While there’s no shortage of the best firewood chainsaws in the market, many can handle larger logs with such force that they pose risks to both the operator and bystanders.
To sidestep these pitfalls, I put several chainsaw models through their paces to ensure they’re not only up to the task but also make your firewood cutting both simpler and safer.
Reviews of the Top Firewood Chainsaws
1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher 24-in 60.3-cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
The most efficient gas chainsaw for cutting firewood is the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. It features cutting-edge technology that allows for remarkable efficiency and smooth operation despite its compact size.
This professional chainsaw is noticeably less cumbersome to operate than other powerful gas chainsaws. As claimed by the chainsaw’s smart start technology, it really fired up on the first pull of the rope during rounds of tests.
Husqvarna developed a unique X-Torq technology to minimize the company’s products’ gas usage significantly. This technology improves upon earlier generations by reducing fuel usage to give you more miles per gallon.
What I Like
- It's a powerful chainsaw for cutting firewood
- It features a centrifugal air cleaning system.
- It features X-torq technology.
- Anti-vibration technology
- It is equipped with an inertia-activated chain brake.
- It's just the right size for firewood cutting.
What I Don't Like
- Not immune to producing fumes and noise, similar to other chainsaws.
- It requires regular maintenance.
2. Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The Greenworks G-Max 40V is an excellent choice if you want a tool and battery delivered together in one convenient box. If you need a powerful tool for outdoor work, go no further than this battery-powered chainsaw.
Increased runtime is possible thanks to the chainsaw’s larger battery and rapid charging technology. The brushless motor’s cutting-edge design means you get double the torque and twice the power of a conventional motor, guaranteeing exceptional performance.
You’ll have no problem sawing through solid oak or hickory. You can avoid noise and fume without sacrificing the chainsaw’s performance by purchasing a Greenworks G-Max.
What I Like
- The brushless motor is highly efficient
- It has more power and torque
- The automatic chain oiling system is very convenient
- You can start it with the push button
- It has good battery power
What I Don't Like
- You may need to retighten and adjust the chain at first use
- It might not have enough power for cutting firewood in the woods
3. DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Chainsaw
The Dewalt 20V Max XR impresses with its capabilities. This battery tool boasts low-kickback technology, offers precise user control, and integrates a powerful brushless motor along with a toolless tensioning system.
The brushless motor in this chainsaw rivals the performance of many gas-powered models. In my experience, it sliced through even treated wood with ease.
I put the chainsaw through its paces with several log types, and indeed, the manufacturer’s claim held up. On a single charge, I achieved between 85 and 90 cuts. The battery stands out: it’s compact, lightweight, and more competitively priced than others on the market. This makes the chainsaw easy to maneuver, especially when transforming logs into firewood.
What I Like
- It is a lightweight and compact chainsaw for firewood cutting
- One of the most powerful battery-powered chainsaws
- It features a chain brake
- It has a toolless chain tensioner
What I Don't Like
- It may not ideal for larger trees
- You need to purchase a charger and battery
4. Husqvarna 20 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Husqvarna has been operating since 1689, making it one of the chainsaw industry’s oldest and most trusted names—they also make the best chainsaws and power tools.
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is one of the best gas chainsaws for cutting firewood because of its lightweight design. Its 11-pound weight makes it far lighter than comparable chainsaws in its class.
This Husqvarna chainsaw also features an X-Torq Engine that can cut emissions by 60% and fuel consumption by 20%, which means you can go for longer on a single tank of petrol, saving money.
What I Like
- It has an automatic chain oiler
- The quick-release air filter simplifies maintenance and ensures optimal airflow.
- The quick chain adjustments save time and enhance efficiency.
- Its heavy-duty design is built for rigorous tasks.
- It consumes less fuel.
What I Don't Like
- You must purchase bar and chain oil separately
- Regular maintenance to keep the chain sharp
5. Worx WG304.1 15 Amp 18" Electric Chainsaw
The Worx WG 304.1 is an affordable chainsaw that will make quick work of chopping firewood. This corded electric chainsaw packs a punch and has time-saving features.
The Worx chainsaw utilizes their patented Auto-tensioning technology to maintain chains in optimal condition. This innovation addresses the frequent issue of the chain becoming overly tight during use, which I appreciate.
You don’t have to worry about constructing the chainsaw because it’s already assembled. The manufacturer provides a full replacement guarantee for the first three years, so you know the product is high-quality and will last.
What I Like
- It is ideal for cutting firewood with large diameters
- It features an automatic oiling system
- It produces no fumes and noise unlike gas-powered saws
- The bar's size is large
What I Don't Like
- The cord can be irritating
- It won’t work without a power source
6. CRAFTSMAN 41BY4216791 S165 42cc Gas Chainsaw
The Craftsman S165 is a reasonably-priced gas chainsaw with a wide range of applications. Besides making quick work of firewood, it’s also useful for felling medium- to small-sized trees with ease, which makes this one of the best firewood chainsaws.
A 42 cc double-cycle engine delivers impressive power, easily able to lop through the hardest of woods; thus, large-scale property maintenance is a breeze with this gas-powered saw.
Changing spark plugs and the air filter is easier because you don’t need any tools, so you can switch them out without worrying about breaking anything. Plus, the bar and chain are always well-oiled thanks to the automated chain oiling system.
What I Like
- It features an automatic chain oiler
- It's a powerful chainsaw
- One of the more cost-effective gas-powered options
- It requires minimal maintenance
- The spark plug is easy to replace.
What I Don't Like
- On the heavier side
- Not ideal for cutting firewood with large diameters
7. Poulan Pro 20 in. 50cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw, PR5020
As far as 20-inch gas-powered saws go, it’s one of the most reasonably priced and sturdy options, making quick work of even the thickest trees for firewood.
Thanks to its OxyPower Engine Technology, it reduces emissions by 70% and decreases fuel consumption by 20%, both of which are major selling points. I also like their version of Intertia-activated for breaking the chain in the event of an unexpected kickback.
I recommend the Poulan Pro 20-Inch 50cc Chainsaw for cutting firewood, especially if you reside in a location with trees that are slightly larger than average. You can also alter the chain while out in the field.
What I Like
- It is equipped with automatic chain lubrication
- It features a 20-inch bar length
- It is one of the best chainsaws for fuel efficiency
- It runs on 2-cycle gas
- It is best for heavy-duty cutting tasks
What I Don't Like
- The 20-inch bar length may not suit all cutting tasks.
- The included chain may require replacement for optimal performance.
Firewood Chainsaw Buyer’s Guide
Gas or Electric?
Most experts still choose the tried-and-true gas-powered chainsaw when cutting wood. While they are exceptionally strong and long-lasting, they have one big drawback: excessive noise and exhaust.
Although cutting-edge technology has greatly mitigated the annoyances of noise and pollution, [1] they remain intractable even in the best chainsaws for cutting.
In terms of cost, the most cost-effective option is a corded electric chainsaw. They’re cheap and quite effective, although one must use electricity to hook them in, and the cord can be a nuisance.
When considering power and portability, cordless or battery-operated are the best chainsaws. You get the performance of a gasoline chainsaw without the weight or noise. They are, however, somewhat pricey.
Power Output
Since the engine will be doing most of the work, it’s really important to select a good chainsaw with an engine power that is up to the task.
When you’re dealing with lumber that’s around 22 inches in diameter, a 35cc engine just isn’t going to be sufficient. For firewood cutting, I’ve always found that an engine size between 60 and 70cc hits the sweet spot. And rest assured, I’ve made sure to pick out chainsaws that boast these powerful engines to ensure efficient firewood cutting.
Bar Size
| Power Size | Bar Size |
| Corded Electric: 8-10 Amps | 10-14″ |
| Corded Electric: 12-15 Amps | 16-18″ |
| Battery: 18-24 Volt | 10″ |
| Battery: 36-40 Volt | 12-16″ |
| Battery: 56-80 Volt | 16-18″ |
| Gas: 32cc – 42cc | 14-16″ |
| Gas: 45cc – 50cc | 18-20″ |
| Gas: 51cc – 60cc | 20-24″ |
Chainsaw Size and Weight
Ideally, the best chainsaw for cutting firewood should have a bar that is two inches wider than the thickest part of the material you’ll be cutting.
Thus, a chainsaw bar length of at least 10 inches is required for cutting a log that is 8 inches in diameter but greater than 4 inches thick. Traditional chainsaws have a bar that typically measures 12 and 20 inches and is enough for wood cutting.
Lubrication System
The lubricating system is important. It is a crucial feature in some of the best chainsaws for cutting firewood because manually oiling the bar and chain wastes time.
Current chainsaws have easily adjustable automatic chain and bar oiling systems. Low oil in the bar and chain reservoir triggers an alarm.
The best chainsaws for cutting should have oil tanks with a see-through side to monitor levels, like the Echo CS Timber Wolf. For optimal bar and chain performance, keep the oil tank full to keep the chain lubricated and avoid a dull chain.
Wood Size and Type
Logs no more than 12 inches in diameter pose no problem for a quality chainsaw engine with a displacement of 30 to 45 cc. However, if you have a 50 cc engine, you can easily cut logs that are 16 inches in diameter or even larger.
As you go on to larger logs, you’ll need the best chainsaws for cutting that feature a motor of at least 60cc to cut down anything smaller than 22 inches, and the best chainsaw for cutting firewood more than 22 inches should have a motor of 70cc.
Chain Tensioning
There’s something else to consider when looking for the best chainsaws for cutting firewood: the chain tensioning system. There are three distinct varieties of tensioning mechanisms for chains.
Only a small number of chainsaws use an automatic chain tensioning system. Eliminating the need to constantly re-tighten the chain is a huge time saver.
There is a dial on the side of the chainsaw that you can turn to tighten or loosen the chain without needing any tools.
A chainsaw with a tooled tensioning system needs a wrench or a screwdriver to be adjusted. Scrench, a single instrument that combines a wrench and a screwdriver, is included with some of the best chainsaws for cutting firewood.
Tooled tensioning is the most effective method since it securely maintains the chain in the predetermined positions.
Safety Features
You can get inexpensive chainsaws, but if you want to use them mostly for cutting firewood, you should invest in a high-quality one. It is not just a secure and financially sound investment but also one that will help prevent harm.
High-quality chainsaws for cutting firewood are built with security in mind. Preventing harm to yourself and others must be your main priority, so don’t forget to check the chainsaw’s safety features and purchase your safety gear.
Accessories
If you are looking for the best chainsaws for cutting firewood, price is important, but don’t get any cheap tool with the right chainsaw reviews.
You need the best firewood chainsaws that can get the job done, has the safety features and accessories you require, is as quiet as possible, produces as little exhaust as attainable, and has any other useful features.
To make sure you get all the accessories included, make sure you thoroughly read the specifications of the best chainsaw for firewood reviews above.
Benefits of Using a Chainsaw to Cut Firewood
Fast and efficient
If you’re trying to shave a few minutes off, this is a great tool instead of dragging a log splitter. It’ll get the job done faster than a maul and wedge and with much less effort on your part.
There is no harm in sticking to tried-and-true methods. As an alternative, it does the job well and is reasonably priced.
Cost-effective
Using chainsaws for cutting firewood is sometimes more cost-effective than other methods. Depending on your financial situation, a chainsaw may cost less than a log splitter. Buying a chainsaw for $600 sounds better.
An ax and a maul aren’t a terrible investment if you’re strapped for cash. A smaller, less expensive gas chainsaw is also available.
While this will get the job done, it will prevent you from cutting a few of the bigger logs you require. That being said, there are drawbacks to consider.
Less fatigue
In the same vein as the previous component, this one becomes increasingly crucial as one age. You can save your body from early degeneration by forgoing the use of a maul or ax in your latter years.
It’s easier on the body if you use chainsaws for cutting firewood in larger sizes and then the splitter to handle the smaller logs.
What Size Should You Cut Firewood?
It is common practice to cut a log in half or quarters when working with a chainsaw for firewood.
Generally speaking, you can use these two guidelines to ensure that every piece of firewood is cut to the appropriate size:
- Don't leave it any longer than 16 inches if you want to use it in a fireplace.
- The optimal thickness for interior fireplaces is between 3 and 6 inches; therefore, don't make it any bigger than 8 inches.
Find the best chainsaw that can fit comfortably in the palm of your hand without requiring you to spread your fingers. The size of each piece of firewood depends on whether you’ll be using it indoors or outdoors.
What is the Best Chainsaw Size For Chopping Firewood?
A chainsaw with a 16 to 18-inch bar will be adequate for down trees with a typical diameter of 14 to 16 inches. However, a chainsaw of that length won’t last long if you cut down enormous trees 20 to 24 inches in diameter. Something longer will be needed to cut it in one motion.
An 18-inch chainsaw is recommended for most individuals because it can cut through 90% of trees.
For the remaining 10% of tasks, a chainsaw with a cutting capacity of 20 to 24 inches is recommended.
Seasoning, Stacking, and Storing Firewood
How to Properly Season Firewood
Leaving firewood dry is the best way to prepare it for use.
Hardwoods require around a year and a half to two years of drying; softwoods only require about six months to a year.
For another, split wood dries and burns more efficiently than uncut spherical logs.
How to Stack Firewood
The next step after using a chainsaw to split firewood would be to stack and store the logs. Your wood will remain pristine until you’re ready to utilize it if you follow these guidelines.
- Don't drop the chopping block on the floor. Stack some wooden poles, pallets, or rails underneath it to give it some height.
- You shouldn’t stack firewood against a wall.
- Arrange the firewood logs in rows so that air may circulate them.
- Wood needs to be stacked in a spot where it can get enough sunlight.
- Stacks can be protected from the weather by covering only the tops with tarps.
How to Store Firewood
Once your firewood has dried out and seasoned enough, you can transport it to a new storage area.
- Don't keep firewood inside or close to your house. You wouldn't want to risk bringing pests like carpenter ants or termites into your home by bringing this stuff home.
- Cover the wood pile with a sheet and anchor it with bricks or stones if you don't have a shed. The wood must have air circulation to avoid condensation and mold growth, thus leaving some space between the cover and the surface.
- Firewood should be kept dry and out of the elements; therefore, a shed or a covered area is ideal.
- You should keep firewood mostly outside. Remember that you should only carry in enough firewood to last a few days.
Best Kinds of Wood to Use as Firewood
You can utilize any tree for firewood; however, different species burn at varying rates. Consider your desired burn period when selecting firewood.
Hardwoods are generally denser than softwoods, making them better suited for long burning periods.
Other than a Chainsaw, What Can You Use to Cut Firewood?
Log Splitter
A log splitter is a terrific alternative, but it still requires a lot of physical labor. If you’re capable, this is a fantastic choice. A log splitter will be a game changer if you have time and don’t mind the task.
Maul
The blade is the only distinguishing feature between a maul and an axe; the blade of a splitting maul is slightly less sharp than that of an axe.
Although the maul comes in various weights, the 6-8 pound kind is best for domestic use. It’s easy to swing and doesn’t take much effort due to its small weight.
Axe
There are notable differences between using a chainsaw and an axe for cutting firewood. You chop the tree log in half and then place it down axe-side up so it’s vertical. After that, you slam down an axe on the wood to break it in half and then into quarters.
FAQ
Can I use a chainsaw to cut wet wood?
You can use a chainsaw to cut through wet wood. Wet wood can be chopped with a chainsaw just as quickly as dry wood, and the extra moisture won’t damage or slow down the sawdust. Sawdust from chopping wood will cling to the link more than dry wood.
Can I place a larger bar on a chainsaw?
To use your chainsaw, you need a bar made specifically for your model; however, most models let you utilize a maximum of three different bar diameters. The hole spacing of the attachment point and the chain/sprocket arrangement must be compatible with the bar.
More Product Reviews to Read Next:
My Top Pick For a Firewood Chainsaw:
Husqvarna 460 Rancher
My number one recommendation for the best firewood chainsaw has to be the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. With its 20-inch bar and standout features like the Air Injection technology and adjustable oil pump, it’s a game-changer.
It’s one of the best chainsaws for cutting firewood because it is safer and easier to handle thanks to its anti-vibration technology. Not to mention, its X-Torq engine is environmentally friendlier, producing less pollution and more fuel-efficient than many others in its class.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
