The Poulan Pro PR4218 is promoted as a chainsaw capable of tackling strenuous tasks with ease. However, its affordable price point might raise doubts among potential purchasers.
Often, inexpensive chainsaws can prove to be undependable, failing to perform adequately during challenging and intense cutting activities.
In this Poulan Pro PR4218 review, I’ll closely examine its features, benefits, and drawbacks and see if it’s a budget saw that delivers good performance.
What I Like
- Impressive Power-to-Weight Ratio: Despite its compact size, the chainsaw delivers substantial power, ensuring efficient cutting without being overly cumbersome.
- Easy Start-Up: The pull cord mechanism is designed for simplicity, allowing users to start the chainsaw with minimal effort.
- Efficient Fuel Consumption: The engine is optimized to utilize fuel judiciously, providing extended usage without frequent refueling.
- Lightweight Design: The saw is constructed to be light, enhancing maneuverability and reducing user fatigue during prolonged operation.
- Attractive Pricing: Given its power and capabilities, the chainsaw is priced competitively, offering great value for its performance.
- Bonus Chain: The inclusion of an extra chain ensures that users have a backup readily available, enhancing the chainsaw’s overall value and readiness for various cutting tasks.
What I Don't Like
- Inconvenient Air Filter Access: Accessing the air filter for cleaning or replacement can be a bit challenging, which might make regular maintenance tasks more cumbersome.
- Tricky Chain Tensioning: Adjusting the chain tension requires a bit of finesse and patience, as it can be a tricky process, especially for those who are new to using chainsaws or are not mechanically inclined.
Design and Ergonomics
The Poulan Pro PR4218 saw has a durable, ergonomic design that offers a comfortable grip and ease of use. Its 18-inch bar allows you to cut through large diameters of wood. This tool is lightweight and compact which makes it easy to handle and maneuver on the job.
The chainsaw also has an anti-vibration handle that minimizes operator fatigue during extended use and these models are designed with a translucent fuel tank that makes it easy to monitor the fuel level.
Additionally, the PR4218 is manufactured by Husqvarna, a well-known and respected brand in the tools industry.
Although Poulan and Husqvarna chainsaws fall under the same parent company, it’s important to note that the Poulan Pro PR4218 chainsaw may utilize different components and technology compared to Husqvarna chainsaws.
This distinction can lead to variations in performance, durability, and overall user experience between the two brands.
Poulan Pro PR4218 Features
Overview of Specs
- Dimensions: 10 x 23 x 13 in
- Weight: 13.25 pounds
- Power source: Gas-powered
- Engine horsepower: 2-stroke engine
- Engine displacement: 42cc
- Bar size: 18 inches
- Chain: Poulan Pro 18 inch Chainsaw Chain (model # 952051549)
- Fuel capacity: 0.375 gallons (14.1 fluid ounces)
- Warranty period: 2-year limited warranty
Effortless Pulling System (EPS)
The saw has an Effortless Pulling System (EPS) that reduces the force required to start the chainsaw. The EPS system employs a spring-assisted starter that reduces the pulling force necessary to start the engine.
This tool benefits users who may have difficulty starting a gas-powered chainsaw with a pull cord.
Engine Power
The Pro PR4218 chainsaw is equipped with a robust 42cc gas engine that provides ample power to tackle a wide range of tasks, including handling storm damage cleanup and cutting large quantities of wood with ease.
The engine is designed to start easily and quickly, producing low emissions, making it an environmentally friendly option with a good price.
Oxypower Technology
This Poulan Pro saw model is designed with Husqvarna Oxypower technology, which combines a powerful motor with an efficient air-cleaning system to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
This technology allows the machine to deliver powerful performance while reducing its environmental impact.
Air Filter
The chainsaw’s air filter is designed to be easy to access and clean, helping to maintain the chainsaw’s performance over time. The filter is designed to be washable and reusable, allowing users to save money on replacements over time.
Additionally, it has a convenient release mechanism that allows for easy access and cleaning, ensuring that the engine receives optimal airflow for efficient and reliable operation.
The filter is also replaceable and readily available from the manufacturer, ensuring you can maintain your chainsaw’s performance with minimal downtime.
Automatic Oiler
The Poulan Pro PR4218 chainsaw is equipped with an automatic oiler that ensures the chain stays well-lubricated during operation.
This feature is beneficial as it enhances the performance and longevity of the saw, and because it’s adjustable, users have the flexibility to regulate the oil flow to suit different cutting conditions.
The result is a more efficient cutting experience and a reduction in maintenance costs over the lifespan of the chainsaw.
I recommend using high-quality oil to lubricate your chainsaw for optimal performance. Using the wrong type of oil or failing to change the oil on schedule can lead to wear and tear on your chainsaw’s engine.
Cutting Mechanism and Performance
The Poulan Pro PR4218 saw model features an 18-inch bar and chain designed to handle most tasks, including felling small to medium-sized trees, cutting firewood, and storm cleanup.
This machine is equipped with bucking spikes that help to provide stability during cutting, reducing user fatigue.
Cutting Time
The saw delivers fast and efficient cutting performance, which enabled me to complete tasks quickly and easily. The chainsaw’s high speed and powerful engine make it an ideal choice for those looking to save time on cutting a large tree.
Keep the chain sharp and well-oiled for optimal performance so that it won’t interfere with the cutting time, and be aware that extended use may cause damage.
Safety Features
The PR4218 saw is designed with safety features that help to reduce the risk of injury during operation.
The manufacturer equipped the chainsaw with a chain brake that stops the blade in the event of kickback, helping to prevent injury to the user. The chainsaw also has a switch that prevents accidental starts.
Value for Money and Warranty
The Poulan Pro PR4218 gas chainsaw offers a great balance between power and price, positioning itself as an attractive option for individuals in need of a robust gas chainsaw without breaking the bank.
Additionally, the 2-year limited warranty that accompanies the chainsaw ensures that users are covered against potential defects, adding an extra layer of assurance and confidence in the product.
Extras/Accessories
The Pro PR4218 gas chainsaw has various accessories, including a spare chain, a carrying case, and a spare spark plug.
The carry case helps to protect the chainsaw during transportation and storage, while the extra chain and plug provide users with a backup in emergencies.
Customer Experience
Many customers find the chainsaw to be easy to start and operate. The load of the chainsaw is manageable for most users, making it suitable for jobs such as cutting small and medium lumber and storm cleanup.
This Poulan chainsaw model from Husqvarna is also durable, and the metal bucking spikes help to improve stability and control. The features, such as the chain brake, are appreciated by customers as they help prevent accidents.
Additionally, customers value the Poulan Pro PR4218 chainsaw for its powerful motor, which provides ample power to handle most jobs.
Factors to Consider in Choosing a Chainsaw
When choosing gas chainsaws, there are several major features to consider, such as the job you need it for. Do you need it for cutting small trees, felling large trees, or doing storm clean up?
It’s essential to consider the engine’s power to ensure it can handle the job. The Poulan Pro chainsaw is a gas-powered model with a powerful motor, making it one of the best chainsaws for storm cleanup and felling trees.
Another essential component to consider when choosing a saw is the bar length, which determines the maximum diameter of the wood you can cut. With an 18-inch chain bar, the Poulan Pro PR4218 is suitable for most jobs.
Remember to look for safety components, such as the brake and metal bucking spikes, but wear proper gear for protection [1]. The Poulan Pro PR4218 saws have both, reducing the risk of injury. The bucking spikes also provide better leverage and grip.
Fuel use is another crucial factor to consider. The Poulan Pro saw has a fuel capacity of 0.4 gallons and consumes fuel efficiently, reducing fuel consumption. It also has an air filter to ensure the engine runs smoothly and comes with an extra chain blade for convenience.
Regarding chain tensioning and maintenance, the manufacturer made sure that the Poulan Pro PR4218 has an easy-to-use tool-free tensioning system that allows you to adjust the chain tension quickly and easily.
Lastly, consider the load of the chainsaw and how it affects user fatigue. The Poulan Pro PR4218 weighs 13.25 lbs, which is relatively lightweight for a gas chainsaw.
It also has components that reduce user fatigue, such as the anti-vibration system and the ergonomic handle.
FAQ
Does the Poulan Pro PR4218 come with a case?
The Poulan Pro PR4218 can come with a carrying case if you purchase them in other shops. However, these models don’t typically include a case.
Does it also have an additional chain?
Yes, if you shop the Poulan PR4218, it will include an additional sharp chain. You need to maintain these chains and add oil for lubrication to keep them doing their job.
Next Read: Poulan Pro PR5020 Review
Review Conclusion: Poulan Pro PR4218
After rounds of Poulan Pro PR4218 reviews and tests, I can say that this saw is an excellent gas chainsaw for tackling various jobs. Its powerful motor, sturdy build, and efficient technology can handle slicing through several types of wood.
I was particularly impressed with Husqvarna’s integration of Oxypower technology, which guarantees both the potency and eco-friendliness of this machine.
These saws stand out as a top-tier investment for those in search of dependable and robust tools tailored for wood chopping tasks.
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.
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