Top 5 Gas Chainsaw Reviews: Power & Performance Guide

Ever stared at a towering tree, wondering what tool could conquer it? That’s where the mighty gas-powered chainsaw steps in. These powerful machines are the backbone of serious woodcutting, from clearing storm damage to building your dream cabin. But here’s the rub: choosing the right one feels like navigating a jungle. Do you need more horsepower? What about bar length? The sheer number of brands and features can quickly overwhelm even experienced users, leading to frustration and the wrong purchase.

Picking the wrong saw means wasted time, extra effort, and potentially dangerous situations. You deserve a tool that matches your job, not one that quits halfway through. That’s why we built this guide. We cut through the confusing jargon and technical specs to give you clear, actionable advice.

By the end of this article, you will know exactly what to look for in engine size, safety features, and maintenance needs. Get ready to stop guessing and start cutting with confidence. Let’s dive into the world of gas-powered chainsaws and find your perfect match.

Top Gas Powered Chainsaw Recommendations

No. 1
VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 3.8 HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chainsaws with Non-Slip...
  • Powerful Performance: This 62cc gas chainsaw features a 3.8 HP (2.8 kW) engine with a 12,000 rpm Max speed, making it ideal for home and professional logging. The 20 in (508 mm) guide bar cuts diameter up to 18 in (455 mm), efficiently handling thick trunks and large branches. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
No. 2
Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 38-cc 2-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 16 Inch Chainsaw with...
  • Husqvarna 130 16 inch chainsaw is easy to start and easy to handle, making it a valuable tool for a variety of home and garden tasks—recommended for use with bar lengths between 14 inches (min) and 16 inches (max)
  • Effortless Start-Up: A fuel pump and combined choke/stop control allow for easier starting and reduce the risk of engine flooding, while the gas chainsaw 16 inch blade has an inertia-activated chain brake to reduce the likelihood of injury due to kickback
  • Superior Performance: Gas powered chainsaw delivers superior performance with an efficient 38-cc, 2-HP X-Torq engine that reduces emissions (up to 60%) and increases fuel efficiency (up to 20%)
  • Air Injection Technology: Chainsaws equipped with a centrifugal air cleaning system that expels larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter for improved engine life
No. 3
Gas Chainsaw 62CC 20 Inch Professional Powerful 2-Stroke Engine for Tree Cutting, Logging and...
  • Powered by a robust 62CC 2-stroke engine, this gas chainsaw delivers exceptional cutting power and speed for the most demanding tasks.
  • The 20-inch Oregon-style guide bar and low-kickback chain effortlessly tackle large diameter logs and thick branches in a single pass.
  • Prioritize safety with our automatic chain brake and anti-vibration system. The brake activates instantly upon kickback to prevent potential injury.
  • Say goodbye to arm-straining pull-starts. Our innovative quick-start technology and ergonomic design make ignition remarkably smooth and reliable.
No. 4
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol Handheld Gasoline Chain...
  • Powerful 62cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw: SUPMIXTOOLS gasoline chain saws are powered by a 62cc power full crank 2-stroke cycle engine for more power and less vibration, providing plenty of power for demanding cutting tasks
  • 20-Inch Guide Bar: SUPMIXTOOLS gas chainsaw with a 20-inch bar and low-kickback chain for efficient cutting of larger logs and branches, making it suitable for tree trimming and firewood preparation
  • Ergonomic Design: With a well-balanced and ergonomic design, SUPMIXTOOLS chain saw gas power ensures comfortable operation, reducing user fatigue during extended use
  • Reliable and Safe Quality: SUPMIXTOOLS gas powered chainsaw is designed with a safety switch to prevent accidental opening and the quick-stop chain brake helps to use it more safely
No. 5
VEVOR Gas Chainsaw 52CC 2-Cycle Gasoline Powered Chainsaw 18 Inch Handheld Cordless Petrol Chain...
  • High-Strength Steel: Cut trees quickly with our gas chainsaw, thanks to its high-strength steel chain and bar. The 18" bar reduces sawdust splatter, keeping your work area cleaner and safer. This chainsaw is designed to boost your efficiency and comfort on the job. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
  • Powerful Performance: Featuring a 52CC engine, our gas powered chainsaw cuts through wood smoothly without any stalls. With 2.55HP power, 1.9KW/8500 RPM engine speed, and the max speed reaching up to 12000 RPM, you'll enjoy the ultimate sense of operation brought by strong power.
  • Comfortable and Stable: Enjoy a stable and comfortable cutting experience with the built-in shock absorber. It reduces vibrations, extends the life of your gasoline powered chain saw, and lowers maintenance costs, making your work more enjoyable.
  • Easy Cutting: Tackle both trimming and felling tasks with ease. The gasoline powered chain saw's cutting diameter reaches 16.93"/430 mm, making it versatile for all your outdoor cutting needs.
No. 6
62cc Gas Chainsaw, 20 & 24 Inch Professional Chainsaw with 2-Cycle Engine & Anti-Vibration System,...
  • Safety upgrade:3D Anti-Kickback Chain Brake System
  • Durability breakthrough:Forged Magnesium Crankcase
  • Maintenance revolution:Tool-Free Chain Tensioning System
  • Environmental certification:EPA Phase III & CARB Compliant Engine
No. 7
Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw, 38-cc, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 14 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic...
  • 14 INCH BAR: 120 Mark III Chainsaw with 3/8 Pitch, .050 Gauage is built for the homeowner who needs a lightweight and efficient cutting tool
  • POWERFUL AND EFFICIENT: 38-cc Husqvarna chainsaws with X-Torq engine delivers a great power and torque thanks to highly efficient combustion
  • INERTIA ACTIVATED CHAIN BRAKE: intertia activated chain brake for safety while operating
  • LOWVIB TECHNOLOGY: Dampeners between the engine and chassis significantly reduce vibrations so you can work more comfortably
No. 8
VEVOR 25.4 CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw 12 Inch Petrol Handheld Cordless Chain Saw for...
  • High-Strength Steel: Cut trees quickly with our gas chainsaw, thanks to its high-strength steel chain and bar. The 12" bar reduces sawdust splatter, keeping your work area cleaner and safer. This chainsaw is designed to boost your efficiency and comfort on the job. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
  • Flexible and Lightweight: Our gas powered chainsaw is easy to handle with its lightweight design and 25.4CC engine. It cuts through wood smoothly without any stalls. With 1.2HP power, 0.75KW/8500 RPM engine speed, and the max speed reaching up to 11500 RPM, you'll enjoy a nimble and effortless cutting experience.
  • Easy Cutting: Tackle both trimming and felling tasks with ease. The gasoline powered chain saw's cutting diameter reaches 9.84"/250 mm, making it versatile for all your outdoor cutting needs.
  • Easy to Handle: Weighing just 9.26 lbs/4.2 kg, this top handle gas chainsaw is comfortable to use with one hand and won't tire you out. Its ergonomic wrap-around handle ensures a secure grip, so you can work longer without discomfort.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Gas-Powered Chainsaw

A gas-powered chainsaw is a powerful tool. It helps you tackle big cutting jobs. Whether you are clearing fallen trees or cutting firewood, the right chainsaw makes the job easier. Choosing one requires looking closely at a few important things. This guide helps you pick the best saw for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, several features stand out. These determine how well the saw performs and how long it lasts.

Engine Power and Size

  • Engine Displacement (cc): This number tells you how big the engine is. Higher CC means more power. For small homeowner tasks, 30cc to 45cc is often enough. For felling large trees, look for 50cc or higher.
  • Horsepower (HP): More horsepower lets the saw cut through thick wood faster.

Bar and Chain Length

The bar holds the chain. Its length affects how deep you can cut.

  • Shorter Bars (12–16 inches): Good for beginners and trimming branches. They are lighter and easier to control.
  • Longer Bars (18–24+ inches): Necessary for cutting big logs and felling mature trees. They require a more powerful engine.

Safety Features

Safety is very important with chainsaws. Good saws include:

  • Chain Brake: This stops the chain instantly if the saw kicks back toward you. This is a must-have feature.
  • Vibration Dampening: Good handles reduce the shaking you feel. Less vibration means less fatigue.

Important Materials and Construction

The materials used directly impact the saw’s durability and weight. Better materials mean a longer-lasting saw.

Engine Components

Look for engines with magnesium alloy casings. These are strong but much lighter than plastic. A forged steel crankshaft provides the best strength for handling high power.

Bar Material

The best guide bars are made from solid, hardened steel. These resist bending and wear better than cheaper, laminated bars.

Chain Quality

A good chain stays sharp longer. Look for chains made by well-known brands. Quality steel chains resist dulling when cutting dirt or knots.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some design choices make a chainsaw better or worse for the user.

Quality Enhancers

  • Tool-less Chain Tensioner: This lets you tighten or loosen the chain quickly without needing a wrench. This greatly improves user experience.
  • Easy Start Systems: Some saws have springs or decompression valves that make pulling the starting cord much easier.
  • Automatic Oiling: The saw should automatically send oil to the bar and chain while you cut.

Quality Reducers

  • Plastic Components: Too much plastic, especially around the air filter or clutch cover, breaks easily.
  • Poor Carburetor Tuning: A poorly tuned carburetor makes the saw hard to start or causes it to run rough.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about what you will use the saw for most often. This helps you balance power with weight.

Homeowner/Occasional Use

If you only cut small limbs or firewood a few times a year, a smaller, lighter saw (under 45cc) works well. Focus on ease of starting and safety features.

Ranch/Farm Work

For regular firewood processing or clearing moderate brush, you need more muscle. Look for 45cc to 55cc engines with 16- to 18-inch bars. These saws handle sustained work better.

Professional Logging

Professionals need the most durable, high-powered saws (55cc+). They need excellent anti-vibration systems because they use the saw for hours every day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Gas Chainsaws

Q: How often should I sharpen the chain?

A: You should check the sharpness frequently. If the saw starts ripping wood instead of smoothly cutting it, it needs sharpening. For heavy use, sharpen it after every few tanks of gas.

Q: What kind of oil do I mix with the gas?

A: You must use a specific 2-stroke engine oil mixed with gasoline. Check your owner’s manual for the exact ratio (usually 50:1). Using the wrong mix damages the engine.

Q: Why is my gas chainsaw hard to start?

A: This is often due to old fuel or an improperly set choke. Always use fresh gas. If it still won’t start, the spark plug might need cleaning or replacement.

Q: What is “chain kickback”?

A: Kickback happens when the tip of the bar accidentally hits something hard. The saw suddenly throws upward and backward toward the user. Good chain brakes help prevent this dangerous action.

Q: Is a heavier chainsaw always better?

A: Not always. A heavier saw usually means a bigger engine, which is good for power. However, if it is too heavy for you to safely control, it becomes dangerous and tiring to use.

Q: How do I store my gas chainsaw during winter?

A: Always drain the fuel tank completely or use a fuel stabilizer. Run the engine until it stalls to clear the carburetor. Store it in a dry place.

Q: What is the difference between a guide bar and a scabbard?

A: The guide bar is the metal piece the chain runs on. The scabbard (or bar cover) is the plastic sheath that slides over the guide bar for safe carrying and storage.

Q: Do I need safety gear when using a chainsaw?

A: Yes, absolutely! You must wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, chaps (cut-resistant pants), and steel-toed boots.

Q: How long should the bar be for general yard cleanup?

A: For general cleanup, a bar between 14 and 16 inches offers a good balance of cutting capacity and maneuverability.

Q: What is the purpose of the bar oil reservoir?

A: The bar oil reservoir holds special chain lubricant. This oil is pumped onto the chain as it moves. This lubrication prevents the chain from overheating and wearing out quickly.