Making an informed decision when shopping for a new electric chainsaw is essential to ensure it suits the jobs you'll be tackling. Key factors to consider include whether it's corded or battery-operated, the strength of the motor, the length of the bar, and other features that make operation and upkeep easier.

What to Look for When Buying a Chainsaw

There are several factors that can help you choose an electric chainsaw you'll be happy with in the long run. Many homeowners require a chainsaw for a variety of tasks, such as chopping logs, pruning small trees, or cutting back shrubs. This kind of chainsaw can also be handy for framing tasks.

Bar Length and Cutting Power

First off, opt for a bar length between 14 and 18 inches. This is a good fit for a range of tasks like pruning, trimming, and cutting branches and smaller tree trunks.

The power of the chainsaw is certainly something to take into account. For trimming branches and twigs, a 120-volt electric chainsaw will serve you well. As there's a broad range on the market, make sure to seek advice from a professional to find the best fit for your needs.

It's important to remember that a more powerful model will also cost more. Unless you need an electric chainsaw for cutting tree trunks with a diameter of 4 inches or more, you might not need all that power. Choosing a chainsaw that matches your actual cutting power needs could save you some cash!

Automatic Oiler and Tension Ring

Additionally, having an automatic oiler is a major plus as it ensures the lubrication of the guide bar and chain. This can effectively prevent your chainsaw from degrading prematurely.

Furthermore, a chainsaw with an integrated tension ring, which simplifies the process of tightening the chain without extra tools, is another great feature to consider. Some chainsaw models like the Oregon CS1500 and Oregon CS1400 come with one, making them more user-friendly.

These electric chainsaw models also feature a chain that can be sharpened in as little as 3 seconds. This integrated sharpening system is one of the key reasons the Oregon CS1500 is so popular, along with its notably quiet operation.

Other noteworthy advantages of these models include a larger-than-average guide bar, which allows you to cut branches with a larger diameter.

Perks of the Electric Chainsaw

Investing in an electric chainsaw has its fair share of benefits. Besides eliminating the need for gasoline, this type of chainsaw requires very little maintenance.

It also weighs less than gas-powered models, making it much easier to handle. And that's not all: electric chainsaws are known for their easy start-up.