Nothing beats a chainsaw when it comes to felling, pruning, bucking, and making firewood out of felled trees. It certainly makes short work of these labor-intensive tasks! However, this handy tool is also one of the most dangerous unlicensed tools. A report published by PubMed states that over 3 million chainsaws are sold in the US every year. Chainsaws are said to cause around 28,000 injuries annually, with most of these injuries associated with hands and lower parts of the body. Hence, one should exercise caution by following the manufacturers’ guidelines and safety measures before using the chainsaw.
Chainsaws have been around for decades. There are three different types of chainsaws available on the market. You can buy a gas-powered chainsaw (most powerful), electric chainsaw (moderately powerful), and battery-operated chainsaw (easiest to use). Before we dive into discussing gas-powered Husqvarna chainsaws, let us understand the fundamental difference between a gas-powered and an electric chainsaw.
Gas-Powered vs. Electric Chainsaws
The following table will reveal the significant differences between gas-powered and electric chainsaws.
A gas-powered chainsaw is a better option than a battery-powered chainsaw because of its cutting capacity and ability to handle tough jobs. Different brands manufacture Gas-powered chainsaws. Some of the top brands are Craftsman, Echo, Homelite, Ryobi, Stihl, Homelite, and Husqvarna. Today we will discuss Husqvarna chainsaws.
The right chainsaw in the right hands can make felling trees extremely easy. We researched the leading gas-powered chainsaw brands to help you select the best chainsaw for your needs. It intrigued us to research more about this brand. A deep dive into the world of Husqvarna revealed why everyone loves to own a chainsaw from Husqvarna.
We selected the best gas-powered Husqvarna chainsaws and researched every model so you don’t have to. This article will also discuss a brief history of the Husqvarna brand, its product range, and the anatomy of its gas-powered chainsaws.
The 6 Best Gas-Powered Husqvarna Chainsaws
1. Husqvarna 16 Inch 435e II Gas Chainsaw
Husqvarna’s 435e is an ideal tool for homeowners who don’t have to deal with mature trees. It is best for your backyard pruning, cutting shrubs, and felling tree branches. It is a lightweight model which is best for household applications. With a 16-inch chain size, you will be able to handle multiple jobs with this tool.
The saw is built around a 40.9cc engine capable of producing a top speed of 9000 RPM. The fuel tank capacity is 0.78 US pints with fuel consumption of 652 g/kWh. The 2-stroke engine makes sure that you get an economical cutting session with maximum power. The automatic oiler keeps the bar and chain well lubricated throughout the cutting time.
The chain tensioning system is simple to use and allows for quick adjustments. It has a quick-release air filter for instant cleaning and maintenance. The fuel and oil tanks have a window for a quick inspection. The choke and air purge feature make it easy to start the tool, even in cold weather.
Summary
Husqvarna 16 Inch 435e II Gas Chainsaw
Pros
- Great value of money
- Best for household use
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Limited for only lightweight applications
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2. Husqvarna 18 Inch 445e II Gas Chainsaw
The 445e is a second-generation chainsaw for people who want professional qualities in a saw. It is best for homeowners who have to occasionally fell trees or deal with thicker timber. You can also use this tool for cutting shrubs, overgrown tree branches, and balancing your yard.
The saw has all the basic features present in a Husqvarna top handle chainsaw. In addition, you get air injection technology to keep the saw clean, X-torq engine to cut emissions and fuel consumption. Its choke and air purge feature make it easy to start the tool.
The chain size is 18 inches, and the tool is more powerful than the one reviewed above. The engine displacement is 50.2cc with a 2.8 HP output. The top speed for felling is 9000 RPM with an idle speed of 2700 RPM. This saw consumes less fuel (481 g/kWh) than 435e, making it more pocket-friendly. Overall, it is an excellent chainsaw for domestic use and random felling of minor trees.
Summary
Husqvarna 18 Inch 445e II Gas Chainsaw
Pros
- Excellent fuel economy
- Snap-lock cover reduces maintenance time
Cons
- Slightly costly
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3. Husqvarna 460R 24″ Gas Chainsaw
The 460R from Husqvarna is an excellent tool for professional forest workers. The 24-inch blade with a super-powerful engine delivers the speed and torque you need to bring down tall and fat trees. The 60.3cc engine delivers 3.62 HP (higher than the two saws reviewed above), which is more than enough to deal with big trees and hardwood. You can easily use this saw to cut firewood logs without any issues.
Just like all the Husqvarna chainsaws, you get air injection, X-Torq, low vibration, quick-release air filter, felling marks (helpful for felling big trees), choke, and inertia activated chain brake. In addition, this model features the chain tensioner on the side, making it easy to adjust the chain’s tension.
The maximum cutting speed on this model is 9000 RPM with an idling speed of 2700 RPM. The fuel tank volume is 0.9 US pints, bigger than other models, and it consumes 437 g/kWh fuel.
Summary
Husqvarna 460R 24″ Gas Chainsaw
Pros
- A versatile tool for home and commercial use
- Can handle heavy-duty applications
- Impressive engine speed
Cons
- Heavier compared to other brands
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4. Husqvarna 440 18″ Gas Chainsaw
The 440 18-inch gas-powered Husqvarna chainsaw is the perfect balance between cutting power and usability. With an 18-inch chain size, you can use this tool for your backyard trimming, felling medium-sized trees, and cutting firewood.
The tool comes with a side-mounted chain tensioner for hassle-free chain tensioning. A three-piece crankshaft engine provides durability and strength for heavy-duty cutting applications. The X-Torq engine cuts smoothly and reduces emissions. The 40.9cc engine produces 2.4HP, and a top speed of 9000 RPM with an idling speed is 2900 RPMs for a smooth and jerk-free idle position. The engine produces a maximum torque of 6300 RPMs.
This unit consumes more fuel than the 460R 24-inch saw. Its fuel consumption is 513 g/kWh. Overall, it is an excellent and versatile tool for forest workers and homeowners.
Summary
Husqvarna 440 18″ Gas Chainsaw
Pros
- Best for lightweight and commercial activities
- Low CO emissions
Cons
- High fuel consumption
- Cold starting takes a lot of time
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5. Husqvarna 455R 20″ Gas Chainsaw
Husqvarna’s 455 Rancher is an ideal chainsaw for heavyweight applications. You can use this tool for professional applications and land clearing. The chainsaw is so powerful that it will clear an entire forest in a matter of hours.
The 20-inch saw is powered by a 55.5cc engine with a 3.5 HP output. The engine produces a maximum speed of 9000 RPM with an idling speed of 2700 RPM. It produces 6600 RPM maximum torque with a clutch engagement speed of 3900 RPM. The best thing about this machine is its very low fuel consumption rate. It consumes only 407 g/kWh fuel in one hour, resulting in a low running cost.
Other features include air injection, side-mounted chain tensioner, X-torq, low vibration, automatic oiler, quick release filter, felling marks, an ergonomic front handle, air purge button, and inertia controlled braking system.
Summary
Husqvarna 455R 20″ Gas Chainsaw
Pros
- Perfect for heavy-duty tasks
- Low fuel consumption
- Available in 2 chain sizes
Cons
- Heavy to lift
- Chain slips rarely
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6. Husqvarna 966997203 T435 Top Handle Saw, Mid Size
It is the best saw for tree care professionals. A top-handled chainsaw is an ideal machine for lightweight tasks. The 12-inch chain size makes it perfect for your home lawn and backyard trimming. It is a small tool, so don’t expect marvels from it. However, it still does the job pretty well with a 35.2cc engine, 2.01 HP output, and a maximum power speed of 10000 RPM. The idling speed is 2900 RPM with a maximum torque of 7500 RPM.
The engine consumes 408 g/kWh fuel to give you a smooth chain running for all your lightweight sawing applications. In addition, the tool is loaded with all the Husqvarna features like X-torq, adjustable oil pump, quick release air filter, inertia activated chain brake, and a flip-up oil tank.
This model has two unique features which are not present in the tools reviewed above. First, the chain brake is window style and has a rope attachment for easy hoisting on a tree. Overall, this tool is only suitable for lightweight and household applications.
Summary
Husqvarna 966997203 T435 Top Handle Saw
Pros
- Fast chain speed
- Lightweight and compact
- Multiple lightweight applications
Cons
- Starting problems
- Costly compared to other leading brands
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Why Choose Husqvarna?
Husqvarna is one of the few brands with roots in the 17th century. It was established by the decree of the Swedish Monarch in 1689 and started its operations with musket pipes. Between 1757-1850 Husqvarna became a privately owned company. From there, the brand grew and started manufacturing various tools and machines such as sewing machines in (1872), hunting weapons (1877), wood stoves (1884), and mincing machines (1890). In addition, they are hailed as having manufactured the first Swedish typewriter in (1895) and went on to manufacture bicycles (1896), motorcycles (1903), and gas stoves (1912). You can see just how extensively this brand has grown over the centuries!
Husqvarna
In 1949, Husqvarna became a household name in North America with its quality electric stove, dishwasher, and washing machine. It was in 1969 that Husqvarna released its first gas chainsaw with innovative, groundbreaking anti-vibration technology. Husqvarna also takes the credit for manufacturing the world’s first chainsaw with an automatic chain brake.
Husqvarna’s 140 chainsaws spared workers from kickback injuries. Year after year, Husqvarna introduced new features to chainsaws making life easy for forest workers and homeowners. In 2009, it introduced AutoTune, a technological and environmental breakthrough in professional chainsaws that regulates fuel flow, optimizes performance, and reduces emissions.
Husqvarna’s Product Range
Husqvarna currently manufactures the following products:
- Chainsaws (gas-powered, corded electric, and battery-operated)
- Lawnmowers
- Yard and ground care products
- Snowblowers
- Home and garden tools
- Accessories and safety gear
Husqvarna Chainsaw Anatomy
A gas-powered chainsaw consists of the following parts:
- Guide Bar and Cutting Chain – The guide bar and the cutting chain work together for cutting wood. The guide bar is a steel bar that holds the chain and guides the chain in the wood. The chain is made of various components, such as cutting teeth and drive links. Chains come with different specifications, but one thing is for sure, it is the most lethal part of a chainsaw.
- Chain Brake/Hang Guard – The chain brake/handguard is used to protect your hand from the chain if it slips from the handle. It is also used to stop the chain during working.
- Starter Rope – It is used to start the engine on your saw. It takes 2-3 pulls to start your chainsaw under normal working conditions.
- Choke – The choke is used to start the chainsaw for a cold start.
- Primer Bulb – A primer bulb pushes the fuel into the carburetor before starting the saw.
- Oil Reservoir Cap – Chain lubrication oil is refilled through the oil reservoir cap.
- Fuel Reservoir Cap – You enter gasoline mixed with oil as fuel for your chainsaw through this cap.
- Throttle – The throttle is used to increase the chain spinning speed.
- Safety Throttle – A safety throttle is a safety lock that prevents accidental throttling when engaged.
- Handles – There are two handles on a chainsaw; front and back handle. Both the handles provide a stable grip when you are using a chainsaw.
Gas-Powered Chainsaw Buying Guide
You don’t buy a gas-powered chainsaw often. Hence, you must make sure that it has all the features you need. Our buying guide is focused on these needs and will help you select the best Husqvarna gas-powered chainsaw.
Features to Consider Before Buying a Chainsaw
Cutting Application and Chain Size
Chain size and saw’s power dominate what applications it can perform. Larger chainsaws are powerful than smaller chainsaws and can be used for heavyweight cutting applications. If you want to cut through thick timber, select a 24-inch chainsaw. It will have a bigger engine with more output than a smaller saw.
However, it is best to buy a small chainsaw, preferably 12 inches, if you are a beginner. It is easier to handle, maintain and use. Once you get the hold of sawing, you can buy advanced and more powerful saws.
Husqvarna offers chain sizes starting from 12 inches and up to 24 inches. So you have plenty of options for choosing the best one according to your needs.
Weight
Make sure you check the weight of the tool before buying it. You must be comfortable working with a heavy tool as we don’t want you to be uncomfortable while working.
Safety Features
All Husqvarna chainsaws come with adequate features that provide a safe working experience. First, however, you must go through the user manual of the preferred saw and make sure that it has all the essential safety features.
Maintenance
A chainsaw needs regular maintenance. Husqvarna chainsaws are easy to maintain and manage. Therefore not much consideration is required in this department.
Environmental Concerns
One thing where gas-powered tools raise some eyebrows is their environmental impact. Gas-powered chainsaws have 2-stroke engines which release a lot of carbon monoxide into the environment. It is the reason why the majority of homeowners and forest workers are now converting to battery-powered tools. Husqvarna, being an environmentally responsible company, has taken steps to address these concerns and reduce emissions. Its X-torq technology makes sure that your saw doesn’t release CO beyond the allowed levels.
How to Use a Gas-Powered Chainsaw
This section of the article will discuss how you can start, maintain, and cut with your Husqvarna chainsaw.
Staring your Husqvarna Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Starting and stopping a Husqvarna chainsaw is a simple process. Follow the following steps to start your chainsaw.
- Ensure that your chainsaw has fresh fuel in it.
- Activate the chain brake by pushing the front handguard forward (towards the chain).
- For a cold start, pull the choke outwards and press the air purge or primer 5-6 times until you see fuel bubbles in the fuel bulb.
- Press the decompression valve before starting the machine. It reduces pressure in the cylinders and makes it easy to start the saw.
- Place your right foot on the back handle and hold the front handle with your left hand.
- Pull the starter cord slightly until you feel some resistance.
- Firmly pull the starter rope 2-3 times until the saw starts and produces a partial start sound.
- Weight for a partial start sound; push in the choke and the decompression valve when this happens.
- Pull the starting rope again until the saw starts and accelerate a bit to normalize the saw speed.
- Set the speed of the engine to idle mode as soon as possible. Do not press throttle unless the chain brake is disengaged.
- You don’t need to pull the choke for a warm start, but you have to prime the engine by pressing the air purge 5-6 times until the fuel begins to fill it.
- Press the decompression valve one time and pull the starter rope. Your saw will start in 1-2 pulls.
Husqvarna Chainsaw Maintenance Tips
- Clean the outside, chain, and other exterior parts of your saw.
- Make sure you use fresh gas and oil to run your saw.
- Check the chain lubrication oil before cutting.
- Flip the bar over every time you sharpen the chain and lubricate the bar.
- Inspect saw chain regularly for wear and tear.
- Inspect engine, fuel lines, carburetor periodically and perform required maintenance or cleaning.
- Check the choke, primer bulb, and decompression valve and ensure they are working properly.
- Check the starter for damages.
- Inspect the air filter and replace it when needed.
- Always store your tool in a safe and dry place and cover it in a dust bag.
- Never store your tool with gas in it. It can clog the carburetor and fuel lines.
Husqvarna Gas-Powered Chainsaw Usage and Safety Guide
- Read the instruction manual of your model before doing anything else with your tool.
- Make sure you wear proper chainsaw clothing before using the tool. You must have the following safety gear: chainsaw boots, chainsaw trousers, heavy-duty studded work gloves, hard hats, hearing protection, visor, or safety glasses.
- Make sure you carry a first aid kit with you as well.
- Check the chain tension before starting your tool, and ensure that it is properly lubricated.
- Always use fresh gas mixed with oil in the right proportion in your gas chainsaw.
- It is best to start gas chainsaws on the ground.
- Make sure nobody is within 5 meters of your work area.
- Kickback is the most dangerous accident related to a chainsaw. Luckily, Husqvarna offers inertia controlled chain brake system which automatically stops the blade when it bounces backward.
- You can use three tricks to avoid kickback; keep your chain sharp, avoid cutting with the nose of your blade (use the middle section of the lower side), and don’t stand in the line of the blade.
- When you start cutting, the saw should be running at full throttle, and you must stand at the left side of the blade.
- Always cut from the middle of the guide bar, and the tip must not make contact with anything.
- Grip the tool firmly with both your hands and don’t exert too much pressure on the saw.
- Never cut anything else than wood with a chainsaw. It includes wood with nails or treated timber.
- Engage the chain brake after every cut if you are making rapid cuts and disengage before cutting.
- Turn off your saw if you are going to take more than a minute between cuts.
FAQs
It is an essential safety feature of modern chainsaws. An inertia-controlled chain brake system automatically stops the blade by engaging the chain brake in the event of a rapid or sudden movement such as kickback.
Husqvarna doesn’t have a tool-less chain tensioning system. You will need a wrench (supplied with the saw) to tighten the chain.
You need to remove the chain by taking off the blade guard. Once the chain is removed, you can sharpen the teeth with a tool or manually with a file.
A Husqvarna chainsaw can last for 10-12 years, provided properly maintained and taken care of.
Final Word
Nothing beats the power of a gas chain saw, and Husqvarna chainsaws are the best. However, we suggest you take appropriate safety measures before turning on your new Husqvarna saw.
