Whether you are a homeowner just hoping to undertake basic yard work or are a professional hired to take on big jobs, having a chainsaw at your disposal can make a world of difference. These powerful pieces of equipment can handle a variety of yard maintenance tasks, from cutting up downed tree limbs to taking care of overgrown branches.
At Tractor Supply, you’ll find a selection of chainsaws and chainsaw accessories that can be used for a variety of different tasks around your property. As America’s largest rural lifestyle retailer, we know the importance of investing in the right chainsaw. So, before you buy the first chainsaw you see, learn more about how chainsaws function, and find out what you should look for based on your needs.
Understanding How Chainsaws Work
Chainsaws use cutting teeth on a chain to slice through wood. The chains surround guide bars, which come in various lengths to handle different applications. An engine will supply the chainsaw with power, causing the chain to move and the teeth to cut through materials with ease. While chainsaws are commonly used on wood, certain models are able to handle ice, plastic, concrete and more.
With several chainsaw power options available, professionals or homeowners alike can find their preferred type:
Gas Chainsaws
Gas-powered chainsaws provide the power you need to handle a wide array of cutting jobs. These models run on gas, utilizing a constant supply of fuel to handle long periods of use. Because they don’t rely on electricity, these options are particularly helpful for use in large areas or for commercial applications, which may require more powerful tools.
Corded Chainsaws
Electric chainsaws plug into your home’s outlets, providing a continuous supply of energy. This means they can run as long as you need them to – without requiring a refill of fuel. Corded models are also lightweight and typically easy to handle.
Cordless Chainsaws
If you like the freedom of gas power but don’t want to have to keep a fuel supply on hand, cordless chainsaws are a nice compromise. These models feature built-in batteries that can be charged and recharged, allowing you to cover a lot of ground without fiddling with cords. The battery life may vary between models, so it’s best to do your research and consider your needs.
The Power and Size You Need
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to chainsaws. Whether you need a heavy-duty, powerful option for work, or a more standard version for basic yard maintenance, you’ll find a wide range of chainsaw models to choose from. To determine the power and size you need, consider these factors:
- Chainsaw chain size: This measurement range indicates the function the chainsaw is best suited for. Shorter lengths of 6 to 12 inches are better for light-duty tasks, while longer options of 19-24 inches are ideal for heavy-duty purposes.
- Battery size: The more voltage your chainsaw battery has, the more it can handle when cutting. For reference, 60V batteries can power through tougher jobs than 20V options.
- Number of chain drive links: A chainsaw with more drive chain links, such as 54, offers larger cuts. A lower number of links, such as 33, can cut smaller, making it better suited for lighter cutting duties.
- Saw chain thickness: This number determines how much wood is removed with each cut. Thicker chains of 0.050 inches can remove more wood, but they need more power to operate. Meanwhile, thinner chains of 0.043 inches remove less but can often cut faster.
- Compatible chain bar length: This measurement will help you make sure your chain is the right size to fit properly on your chainsaw, offering optimal functioning.
Ways Chainsaws Can Help Finish the Job
As previously stated, the main use of chainsaws is to cut wood. Homeowners and commercial property owners depend on them to cut down trees that are infringing on their landscaping layout, plus those that are old and may pose a threat to nearby structures. Because trees are so heavy, they need to be cut into manageable pieces before they can be removed from a yard or roadway. Trees are also thicker than basic lumber, so power equipment is needed to get the job done in a timely manner.
When shopping for the right chainsaw, you must consider more than your preferred power type. What will you be using your chainsaw for most often? Some of the tasks you can perform with these versatile tools include:
Landscaping
Some property owners just need little touchups to help keep their features looking their best. Fortunately, chainsaws can be used for basic landscaping needs, such as tree trimming. As trees continue to grow, their branches need to be maintained. Tree trimming helps keep branches from extending into a neighbor’s yard and prevents them from becoming safety hazards.
You can also use chainsaws for tree pruning, which is the process of removing select branches to help stimulate new growth. Not only will this help get rid of dead or damaged branches, which will help keep the tree healthy, but it will also keep your landscaping up to your standards.
Cutting Firewood
Whether you’re building a campfire or need wood for your home’s fireplace, a chainsaw can help you process logs to prepare them for your splitter or axe. Simply cut through logs with your chainsaw to create smaller pieces, which can then be fed into the splitting machine or chopped with an axe.
Cleanup After Emergencies
Natural disasters, such as storms, tornadoes and hurricanes, can leave debris in their wake. While smaller items are easy to pick up, fallen trees on your property or in the road are going to require more than an extra pair of hands to deal with. Chainsaws can make quick work on downed trees of nearly any size, allowing you to keep you and your family safe while removing the eyesore from your yard.
Shaping Materials
Believe it or not, chainsaws are often used to help shape building materials. When dealing with large pieces of lumber, chainsaws may be helpful because they offer a sense of freedom when cutting that other power saws don’t.
Creating Art
Another use for chainsaws that tends to be overlooked is their potential to help create art. Whether you’re into woodcarving or ice sculptures, these tools help you express your creativity while using one of your favorite power tools.
An Array of Desirable Features and Materials
Many chainsaws offer useful features that add convenience or safety for the operator, so when you’re comparing your options, consider how different offerings may improve your experience. Highly popular are anti-vibration or lightweight designs, which are ideal for people who use chainsaws for long periods (i.e. tree-cutting services or professional loggers), as they help reduce hand and arm fatigue. If you don’t have much experience with chainsaws and want to ensure your safety, opt for a model with a low kickback, which prevents movement of the chainsaw during operation. Or, you can invest in one with a safety switch that stops accidental activation. Chainsaws with automatic chain oilers help reduce friction that can cause your chain to wear down over time, prolonging its lifespan.
Additionally, your chainsaw’s construction will also impact its longevity and which projects you can tackle. Chainsaws are made of durable materials that can withstand regular use and cut through wood swiftly. The chains are typically constructed with heavy-duty steel that enables them to tackle tough cutting jobs. Chainsaw housing is often designed of plastic or polyamide materials that are strong yet lightweight enough to handle.
Simple Maintenance and Care
Chainsaws are powerful but, much like any other tool, they need to be maintained to ensure long life. Luckily, a chainsaw is generally low maintenance, as long as you take care of it properly. First, make sure you have chainsaw oil on hand to lubricate the components and allow smooth operation. You’ll occasionally need to replace bars, chains and other parts to help ensure dependable performance. Sharpeners help keep your chainsaw in prime condition, allowing it to make effortless cuts again and again.
Shop for Your Next Chainsaw at Tractor Supply
Choosing the right chainsaw starts by understanding what you plan to use it for. While they are versatile pieces of equipment, knowing how often your chainsaw will be in use and where you might need to use it can help you decide which model is right for you. We pride ourselves on providing what you need For Life Out Here, from chainsaws to safety equipment. Shop online or visit your local Tractor Supply store today.