Choosing a Petrol Chainsaw or Electric Chainsaw
One of the most difficult things for a new user of a chainsaw to determine is which brand they should purchase.
There are many manufacturers on the market including Stihl, Husqvarna, Echo, Ryobi, Bosch and Mitox.
You can get blinded by jargon and technical information when some times you just need to know what makes it go & how big it is. Most chainsaws you see on tv programmes used by forestry workers or tree surgeons are professional quality machines only suitable for them and their job. Not for the domestic user to cut up logs in the back garden.
The fact is, when reading chainsaw reviews, don’t simply base your decision on one particular brand.
The most well known or popular brands used by professionals might not be suitable for occasional use in your back garden.
Take advice from people who have used a chainsaw and visit local dealers to actually see the machines, ask questions and get a feel for them yourself.
Size and weight of the chainsaw etc. A 12-16″ guide bar is usually sufficient for occasional domestic use.
You’ve got to base your decision on the amount of work you plan to do with the saw, the size of the jobs, your experience of handling a chainsaw and of course, your budget.
Pricing can differ markedly from one brand to the other. Basic model electric chainsaws start at £69.99 and petrol chainsaws start at £110.
November 24, 2009 | Posted by Claire 
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I, and I suspect many others, have an affinity to Stihl chainsaws from years of experience with Stihl stonesaws on construction sites.
Having said that, I’ve Stihl chainsaws for years and they’ve been excellent.
If you’re looking to buy a saw for domestic garden / logging use I’d recommend the MS181 over the 171. If you’re going to spend half a day with it you will definitely notice the increased productivity of the more powerful machine, particularly if you’re cutting hardwoods. The quick chain tensioner is also well worth the additional money.
Russell