When you want to create your ideal yard or give a client exactly what they want out of their landscaping, you need reliable, durable tools to ensure satisfaction, including chainsaws. These give you the power to prune, trim up tree branches and cut large pieces of wood to give any backyard some much-needed TLC.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking for simple-to-use solutions or a commercial worker needing heavy-duty work gear, the tree trimming and logging products at Tractor Supply can handle whatever comes your way. Learn more about the chainsaws in our selection, as they are a staple in any tool set, and it pays to do your research before you invest in one.
Different Types of Chainsaws
Chainsaws are designed to make easy work of trimming and logging tasks, such as chopping firewood for your next bonfire or trimming branches to keep clients’ backyard spaces free of falling debris. These machines use one of two power types – gas or electricity. The kind of chainsaw you need depends on the job you intend to do, as each type offers different benefits.
Our chainsaw choices include:
Gas Chainsaws
Gas chainsaws are your most durable option, delivering high power without sacrificing mobility. Our chainsaws come in a variety of sizes to meet your needs, including light-duty options to professional-grade setups. They usually include a pull-start (or manual) mechanism, where you pull the crank until the motor starts. Featuring a single two-cycle engines or multiple two-cycle engines, most of these machines use gas, though some may require an oil and gasoline mix to operate.
Ideal for larger projects, as well as cutting through more difficult types of wood, gas chainsaws offer quicker speeds than other options, as well as longer run times. This means that you can get through tasks quickly and use your chainsaw for a long time before it runs out of power. Their cord-free construction also allows you to move with your chainsaw without needing to connect to electrical outlets.
Electric Chainsaws
When you need easy-to-use, lightweight cutting tools, electric chainsaws are a great choice. Different from gas chainsaws, this type is powered by batteries or electricity instead of fuel. Use electric chainsaws to complete smaller, residential jobs, such as pruning or trimming. You can also find models suitable for larger tree trunk cutting or log cutting jobs. While batteries are not as powerful as gas, we carry electric models offering as much power as low-horsepower gas chainsaws.
Many people prefer electric chainsaws for their quiet operation and ease of maintenance, while others love that they don’t have any emissions. They’re also simpler to start than other chainsaw types, with many featuring easy push-button starting, making them ideal for beginners or less seasoned chainsaw users.
Our range of electric chainsaws feature two different configurations:
Corded Chainsaws
Corded chainsaws attach to a cord to deliver consistent power and are oftentimes built to be more lightweight than other electric options. While you won’t have to worry about recharging your device, you will have to keep your chainsaw plugged in the entire time you use it. In turn, this can limit your mobility, restricting movements to only extend as far as your cord allows.
Because of this, you may also need an additional extension cord to ensure your chainsaw reaches far spaces in your yard. For your safety, you shouldn’t use just any extension cord, but rather one designed for heavy-duty machinery and outdoor applications. You should keep in mind that cords must be safely out of your way as you work, so be mindful of loose, hanging cords to avoid dangers and complications.
Cordless Chainsaws
A cordless chainsaw differs from corded options because it comes without a cord, allowing you to be more mobile and move around your entire backyard with ease. These are easy to use and offer less vibration than other chainsaw types, meaning they’re safe for beginners. However, you’ll need to recharge your chainsaw regularly, as it can lose power after some time. Browse our models with brushless motors, which are designed without brushes in the motor to prevent wear and tear from regular use.
Pole Saws
Pole saws (also called pruner chainsaws) look like a traditional chainsaw, but with an extended pole attached to the bottom. Using the pole as a handle, this design allows you to cut and trim away tree branches and debris that are usually too high for you to reach. Pole saws are ideal for pruning or when you need to cut small tree branches. They forgo the need to use a ladder, which keeps you on the ground and prevents you from having to work at dangerous heights.
Whether you want something cordless for easy maneuvering or corded for constant power, we have the options you need, along with gasoline-powered pole saws for heavy-duty trimming. Pole saw sizes range from 10 feet or more, and you can find customizable saws, which give you the choice to remove the pole for traditional chainsaw use when needed.
Browsing Our Chainsaw Options
Before buying a chainsaw, you must consider many aspects to find something appropriate for your project. Luckily, we carry a variety of options for both homeowners and commercial workers, regardless of their skill level.
Chainsaw Chain and Bar Size
Choosing the proper chainsaw for your project involves asking yourself many questions, with the first and most important being, ‘What size chainsaw do I need?’ The answer to this will depend on the size of the material you plan to cut. For example, larger trees and firewood require a longer bar length, anything 20 inches or longer. Longer bar sizes also accommodate medium- to large-sized trees, and they allow for easy cleanup after storms.
Smaller jobs, such as trimming small tree branches or hedges, only need bars ranging from around six to 20 inches. Use these chainsaws for residential applications or precision cutting. As a general rule, you should find a chainsaw bar that’s at least two inches longer than the thickness of the material you intend to cut. For example:
- Splitting wood uses a 14- to 16-inch bar size.
- Felling small trees indicates you need a 12- to 14-inch bar size, with medium trees using a 16- to 18-inch bar and larger trees requiring something 20 inches or more.
- Pruning small limbs requires a 6- to 10-inch bar, while larger branches need an 8- to 12-inch bar.
Once you know the bar length of your chainsaw, you can shop for compatible chains. Our options range from up to six inches to 19-24 inches, giving you plenty to choose from. If you find that the chainsaw bar you have does not fit your project – don’t worry! Many of our models have the capability to swap out chains and bars, allowing you to switch to shorter or longer sizes based on your cutting task.
Chainsaw Features
When shopping for a chainsaw, you should consider ones with special features that make cutting more comfortable and efficient. Our models come with a variety of safety features and capabilities to change the way you cut and ensure minimal risk, including:
- Automatic chain oiler: This comes standard on most modern chainsaw models, keeping chains properly lubricated and allowing for safe and consistent performance.
- Chain brake: This safety feature automatically stops chains from moving if they experience a disruption, such as an impact or abrupt movement.
- Anti-vibration: This reduces vibrations emitted by your chainsaw while operating, delivering comfort, and decreasing fatigue for long-term cutting – not to mention enhancing safety.
- Low kickback: This safety feature lessens the chance that saws forcibly move back up toward you after hitting something solid.
- Tool-free chain tensioning: This lets you alter the tension of your cutting chain without the use of tools, making adjusting quick and convenient.
- Safety switch: Available on most electric chainsaw models, this keeps chainsaws turned off to prevent accidental starting.
- Self-sharpening: This automatically sharpens chains as they rotate around the bar, saving you from investing in sharpening tools and regular replacements of dull chains.
Start Type
The start type of your chainsaw can determine how easy it is to get it going. For instance, gas chainsaws feature manual (or pull/recoil) start types, meaning they’re constructed with a built-in cable attached to a handle. To turn them on, you must grab the handle and pull upward quickly – repeating the action until they start. You’ll know when your chainsaw is operating when you hear the engine roar on.
Electric models are easier to start, taking away the need to pull on chains repeatedly. Instead, you turn the device on using a switch start or push button, allowing for quick and simple chainsaw starting. If you try to use your electric chainsaw but find that it won’t start, you should check to see if it has a safety lock button and if it’s turned on. This feature keeps chainsaws from starting to prevent accidental operation.
Battery Size and Horsepower
Battery size pertains to electric chainsaws and tells you how powerful your chainsaw is. The higher the voltage, the more power it has. Shop our range of battery options, including anything from 20V to 80V options, so you can find the right fit for your application.
When it comes to gas chainsaws, power is measured by horsepower, similar to cars. For smaller, residential applications, consider a lower horsepower, such as 2 HP. Professional-grade chainsaws and applications will need a higher horsepower, such as 8 HP. The higher your horsepower, the better it will perform at cutting large-diameter tree branches and logs.
Chainsaw Weight
The motor or engine and bar size of your chainsaw not only indicates the amount of power it holds, but also how heavy it is. While larger, heavier setups can give you more cutting power, it can also make them uncomfortable to use for long periods. Because of this, you want to consider how much weight you can carry at one time, helping you to find something that’s comfortable to use no matter what task comes your way.
Additionally, you should know that the larger the saw, the more vibrations it will emit, which can make chainsaws difficult to handle. If you’re looking for an easy-to-manage, lightweight choice, opt for a smaller battery or motor and bar length. This is especially true for beginners, as the low-vibration construction allows for less wobble and added safety during use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chainsaws
What kind of safety equipment should I wear while using a chainsaw?
Safety gear is essential for keeping you protected from debris and other elements while using a chainsaw. Not only should you have the basics, such as helmets, eye protection and gloves, but you also need the proper hearing protection equipment, as well as cut-resistant pants or chaps. Additionally, you want a pair of work boots, preferably ones with nonskid outsoles and steel toes, for enhanced safety.
What’s the best way to maintain my chainsaw?
You must check your chainsaw regularly to ensure it is operating and performing as it should, completing all maintenance tasks in accordance with instructions from your manufacturer. While electric chainsaws won’t need much upkeep, gas options require you to change out fuel and oil, as well as fuel filters, frequently. You should also make sure to use the right type and amount of fuel according to your model’s specifications.
Regardless of the type of chainsaw you have, you must inspect your bar and chain oil before each use, refilling as needed to keep parts lubricated. You should also clean chain brakes, air filters and air intake slots, wiping away debris that lingers on chainsaw bars and engines. Always ensure air intake slots are clear before using your chainsaw to avoid overheating.
Additionally, check chainsaw bars and rotate them if you notice signs of wear, and inspect chains for dullness. In some cases, it may be easier and safer to replace chains rather than sharpen them. You should also look for loose or missing nuts and screws before using, especially if you feel your chainsaw vibrating heavier than usual.
Before performing maintenance tasks on your chainsaw, always make sure it is unplugged and turned off. You should also allow all components to cool down after use. For battery and electrical-powered options, you must remove batteries, while gas models require you to disconnect spark plugs. This provides added safety during chainsaw cleaning and maintenance.
When storing your gas chainsaw for the winter, make sure to drain all leftover gas and oil to prevent hazards in garage spaces, sheds or other outdoor storage areas. For electric chainsaws, you must fully charge the batteries before storing them. Be sure to keep batteries and other components in a safe space away from moisture and other elements. Additionally, periodically check your cords for signs of damage, which can indicate further issues.
Do I have to sharpen chainsaw blades?
Sharpening chainsaws is another aspect of proper maintenance, as it’s essential for upholding tool performance and preventing damages from wear and tear. You can tell that your blades are becoming dull when you notice they don’t cut as smoothly and easily as they used to.
Many commercial workers have access to electric chainsaw sharpeners, which allow for quick and easy sharpening. However, most residential users will use a sharpening file and complete the task manually. When choosing a file, you must find one compatible with the individual tooth size of your chain. You can also find sharpening kits, which include everything you need for quick, convenient blade sharpening. If you need easy maintenance out of your chainsaw design, consider a self-sharpening chainsaw, which automates sharpening as chains rotate around the bar.
How do I turn on my chainsaw safely?
Before starting your chainsaw, you should first put on your safety gear and lay your chainsaw on the ground. Next, take the chain brake and move it forward, keeping chains from rotating until you’re ready.
Gas-powered chainsaws will have a choke, which you must pull repeatedly to start the engine. The safest way to pull the choke is by using your foot to keep the back of the chainsaw stable, one hand to hold the handle and the other to pull. Electric chainsaws are much easier to operate, as you only need to push the power button to start.
How can I prevent chainsaw kickback?
The best way to prevent kickback is ensuring you’re using and holding your chainsaw properly. You should keep your thumb wrapped around the front handle during cutting applications, allowing for better control.
Try not to cut materials in the chainsaw bar’s ‘kickback zone,’ which includes the top half end of the bar. When materials hit this area, your chainsaw is more likely to kick back and up toward you. However, many newer chainsaw models come with a chain brake, which adds safety by stopping chains from moving and rotating after experiencing a kickback.
Get Backyard Tasks Done with Help from Tractor Supply
Whether you need to trim up a few branches in your yard or were hired to take on a landscaping side job, the right chainsaw allows projects to be comfortable, efficient and quick. When it comes to finding the right choice, rely on our options so you can find something that fits your specific job needs. To learn more chainsaw facts about our inventory, visit your local Tractor Supply store today or browse online.