Small gas chainsaws are in demand for cutting small branches, limbing, pruning, and other branch work. They are easy-to-use and won’t stress you out like large gas chainsaws. Moreso, you can use them for carpentry projects in your garage.
If you are a homeowner or a landscaper searching for a small gas chainsaw for your cutting needs. Then check out this review of the 10 best small gas chainsaws in the market. After, we’ll discuss factors to consider when buying a small gas chainsaw as well as the advantages and disadvantages of small gas chainsaws. So without wasting any time, let’s dive in.
Name | Image | Details | Price |
Husqvarna 16” 435e II Gas Chainsaw |
| Size: 16-inch Weight: 9.2 Lbs. Power: 40.9 cc | |
Hitachi CS33EB16 Gas-Powered Chainsaw |
| Size: 16-inch Weight: 12.2 Lbs Power: 32.2 cc | |
ECHO CS-310 Gas Chainsaw |
| Size: 14-inch Weight: 6.42 Lbs Power: 30.5 cc | |
Craftsman 42cc-16 (2020 Model) S165 Chainsaw |
| Size: 16-inch Weight: 20 Lbs. Power: 42 cc | |
Garwinner 52cc Gas Chainsaws |
| Size: 18-inch Weight: 16 Lbs. Power: 52 cc |
10 Best Small Gas Chainsaws Reviews:
Here are the top 10 small gas chainsaws that can serve you-
1. Husqvarna 16” 435e II Gas Chainsaw
The Husqvarna brand manufactures one of the best forest and gardening outdoor power tools in the industry. Amongst their numerous tools, we’ll be focusing on the Husqvarna 16” 435e II gas chainsaw. This small chainsaw functions with a 40.9cc 2-cycle engine that produces a maximum cutting speed of 9000RPM. It has an intertia-activated chain brake for user safety. With a weight of 9.2lb, this chainsaw is lightweight.
Starting this machine is easy and straightforward thanks to its smart start® feature, start/stop switch, and air purge. Husqvarna equipped it with their patented X-Torq technology that offers more economical fuel consumption (652 g/kWh) and reduced exhaust emission levels to keep the environment fresh. Plus, its fuel tank (0.78 US pint) has a see-through fuel indicator that keeps you aware of the fuel level at all times.
The Husqvarna 16” 435e II gas chainsaw uses a lightweight 16” bar and chain to carry out all its cutting activity. You can change the 16” bar to 18” to cut large trees. Oil is constantly supplied to the chain for safety and efficiency through the automatic chain oiler. With the side-mounted chain tensioning system, you can make quick adjustments to the chain on the go, boosting productivity.
Handling the lightest chainsaw is easy because of the large ergonomic handle and the two-mass principle that reduces vibration by confining the engine from the handles, reducing operator fatigue. Its cylinder features a snap-lock design for easy replacement of spark plugs and easy maintenance. Plus, the quick-release air filter makes cleaning and replacing air filters straightforward. When you buy this chainsaw, it comes packaged with 2.6 ounces 2 cycle fuel and a bar cover.
Pros
- Easy to start
- It has an intertia activated chain brake system
- Economical fuel consumption
- Automatic oil supply system for efficient cutting
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Works a lot better than electric chainsaws
- Great for heavy duty jobs
Cons
- It may not last long
2. Hitachi CS33EB16 Gas-Powered Chainsaw
The Hitachi CS33EB16 gas-powered chainsaw is a reliable workhorse for bucking, pruning, cutting firewood, limbing, etc. It is an ideal chainsaw for homeowners. This small chainsaw features a 32.2cc, 1.6 hp PureFire low emission 2-stroke engine to deliver outstanding cutting performance with fewer fumes (CARB Tier III compliant). It has a purge prime bulb for smooth and reliable starts.
Also, it comes equipped with an intertia activated chain brake for improved safety. Once you engage the brake, it brings the chain rotation to a stop in seconds.
This chainsaw provides excellent and controlled woodcutting with a heavy-duty, low-kickback 16” Oregon bar and chain. However, it is loud. That said, it comes with an ergonomic D-style handle. And has a five-point vibration system that reduces the vibration when it’s in operation, which increases user comfort. Plus, an excellent power-to-weight (12.10lb) ratio makes it easy to handle for hours with low user fatigue.
The Hitachi CS33EB16 gas-powered chainsaw has a fuel tank capacity of 11.8 fl. oz and an oil tank capacity of 8.5 fl. oz. Its gas/oil ratio is 50:1 (Hitachi FD Rated). Furthermore, it features a side-access chain tensioner for quick and smooth chain adjustments. Two bar mounting studs ensure the chain is at peak cutting efficiency always.
Hitachi backed this chainsaw with a 7-year consumer warranty, 2-year warranty if used in non-rental commercial applications, and 1-year warranty if used in rental applications. For those that may not know, the Hitachi power tool company (Koki Holdings America) is no longer part of the Hitachi conglomerate. They exited the conglomerate in April 2017 and changed their name to “Metabo HPT”. So, if you buy this chainsaw the warranties will be honored under Metabo HPT.
Pros
- Great power-to-weight ratio
- It comes with a 7-year consumer warranty, 2-year warranty if used in non-rental commercial applications, and 1-year warranty if used in rental applications
- Anti-vibration system makes it a great choice for most people
- CARB Tier III compliant
- Purge prime bulb for smooth and reliable starts.
Cons
- Loud
3. ECHO CS-310 Gas Chainsaw
The ECHO CS-310 gas chainsaw is an excellent option for homeowners and professionals who desire high performance and comfort in their chainsaws but want to spend less. It is equipped with a 30.5 cc professional-grade, 2-stroke engine that powers an Oregon 14” bar and chain to cut through wood like paper.
This chainsaw is lightweight, weighing 6.42lb. It features a patented i-30™ starting system with digital ignition for smooth and easy starting with 30% less effort than standard chainsaws. In case of emergency, it has a dual-post chain brake for user safety.
A downside to this chainsaw is that it leaks oil when stored. Aside from that, it has all the features professionals demand in a lightweight and compact design. It has an automatic, clutch-driven oiler that cuts down on its oil consumption by providing oil to the bar only when the chain is moving. This enables the chainsaw to run for long hours using less oil. Also, there’s a side-access chain tensioner to make quick chain adjustments.
Comfort is on another level with the ECHO CS-310 gas chainsaw because it features an excellent vibration-reduction system that makes handling it comfortable. Further, its top-mounted air filter has a tool-less cover for quick and easy access to the air filter for clean up or replacement. ECHO backs this small chainsaw with a 5-year consumer warranty and a year commercial warranty.
You can effectively cut tree branches and thicker logs like battery models for its compact size with less vibration.
Pros
- Top gas chainsaw cuts well
- It has an i-30™ starting system with digital ignition for smooth and easy starting
- It features an automatic, clutch-driven oiler that cuts down on its oil consumption
- 5-year warranty and a year commercial warranty
- Starts easy and effortlessly like battery powered chainsaws
- Provides great value for money
- Right size for home use
Cons
- It leaks oil when stored
4. Craftsman 42cc-16 (2020 Model) S165 Chainsaw
The Craftsman 42cc (2020 model) S165 chainsaw features a powerful, high-output 42cc full-crank engine that produces steady power for smooth pruning, trimming, and limbing of wood. It comes equipped with a 16” low-kickback bar and chain that goes through the toughest wood in one pass. Thanks to Craftsman’s patented EasyStart technology, this chainsaw will start with just a few pulls. For safety, it features an intertia-activated chain brake that stops the chain automatically when engaged.
This heavy duty chainsaw comes with an ergonomic, cushioned full-wrap handle for easy handling. It is also equipped with a 3-point vibration system that reduces the vibration it produces during operation and makes it comfortable to operate and maneuver. Plus, its lightweight (21lb) and the equipped bucking spikes provide more controlled sawing when cutting through branches or trees.
The adjustable auto oiler system supplies adequate oil to the chain, ensuring the saw cuts smoothly and safely. Additionally, you can raise or lower oil flow manually as you so desire. Be informed that this chainsaw is made from plastic, so it’s not ideal for heavy use as the chassis can easily break or catch fire/melt during heavy use. Therefore, you should buy it only if you need it for light, small-scale jobs.
The Craftsman 42cc (2020 model) S165 chainsaw features tool-free access to the air filter and sparks plug for quick and easy maintenance. Furthermore, an adjustable, automatic oiler ensures the right amount of oil is supplied to the chain and also allows you to manually set oil flow.
A sturdy tensioning system mounted by the side of this chainsaw ensures chain tension stays consistent, as it allows quick chain adjustments while working. Craftsman backed it with a 2-year limited warranty. Also, it comes packaged with a heavy-duty case, a scrunch tool, and 2-cycle engine oil.
Pros
- Works well with steady supply of oil
- Easy to use and start
- Ergonomic design with comfortable handle helps to achieve clean cuts
- 2-year limited warranty
- It comes with a heavy-duty case, a scrunch, and a 2-cycle engine oil
Cons
- Not heavy-duty
- Its body can easily break or melt due to overheating
5. Garwinner 52cc Gas Chainsaws
Midway into this list is the Garwinner 52cc gas chainsaw. From the name, you can tell it is equipped with a 52cc 2-stroke motor. The motor supplies incredible power (8500rpm) to its 18” low-kickback bar and chain for pruning, trimming, and limbing trees & branches effortlessly. It features an electronic ignition system for stable running. Safety is guaranteed with the in-built safety brake that brings the chain to a complete stop immediately you engage it.
Garwinner incorporated left and right anti-vibration ergonomic handles for comfortable and firm handling with less user fatigue. The design of the handles features a cushioned wrap for a firm grip. Furthermore, they equipped the chainsaw with an air-filtering system that reduces fuel consumption and makes the air filter last longer. Plus, an automatic oiling system that supplies oil constantly to the board and chain for consistent cutting performance and improved lifespan.
The Garwinner 52cc gas chainsaw, like most chainsaws, features a quick tension chain mechanism for adjusting the chain quickly and conveniently while the machine is in operation. It comes packaged with an 18” 325”72DL guide bar, two 18″325” saw chains, one instructional manual, a chain saw installation step, a guide for starting the chainsaw, a tool kit, and a 2L fuel mixing bottle. Be informed that it weighs 16.42lb.
Pros
- Powerful motor can create enough power for felling trees
- It comes with instructional manuals and all the essential accessories needed to use it
- Lightweight (16.87lb )
- Easy to use and start
- Left and right ergonomic handles for excellent control and maneuvering
Cons
- None
6. Poulan Pro PR4016 Gas Chainsaw
The Poulan Pro PR4016 gas chainsaw is powered by a 40cc 2-cycle engine with Poulan Pro patented oxy-power technology. This technology makes the engine produce tremendous power, consume less fuel, and release less harmful emissions. You won’t have any issue with starting it because of the Poulan patented (EPS) technology that features a spring-assist pull cord and user-friendly purge bulb for quick and easy starts with fewer pulls.
This chainsaw comes equipped with a 16” bar and chain, but the chain is poorly made. We’ll advise you to get an extra chain if you are going to purchase it. With a weight of 13lb, it is extremely lightweight and easy to handle. Plus, it features an anti-vibration system for comfort and handling, which minimizes user fatigue. Poulan Pro put to use their patented SuperClean air filter system that extends the air filter life and keeps fuel consumption minimal, without sacrificing cutting power.
The Poulan Pro PR4016 gas chainsaw has an ergonomic design, making it very easy to use. Thanks to the automatic gear-driven oiler, the bar and chain stay lubricated, reducing wear and keeping cutting performance consistent. When you buy this small chainsaw, it comes packaged with a user manual and a 2.6-ounce bottle of 2-cycle oil. Poulan Pro has a 2-year warranty on it.
Pros
- Powerful motor with adequate safety mechanism
- Lightweight small chainsaw
- Ergonomic design allows to work for long period
- OxyPower technology for incredible power, efficient fuel consumption, and reduced harmful emissions
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- The chain is poorly made
7. SALEM MASTER 5820GGas Chainsaw
The SALEM MASTER 5820G gas chainsaw functions with a 58cc 3.0hp powerful gas engine with an upgraded cylinder and copper nozzle carburetor for improved combustion and stable power. The engine can speed up to 8,500RPM, delivering constant power to the equipped 18” bar and low-kickback chain to cut through firewood effortlessly. With the chain teeth sharpness and right-angle placement, you should expect high cutting efficiency and longer use time.
This chainsaw is very safe to use thanks to the equipped quick-stop chain brake that stops the chain from motion in seconds. Plus, it has a safety switch to protect from accidental starts. However, the switch is in the wrong location because you can bump into it unknowingly while operating the machine.
This chainsaw features an automatic oiler system that delivers a constant supply of oil to the bar and chain for consistent cutting performance, which extends the chainsaw lifespan. You are to use a gas mix of 25:1 only for the first 20 hours of use (the break-in period), then 50:1 after that.
The SALEM MASTER 5820G gas chainsaw weighs 15.87lb and is ergonomically designed for user comfort. It features a slip-resistant, shock-absorbing cushioned handle for a balanced and controlled cutting activity with minimal fatigue regardless of how long you use it. The fuel tank of this chainsaw is transparent so you can check fuel level when in operation. Its air filtering system provides easy access to the air filter for maintenance and quick replacement.
Pros
- Safe to use due to the chain brakes
- Easy to use
- Ergonomic design
- Powerful engine quality chainsaw chain
- Lasts long with proper care
Cons
- Safety switch location is a design flaw
8. Poulan PL3816 Gas Chainsaw
Suppose you love the Poulan Pro brand but can’t afford the model PR4016 gas chainsaw. Then this model PL3816 gas chainsaw is worth your consideration. It is cheap and offers excellent value for money. The main difference between both models is the engine displacement. This Poulan brand gas chainsaw is powered by a 38cc 2-cycle gas engine, while the other one is 40cc. Aside from this, both have similar features and come equipped with a 16” bar and chain.
This chainsaw has the patented oxy-power technology that makes the engine produce tremendous power, consume less fuel, and release less harmful emissions. Plus, the patented SuperClean air filter system extends the air filter life. It also keeps fuel consumption minimal without sacrificing any cutting power. However, getting it started is quite hard, and it heats up a lot.
The Poulan PL381 gas chainsaw automatic gear-driven oiler ensures the bar and chain are well lubricated during operation to reduce wear and maintain high cutting performance. Its ergonomic design and anti-vibration system provide excellent comfort and handling, which minimizes user fatigue. Plus, the gas model weighs 15.42lb.
Pros
- Powerful chainsaw is good for medium sized trees
- Cheap and offers excellent value for money
- Lightweight and Ergonomic design
- Advanced safety features
- Ultra low emissions
Cons
- Difficult to start
- Heats up quite often
9. Remington RM4218CS REBEL™ Gas Powered Chainsaw
The Remington RM4218CS REBEL™ gas chainsaw is powered by a heavy-duty 42cc full crank engine with robust power, reduced vibration, and a longer service lifespan. It features QuickStart™ technology for smooth and easy starting with fewer pulls. This chainsaw is equipped with an 18″ bar and a low-kickback chain to cut through both small and large trees effortlessly. It has metal bucking spikes for cut control. However, the chain falls off easily and is hard to fix back. We’ll advise buying an extra chain if you decide to buy this chainsaw.
Safety is guaranteed with the intertia-activated chain brake that stops the chainsaw blade within seconds once engaged. Remington built it with a lightweight plastic chassis for easy handling. They use a three-point anti-vibration system that reduces the vibration it produces during operation. Plus, an ergonomically designed, full-wrap-around aluminum handle for premium control and comfort.
The Remington RM4218CS REBEL™ gas chainsaw comes with an adjustable automatic oiler that supplies oil constantly to the chain to keep it in quality working condition, ensuring the saw cuts smoothly and safely when used. Thanks to the side-mounted tensioning system, you can adjust the chain tension at any time, even while the machine is in operation.
Also, cleaning and replacing the air filter and the spark plug are easy and straightforward. You won’t need any tools because the air filtering system has tool-free access. This chainsaw comes with 2-cycle engine oil, a well-built black carrying case, an easy-to-read user manual, and a 2-year limited warranty. It weighs 20.2lb and comes fully assembled. Use only unleaded gasoline to ensure the chainsaw lasts for years.
Pros
- Cheap but can cut small trees
- Ergonomic design with chain brake system
- 2-year limited warranty
- Easy to use
- It has a heavy-duty carrying case
- It comes fully assembled
- Tool less chain tensioner
Cons
- The chain falls off easily
10. PINKWAY 63cc Magnesium Alloy Gas Powered Chainsaw
Last on the list is the PINKWAY 63cc magnesium alloy gas-powered chainsaw. It functions with a powerful 63cc stroke 3.5hp gasoline engine with strong resistance to wear and high temperature. The motor produces a speed of 8,500RPM, delivering immense power to the steel bar and low-kickback chain to cut through branches smoothly. Starting the machine is easy thanks to its oversized rope wheel.
This chainsaw comes with two different size bars and low-kickback chains (18” and 20”) to suit different cutting applications. The reliable brand, PINKWAY, used an anti-vibration technology that reduces the machine’s vibration for smooth handling. Plus, its lightweight (22.8lb) and non-slip ergonomic handle make handling easy and comfortable. Like other standard chainsaws, it has an automatic oiler for constant oil supply to the bar and chain for consistent cutting performance.
The PINKWAY 63cc magnesium alloy gas-powered chainsaw features an innovative air cleaning system for long air filter life and reduced fuel consumption of up to 20%. Its fuel tank capacity is 550ml, and it is transparent so you can keep track of the fuel level at all times. When you buy this chainsaw it comes packaged with one 20″ 0.325” saw chain, one 20″ 0.325”,76dl guide bar, one 18″ 0.325”,72dl saw guide bar, one 18″ 0.325” saw chain, an instruction manual, a tool kit, and a 1L fuel mixing bottle. Also, PINKWAY has a one-year limited warranty on it.
Pros
- It comes with two different size bars and low-kickback chains (18” and 20”)
- One-year limited warranty
- Powerful engine
- Easy to start
- Instructional manual
- Self oiling system
Cons
- Heavy chainsaw compared to the other models
Best Small Gas Chainsaw Buying Guide
Before you make a purchase, quickly go over these key factors to consider when buying a small gas chainsaw.
The power of the chainsaw’s engine
The power of the chainsaw’s engine is measured by cubic centimeters (cc). The larger the CC of a chainsaw the more power it has. Small gas chainsaws are primarily used for limbing, pruning, and trimming so they don’t usually come with high CC. A standard small gas chainsaw should have been 31CC to 63CC, which is enough power to do minor wood cutting activities. So, you should pick a chainsaw according to the primary task for which you’ll be using it.
The chainsaw bar length
After checking the chainsaw’s engine power, the next thing to check is the length of the bar. The length of the bar is as important as the engine power because it’s what determines if the chainsaw can go through a tree/branch in one pass or not. The engine supplies the required power but it is the bar that does the work. You should only consider buying a chainsaw if the bar length is between 14” to 18”. Thankfully, the chainsaws on our list come with bar lengths within the said range. Note that the longer the bar, the larger the tree/branch it can cut.
Easy starting
Since we are dealing with gas-powered chainsaws, there will be a lot of rope pulling. Having a chainsaw that starts within 2-5 pulls is a thing of joy. Some chainsaws will require you to pull the starting rope up to 10 times before they start. Such chainsaws are a no-go area. You should look out for technologies and features manufacturers use when manufacturing their chainsaws that make starting easy in just 1 or 2 pulls.
Safety features
Safety is of utmost importance regardless of the power tool in question. As we all know, chainsaws are very dangerous machines that, if used wrongly, can lead to permanent injuries, in the worst-case scenario, death. Therefore, look out for safety features like chain brake, on/off safety switch, etc., in a chainsaw before you make a purchase. Below are what the two safety features mentioned do;
- Chain brake will bring the chain movement to a complete stop immediately you engage it to prevent an accident at the nick of time. It also holds down the cutting chain whenever kickback occurs.
- On/off safety switch prevents accidental starting.
Ergonomic design
The ergonomic design of a chainsaw has to do with its ease of use. Chainsaws with anti-vibration systems, large cushioned handles, carefully throughout switch positions, automatic oiler, chain tensioner, and tool-less adjustments are said to be ergonomically designed. These features are what determine the comfort level users experience when using a chainsaw. Look out for these features before you make a purchase.
Brand & warranty
Buying a chainsaw from an established, reputable brand gives you confidence that you are getting nothing but quality. However, there are new brands that manufacture high-quality chainsaws that meet up to the standard of well-known brands. If you can take the risk, then try them out.
Most importantly, whatever chainsaw you are considering should come with a warranty as a form of assurance, should there be any manufacturing defects. Common warranties are between 3 years to 7 years. You should check out the warranty of the chainsaw you intend to purchase before purchasing.
Weight
The weight of a chainsaw is often overlooked, but it is a crucial aspect. If a chainsaw is heavy, it will be difficult to handle and can cause body pains in the long run. You should go for a lightweight chainsaw because it will be easy to handle, with less body pain. Especially, women should aim at a lightweight chainsaw.
Essential accessories
This factor is not that important but it’s good if you purchase a chainsaw that comes with accessories like 2-cycle oil, mixing bottle, bar case, carrying case, tool kit, etc.
Price
Everyone has a budget and it is only right we live according to our budget. If you have a limited budget, ensure you look for a chainsaw that fits right into it. However, if you don’t, go for the very best. Remember, the most expensive of chainsaws are not always the best in the industry. Check each of the factors we’ve discussed and make your decision.
Read: 8 inch Jointers for Woodworking Projects
Advantage and Disadvantage of Small Gas Chainsaw
Small gas chainsaws have their advantages and disadvantages. We will go over both aspects so you can decide if you need to buy a small gas chainsaw for your needs or opt-in for a large one.
Advantages
- Portable: The first noticeable advantage of small gas chainsaws is their portability. Small gas chainsaws are easy to transport from place to place with less stress. Most of them weigh between 15lb to 25lb, which is considered lightweight.
- Affordable price: If you check the prices of large gas chainsaws, they are mostly above $200, whereas small chainsaws are below $200. If you intend to use a chainsaw once a month, then spending above $200 doesn’t make any sense. However, if you need a chainsaw quite often, then you can splash the cash to get a large chainsaw.
- Handling: Small gas chainsaws are very easy to handle and maneuver around even in tight spaces because of their lightweight and compact design. You can use them all day long without experiencing much body fatigue. Additionally, they are safer to use than large chainsaws and are perfect for older people.
- Small gas chainsaws are perfect for pruning, trimming, and limbing.
- Maintenance: Small gas chainsaws, due to the size of their engine, will require minor maintenance.
Disadvantages
- Limited cutting power: Small gas chainsaws are equipped with small engines that produce power sufficient for pruning, trimming, and limbing trees and branches. However, these chainsaws don’t have the power to fell trees. So, if you want to do much more than just pruning, trimming, and limbing, you should go for large chainsaws.
- With a small gas chainsaw, you will find it difficult to cut through thick wood/branches of medium to high-size diameters. This is because you’d have to move around the thick branch more and put in a lot of work to cut through it completely.
- There’s a learning curve with small gas chainsaws especially if you use the large ones often.
Final Thoughts
Small gas chainsaws are perfect for small cutting tasks like pruning, trimming, and limbing fallen trees or branches. They are easy to use, lightweight, and cheap. However, if you desire to do more tasks, especially fall trees and cut off thick branches, you should consider large gas chainsaws because they have big engines with more power.
To sum up, we have thoroughly reviewed each small gas chainsaw that made it to our list. We discussed each of their features, specs, abilities, etc. Also, we educated you on some factors to consider when buying one as well as the advantages and disadvantages of small gas chainsaws.
Since you made it to this point, we are sure you have all the information to pick out the chainsaw best for your needs. Good luck!