Top Best Logging Chainsaw For Professional And Novice Loggers

Best Logging Chainsaw

As loggers operate in a harsh environment, cutting down trees, processing them, and transporting them to processing plants, they can’t just use any chainsaw to get the job done.

Owning the best logging chainsaw is a must for professional logging crews when they have to clear thousands of acres of forest every year.

Below here are the top 5 chainsaws that will satisfy the needs of both professional and novice loggers.

But before diving into the review section, we would like you to understand more about the essential factors when looking for a chainsaw.

Last update on 2024-03-18 at 06:59 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How To Choose The Best professional Chainsaw For Loggers?

In order to invest your money in the right equipment, keep in mind the following buying factors.

Bar Length of Chain Saw

The most common way of measuring the guide bar’s length is to define the dimensions from the tip of the chain to the point where it enters the housing.

The active cutting area of the chainsaw is represented by the bar length, which is the longest length of wood the chainsaw can cut in a single pass.

You can still cut large chunks of wood with a smaller chainsaw, but the tool should be at least 2 inches longer than the thickness of the branch or tree being chopped.

For instance, if the branch is 8 inches thick, the optimal chainsaw’s guide bar (or blade) should be at least 10 inches long. This allows loggers to slice timber through in a single pass.

To meet typical workloads, most professional loggers will choose bar lengths of 18 to 24 inches.

If you cut considerably larger trees, larger saws with bar lengths of 30 inches, and even 36-inch bars, the gas engines must reach 70cc or greater.

Many loggers will also have a smaller chainsaw for light tasks such as cutting small trees and brush (no longer than 16 inches), as well as pruning (6-12 inches) and bucking (18 inches and larger). Smaller machines are lighter and easier to wield, reducing fatigue.

However, the size of wood you can cut is determined by more than simply the bar length. We also have to determine the type of engine.

Type Of Engine Power

There are at least 3 types of chainsaws that are the most commonly seen in the market.

A gas chainsaw is the first type that measures an engine in cubic centimeters (cc) or cubic inches. Any chainsaw engine that generates more than 65cc can cut through thick and tough trees.

Logging Chainsaws

These have a propensity for cutting rapidly and smoothly. Compared to some underpowered electric models, their high chain speed makes them the best choice for heavy-duty operations like felling large branches and trees.

The second option is the electric chainsaw which powers by an amperage (or amps) unit of measurement. They’re usually lighter and convenient to use.

However, they are limited to lighter-duty tasks like cutting hedges or clipping the occasional tiny tree limb because of their slower sawing pace.

loggers chainsaw

A battery chainsaw is the third kind that we often see in the market. These saws eliminate the need for a power cord, and they’re about the same price as gas saws.

These saws have adequate strength to chop both large and tiny tree limbs. Battery-powered models are handier, quieter, and require less maintenance than gas-powered.

Safeness

Purchasing a chainsaw is unlike purchasing most other consumer goods. When it comes to chainsaws, the difference is how deadly they may be if not utilized properly.

Injury is always a possibility, but it’s also easily avoidable if you follow a few simple principles and wear the appropriate protective gear.

Professional Logging Chainsaws

Chainsaws now have precautions, such as an automated chain brake, to decrease the risk of kickbacks. But even if you have a model with plenty of safety features, you should still take some measures.

Our advice is to look for the one that suits your logging task and the suitable weights that you can endure for a long time.

Getting the right types of chainsaw, for example, top handle or gear handle is also crucial to find a comfortable grip and stance.

Remember that if you want to log trees indoors, never use gasoline-powered instruments since they emit carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal.

Top 5 Best Logging Chainsaws Review

These chainsaws are in the mid-size range, which operates mainly by gas. So, what are their advantages and disadvantages?

Husqvarna 450 Rancher Gas Chainsaw – Best Overall

We compliment this model from Husqvarna as the best overall chainsaws in the mid-size range due to its comfortable design, quick starting mechanism, and casual use.

The Husqvarna 450 machine is an excellent choice for any homeowner seeking a powerful, high-quality saw that can handle any job.

It’s geared for the more casual user, yet it still has enough power and a sturdy build to be suited for more demanding use.

>>> See The Latest Pricing for 450 Rancher <<<

It can easily handle many cords of wood and medium-sized trees with the 20-inch bar. The grip has been ergonomically built for maximum user comfort.

It’s an incredibly tough chainsaw that can withstand years of continuous usage, making it ideal for even the toughest projects.

Thanks to the X-Torq function and a quick-release air filter, it also uses less gasoline than a regular gas engine.

Since this is a 2-stroke engine, the fuel must be a 50:1 mixture of petrol and oil. Plus, owing to an outside fuel indicator, you’ll never have to worry about how much gas is left in the tank.

With a 3.2 horsepower engine, a maximum speed of 9000 rpm, and the idling speed of 2700 rpm, this saw has the power to handle most projects that the average homeowner will throw at it.

In addition, it’s perfect for novice loggers for its simple instruction on choke/stop control, quick-release air filter, and a tool-free chain tensioning system.

What we also would like to praise this chainsaw for is low vibration. In any case, the front handle vibrates at 3.1 m/s2, whereas the back handle vibrates at 4.9 m/s2.

And since it weighs only 11.3 pounds, it’s quite handy and easy for any loggers. The only drawback for this product might be its lack of power for professional use.

With only 50.2cc, it’s a perfect tool for users who prefer to chop down trees for winter firewood or farmers only.

Husqvarna 20 Inch 450 Rancher II Gas Chainsaw
  • X-TORQ - Delivers lower fuel consumption and reduced exhaust emission levels in accordance with the world´s most stringent environmental regulations
  • AIR INJECTION - Centrifugal air cleaning system removes larger dust and debris particles before reaching the air filter. This results in reduced air filter cleanings and improved engine life
  • SMART START - The engine and starter have been designed so the machine starts quickly with minimum effort

Last update on 2024-03-18 at 06:59 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

  • Compatible with cutting medium trees
  • Low vibration
  • 50cc X-Torq engine that reduces fuel consumption
  • Exterior fuel for convenient refill
  • Ergonomic design

Cons

  • Suitable for farmers or homeowners only
  • Need more power for tougher jobs

Echo CS-590-20AA Gas Chainsaw – Best Heavy-Duty Chainsaw

Although a Japanese company owns the brand, most Echo products are manufactured in the United States using foreign and American parts and components.

Since it’s a heavy-duty machine, it’s not quite suitable for such projects as limbing or pruning.

The CS-590’s professional-grade engine is not the largest we’ve seen in a chainsaw, but the model is indeed powerful at 59.8cc.

It provides adequate power for good performance even while driving a 27 inches bar and chain, which is the utmost rated for, with a top speed of 13,000 rpm.

>>> See The Latest Pricing for CS-590 <<<

The chain included with the model we’re looking at is a 20 inches chain with a ⅜ inches pitch and 0.050 inches gauge.

This is a popular chain size for both home and professional saws. Echo also has a large supply of replacements of a decent quality.

Furthermore, with 13.2 pounds without cutting gear, this saw is suitable for cutting larger amounts of big wood without becoming weary.

The Echo CS-590 is an excellent investment if you’re searching for economical professional logging chainsaws to quickly trim branches and slice into 20 inches pine trees.

Unlike the CS-400, which is lightweight but offers a less robust motor, this model comes with a powerful 59.8cc 2-stroke motor that can handle most tasks quickly.

The Echo 590 stands out with a 21.8 ounces fuel tank and additional heavy-duty two-piece mesh in tank capacity and air-filter layers.

This model isn’t the ideal choice for casual users with a tiny plot of land to manage, as it may have too much power and weight for the duties they’ll encounter.

But for professionals who work all day or have a huge workload, this machine is the most ideal out of all.

Last update on 2024-03-18 at 06:59 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

  • Adequate power for tough projects
  • Good safety features
  • Top speed at 13,000 rpm
  • Powerful 59.8cc 2-stroke motor
  • Easy to operate

Cons

  • Heavy

Makita EA6100PRGG Chain Saw – Best For Air Filter System

Makita has a reputation for producing high-quality power tools, and this 20-inch equipment is no exception.

Even though it’s considered a very highly heavy-duty competitor of Echo CS-590, most people are impressed with its upgraded air filter system.

The EA6100PRGG contains a heavy-duty cartridge air filter for increasing its lifespan. Cleaning also becomes a simple task thanks to Makita’s innovations in the air filter and chainsaw’s smooth rounded edges.

>>> See The Latest Pricing for Makita EA6100PRGG <<<

Due to the lateral chain tensioning, the chain compartment is easy to maintain and adjust.

Inexperienced users won’t have any issue operating the machine since Makita’s sophisticated vibration dampening system has helped better comfort and less strain while logging.

With a weight of about 13 pounds, you can use it for hours without becoming tired. It performs like a 25lb monster, though, thanks to its powerful 61cc engine and 4.6 HP.

The 20-inch guide bar is ideal for cutting through medium-sized timber quickly. It’s also straightforward and fun to use, with minimal vibrations and an easy-start option.

Makita EA6100PRGG is a heavy machine for daily use. Still, it’s not a bad option when it comes to professional work, especially when its advanced air filter has helped prolong its lifespan and durability.

Makita EA6100PRGG 20" 61 cc Chain Saw
  • Easy start spring-assisted starter with optimized engine Management for quick starting with less force
  • Powerful 4.6 HP Stratified air Scavenging engine for lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency
  • Magnesium housing for improved durability and less weight (Only 13.2 lbs.)

Last update on 2024-03-18 at 06:59 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

  • Heavy-duty air cartridge system
  • Easily navigated with a 20″ guide bar
  • Simple to clean
  • Easy-to-maintain-and-adjust chain compartment
  • Powerful 61cc engine capable of producing 4.6 HP

Cons

  • Heavy

Remington RM4618 Gas Chainsaw – Best For Value

This 18-inch chainsaw bar is your next best option if you want to save a little money while still getting a gas chainsaw for logging.

It is a lightweight machine that suits most home and hobby farm chores such as processing firewood, removing small trees, or cleaning up after a storm.

>>> See The Latest Pricing for RM4618 <<<

The machine runs on gasoline but also requires 2-cycle oil, which is luckily included in the product package. The 46cc-engine is also pre-assembled, allowing you to start using it right away.

Apart from these features, it also owns several worth-mentioning factors, such as a 5-point anti-vibration system, chain tensioner with no tools, and quickstart technology.

Remington demonstrates that purchasing a professional chainsaw does not have to be prohibitively expensive.

It has the same power and performance as some of the more costly versions on the market.

RM4618 cuts rapidly and quietly, with little vibration and little kickback but still durable thanks to the die-cast housing features, metal crankcase, or chrome cylinder.

However, if you’re looking for a tool that helps to handle heavier tasks such as bucking trees, Remington RM4618 might not last long.

Pros

  • Reasonable price
  • Pre-assembled parts
  • Easily accessible tool-less tensioner
  • 5-point anti-vibration system
  • Durable die-cast housing

Cons

  • Cannot endure heavy-duty tasks

Poulan Pro PR5020 Gas Chainsaw – Best Fuel-Saving Machine

Poulan Pro is our last but not least product in the list with great value for money.

The proprietary OxyPower Engine exists to compete with more ecologically friendly electric saw designs as a gas-powered product.

This technology provides amazing power while consuming less fuel and emitting fewer pollutants.

In another word, it can boost performance while lowering fuel consumption and emissions by 20% and 70%, respectively.

>>> See The Latest Pricing for PR5020 <<<

In terms of construction and performance, it’s well-made and simple to operate. With a 20-inch guide bar and a 50-cc engine, it can handle just about everything you throw at it.

A powerful 50cc displacement is a typical starting point for a more professional quality experience. The engine can drive a longer bar and chain and deliver a powerful, smooth cut when used.

The model also offers a decent amount of kickback which minimizes the risk while operating and ensures that no vibration will be transferred to users’ hands.

In addition to safety, the immediate chain-stopping mechanism eliminates the risk of harm by accident while using the chainsaw.

The chain guard also protects anyone who might unintentionally contact the blades when it’s time to put them away.

The disadvantage of Poulan Pro is its limited operational capability. If you need a tool that can run all of the time and constantly make precise and clean cuts, the PR5020 isn’t quite up to the task.

Sale
Poulan Pro 20 inch Chainsaw, 50cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw, PR5020
  • With the OxyPower engine technology, you can get that extra power for virtually any task. This technology offers a more powerful engine, but also 70% less emissions and 20% lower fuel consumption
  • Effortless pull starting system reduces pull force 30% for easier starting and reduced wear on the starter mechanism
  • The combi tool is integrated into the rear handle, it's always there when you need it for maintenance

Last update on 2024-03-18 at 06:59 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

  • Fewer emission and fuel consumption
  • 50cc engine with plenty of power
  • Performance with a low kickback
  • Chain-stopping mechanism for ultimate safety
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not ideal for saw-mill use
  • Require regular maintenance

FAQs

Do Loggers Still Use Chainsaws?

No matter how fast technology evolves, loggers still have to use chainsaws for logging trees and get their jobs done.

A logger’s job entails spending lots of time outside pruning, felling, and planting trees. Due to the nature of such a job, it is vital to prepare a professional-grade chainsaw.

However, not all workers can choose the right type for each of their tasks and skills. To purchase the right tool, you first need to determine the tree’s diameter, your weights and follow the buying guides above.

What Size Chainsaw Do Loggers Use?

It varies according to the tree’s diameter and how you would like to cut the trees down. For example, if you prefer cutting woods for firewood nights, then a 14-18 inches bar length would be the most suitable size for the task.

If you only need pruning and plumbing, then a 12 inches bar is more than enough. It’s alright to use a bigger size to cut smaller trees, but it will take your time in adjusting the powerful engine and the speed.

Each type of engine power has different measurements, but as for gas chainsaws, loggers frequently utilize tools with engines ranging from 40 to 80cc.

What Brand Of Chainsaw Do Professional Loggers Use?

It depends on each person’s preferences. Due to the appropriate balance of power to weight, most professional loggers still choose Stihl and Husqvarna as their preferred best professional chainsaw brands.

However, both of these brands have exorbitant chainsaw costs. There are other notable brands to be aware of, such as Echo and Makita for the heavy-duty jobs and Poulan or Remington for the middle-size woods.

Conclusion

The best logging chainsaw is designed and developed to cut down enormous trees all day, allowing loggers to work as effectively as possible.

Longer bar lengths, a more powerful engine, a top handle, and a balanced design are all common features of these chainsaws.

In our opinion, the one that stands out the most from the top 5 is the Husqvarna chainsaw. It comes from a very notable brand that has gained much attention from manufacturing premium quality for the chainsaw.

Even though it does not come with the highest engine power and top speed, it’s the combination of the most lightweight and powerful machine for cutting trees.

In addition, it owns an X-Torq engine that reduces fuel consumption and carbon emissions, which is excellent for the future environment and worker’s safety.