaffolding frames
• Scaffold guard rail
• Scaffolding leveling jacks
• Fiberglass step ladders
• Fiberglass extension ladders
• Aluminum plywood walk boards
• Scaffold casters
• Drywall lift
• Drywall screw gun
• Pattern pistol gun

Concrete Tools

Hopefully, you can find what you need for your next home project at Menards. Remember to check your local store for rental equipment and tools. Not all stores will rent out the same equipment.

When storage space is limited, or you do not want to invest in expensive equipment, renting tools is a great idea.

No matter if you are renting or owning a home, renting tools to do a job, can be frustrating if you don’t have the right tools. From the basics, such as drills and saws, to heavy machines, such as lifts, Menards provides a variety of tools, such as drills, saws, and earthmovers, for rent.

If I were to rent tools, I would save money on equipment I won’t often be using and be able to do larger, more complex jobs. Furthermore, given the rising costs of forming tools and other segments, renting tools and other segments can be more cost-effective than purchasing them due to inflation.

If you’re considering a home improvement project, renting tools from Menards could be the key to success. With a wide selection of tools and heavy machinery available, you can take on projects that seemed impossible before.

Having the right tools for the job really does make a huge difference!

Thanks for reading! For more home improvement tips and guides, check out the articles below.

Prune the trees on your property safely and efficiently with the pole saw that best suits your needs.

By Glenda Taylor and Timothy Dale and Mark Wolfe | Updated May 19, 2023 12:54 PM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

In order to stay healthy and look their best, trees need occasional pruning to remove broken branches and to thin out dense limbs. One of the best ways to tackle this sort of project is with a pole saw. While it’s basically a chainsaw attached to a long pole, a pole saw holds the blade securely, letting you reach up to cut branches while remaining safely on the ground.

Although pole saws can make pruning a whole lot easier, they’re not right for every situation. If you only need to prune thin twigs, vines, or foliage, you may not need one. However, if you need to cut tree branches between 2 and 8 inches in diameter, a pole saw could be just the ticket.

To find out which pole saws perform the best, we field-tested some of the best options on the market. Keep reading to see our results and to learn about the main considerations when selecting a trimming tool for your landscaping needs.

• BEST OVERALL:Greenworks 40V Cordless Pole Saw
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Worx 8-Amp 10-Inch Corded Pole Saw Chainsaw
• BEST BATTERY:Ego Power 10-Inch 56-Volt Multi Head Pole Saw
• BEST CORDED ELECTRIC:Sun Joe 8-Inch 6.5-Amp Telescoping Electric
• BEST LIGHT-DUTY:Worx 20V Power Share 8-Inch Pole Saw
• BEST HEAVY-DUTY:Maxtra Gas Pole Saw 2-Cycle Tree Trimmer
• BEST GAS COMBO:Proyama Powerful 5-in-1 Multi Functional Pole Saw

How We Chose the Best Pole Saws

We used the pole saws in this guide to trim up encroaching branches from a backyard’s natural area. The area included a mix of green hardwoods and evergreens, as well as hardened dead branches. We did our best to push each tool to its operable limits in terms of working height, difficulty of reach or angle, and branch diameter.

We based our considerations and Комментарии и мнения владельцев on the tools’ physical measurements, as well as the ways they performed and felt. We assumed that most readers would not require an expensive pro-quality tool for daily use but would still be interested in high-quality equipment capable of occasional long work days. Therefore, we based our top picks on a combination of functionality, durability, and price point.

Our Top Picks

We tested the following products extensively based on the available types of pole saws available. Each pole saw was selected based on its reputation for quality in a range of areas, such as cutting- bar length, working height, runtime, weight, and overall capability. Use our reviews to help choose the best pole saw to maintain the trees, hedges, and other foliage in your yard.

Greenworks 40V Cordless Pole Saw

With 40 volts of power, the Greenworks cordless pole saw offers top-notch cutting ability in a convenient battery-operated saw. It’s lightweight at just 9.3 pounds and particularly easy to handle, thanks to the inclusion of reduced vibration technology. The cordless pole saw comes with a battery and a charger, and it can be started instantly with the simple push-button control instead of having to deal with the pull cords on gas pole saws.

The pole saw is great for reaching those high-up branches thanks to the tool’s generous pole length. Its telescoping bar extends for a nearly 9-foot working height and it has an 8-inch cutting bar enabling users to cut through out-of-reach branches up to about 6 inches in diameter. This pole saw is available as a stand-alone tool or as a multi-tool kit with a power hedge-trimmer attachment. The same 40-volt powerhead and battery run both attachments, saving space in the garage.

Best “Pole Saw” Chainsaw? EGO vs Milwaukee, Oregon, DeWalt, Ryobi, Worx, Craftsman, Sun Joe

We liked the combination of convenience, weight, and reach that this saw offered. The 40-volt battery delivers plenty of power to cut through even dry, hardened dead branches. Plus the bar is mounted at a slight angle to the handle, making it safer and easier to cut branches in a downward direction when standing back away from the line of fall.

• Good power and runtime for ample amounts of cutting tasks
• Angled bar for better leverage while cutting wood and branches
• Lightweight but strong construction will not cause strain on the user
• Plenty of reach for high branches and maneuverability
• Limited to smaller branch diameters; may not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting
• Small bar oil reservoir may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
• Battery sticks in the housing

Get the Greenworks pole saw at Amazon.

Worx 8-Amp 10-inch Corded Pole Saw Chainsaw

The Worx corded electric pole chain saw is an affordable 2-in-1 power tool that can be used as both a pole saw when the extension pole is attached and as a regular chainsaw without the extension pole. The telescoping pole is 8 feet in length, giving the pole saw up to 10 feet of working range when it is fully extended. Weighing in at just 10 pounds, this pole saw is made so that it’s easy to hold and maneuver.

The corded pole saw features built-in automatic chain lubrication to ensure that the chain portion of the saw is always operating at peak efficiency, making for quicker, more controlled cuts. With a 10-inch cutting bar, the pole saw can be used on branches or tree trunks that are up to 8 inches in diameter. It also includes a blade protection cover to keep the saw blade safe when it’s not in use.

Testing this electric pole chain saw was a unique experience. Because a whole chainsaw is attached by means of a mechanical adapter to the top of the extension pole, the tool is top-heavy. However, being a corded electric saw, it offers lots of power and a long 10-inch bar. The saw is easy to attach to and detach from the pole in about a minute. The best attribute is its versatility.

• Versatile electric chainsaw or pole chainsaw for a variety of cutting tasks
• Powerful motor can take on longer tasks with ease
• 10-inch cutting bar length provides ample reach and cutting power
• Top-heavy design may not be comfortable for some users
• Not comfortable for extended use or long runtimes
• Attachment system is somewhat clunky

Bet the Worx saw chainsaw at Amazon.

Ego Power 10-Inch 56V Multi Head Pole Saw

The Ego Power 56-volt tool collection includes a variety of mowers, blowers, and other cordless electric yard maintenance tools, all powered by the same 56-volt arc rechargeable lithium-ion battery. These tools boast gas-like power in a clean, cordless package. This pole chainsaw is part of Ego’s multi-attachment powerhead series, which includes seven other interchangeable attachments: a bristle brush, a rubber broom, a cultivator, a hedge trimmer, a string trimmer, and a pole extension. It is available as the attachment only or sold with the powerhead.

The saw offers ample cutting power and a generous 10-inch cutting bar length and is capable of cutting through an 8-inch limb. The assembled tool length is about 7.5 feet, which may be extended by adding the optional 31-inch pole extension (sold separately). If this is the only Ego tool owned, it will be costly due to the price of the lithium-ion battery, but adding it to an existing Ego lineup brings the cost in line with other cordless pole chainsaws.

We liked this tool a lot. The heavy battery at the back end makes it balance more like a gas- powered saw, with cutting power to match, and the overall weight was lighter than most gas pole saws. Without an extension pole, the reach is shorter than most other pole saws, but it could be adequate for some.

• Long lithium-ion battery runtime provides enough power for multiple tasks
• Excellent power per charge; provides 56 volts of power
• Powerhead works with 7 other attachments for a variety of tasks

Get the Ego Power pole saw at Amazon.

Sun Joe 8-Inch 6.5-Amp Telescoping Electric Saw

Weighing just 7 pounds, the lightweight Sun Joe corded electric pole saw is a great option if the pole saw needs to be used for more than an hour at a time. Users won’t need to wait for a battery to recharge or have to make a trip to the gas station with this corded electric tool that can run as long as there is an active electrical connection. However, movement is limited by the length of the extension cord, so it’s a good idea to invest in a cord that can reach any trees or hedges in the yard.

This pole saw has a telescoping pole that can extend more than 8 feet, giving the user about 10.7 feet of maximum working height. It can cut through branches up to 6 inches thick with the 8-inch cutting bar length, and the pole saw automatically lubricates itself to help keep the saw blade in good working order.

We liked the ease of plug-and-play without having to worry about mixing fuel or charging a battery. This saw feels lightweight, yet it offers enough power to cut through branches of small to medium thickness and is well-balanced. It’s a practical and budget-friendly choice for occasional use.

• Plug-and-play convenience for quick and easy use
• High-quality OrEgon-brand bar and chain for long-term use and durability
• Comfortable for occasional extended use during DIY projects
• Only for use on smaller branches
• Fixed straight bar does not cut directly downward
• Small bar-oil reservoir; may not meet some users’ needs

Get the Sun Joe electric saw at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., or Target.

Worx 20V Power Share 8-Inch Pole Saw

This cordless pole saw is ideal for those with small to midsize yards that dont need the heavy-duty power of gas pole saws. Powerful enough to trim branches up to 6.5 inches in diameter, it boasts a telescoping pole that gives users a maximum working height of 13 feet.

This battery-powered pole saw also has an automatic chain tensioner and a chain lube system, and it weighs 8 pounds. Plus, it’s budget-friendly. However, one of the best features of this tool is the three-position head that gives the user the option between 0 degrees, 15 degrees, or 30 degrees to help trim hard-to-reach branches.

This was the lightest-weight non-corded pole saw we tested, and it was only a pound heavier than the lightest overall. The 20-volt battery delivers a surprising amount of power, good for cutting all of the branches we tried. And it offers a really tall reach. For occasional use on a branch or two, this tool makes a lot of sense.

• Lightweight but powerfull; suitable for light- to heavy-duty use
• Comfortable to work with; will nto cause strain on the user
• Long reach for maneuvering in hard-to-reach places
• Compact size for ease of storage
• Relatively short runtime compared to similar pole saws available
• Small bar-oil reservoir; may not be suitable for some users’ preferences
• Clamps allow the telescoping pole to slip from the locked position

Get the Worx pole saw at Amazon, Target, or Tractor Supply Co.

Maxtra Gas Pole Saw 2-Cycle Tree Trimmer

This pole saw has a 10-inch cutting bar that can be used for pruning or trimming branches up to 8 inches in diameter. Even more impressive is the telescoping pole that can be adjusted from 8 feet to more than 11 feet, giving the user a maximum working height of about 13 feet.

However, the quick pace at which this pole saw cuts is due to the powerful gas engine. The power produced by the 42.7-cc 2-cycle engine allows users to handle heavy-duty tasks, like cutting down small trees or removing large branches. It weighs in at a hefty 21 pounds.

The first thing we noticed about this saw was how much heavier it is than the electric and cordless models. The weight is held at the bottom of the saw instead of at the cutting head, so it balances much differently. The included harness is necessary to reduce user fatigue. The huge fuel tank will offer hours of runtime, so for tough jobs and extended use, this saw would be a good choice.

• 10-inch cutting bar provides good reach for easy maneuvering around the yard or garden
• Powerful 2-cycle motor can take on thicker branches and wood
• Includes a harness to reduce operator fatigue
• than twice as heavy as electric; may not be suitable for some users
• Loud engine noise may cause some noise pollution
• Awkward pole assembly system; may be tricky for first-timers

Get the Maxtra tree trimmer at Amazon.

Proyama Powerful 5-in-1 Multi-Functional Pole Saw

Powerful yet lightweight, this Proyama gas-powered pole saw weighs just 13 pounds, despite the 42.7cc 2-cycle motor. The pole saw is easy to lift, hold, and maneuver, and it has a telescoping pole that can be adjusted from 8 feet to just over 11 feet, giving the user a maximum working height of about 13 feet. This pole saw can be used on branches up to 10 inches in diameter due to its long 12-inch cutting bar.

Included with the gas-powered pole saw are several additional trimming tools that can be attached in place of the pole saw. These extra attachments include a hedge trimmer, a brush cutter, and a string trimmer. The pole saw also includes ear protection, a face shield, safety gloves, and a pole saw bar scabbard to help keep the pole saw blade safe when not in use.

We appreciated the robust cutting power and reach this tool offered. The ample- size bar and powerful motor is capable of cutting through dangerously large branches. User beware, though; take down those big branches in smaller sections. We found the big gas engine to be excessively heavy for continuous use; thankfully, though, a harness is included.

• Very powerful engine can take on heavy-duty tasks
• Long cutting bar provides ample reach in gardens and yards
• Large fuel tank for all-day use or heavy-duty tasks
• Very heavy compared to similar options available
• Loud engine noise may cause some noise pollution
• Awkward pin and tension screw pole assembly system

Get the Proyama trimming tool at Amazon.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Pole Saw

Like all power tools, pole saws are designed to suit various needs; some are geared toward the do-it-yourselfer, while others are better suited for professionals. Consider the following factors when shopping.

Types of Pole Saws

Pole saw power options include corded electric, battery-operated, and gas-powered. Not only does the type of power affect the cost of the saw, but it also factors into its intended use. Get to know these three types of pole saws better to find the right one for your landscaping needs.

Corded Electric

For users with small yards, corded electric pole saws are an affordable option. Since it connects to a power outlet, however, users are restricted in how far they can trim by the length of an extension cord. Electric pole saws are quieter than gas-powered pole saws, but don’t expect silent operation—all pole saws make noise.

Electric pole saws aren’t as powerful as gas-powered models; the power they produce is measured in amperes (amps) and most range from 6 to 10 amps, which is powerful enough to cut branches from 2 to 5 inches in diameter.

Battery-Operated

Cordless pole saws are powered by rechargeable batteries. They’re a good choice for medium-size to large yards if users don’t want to be restricted by the length of an extension cord. These pole saws are ideal for branches 3 to 8 inches in diameter and are quieter than their gas-powered counterparts.

Cordless pole saws’ power capability is measured in volts, which relates to battery size, and ranges from 40 to 80 volts. The higher the volts, the more powerful the saw. Battery-operated pole saws are typically more expensive than their corded counterparts.

Gas-Powered

If there are a lot of trees to trim and the user doesn’t mind the noise, a gas-powered pole saw is a good option. Gas pole saws are measured by engine size in cubic centimeters (cc) and range from 20 to 40cc. The larger the engine, the more powerful the saw.

Professionals often use commercial-grade gas-powered pole saws because they can operate for hours and cut through branches up to 8 inches in diameter (branches larger than 12 inches in diameter are usually cut with heavy-duty chainsaws).

With the increased power of a gas pole saw comes a higher price and more maintenance requirements. Unlike electric tools, gas-powered saws require oil changes and fuel tank refills.

Cutting Bar Length

On a pole saw, the cutting bar determines the maximum branch diameter that can be cut. Bar lengths run from 6 to 12 inches, with 8 inches being the most common. Gas-powered pole saws feature the longest cutting bars (usually between 10 and 12 inches), which is one of the reasons they’re better equipped for tougher jobs.

The standard rule of thumb is that the cutting bar should be a minimum of 2 inches longer than the diameter of the branch. For example, an 8-inch bar is needed to cut a branch 6 inches in diameter.

Working Height

A pole saw’s “working height” often appears on the packaging but doesn’t indicate the actual length of the pole—it refers to the length of the pole plus an arm length. Manufacturers typically estimate 2 to 3 feet for arm length, so if the pole saw claims to have a 10-foot working height, the pole saw will be 7 to 8 feet long from tip to tip.

Most pole saws max out at a 10-foot to 12-foot working height; at greater heights, the tool can become difficult to control safely, especially in windy conditions. Many models include telescoping poles that allow length adjustment. A telescoping pole makes it easier to quickly switch between trimming the hedge at ground level and cutting a tree branch 6 feet overhead.

Runtime

Both cordless and gas pole saws rely on fuel that will gradually run out as the tool runs. Gas pole saws eventually need to have the gas tank refilled when they run out. Typical runtime per tank ranges from 2 to 4 hours. However, when there is spare gas available nearby, refilling the gas tank doesn’t take long.

Cordless pole saws operate on batteries that typically have a runtime between 30 to 60 minutes depending on the power output and the specific battery. Once the battery runs out, it takes about an hour to recharge. It’s a good idea to have a spare battery so that one can always be ready to use.

Weight

It’s important to remember that these tools aren’t supported by anything except the user, so the entire weight of the tool needs to be properly held, balanced, and controlled even when a telescoping pole is at its full length. If that isn’t possible for the specific user, then the tool is too heavy.

Gas pole saws have powerful engines, but the increased power also adds weight. Due to the heavy motors, they typically weigh between 20 to 25 pounds. Cordless pole saws weigh less than gas pole saws, but they can still weigh about 15 to 20 pounds.

The lightest option for a pole saw is a corded electric model. They don’t need a battery or the technology to equip and transfer battery power to a motor, so electric pole saws are usually less than 15 pounds.

Safety

Safety needs to be one of the first concerns when it comes to operating a powerful cutting tool like a pole saw. Take some time to look through the manual to know how to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations for use. Also, keep in mind that while the pole saw may feel comfortable when it’s being used at ground level on a hedge, once the pole is extended the pole saw gets more difficult to hold, maneuver, and control.

Look for pole saws that are equipped with easy-to-grip handles and telescoping poles for better control over the saw. If the current height is too difficult to manage, a telescoping pole can be shortened to help the user regain control. Saw guards are also helpful to protect the user and the saw blade when the pole saw isn’t being used.

Additional Features

Manufacturers are constantly striving to make pole saws more comfortable and easier to operate. On some saws, there are anti-vibration features and nonslip grips, and many pole saws come with a self-oiling chain. If it’s not self-oiling, the user will have to oil the chain by hand, which will be detailed in the owner’s manual.

Some pole saws feature a cutting head that can be detached from the end of the pole for use as a handheld chainsaw. This can be helpful if the desire is to cut a branch into smaller pieces after felling it for firewood.

FAQs

Pole saws are dangerous tools that should be used only by those who are confident about how to operate the tool and who have taken proper safety precautions, like wearing personal protective equipment. To learn more about how this tool can be used, take a look at these answers to commonly asked questions below.

Q. Can you use a pole saw as a chainsaw?

A pole saw is intended to cut difficult-to-reach branches in order to trim trees, hedges, and other foliage. While the saw does effectively cut through wood, it’s not large enough to fully replace a chainsaw. A chainsaw has the power and size to be able to cut through the trunk of a tree, while a pole saw is best used for tree trimming.

Q. Can you trim hedges with a pole saw?

These versatile tools can be used in place of a hedge trimmer to maintain hedges, vines, and brambles, if necessary.

Q. How big a limb can I cut with a pole saw?

Depending on the size of the saw and the power potential of the tool, pole saws can be used to cut branches from 2 to 9 inches in size. Just keep in mind that the best electric pole saw will likely have less power output than the best gas pole saw, so if the tool will be used regularly for very thick branches, then a gas pole saw would be better.

Q. Can a pole saw get wet?

While most pole saws have some resistance to water, it isn’t a good idea to get the pole saw wet because the water can damage the electric components of the tool or cause rusting and corrosion on the saw. However, it should be noted that there is no harm in using a pole saw to cut through wet wood—just make sure to properly clean the saw after use so that moisture doesn’t cling to the metal and cause rusting.

Q. Is it safe to use a pole saw on a ladder?

Even the best pole saws aren’t safe to use on a ladder. The saw is situated at the end of a long, telescoping pole that may be able to reach up to 12 feet away without the need for a ladder. Electric pole saws also have power cords that can cause users to trip, but even with a cordless pole saw it’s too difficult for the user to safely keep themselves balanced while operating this power tool on a ladder.

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