What Size Chainsaw Do I Need? Calculator

Chainsaw Size Calculator

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FAQs

How big of a tree can a 14-inch chainsaw cut? A 14-inch chainsaw can typically cut trees with a diameter of up to 12 inches, though this may vary depending on the wood’s hardness and the chainsaw’s power.

How big of a tree can a 20-inch chainsaw cut? A 20-inch chainsaw can usually handle trees with a diameter of up to 18 inches, but the specific cutting capacity will depend on the saw’s specifications and the wood being cut.

How do I know what size chainsaw chain I need? Chainsaw chain size is typically indicated by the “pitch” and “gauge” measurements. Pitch refers to the distance between chain links, while gauge measures the thickness of the drive links. Your chainsaw’s specifications and intended use will determine the appropriate chain size.

Should I get a 14 or 16-inch chainsaw? Choose based on your intended use. A 14-inch chainsaw is suitable for light pruning and small tasks. A 16-inch chainsaw offers a bit more cutting capacity, making it better for moderate tree felling and general property maintenance.

What is a 14-inch chainsaw good for? A 14-inch chainsaw is great for light tasks like trimming branches, cutting firewood, and performing general yard work.

What’s better 16 or 18 chainsaw? An 18-inch chainsaw has a higher cutting capacity compared to a 16-inch chainsaw. It’s better for larger trees and heavier cutting tasks.

How big of a tree can you cut down with an 18-inch chainsaw? An 18-inch chainsaw can handle trees with diameters of around 16 to 17 inches. However, it’s essential to consider the wood’s hardness and the chainsaw’s power.

What is a 20-inch chainsaw good for? A 20-inch chainsaw is suitable for cutting larger trees and processing substantial amounts of firewood. It’s often used by professionals for demanding tasks.

What is the hardest wood to cut with a chainsaw? Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple are among the most challenging to cut due to their density.

Should chainsaw chains be tight or loose? Chainsaw chains should be properly tensioned, neither too tight nor too loose. A rule of thumb is to have the chain snug against the guide bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.

How do I choose a chainsaw? Consider factors such as intended use, the size of trees you’ll be cutting, power source (gas vs. electric), and the chainsaw’s features and ergonomics.

How loose or tight should a chainsaw chain be? A chainsaw chain should be tight enough that it doesn’t sag beneath the guide bar but loose enough that you can pull it around the bar by hand.

What is a 16-inch chainsaw used for? A 16-inch chainsaw is versatile and suitable for tasks like felling small to medium-sized trees, cutting firewood, and property maintenance.

What is the best brand for chainsaws? Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo are well-regarded chainsaw brands known for their quality and performance.

What is the most common chainsaw chain size? The most common chainsaw chain sizes are 3/8-inch pitch with a .050-inch gauge or .325-inch pitch with a .050-inch gauge.

What is the most popular chainsaw bar length? Bar lengths between 16 to 20 inches are quite popular for homeowner use, offering a good balance between versatility and cutting capacity.

Can you put a 16-inch bar on a 14-inch chainsaw? Generally, chainsaw bar lengths are designed for specific saw sizes. Trying to fit a longer bar on a smaller saw might affect performance and safety.

What size chainsaw do lumberjacks use? Lumberjacks often use chainsaws with bar lengths ranging from 20 to 36 inches, depending on the size of trees they are cutting.

Should I get a full or semi-chisel chainsaw? Full-chisel chainsaw chains cut faster but require more maintenance and are more prone to dulling. Semi-chisel chains are more durable and retain their sharpness longer.

What is the best chainsaw for the money? The “best” chainsaw depends on your budget and needs. Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo offer various models that provide good value for different uses.

What is the best CC for a chainsaw? For general homeowner use, chainsaws with engine displacements between 35cc and 50cc are commonly recommended.

Can you cut too much off a tree? Cutting too much from a tree’s canopy or trunk can stress the tree and impact its health. Pruning should follow proper guidelines to ensure the tree’s vitality.

Do battery-powered chainsaws work? Yes, modern battery-powered chainsaws can be effective for light to moderate tasks. They offer lower noise levels and require less maintenance compared to gas saws.

Can you trim branches with a chainsaw? Yes, you can trim branches with a chainsaw. However, using a chainsaw for pruning requires proper techniques to avoid damaging the tree and ensure safety.

Do I need an 18 or 20-inch chainsaw? Choose based on the size of trees you’ll be cutting. An 18-inch chainsaw is suitable for most homeowner tasks, while a 20-inch chainsaw offers greater cutting capacity.

Why are Stihl chainsaws better? Stihl chainsaws are known for their quality, durability, and performance. They often incorporate innovative features and are widely used by professionals.

Can I put a 20-inch bar on my Stihl chainsaw? It depends on the model of your Stihl chainsaw. Some models may allow for larger bar attachments, but it’s important to follow manufacturer guidelines.

Is it better to chainsaw wet or dry wood? It’s generally better to chainsaw dry wood because wet wood can be more challenging to cut due to its density and the potential for chain damage.

What not to cut with a chainsaw? Avoid cutting materials like metal, concrete, or anything that isn’t wood, as these can damage the chainsaw’s chain and bar.

Why not split wood with a chainsaw? Splitting wood with a chainsaw is dangerous because the bar can get pinched in the wood, and the high torque can cause kickback. Use a proper wood splitter instead.

Why do loggers run chainsaw bars upside down? Running chainsaw bars upside down is common in some logging practices to extend the life of the bar. It helps distribute wear and prolongs the bar’s usability.

How do I know if my chainsaw chain is dull? A dull chain will produce fine sawdust instead of coarse chips, cut slowly, and require more force to make cuts. It might also lead to overheating and smoke.

Should the chain brake be on when starting the chainsaw? Yes, for safety reasons, always engage the chain brake when starting a chainsaw to prevent accidental chain movement.

How much does a decent chainsaw cost? Decent chainsaw prices can vary widely. Entry-level models might start around $100, while more powerful and feature-rich models can go up to $500 or more.

Why doesn’t Lowe’s sell Stihl? Stihl has a specific dealer network, and they do not sell their products through big-box stores like Lowe’s.

What chainsaw chain do professionals use? Professionals often use full-chisel chains for faster cutting, but the choice depends on the task. Brands like Stihl and Husqvarna offer chains suitable for professional use.

Why does my chainsaw chain stretch so fast? Chainsaw chains can “stretch” due to wear on the drive links. Proper tensioning, maintenance, and sharpening can help prolong chain life.

Why is my chainsaw smoking? Smoking can indicate an overly rich fuel mixture, a clogged air filter, or other issues with the engine’s performance. It’s best to address this promptly.

Can a chainsaw chain stretch too much? Yes, excessive stretching can lead to poor cutting performance and safety issues. Regular tensioning and maintenance are essential.

Do I need a professional chainsaw? A professional chainsaw is necessary if you’ll be tackling heavy-duty, frequent, or demanding tasks. For occasional homeowner use, a consumer-grade chainsaw might suffice.

How big of a chainsaw do I need for an Alaskan mill? Alaskan mills typically require larger chainsaws with bar lengths of 24 inches or more to effectively mill large logs.

What is the benefit of a mini chainsaw? Mini chainsaws are compact and lightweight, making them suitable for light pruning, trimming, and small tasks where maneuverability is essential.

Gas or electric chain saw, which is better? Gas chainsaws offer more power and are better for heavy tasks. Electric chainsaws are quieter, require less maintenance, and are suitable for lighter work.

Is Husqvarna the same as Stihl? Husqvarna and Stihl are separate brands known for their chainsaws and outdoor equipment. They have distinct product lines and reputations.

What is the lightest most powerful chainsaw? The lightest and most powerful chainsaw would be a high-end professional model with a powerful engine and advanced lightweight materials.

What size chainsaw for the average homeowner? For the average homeowner, a chainsaw with a 16 to 18-inch bar is usually sufficient for a wide range of tasks.

What size chainsaw is best? The best chainsaw size depends on the tasks you’ll be performing. A 16 to 20-inch bar is versatile and suitable for many homeowners.

What chainsaw chain cuts the fastest? Full-chisel chains typically cut the fastest due to their aggressive tooth design. However, they require more maintenance and can be less forgiving.

How big of a tree can an 18-inch chainsaw cut? An 18-inch chainsaw can usually cut trees with diameters up to 16 inches, depending on factors like wood hardness and chainsaw power.

Is a bigger chainsaw bar better? A bigger chainsaw bar is better for larger trees and heavy-duty tasks but can be more cumbersome to handle for smaller jobs.

What chainsaw can run a 60-inch bar? Chainsaws capable of running a 60-inch bar are typically specialized and used for milling large logs. Professional-grade models might have this capability.

When should I replace my chainsaw bar? Replace your chainsaw bar when it’s excessively worn, damaged, or when the chain isn’t tracking properly. Regular maintenance can prolong bar life.

How tight should a chainsaw bar be? A chainsaw bar should be properly tensioned so that the chain fits snugly along the guide bar, but it can still be rotated by hand.

What is the hardest wood to cut with a chainsaw? Woods like ironwood, hickory, and Brazilian walnut are known for being exceptionally hard to cut due to their density.

Who makes the best chainsaw in the world? The title of “best chainsaw” is subjective and can vary based on personal preferences. Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo are among the top contenders.

What is the best chainsaw for cutting down large trees? For cutting down large trees, a powerful professional chainsaw with a bar length of 20 inches or more is recommended.

What is the advantage of a full chisel chainsaw chain? Full-chisel chains cut faster due to their aggressive design, making them suitable for professionals and those who prioritize speed.

What is the difference between a chipper chain and a semi-chisel chainsaw? A chipper chain is designed to remove material quickly, making it suitable for softwoods and dirty conditions. Semi-chisel chains are more durable and better for hardwoods.

What’s the best all-around chainsaw? An all-around chainsaw would likely have a bar length of 18 to 20 inches, offering a good balance of versatility and cutting capacity for various tasks.

What is the best chainsaw brand for home use? Both Stihl and Husqvarna are reputable brands for home use, offering a range of models suitable for different homeowner needs.

What CC chainsaw do loggers use? Professional loggers often use chainsaws with engine displacements ranging from 60cc to over 100cc for heavy-duty logging operations.

What’s better full chisel or semi-chisel chain? Full-chisel chains cut faster but require more frequent sharpening and can be less forgiving. Semi-chisel chains are more durable and retain sharpness longer.

How much is too much to cut off a tree? Removing more than 25% of a tree’s foliage in a single season can stress the tree. It’s generally recommended to follow proper pruning guidelines.

Is it OK to cut lower branches off trees? Yes, it’s generally fine to cut lower branches off trees if done properly. This is known as “crown lifting” and can improve tree health and aesthetics.

Are electric chainsaws as strong as gas chainsaws? Electric chainsaws are generally less powerful than gas chainsaws but can still handle light to moderate tasks effectively. Gas chainsaws are better for heavy-duty work.

How long will a battery-powered chainsaw last? The runtime of a battery-powered chainsaw depends on factors like the battery’s capacity and the saw’s power. It could range from 20 minutes to over an hour.

What is the difference between a pruning chainsaw and a regular chainsaw? A pruning chainsaw is designed for light trimming and pruning tasks, often featuring a smaller bar and reduced power for precision work.

What saw is best for trimming tree branches? A small chainsaw or a pole saw is best for trimming tree branches. They offer the maneuverability needed for precise cuts in tight spaces.

How big of a tree can a 20-inch chainsaw cut? A 20-inch chainsaw can cut trees with diameters of around 18 to 19 inches, depending on the wood’s hardness and the chainsaw’s power.

What is a 20-inch chainsaw good for? A 20-inch chainsaw is suitable for felling large trees, cutting firewood, and handling substantial cutting tasks that require more power and capacity.

Why is Husqvarna better than STIHL? Husqvarna and STIHL are both respected brands with their own strengths. The perception of one being better than the other can vary based on individual experiences and preferences.

Is Husqvarna more reliable than STIHL? Both Husqvarna and STIHL are known for producing reliable chainsaws. The reliability of either brand depends on the specific model and maintenance practices.

How big of a bar can you put on a STIHL 250 chainsaw? A STIHL MS 250 chainsaw usually comes with a recommended bar length of 16 or 18 inches, but it’s important to check the manufacturer’s guidelines before using a larger bar.

Can you put a different size bar and chain on a chainsaw? You can put a different size bar and chain on a chainsaw as long as the chainsaw’s specifications and capabilities can accommodate the new size. However, it’s crucial to follow manufacturer guidelines to maintain safety and performance.