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10 Best Gas Chainsaws 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Husqvarna 450S Rancher Gas Chainsaw, 50.2-cc 3.2-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 20 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Tree Pruning, Yard Cleanups and Firewood Cutting

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,407
Engine Power
Weight
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
463 reviews

Engine Power
Delivers powerful cutting performance that handles storm cleanup and heavy tasks with ease.
Weight
Starts easily and maintains strong power without feeling too heavy during use.
Fuel Efficiency
Runs for a long time on a single tank of gas, maximizing productivity in the field.

The Husqvarna 450S Rancher is a solid choice for those needing a reliable gas chainsaw for tree pruning, yard work, and cutting firewood. It offers a powerful 50.2-cc, 3.2-horsepower X-Torq engine that balances strong cutting performance with improved fuel efficiency, making it effective even at lower speeds. The 20-inch bar length is versatile enough for medium to large tasks, while the 14.9-pound weight is manageable for most users, striking a balance between power and ease of handling.

Safety is well addressed with an inertia-activated chain brake that helps reduce kickback risks, and LowVib technology reduces hand vibrations for more comfortable use over time. Maintenance is simplified thanks to features like side-mounted chain tensioning and automatic oiling, which keep the chain sharp and running smoothly without much hassle. The air injection system also helps keep the engine cleaner by removing dust before it reaches the filter, potentially extending engine life.

Though this chainsaw might feel a bit heavy for smaller, casual tasks, its combination of power, efficient fuel use, and thoughtful safety features makes it a great fit for homeowners and ranchers who want a dependable saw that’s not too complicated to maintain.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,407
Engine Power
Weight
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
463 reviews

Engine Power
Delivers powerful cutting performance that handles storm cleanup and heavy tasks with ease.
Weight
Starts easily and maintains strong power without feeling too heavy during use.
Fuel Efficiency
Runs for a long time on a single tank of gas, maximizing productivity in the field.
#2

Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 38-cc 2-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 16 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Wood Cutting and Tree Pruning

Rating
8.5
Engine Power
Weight
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
833 reviews

Engine Power
Comparatively light yet powerful, it performs as well as or better than some competitors' brands.
Weight
Comparatively light yet powerful, it performs as well as or better than some competitors' brands.
Fuel Efficiency
It's thrifty on fuel and starts easily, provided you follow the correct instructions.

The Husqvarna 130 16 inch gas chainsaw is a versatile tool suitable for various home and garden tasks. It features a 38cc, 2-HP engine that offers robust performance while being fuel-efficient and emitting fewer emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice. The recommended bar length of 14 to 16 inches allows for flexibility in use, making it suitable for both light and moderate cutting tasks. Weighing just 5.67 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which helps in reducing operator fatigue during prolonged use.

Additionally, its LowVib technology minimizes vibrations, further enhancing user comfort and handling. The chainsaw also boasts an inertia-activated chain brake for improved safety, reducing the risk of injury from kickback. Starting the chainsaw is made easier with a fuel pump and combined choke/stop control, which also helps prevent engine flooding. The air injection technology is a notable feature, as it helps expel larger dust and debris particles, thereby extending the engine's lifespan and reducing maintenance efforts.

The Husqvarna 130 16 inch gas chainsaw offers excellent performance, safety, and ease of use, making it a solid choice for homeowners and garden enthusiasts.

Rating
8.5
Engine Power
Weight
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
833 reviews

Engine Power
Comparatively light yet powerful, it performs as well as or better than some competitors' brands.
Weight
Comparatively light yet powerful, it performs as well as or better than some competitors' brands.
Fuel Efficiency
It's thrifty on fuel and starts easily, provided you follow the correct instructions.
#3

STIHL MS 201 TC-M, PS3, Cutting length 35 cm

Rating
8.5
Weight
Bar Length

Most important from
8 reviews

Weight
The chainsaw is notably lightweight and easy to handle, making it comfortable for extended use.
Bar Length
Its 35 cm cutting bar is effective for felling small trees with precision and control.

The STIHL MS 201 TC-M is a lightweight gas-powered chainsaw weighing just under 4 kilograms (about 8.5 pounds), making it easy to handle, especially for tasks requiring mobility. It features a 35 cm cutting bar length, which is suitable for medium-duty cutting jobs like pruning, trimming, or small tree felling. STIHL is known for reliable and efficient engines, and this model is designed for professional use, indicating good performance. Safety features typically include standard protections like chain brakes and anti-vibration systems to reduce user fatigue and improve control.

Maintenance should be manageable since this model is designed with professional users in mind, likely including easy access to air filters and components. Some plastic parts may suggest minor compromises in durability under very heavy use. The MS 201 TC-M is a solid choice for users needing a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw for moderate cutting tasks, combining ease of use with trusted STIHL quality.

Rating
8.5
Weight
Bar Length

Most important from
8 reviews

Weight
The chainsaw is notably lightweight and easy to handle, making it comfortable for extended use.
Bar Length
Its 35 cm cutting bar is effective for felling small trees with precision and control.

Buying Guide for the Best Gas Chainsaws

Choosing the right gas chainsaw can make a significant difference in your cutting tasks, whether you're a professional logger or a homeowner looking to maintain your property. The key is to understand the various specifications and how they align with your specific needs. By focusing on the right features, you can ensure that you get a chainsaw that is powerful, efficient, and safe to use.
Engine PowerEngine power, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), determines the chainsaw's cutting ability. Higher engine power means more cutting strength, which is essential for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees. For light to moderate tasks, such as trimming branches or cutting small trees, an engine power of 30-40cc is usually sufficient. For more demanding tasks, consider a chainsaw with 50cc or more. Choose based on the type of work you plan to do most often.
Bar LengthThe bar length, measured in inches, indicates the maximum diameter of wood the chainsaw can cut in a single pass. Shorter bars (12-16 inches) are ideal for light tasks like pruning and small tree cutting. Medium bars (16-20 inches) are versatile for both small and medium tasks. Longer bars (20 inches and above) are suited for heavy-duty cutting, such as large tree felling. Select a bar length that matches the size of the wood you'll be cutting most frequently.
WeightThe weight of the chainsaw affects its maneuverability and ease of use. Lighter chainsaws (under 10 pounds) are easier to handle and are suitable for extended use without causing fatigue, making them ideal for homeowners and occasional users. Heavier chainsaws (over 10 pounds) offer more power and stability, which is beneficial for professional use and heavy-duty tasks. Consider your physical strength and the duration of use when choosing the weight.
Chain SpeedChain speed, measured in feet per second (fps), determines how quickly the chainsaw can cut through wood. Higher chain speeds result in faster cutting, which is useful for professional and time-sensitive tasks. For general use, a moderate chain speed is sufficient. If you need to complete tasks quickly or work with hard wood, opt for a chainsaw with a higher chain speed.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. Look for chainsaws with features like chain brakes, anti-vibration systems, and safety switches. Chain brakes stop the chain immediately in case of kickback, while anti-vibration systems reduce fatigue and improve control. Safety switches prevent accidental starts. Prioritize chainsaws with comprehensive safety features, especially if you are a beginner or will be using the chainsaw frequently.
Fuel EfficiencyFuel efficiency determines how long the chainsaw can run on a single tank of gas. More fuel-efficient models reduce the frequency of refueling, which is convenient for extended use and reduces operating costs. If you plan to use the chainsaw for long periods or in remote areas where refueling may be difficult, choose a model with better fuel efficiency. Check the manufacturer's specifications for fuel consumption rates.
Ease of MaintenanceEase of maintenance affects the longevity and performance of the chainsaw. Look for features like tool-less chain tensioning, easy access to the air filter, and automatic oiling systems. These features simplify routine maintenance tasks, ensuring the chainsaw remains in good working condition. If you prefer minimal maintenance or are not mechanically inclined, opt for a chainsaw with user-friendly maintenance features.

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