The Choice Of A Chainsaw For Harvesting Firewood
Chainsaw for firewood
If the main purpose of using a chainsaw is to harvest firewood, then the correct selection of tools can seriously help make this process hassle-free.
What if you need to cut a lot
It’s good to be able to cut from time to time only what needs to be used right now. Much more often there is such a situation that it is necessary to saw at once a large amount of wood for firewood in order to process, for example, what the car brought. Or stocking firewood for someone else. In this case, small files are no longer enough. A serious tool is needed.
However, when money is scarce, you don’t have to go straight for increasing bar length or saw power. The speed may suffer, but increased reliability will be the key to successful cutting of firewood. In this case, it is necessary to take products of well-known and proven brands. Stihl, Husqvarna and others.
The advantage of a long busbar for mass harvesting of firewood is that, with the correct layout, several whips can be cut simultaneously at once. In this case, of course, the engine power is not the last parameter. However, saws with long tires (over 18 inches) tend to have powerful motors.
Harvesting firewood often, but little by little
If you want to cut gradually, on occasion, then the main advantages of the saw will be the following:
- Easy start, especially in cold weather;
- Reliability;
- Low weight;
- Convenience (the ability to easily maneuver the saw).
In this case, a saw with as short a bar as possible, low weight would be ideal. As for the tire, the smallest tire length on the market is 10 inches (almost 25 centimeters). Such a tire is easy to maneuver, but the range of its use is very limited. A tree already more or less significant in diameter will be much more difficult to cut. An example of such a saw is the Oleo-Mac GS 260, which costs, however, completely unreasonable money. About 35 thousand rubles on the official website.
The saw is more suitable for harvesting firewood on a hike. However, it can be useful in order to stock up on fuel for a day or two in advance.
The very light chainsaws that are sold in late 2017. Early 2018 are the ECHO CS-260TES-10. With a tire length of 10 inches and a weight of less than 3 kg. This saw, with 910 watts of motor power, has a full loaded weight of 3.8 kilograms, which is less than the empty weight of many other competitors. Ideal for those who take the saw with them into the forest (not for harvesting). According to users, the device is easy to start even in frost. 30 degrees. At the same time, the design is such that it is easy to hold it with one hand, with the other, for example, holding the ladder.
For those who do not want to have a separate tool for each operation, but prefer a universal saw, we can recommend the Stihl MS-180. The most popular recommendation that is usually given in this case.
Chainsaw for firewood. Selection 2018
In principle, any saw is suitable for harvesting firewood. But knowing some of the features of chainsaws, this process can be made simple and not too tedious.
The choice of a chainsaw for harvesting firewood depends on what type of loggers the future owner belongs to. Some people prefer to cut a little, but often. Others need to stock up on a significant amount right away, especially when a large machine arrives and needs to be cleaned up on time. For different directions, the choice of a suitable chainsaw will be completely different.
Saws for which there is definitely not enough money.
And in conclusion, with the units for which an ordinary private owner will definitely not have enough money. Yes, which, frankly, are too redundant for him.
Chainsaw for preparing firewood: how to choose and cut correctly?
When collecting firewood in the forest, you need to attend to the acquisition of a good, correct ax and chainsaw. Finding the right ax for felling wood is still an art. But we will not consider this point in this article. Let’s pay attention to the choice of an automatic saw according to the parameters required for work. Let’s define several directions of use:
- Professional tool for felling wood;
- Semi-professional models;
- Compact devices for small jobs.
A professional saw should have a power of over 6 kW, equipped with a tire up to 60 cm, with an engine capacity of 60-120 cc. See Duration of work in continuous mode. Up to 8 hours, and intermittently. Up to 16 hours.
The most advanced units have an emergency brake, and the high power and long tire allow you to cut huge trunks in one go. Components with a high degree of wear resistance will extend the service life of the device.
Semi-professional units are designed for timber construction. With their help, logs, beams are easily sawn, technological holes are cut under doors and windows. Power of 2-3 kW allows you to carry out almost all operations with wood. The duration of continuous work is limited to 4-6 hours. The length of the tire reaches 45 cm and not a single beam can stand in front of it. The service life of a branded product reaches 10 years. The most famous brands are Husqvarna and Stihl. Such models, like professional ones, are equipped with an anti-vibration system. It is needed with a large tooth pitch. This arrangement increases productivity, but at the same time adds vibration.
The advantage of these models is a wide price range, the presence of an emergency brake, accelerated adjustment of the chain tension.
Disadvantages. The high cost of original spare parts, the discrepancy between the width of the groove and the power of the device, which contributes to the biting of the tire.
Household devices are characterized by a short tire length. Only 25-35 cm. A small engine does not provide high power, so the device is used only for short-term work. Cutting branches, thin blocks, infrequent use in construction.
The low price also determines the disadvantages of the tool:
- 1-2 hours of work without stopping;
- The impossibility of a thick cut;
- No simplified chain tension;
- Rapid wear of components.
How to cut firewood correctly and quickly
Chainsaw operation may seem simple, but in inept hands, the use of a tool leads to injuries, breakdowns. Clumsiness is contraindicated.
First you need to ensure safety when working:
- Do not touch the running tire;
- Protect yourself with glasses from sawdust, chips;
- Wear tight pants with lining;
- Feet put on massive shoes with a metal insert in the toe;
- To prevent damage to the head, a protective helmet is useful. It will protect you from flying branches and accidentally bouncing parts.
Basic rules for cutting firewood:
- Keep the saw close to your body. This way the instrument is easier to control and the hands do not get tired.
- When cutting beams or logs, fix the opposite end to the cut. Do not cut off with the end of the bar. Jumping off is guaranteed.
- Saw only 1 log at a time. Sawing multiple logs at the same time can result in tire pinching and injury.
- Control your body position, do not bend over so as not to lose balance.
- When cutting branches, contact with the kickback zone can result in the tool being thrown.
- Do not cut material above shoulder height. This method is strictly prohibited, as it can lead to disastrous consequences.
- Apply the brake before starting the saw.
A correctly selected saw will be an excellent helper in your work. Careless selection of parameters will lead to disappointment in the device. Remember that a chainsaw is a traumatic tool. When working with him, you must observe safety precautions and personal protection.
Firewood chainsaws
Small, functional chainsaw (1.3 kW)
STIHL Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini 3 Chain (PMM3)
Power kW / h.P. 1.3 / 1.8
Weight kg 1) 3.9
Saw chain pitch 3/8 “P
Working volume, cm³ 30.1
Lightweight chainsaw with a power of 1.5 kW
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Picco Micro 3 (PM3)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 “P
Weight kg 1) 3.9
Power kW / hp 1.5 / 2.0
Displacement cm³ 31.8
Convenient chainsaw with ErgoStart and quick chain tensioner
Displacement cm³ 31.8
Power hp 2
STIHL Oilomatic Picco Micro 3 Chain (PM3)
Weight kg 1) 4.2
Chain pitch 3/8 “P
Modern, comfortable chainsaw with a power of 1.7 kW
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Picco Micro 3 (PM3)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 “P
Weight kg 1) 4.3
Power kW / hp 1.7 / 2.3
Displacement cm³ 35.2
Convenient chainsaw with ErgoStart and quick chain tensioner
Displacement cm³ 35.2
Power h.P. 2,3
Weight kg 1) 4.6
Chain pitch 3/8 “P
Convenient chainsaw 1.6 kW
STIHL Oilomatic Picco Micro 3 Chain (PM3)
Power kW / hp 1.6 / 2.2
Weight kg 4.4
Displacement cm³ 35.2
Practical chainsaw with a power of 2.0 kW
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Picco Micro 3 (PM3)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 “P
Weight, kg 4.6
Power kW / h.P. 2.0 / 2.7
Working volume cm³ 40.2
Convenient chainsaw with ErgoStart and quick chain tensioner
Power hp 2.7
Weight kg 1) 4.9
Chain pitch 3/8 “P
Lightweight, powerful chainsaw 2.3 kW
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Picco Micro 3 (PM3)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 “P
Weight kg 1) 4.6
Power kW / h.P. 2.3 / 3.1
Working volume cm³ 45.4
Powerful with chainsaw ErgoStart and quick chain tensioner
Power h.P. 3.1
Weight kg 1) 4.9
Chain pitch 3/8 “
Multifunctional chainsaw with a power of 2.6 kW
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / type Rapid Micro 3 (RM3)
Saw chain pitch. 325 ”
Weight kg 1) 5.6
Power kW / hp 2.6 / 3.5
Working volume cm³ 50.2
Chainsaw 3.0 kW, classic design
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / type Rapid Micro (RM)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 ”
Weight kg 1) 5.9
Power kW / h.P. 3.0 / 4.4
Displacement cm³ 59.0
2.2 kW progressive chainsaw
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Picco Super type (PS)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 “P
Weight kg 1) 4.7
Power kW / h.P. 2.2 / 3.0
Displacement cm³ 42.6
Proven and reliable 2.6 kW chainsaw
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Rapid Super type (RS)
Saw chain pitch. 325 ”
Weight kg 1) 4.8
Power kW / h.P. 2.6 / 3.5
Working volume cm³ 50.2
Progressive Chainsaw 3.0 kW
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Rapid Super type (RS)
Saw chain pitch. 325 ”
Weight kg 1) 5.2
Power kW / h.P. 2.8 / 3.8
Working volume cm³ 50.2
Extremely dynamic 3.4 kW chainsaw
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Rapid Super type (RS)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 ”
Weight kg 1) 5.6
Power kW / h.P. 3.4 / 4.6
Displacement cm³ 59.0
3.4 kW progressive and professional chainsaw
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Rapid Super type (RS)
Saw chain pitch 3/8 ”
Weight kg 1) 5.9
Power kW / h.P. 3.4 / 4.6
Displacement cm³ 59.0
New, lightest high performance saw in its 72.2 cm³ working volume class
Chain pitch 3/8 ”
Weight kg 2) 6
Power h.P. 6
The world’s first and only saw with an injector
Displacement cm³ 79.2
Power h.P. 6.8
Weight kg 1) 6.2
Specific gravity kg / kW 1.2
Chain pitch 3/8 “
Very powerful professional chainsaw 5.4 kW
STIHL Oilomatic Rapid Super (RS) Chain
Power kW / h.P. 5.4 / 7.3
Weight kg 1) 7.4
Saw chain pitch 3/8 ”
Displacement cm³ 91.1
Impressive and powerful 6.4 kW saw
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Rapid Super type (RS)
Saw chain pitch. 404 ”
Weight kg 1) 9.8
Power kW / h.P. 6.4 / 8.7
Displacement cm³ 121.6
Ultralight tree care saw (1.0 kW)
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / type PM3
Saw chain pitch 1/4 “P
Weight kg 1) 2.6
Power kW / h.P. 1.0 / 1.3
Displacement cm³ 23.6
Very lightweight chainsaw with 2-MIX engine
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / Picco Micro (PM) type
Saw chain pitch 3/8 ”
Weight kg 1) 3.3
Power kW / h.P. 1.3 / 1.8
Displacement cm³ 30.1
Chainsaw 1.8kW
Saw chain Oilomatic pitch / type 63PMC
Saw chain pitch 3/8
Weight kg 1) 3.9
Power kW / h.P. 1.8 / 2.4
Displacement cm³ 35.2
STIHL MS 180 Universal, the smallest chainsaw in its category with a 32 cc petrol engine with a rated power of 2 hp, an efficient and easy-to-maintain air cleaner, a wear-resistant branded headset with a guide bar length of 350 mm. Despite the budgetary price level, the model is equipped with a full-fledged vibration damper, an inertial emergency brake circuit. The main advantages of a tool with a dead weight of 4.2 kg include: the presence of a carburetor compensator, which stabilizes the operating speed; economical system of lubrication and cooling of the saw headset; increased service life of the Oilomatic saw chain; ergonomic auxiliary handle configuration; increased up to 250 and 150 ml volumes of supply tanks.
STIHL MS 211 The characteristics and equipment of the Stihl saw of the MS 211 series are typical for a tool designed for work: in private and farm households; in communal forest park enterprises; in wood construction technologies. The branded saw headset with a length of 350 mm has a 35 cc petrol engine, which develops a power of at least 2.3 hp at maximum speed. With a specific gravity of 2.5 kg / kW, the tool is perfectly balanced, easy to use and time-consuming to maintain. Despite its utility status, the saw design has some features typical of professional-level models. The successful in all respects version of the MS 211 model has been improved in terms of increasing reliability and durability, saving fuel and lubricants and improving environmental performance. The standard 2.3 hp / 35.2 cm3 engine is equipped with a quick start device, an air intake mechanism with an additional air purification circuit. The set includes a brand-name 350mm guide bar and a wear-resistant 3/8-inch chain for the STIHL Oilomatic Picco Micro chainsaw. Main technical and operational advantages: optimal, at the level of 2.7 kg / kW specific weight; constant traction parameters of the engine; comfortable vibration and noise performance.
STIHL MS 230 This development is in the middle price segment between the popular Stihl models of the 210 and 250 series. The manufacturer offers a tool with several professional-level functions at an affordable cost. On the basis of this model, a version known on the sawing market under the name Stihl MS 230 C-BE was created. The full drive of the 14-inch headset implements a 40.2 cc engine with a rated power of 2.5 hp. The Oilomatic standard chain pitch is 3/8 ”. The design of the MS 230 series petrol-powered saw incorporates the following functional advantages: a proprietary effective vibration damper; devices for economical automated lubrication Ematic; single-lever control of basic functions; a fast-acting emergency brake and an easy-to-use side chain tensioner. Due to the carburetor heating system, the saw is partially adapted to work in low temperatures.
STIHL MS 250. Despite the increase in the power of the 46-cc drive to 3.1 hp. The advantages of this model: the optimal ratio of power and weight; advanced anti-vibration system; convenient device; long battery life thanks to the increased volume of the fuel tank up to 470 ml.
STIHL MS 260 Professional model with extended functionality, focused on use in private household use, professional, construction and forestry work. To drive the 16-inch tire, the traction properties of a 50-cc petrol engine with a capacity of 3.2 hp are used. The MS 260 series saw is equipped with operating functions and technical equipment characteristic of a professional model range. In the main list: single-lever control; Ematic lubrication system, unique in terms of economy and efficiency; heated carburetor with built-in compensator; emergency stop device QuickStop; proprietary ElastoStart engine start system; preliminary adjustment of the oil pump performance.
Stihl MS 361 Thanks to professional functionality, a powerful and efficient model can work for a long time without forced interruptions for engine cooling in a wide range of operating loads. Engine with a volume of 59 cm3 and power up to 4.6 hp. Has an optimal reserve of power and torque for efficient operation of an 18-inch headset. A highly economical carburetor with a compensator that stabilizes the operating speed of the saw in a wide range of working loads; air filter with low maintenance time; one of the best in its category automatic lubrication system for the sawing mechanism of the Ematic brand with an adjustable oil pump output; prompt operation of the emergency braking mechanism for the saw chain when it is jammed or kicked back.
Saws for the forestry industry
Powerful chainsaws, with an increased service life, are usually distinguished into a professional look. Professional models are used in the forestry industry, when felling wood. Chainsaw models for forestry are distinguished by their endurance, the ability to work all day long. In professional models, the chrome-plated cylinder technology can be used. The essence of the technology lies in the special coating of the cylinder, which ensures its long service life.
Saws for home and garden (household)
The first type is a light gasoline-powered tool designed for cutting firewood and maintaining the land. Simply put, these are chainsaws, designed to cut firewood from time to time to light a barbecue or heating a bathhouse, and also with their help you can trim small and medium growth around the perimeter of the site, cut dry branches. Some manufacturers are positioning this tool as a household tool. The main distinguishing feature of this type of equipment is engine power. It usually does not exceed 2 kW.
Home and garden saws are small and lightweight for easy transport. This type of tool has a limited engine life and a recommended daily operating time. As a rule, it should not exceed 1.1.5 hours per day.
Chainsaws for agricultural work and horticulture (semi-professional)
The second type of gasoline-powered saws is a model designed for agricultural work. Some manufacturers distinguish them in a semi-professional look. This tool is designed for work on construction sites, public utilities. It is successfully used in horticulture, when harvesting small-sized wood, as well as for harvesting firewood. The main distinguishing features of this type of tools are the increased indicators of the engine’s motor resource and its power. Another distinctive feature of this type of tool is the size of the saw headset (chains, bars). The petrol-powered saws used in agriculture use longer tires.
Chainsaw classification
All manufacturers of chainsaws divide products into four main types:
- Household
- Semi-professional
- Professional
- Special purpose
For giving
Choosing a chainsaw for a summer residence is not a problem. Any saw that is small and powerful enough to cut wood for a bath will do. This is due to the fact that not everyone has the opportunity to store an expensive tool at their summer cottage.
Special chainsaws
This is another type of tool designed to perform any special work. These models are successfully used by rescue teams and utilities. This group includes pole saws, which are convenient to use for pruning branches of trees without using a stepladder or ladder. Pole saws are a type of chainsaws equipped with a special extension, at the end of which there is a saw bar with a chain.
Possible difficulties
Sometimes there are complaints about tire wear and drive sprocket. Most likely, users complaining about this are unfamiliar with the “3-2-1” rule, which states:
- A new sprocket is supposed to be installed after replacing the chain three times;
- The new tire is installed after replacing two sprockets.
The tire and sprocket life of the Husqvarna 240 fits this rule well.
The real disadvantages of the chainsaw include wasteful oil consumption. You have to constantly monitor the condition of the tank. Difficulties with maintaining idle speed are possible. Many people blame the chainsaw on a fairly noisy operation and its considerable weight. 4.7 kg. But at the same time, the tool is distinguished by good ergonomics, it is convenient and pleasant to work on it.
Chainsaw Makita EA3203S40B
Makita EA3203S40B in terms of its capabilities and characteristics belongs rather to the category of semi-professional tools, although the border between them and household tools is rather arbitrary. The chainsaw is equipped with a two-stroke engine with a volume of 32.0 cm³, and the power of 1.4 kW is quite enough for a relatively long continuous operation. And without frequent refueling. The capacity of the gas tank is 400 ml, in other models of this category it is usually less.
The following characteristics speak in favor of choosing this model:
- Simple and easy engine starting due to the use of a spring torque booster and a manual fuel pump (primer). Used technologies MPI, Easy Start;
- The ability to transfer the ignition system to cold start mode. The switch also has positions “Stop” and “Start”;
- Availability of a reliable anti-vibration system, consisting of four spring shock absorbers made of steel.
Safety of use is ensured by an inertial chain brake. The length of the tire in Makita EA3203S40B is 40 cm. An improved waterproof air filter gives additional reliability.
For non-professionals, this chainsaw is also convenient because the chain in it can be adjusted without a key. The developers acted very wisely, providing for an automatic shutdown of the oil pump at idle. The presence of a protective cover in the kit makes transportation of the chainsaw convenient and safe.
Although the chainsaw is manufactured in China, neither users nor experts have noted any significant shortcomings in it. It should be noted that such unanimity is rare, so Makita EA3203S40B can be considered the best choice among chainsaws in its class.
TOP 5 best chainsaws. Selection of experts
One of the most common mistakes buyers make of chainsaws is choosing a model that does not fit its intended purpose. For garden maintenance, repairing wooden structures and similar needs, it is not at all necessary to overpay for a professional tool designed for intensive daily use. A good household chainsaw is your choice.
Chainsaw STIHL MS 180
Light weight (3.9 kg), compactness and combination of performance make the STIHL MS 180 chainsaw one of the best in the category. The model is manufactured at factories in Germany and the USA, which in itself testifies to the good quality of assemblies and assembly. However, counterfeits made in China are quite common, and this applies both to the chainsaw itself and to its components. The original STIHL MS 180, despite the low power (1.5 kW) and volume (31.8 cm3) of the engine, not only copes with domestic needs, but also withstands overloads quite well when cutting trees and harvesting firewood in large volumes. True, it is often not recommended to operate a chainsaw in this mode, as this will lead to rapid wear of key components.
Design differences of the McCulloch CS 360 model
First of all, we note the combined air damper and chainsaw ignition control unit.
The OxyPower technology used in the engine reduces exhaust emissions by 70% and also reduces fuel consumption. The method is based on mixing clean air with spent air containing particles of unburned fuel.
Also noteworthy is the possibility of replacing the base 45-centimeter tire of the chainsaw with a 40- or even 35-centimeter.
On the forums, there are sometimes complaints about the failure of the crankshaft when the chainsaw is overloaded. There are two points to highlight here. Firstly, if the choice is made in favor of a household model, which is the McCulloch CS 360 chainsaw, you should not load it like a professional one. Secondly, a breakdown of the crankshaft due to improper operation indicates the reliability of secondary units, which in other models in this case immediately fail. The downside of the McCulloch CS 360 is some difficulty with carburetor adjustment and possibly a lot of weight. In general, this is a reliable and convenient chainsaw, which fully justifies its price.
Chainsaw Husqvarna 240
Experts classify this chainsaw as the entry-level semi-professional level. Its capabilities are provided by a sufficiently powerful (1.5 kW) economical X-Torq motor with a volume of 38.2 cm³ and a standard forty-centimeter tire with a chain.
Such indicators are quite enough for using a chainsaw in a suburban area and cutting firewood. For their preparation for the winter in large quantities, the potential of the tool may not be enough. The country of origin depends on the year of manufacture, so there are models from the United States and China on sale.