Our Guide to choosing the correct Chainsaw for domestic use

Cutting firewood can be a difficult task to complete.  It can be time consuming and also tiring so why not make life a little easier on yourself and invest in a chainsaw.

Chainsaws used to be tools for forestry workers and farmers but now homeowners are using them to complete tasks such as cutting firewood or tree maintenance around their property.

There is so much to choose from when it comes to picking the right chainsaw.  But how do you know which one is right for you?   At Robert Kee Power Equipment our experienced team are always available to give advice on choosing which chainsaw is right for you.  Here are some things you should consider when choosing the right one.

Petrol, Battery or Electric

If working at home and you have a power supply close then an electric powered chainsaw could be useful for smaller tasks such as pruning trees in your garden.  In larger gardens a battery powered chainsaw would be ideal, combining the quiet zero-emission properties of an electric motor with the cordless advantages of a petrol-powered saw.  If you are working long hours in a wooded area then a petrol chainsaw is the best choice.

Power and Weight

The level of performance required will depend on the work that needs to be carried out.  If you are an inexperienced user it is best to start with a smaller saw which is easier to handle and isn’t too heavy, your arms and hands will tire if using a heavy chainsaw for long periods of time which becomes a safety risk.

Bar Length

The appropriate bar length will depend on the tree size.  If you are pruning small trees then a shorter guide bar is suitable as it is lighter and easier to manoeuvre.

Safety Features

Check for safety features on chainsaws such as easy starting, side chain tensioning, low-vibration system and low inertia chain brake which will make the chainsaw much easier for you to use and maintain.

As with all power equipment safety is such an important factor always ensure that you have the correct protective clothing whilst operating machinery.  When using a chainsaw ensure you have a helmet with eye, ear and face protection, gloves, cut resistant trousers and chainsaw boots that provide the correct level of protection.