The time comes, and many craftsmen are faced with choosing a chainsaw. The problem is that if you formally look at the characteristics from the instructions, then many models, having similar data, differ significantly in price. For example, Japanese and domestic chainsaws. To understand the price-quality ratio of these devices, you need to take a closer look at the reliability rating of chainsaws.
Criteria for evaluation
When choosing a tool yourself, take into account:
- real cost of a chainsaw;
- efficiency and traction characteristics of the drive;
- level of technical equipment;
- in some cases - maintainability and interchangeability of spare parts with similar designs from other brands.
Marketing analysis shows that a good inexpensive chainsaw meets the basic parameters of the needs of ordinary people, agricultural farms, forestry and park management workers.
By all accounts, the best chainsaw for home and garden is an economical, simple in design, easy to use and durable model from a popular brand with a capacity of one and a half to three horsepower. A budget chainsaw, due to its limited capabilities, is most often purchased to perform one-time dismantling or construction work.
The top 10 best chainsaws published in the information field consists of new models from the brands Shtil, Husqvarna and Hitachi, known for the impeccable quality of their products. A test of chainsaws from these manufacturers proved their full compliance with the stated service and operational requirements.
The list also includes several popular tools from the ALPINA A 3700 and Daewoo brands. According to experts, these developments will take leading positions in the “Best Chainsaws of 2020” rating.
The offered range of gasoline-powered saws from different brands can be divided into 5 groups.
"Caliber"
The category “best chainsaws made in Russia” rightly includes products. The manufacturer presented its products in 2001. It was highly appreciated by both experts in this field and consumers. For many years, the Caliber brand continues to be among the leaders among domestic manufacturers of chainsaws.
The most popular modifications of this brand:
- BP-1300.
- BP-2500.
- "Caliber BP-1800".
It is worth noting that the manufacturer focuses not so much on the design of the tool, but on expanding the range of use of the device and its safety.
TOP 5 cheapest and most stable models
The top models of the budget group are represented by five models. In the majority, these are household chainsaw equipment, whose price-quality ratio is at the optimal level.
Chainsaw Caliber BP-2600/18U
A powerful gas-powered saw is designed for sawing work with problematic tree trunks with a cross-section of up to 400 mm. The performance of the semi-professional category tool is ensured by the traction parameters of a 3.5-horsepower carburetor engine and an 18-inch headset.
The list of additional advantages of a saw weighing 6.2 kg and costing up to 4,500 rubles:
- in its category, the best cheap saw has a modern industrial design and easy access to adjustment units;
- operating time in autonomous mode;
- the presence of a primer, a diaphragm carburetor, modern lubrication systems and an emergency stop.
Huter BS-45M
In an affordable price category is the German Huter chainsaw of the BS-45M series, which has proven itself well among private owners and farmers. The design uses the power parameters of a 45 cc gasoline engine drive with an estimated power of 2.3 liters.
The saw mechanism, equipped with a 16-inch long bar, is lubricated by oil supplied to the headset structure in a given volume.
Productivity is regulated by an oil pump.
The design of the tool includes a number of exclusive engineering solutions to improve operating efficiency and extend the life of component systems and units. On the Russian market you can buy an instrument at an average cost of 4200-4500 rubles.
CARVER PROMO PSG-45-15
Model in its category, the best cheap chainsaw for maintenance:
- gardening and trimming branches of fallen forest dead wood;
- procurement of firewood and sawing work for repair and maintenance purposes.
Performance is ensured by a power unit with a cylinder volume of 45 cm3 and a power of 2.4 hp. The compact 15-inch headset is convenient for working at heights and in difficult-to-access places.
In different regions, the cost of a chainsaw varies in the range of 3200-3600 rubles.
Union PTS-99371
The semi-professional chainsaw of the PTS-99371 series is positively characterized by a significant torque reserve of the standard carburetor 38 cc engine with a power of 2.7 hp.
The design features of a tool costing up to 5,000 rubles:
- productive 405 mm headset with automatic lubrication and inertial emergency stop mechanism;
- light weight compared to similar models: 5.1 kg;
- vibration and noise levels that comply with current standards.
DDE CS2512
The lightweight and small-sized chainsaw of this series is aimed at servicing gardens and forested areas. A tool with a small cc carburetor engine with a power of 1.2 hp. and weighing only 3.15 kg, it is easy to operate and convenient for performing high-altitude work.
The standard equipment includes a bracket for attaching a shoulder strap. Compact for transportation and reliable in operation, the tool is part of the equipment of expeditions, groups of tourists, units of the Ministry of Emergency Situations and lovers of outdoor activities.
"Bison"
Chainsaws produced in Russia under the Zubr brand are presented in a huge range. Their peculiarity is that they are equipped with a powerful power unit designed to operate in any weather, regardless of the terrain.
In addition, the devices in question are equipped with an anti-vibration system, auxiliary and inertial main brake. Also, all modifications of the Zubr have a soft start mechanism, a fuel pump, and additional exhaust gas cleaning. The company annually produces updated and improved chainsaws that meet European standards. Among the most popular models is TsZPB (370/450/490).
TOP 5 inexpensive and reliable budget models
Huter BS-52
This model has a semi-professional level, confirmed by:
- installation of a drive with a working cylinder capacity of 52 cm3 and a power of up to 3.4 hp;
- high-performance sawing device 20 inches long;
- the presence of starting, lubrication and operational safety systems typical for semi-professional models.
The Huter BS-52 gas-powered saw, costing up to 5,500 rubles, is one of the few developments that combines a budget price with increased productivity and quality of standard components.
PATRIOT PT 3816 Imperial
A household saw with a dead weight of 5.4 kg is equipped with a 38 cc power unit with a power of 2 hp. A characteristic feature of the product is the presence of a full set of technical equipment, including a quick engine start system for automatic dosing of chain oil supplied to the Oregon set.
Optimal operating conditions for the operator are ensured by the effectiveness of the standard vibration damper and muffler, and the easy-to-grip shape of the body and handles.
Hyundai X 360
The functionality of the South Korean chainsaw X 360 series, successful in all respects, is focused on a range of household and construction work. The household-grade tool is equipped with a standard 37.2 cm3 power drive with a power of 1.6 hp. and a branded 14-inch Hyundai tire with a wear-resistant Oregon saw chain.
The model with a base price of 6,400 rubles includes:
- starter with quick start device EASY START;
- convenient location of the chain adjustment mechanism;
- saw mechanism lubrication system;
- high level of operational safety with minimal response time of the emergency stop brake.
DAEWOO DACS4516
A gas-powered saw from the famous South Korean manufacturer of household goods, Daewoo, occupies a worthy place in consumer ratings. In particular, the demand for the semi-professional model of the DACS4516 series has stabilized in the Russian market of household gasoline-powered tools.
The tool with modern technical and operational parameters is powered by a two-stroke carburetor 45.2 cc engine with a power of 3.1 hp.
In terms of design, the saw can be easily distinguished from models with similar purposes:
- widespread use of light alloys;
- complete dust and moisture protection;
- the presence of wear-resistant nickasil coatings on the piston drive group.
The tool kit also includes a low-profile chain with a smooth entry into the cut and a plastic case that is convenient for transporting the saw.
Partner P350S
A general purpose household saw can be used with equal success in a wide range of construction and commercial sawing work. The 410 mm professional tire is powered by a 2-horsepower engine with a displacement of 38 cm3.
The cost of the tool, around 9,000 rubles, is many times compensated by the high reliability and long service life of the saw, economical fuel consumption and long-term operation at high speeds with minimal working time spent on cooling the power unit.
The list of design features includes handle-mounted controls and a carburetor with automatic choke control.
"Taiga"
Chainsaws produced in Russia under the Taiga brand are available in several modifications. Model 245 is distinguished by its impressive weight (about nine kilograms). This is due to the fact that most spare parts are made of metal. Nevertheless, the unit produces an output power of 2.6 kW, is reliable and has high performance. The 214 series model has similar parameters.
“Taiga Profi-4000” are professional chainsaws in Russia, the prices of which are significantly lower than their foreign analogues. At the same time, the tool has a high build quality due to the use of wear-resistant spare parts. The unit is equipped with a productive oil pump and a reliable Japanese carburetor. The weight of the saw is reduced to 5.5 kg, which, coupled with a power of 4 kW, makes it convenient for use in the most difficult conditions.
Additionally: Chainsaw Husqvarna 365 - features and advantages of the model
Semi-professional chainsaws
This category of chainsaw range is characterized by:
- using high-quality and durable raw materials;
- modern technologies for their processing, careful assembly of components;
- increased power and performance.
Husqvarna 440E
The Husqvarna 440E series model opens the review section of semi-professional gas-powered saws. A universal tool in many ways, it costs just over 14,000 rubles and differs from budget analogues:
- driven by an economical and environmentally friendly 2.4 hp X-Torq® engine;
- the presence of an easy start system Smart Start®;
- primer modified in terms of reliability;
- reverse mode built into the switch.
Easy to maintain and durable, the 440E series saw has proven itself in use in all corners of the country, including regions with harsh climates.
Efco 137
The chainsaw equipment of the world leader Efko was ahead of many competitors at the start. The Model 137 saw, costing from 10,600 to 11,000 rubles, belongs to the category of lightweight and productive general-purpose tools.
The advantages of the product:
- 35 cc engine with extended life and 2.2 hp. and a saw unit with a 410 mm guide bar;
- light weight (about 4 kg) and an ergonomic housing configuration convenient for long-term work, minimal noise pressure and vibration;
- adjustable oil pump of the headset automated lubrication system;
- inertial switch for the emergency chain brake mechanism;
- increased usable area of the engine air intake filter and a collapsible exhaust muffler.
ECHO CS-260TES-10″
A semi-professional saw made in Japan is in all respects not inferior to analogues of leading European brands. The functionality of this model is focused on economic sawing work and use in gardening and forestry technologies.
The 12-inch headset is powered by a 1.23-horsepower 27 cm3 subcompact engine. The presence of a primer and the “ES-start” system reduces the difficulties of cold starting to a minimum.
The list of product advantages:
- increased engine life;
- two-stage air purification scheme;
- three-section clutch mechanism;
- presence of a shoulder strap attachment point;
- 5-year manufacturer's warranty.
Hitachi CS30EH
The semi-professional level model is identical in quality and efficiency to the best developments of European and Asian manufacturers. The universal saw of the CS30EH series is designed for small-scale household and construction sawing work.
The tool, with its own weight of 3.4 kg, is equipped with a 34 cc two-stroke gasoline engine drive with a power of 1.8 hp. The set includes a compact and convenient 14-inch professional headset for working in hard-to-reach places. The cost is 21,000 thousand rubles. 100% corresponds to the quality of the saw and the level of its technical equipment.
Makita EA3203S40B
The Makita company, known for the quality of its products, operates in the production of competitive high-class chainsaw equipment. One of the most successful developments is the gas-powered saw of the EA3203S40B series.
The tool, in the price range from 11,200 to 11,600 rubles, is powered by a small-displacement gasoline engine drive with a power of 1.81 hp. Thanks to the high traction characteristics of the engine, the productive operation of a professional 16-inch saw mechanism is ensured.
The periodically updated rating of semi-professional chainsaws of this brand has tended to grow steadily over recent years.
STIHL MS 180 C-BE
Shtil products are in particular demand in the domestic and European markets for chainsaw equipment. The list of the most popular and sought-after developments includes the MS 180 C-BE series model.
The design of the saw includes a reliable and stable engine with a working displacement of 32 cm3 and a power of 2 hp. implementing full activation of the drive of a standard saw unit with a length of 400 mm. Structural nuances - easy start system, convenient access to internal systems, units and chain tensioning mechanism.
Main characteristics
A chainsaw is a hand saw with an endless cutting blade, where the rotation is transmitted from an internal combustion engine. In most cases, the engine is a single-cylinder (rarely two-cylinder) two-stroke carburetor device with a maximum speed of 13,500 rpm. Chainsaws have a simple design, which ensures reliable operation in a wide variety of conditions.
Chainsaws include:
- Gas tank.
- Carburetor. Here the fuel is mixed with air.
- Engine. In it, the mixture from the carburetor is ignited by a spark.
- Crank mechanism.
- Actually, the shaft.
- The clutch is centrifugal.
- A star that transmits movement to the chain.
- Cutting chain.
- Chain brakes.
- Chain tension unit.
- Tire.
- Lubrication system.
- Air purification system.
The engine assembly includes, in addition to the motor itself, a flywheel, a clutch, an ignition module, a muffler and a bushing for attaching the carburetor.
The ignition system in modern chainsaws is contactless electronic, so the master does not need to worry about adjusting and cleaning the contacts.
A cutting chain is an assembled assembly consisting of cutting links, shanks (drive links), connecting elements and rivets that assemble these components into a single unit. The main characteristic of chains is the pitch, that is, the distance from the center of the first to the center of the third rivet of the connection. Chains with an interval of 8.255 or 9.525 millimeters are popular. Smaller pitches are used by low-power chainsaws, while powerful and large devices have chains with larger pitches.
The smaller the thickness of the link and the smaller the pitch, the more accurate the cut.
Chains are made from various metals. The chain material must be impact-resistant and tough. These qualities determine the durability and wear resistance of the chain. Material that is too hard is difficult to sharpen. Therefore, usually the cutting teeth are made of alloy steel.
Professional chainsaws
There are few people who want to buy an expensive professional-class chainsaw. In private households and farms, it is extremely difficult to realize the capabilities of a powerful and productive tool.
The scope of application of professional chainsaw equipment includes:
- logging;
- large-scale construction;
- wood felling and sawing work of increased complexity.
Characteristic features of professional chainsaws:
- large reserve of engine power and torque;
- reliability of components and systems;
- high level of equipment;
- increased autonomy and stability of engine temperature conditions during prolonged operation at high speeds.
Husqvarna 372 XP 18″
Lightweight, powerful and efficient, the tool is designed for use under heavy operating loads. The saw, weighing 6.1 kg, is powered by a carburetor gasoline engine with a working cylinder capacity of 70.7 cm3 and a power of 5.3 hp.
Husqvarna series 372 XP 18″ is equipped with a high-performance proprietary set with a guide bar up to 70 cm long and a wear-resistant saw chain.
The main advantages of this model include:
- comfortable working conditions for the operator in terms of noise and vibration;
- stability of the traction characteristics of the gasoline engine drive, regardless of external factors;
- convenient location of main and secondary controls for operation.
Selling prices for this model vary in the range of 40,000 rubles; according to experts, the ratio of cost and quality for this power category is optimal.
Hitachi CS 40 EL
A professional-grade tool is the best assistant when performing sawing and felling work. A saw made from quality materials with a power of up to 2.86 hp. differs from similar designs from other manufacturers in its versatility of application, increased service life, and resistance to work loads.
The traction of the gasoline engine drive with a working cylinder capacity of 43 cm3 and the torque reserve of the CS 40 EL series chainsaw guarantee the efficient operation of the 16-inch saw unit.
The list of advantages of the tool:
- affordable price in the range of 18,000 rubles;
- light weight within 4 kg;
- modern design and balancing;
- stability of performance characteristics;
- addition of an easy engine starting system with a decompression valve.
Hyundai X560
This model of the famous South Korean brand is easy to distinguish from similar developments by its combination of affordable cost with high-performance technical and operational capabilities.
A tool costing up to 12,000 rubles has a set of basic equipment, complemented by exclusive design solutions.
The advantages of this model:
- equipped with an economical Walbro carburetor 49.3 cc 3-horsepower gasoline engine drive with increased engine life;
- branded vibration damper;
- engine starting systems adapted to difficult climatic conditions.
PATRIOT PT 6220
The professional Patriot chainsaw of the PT 6220 series in its power category in terms of price belongs to the line of budget tools, its average cost is at the level of 11,000-11,600 rubles.
The PT 6220 model takes advantage of the reliable and easy-to-maintain two-stroke carburetor engine with a displacement of 62 cm3. The traction parameters of the 4-horsepower power unit provide the drive of a 20-inch headset with branded components of the Oregon brand.
In the list of advantages of the tool, special mention should be made:
- minimum time interval for emergency stop inertial brake activation;
- a modified automatic lubrication scheme for the saw mechanism;
- effective vibration damper operation, excellent balancing and ergonomic design of the saw as a whole.
STIHL MS 361
This review of professional-class chainsaws is completed by the model of the famous brand Shtihl MS 361 series. For this chainsaw weighing only 4 kg, a 43-cc proprietary engine with a power of up to 2.86 hp was developed. The tool can be used with headsets with lengths from 38 to 46 mm.
Characteristic properties of the Shtil MS 361 model:
- optimal combination of weight and power parameters;
- lightweight engine crankcase made of magnesium alloy;
- the presence of an operational launch device, supplemented by a decompression valve.
"Zenith"
There are many subjective and objective criteria that influence the final choice of chainsaw. Lopper (made in Germany-Russia) from is one of the best for household use in terms of its combination of quality and affordable price. This company is mainly focused on the production of household power tools and is known throughout the world.
The main advantage of Zenit chainsaws is the use of wear-resistant components, which increases the productivity and reliability of the tool. In addition, the manufacturer installs bearings on its new products that meet increased requirements for accuracy and reliability.
The best chainsaws for home and garden
This category is represented by household-grade models that are reliable in maintenance and daily operation and are available to any homeowner.
PATRIOT PT 4518
A general-purpose tool with a power of 2.9 hp, initially aimed at performing short-term sawing work in the construction and household sectors. The drive of the 450 mm tire is realized by the traction properties of the 45 cc engine.
The budget saw (only 8,000 rubles) is equipped with modern and effective starting systems, lubrication of loaded components and safety.
In the list of operational equipment:
- automatic dosage of chain lubrication;
- inertial activation of the emergency stop brake;
- good balance and modern design of the instrument as a whole.
Husqvarna 240
Household model of a famous brand with a power of 2 hp. and a petrol engine drive capacity of 32.2 cm3 contains in its design engineering solutions characteristic of a semi-professional model range. The tool is equipped with an economical and environmentally friendly carburetor drive developed using X-TORQ technology.
The list of design features:
- effective vibration damper of the LowVib type;
- rubber anti-slip pads on the handles;
- the most simple and effective air purification injection system, Air Injection;
- coupled control of the carburetor throttle and activation of the “Stop” mode.
In terms of improvement, the primer and inertial switch of the emergency braking mechanism have been improved.
Makita EA3202S40B
The chainsaw of the famous Japanese brand is manufactured in China. One of the most successful proprietary developments received a modern, economical 32 cc engine with a power of 1.8 hp.
The length of the 400 mm headset allows you to work with commercial and construction wood with a cross-section of 350 mm or more.
Structurally, the tool provides:
- minimum parameters of vibration and noise pressure;
- operator-friendly single-lever control of basic operating functions;
- long time between overhauls;
- easy engine restart thanks to Memory-Power-Ignition technology.
ECHO CS-350WES-14
The Japanese ECHO saw of the CS-350WES-14 series is identical in basic parameters to the best analogues of the European range.
- A household-class model can claim semi-professional status in terms of equipment and operational reliability.
- With its own weight of 3.68 kg, the saw is activated by a 2-strong high-power engine with a working cylinder capacity of 35.8 cm3. The kit includes a proprietary sawing device with an extended guide bar.
- The cost of the tool is 18,000 rubles.
This indicator is compensated by a full range of modern equipment. There is a semi-automatic carburetor damper drive, a device for controlling the engine bypass valves and a three-jaw clutch.
Hitachi CS 33 EB
The Japanese brand tool is produced at a high-tech Chinese state-owned enterprise. This model, costing from 12,000 rubles, is one of the best in its power category.
- This lightweight and easy-to-use household-grade chainsaw is powered by a standard 1.68-horsepower, economical and environmentally friendly engine with a volume of only 32.2 cm3.
- The tool is equipped with a professional set that provides the specified performance when working with problematic, dense or frozen raw wood.
Many popular models of European brands serve as the basis for the production of counterfeit chainsaws. When independently purchasing the selected saw, it is recommended to use the services of branded trade organizations, including representative offices of dealer structures.
Some nuances
The design of carburetors from all companies is the same, except for Chinese ones. The carburetor is an important component, because if the proportions of mixing oxygen and fuel are violated, then either the engine will operate intermittently or excessive fuel consumption will occur.
To check whether the speed is adjusted correctly, press the accelerator, smoothly bringing it to the stop. If the speed immediately increases to the maximum, then everything is in order.
The maximum speed is considered to be from 2,800 to 15,000. At a speed higher than 15,000, the ignition can be disrupted. At higher speeds, turn screw L 1/8 turn to adjust.
And there should also be a normal compression of about eight to twelve atmospheres. At compression levels below eight, the tool will not have enough power to cut consistently.
When choosing a tool, you also pay attention to spark plugs, which differ in body geometry, length and diameter.
Conclusion
After the review, we can conclude that Russian chainsaws are presented on the market in a wide range for both professional and domestic needs. The use of new technologies and composite materials has made it possible to bring the quality of units closer to European and world levels. Leading domestic brands for the manufacture of tools are already known not only in the Russian Federation, the CIS, but throughout the world.
The important thing is that there is high potential for the development of this area. And since logging and woodworking are the leading sectors of the national economy in Russia, chainsaws of all levels will always be in demand here.
