Chainsaw comparison: which one is better to choose

For sawing a large amount of wood materials used chainsaws. Depending on the source of energy consumed, they are divided into two main classes:

• petrol,
• electric.

Both options are widespread, so it is impossible to give a definite answer to the question whether it is better - a chainsaw or a power saw. It all depends on the specific operating conditionsin which those or other design features of the instrument are best manifested.

Features of the use of chainsaws

The power unit of the chainsaw is a high-speed two-stroke single-cylinder internal combustion engine volume of about 50-90 cm³working on a fuel mixture of gasoline with an octane rating of 92 or 95 and a special oil. The motor through a centrifugal clutch is connected with a drive sprocket, during the rotation of which the cutting chain moving along the guide rail comes into motion. The tool is launched into operation by jerking the starter cord. Instant stop of the circuit provides a protective brake of the inertia type.

The advantages of chainsaws:

Disadvantages:

Features of use of power saws

Electric saw actuated electric motor power up to 2.5 kW, which must be connected via a cable to a fixed network or to a generator.

Higher power motors for hand tools are not used due to overweight and increased power consumption.

The working body is not very different from the headset chainsaw. It also has a sprocket, chain and tire. The clutch sometimes replaces the electronic soft starter. The chain brake operates on the same principle as for gasoline saws. Distinctive features are the gearbox and automatic protection system of the engine against overheating.

Advantages of electric saws:

Disadvantages:

Comparison of the main characteristics of gasoline and electric saws

Based on the listed features inherent in each class, it is possible to choose which saw is better, based solely on the conditions of use and the preferences of the master.

Performance

If you need a tool that can perform the maximum work during a work shift, you should opt for a professional chainsaw. Its power can be 6 kW, when electric saws rarely reach 2.5 kW. Even with equal power petrol saws provide much greater performance. After all, they are able to work without a break for 8 or more hours, and for an electric tool you will have to make a long break approximately every hour to cool the motor.

The additional advantage of the chainsaw gets due to more fast chain rotation. If we also take into account the inconvenience of the operator's movement of the electric saw from the log to the log with the cable clinging to the protruding objects, then we can confidently say that the gasoline saw will win the performance competition by a large margin.

Autonomy and duration of work

When used in an equipped workplace with an average intensity of work, the saws of both classes will look like rivals, and in closed unventilated room power tools will generally be out of competition due to the absence of exhaust gases and low noise levels. But at logging, when cutting wood on a large area of ​​storage space and in other situations when you have to act autonomously, the gasoline engine shows all its best qualities. He is not afraid of the vagaries of the weather, and it will last longer than electric.

Convenience and economy

When buying a chain saw for home or for giving, performance issues fade into the background, giving priority to ease of operation and economy. Here the electric saw has its main advantages: low weight, ease of maintenance, easy start.

The cost of an electric saw is usually 30-50% less than that of a chainsaw of the same power, and it is also preferable for operational costs.

Recommendations for choosing a chainsaw

Deciding whether you need a gasoline or electric saw for work follows from practical considerations. With periodic use in the household will fit household models of both classes. For those who care about the low weight of the tool and ease of maintenance, it is better to purchase an electric saw with the necessary power. It should be understood that its use away from stationary power networks will cause serious problems associated with the search for a power source.

For those who rely on mobile use of the saw, there is no alternative to gasoline units.

If necessary professional work with high strength material and at high daily loads, chainsaws are purchased. Under these conditions, their increased cost quickly pays for itself through superior performance.

Having stopped on a certain class of a saw, start the choice of concrete model. It takes into account the feedback of experienced craftsmen and tool specificationswhich primarily include:

• engine power;
• guide rail length;
• availability of assistive devices that provide convenience and safety of operation.

Of great importance and ergonomic quality tool, which each buyer can only evaluate according to his feelings, taking a saw in hand.Professionals believe that it is safer to opt for products of famous brands, the recognized leaders among whom are usually called Shtil and Huskvarna.

Chainsaws Calm

Stihl was founded in Germany in 1926 and became one of the first to produce gasoline-powered saws. Being a pioneer in this field, she first used and patented numerous unique knots for chainsaws, without which it is impossible to imagine a modern tool. Among the technical developments of German engineers are:

• the design of the cutting chain, adopted by the majority of followers;
• handles, reducing the intensity of vibration;
• chain brake;
• electronic ignition system.

A special feature of the latest generation of chainsaws is a convenient quick-chain tensioning unit and heated handles for comfortable work at low temperatures. The range of saws of this brand covers the entire range from light household to powerful professional tools.

The advantages of the models of this brand:

The disadvantages include:

The combination of excellent quality, high reliability and ease of use made Calm the world's best-selling brand of chainsaws.

Chainsaws Husqvarna

Gasoline saws from the Swedish company Husqvarna are a worthy competitor to the German brand. Scandinavian engineers have relied on the simplicity, reliability and increased safety of their models. The special features of products with the Huskvarna brand include:

• using an exceptionally economical X-Torq engine, with minimal emissions of harmful substances in the exhaust gases;
• automatic adjustment of carburetor settings;
• a broken chain catcher implemented in the construction of some models;
• high efficiency air filter;
• advanced launch system;
• convenient adjustment of the degree of chain tension;
• use of a universal key for the majority of operations associated with repair and maintenance.

The range of Husqvarna chainsaws is represented by a tool from the household to the professional class.

The advantages of the models of this brand:

The disadvantages include:

Comparing chainsaws of such high class as Huskvarna or Stiel will never reveal a clear winner. Only minor arguments for and against this or that model will remain. But if you needed a really convenient and reliable tool, you should look for it among the products of these respected manufacturers all over the world.