5 Best Chainsaw for Sawmill in 2024

Weight and Ergonomics: Say goodbye to fatigue during long cutting sessions. This Chainsaw is designed with balanced weight distribution and ergonomic features to ensure comfortable handling, making it easier to work for extended periods.

Easy Start: Starting gas-powered engines can be a hassle, but the Husqvarna 445 has an easy-start system, reducing the effort needed to fire up the engine and get to work quickly.

Chain Tensioning System: Proper chain tension is crucial for efficient and safe cutting. This Chainsaw features a convenient automatic chain oiler that ensures the chain remains lubricated and the tension stays optimal.

Maintenance and Durability: Built for durability and minimal maintenance, the Husqvarna 445 is designed to withstand demanding cutting tasks while requiring less time and effort for upkeep.

Noise Level: While gas-powered engines inherently produce noise, the Husqvarna 445 is designed to minimize noise emissions, allowing you to work without causing excessive disturbances.

Pros

• Ergonomic design and balanced weight for comfortable use.
• Easy-start system for effortless ignition.
• Automatic chain oiler for proper lubrication.
• Durable build with low maintenance requirements.
• Noise reduction features for quieter operation.

Cons

• Gasoline-powered engines emit exhaust fumes.
• The noise level might still be a concern for some users.
• Regular refilling of gas and oil is required.
• Some users may find the weight heavy during prolonged use.
• The chain tensioning system might need occasional adjustments.

Our Verdict

The Husqvarna 445 Gas Powered Chainsaw is a robust tool tailored for individuals who require a dependable cutting solution. Its powerful engine, ergonomic design, and easy-start features make it accessible to various users, from homeowners to professionals. While the noise level and maintenance needs are considerations, its overall performance, durability, and automatic chain oiler make it a valuable addition to your cutting arsenal. 

3. SUNGEL Gas-Powered-Chainsaw – 20 Inch Gas Chain Saw 2-Cycle

Ready to tackle wood cutting and tree tasks with a powerful punch? The SUNGEL 20 20-inch gas-powered Chainsaw is here to bring your cutting game to a new level. Let’s explore its features:

Power Source: This Chainsaw is driven by a potent 2-cycle 58 CC gas engine, offering the muscle you need to cut through wood and trees easily.

Weight and Ergonomics: Say goodbye to fatigue during your cutting sessions. The SUNGEL chainsaw is designed with a balanced weight distribution and ergonomic features, ensuring comfortable use and reduced strain on your arms and back.

Easy Start: No more hassle when starting your Chainsaw. The SUNGEL chainsaw has an easy-start system that minimizes the effort required to fire up the engine, allowing you to get right to your cutting tasks.

Chain Tensioning System: Proper chain tension is crucial for effective and safe cutting. The automatic chain oiler in this Chainsaw keeps the chain well-lubricated and properly tensioned, ensuring smooth operation.

Maintenance and Durability: Designed for durability and minimal upkeep, the SUNGEL chainsaw can withstand demanding cutting tasks while requiring less time and effort for maintenance.

Noise Level: While gas-powered engines produce noise, this Chainsaw is designed with noise reduction features to keep the noise level as low as possible, enabling you to work without causing excessive disturbance.

Pros

• Potent 58 CC gas engine for wood cutting and tree tasks.
• Balanced weight and ergonomic design for comfortable use.
• Easy-start system for quick ignition.
• Automatic chain oiler for proper lubrication and tension.
• Durable build with reduced maintenance needs.
• Noise reduction features for quieter operation.

Cons

• Gasoline engines emit exhaust fumes.
• The noise level might still be noticeable during use.
• Regular gas and oil refilling is required.
• Some users might find the weight slightly heavy for prolonged use.
• The chain tensioning system might need occasional adjustments.

Our Verdict

The SUNGEL 20-inch gas-powered Chainsaw is a robust choice for those who demand power and efficiency in their cutting tools. Its strong gas engine, ergonomic design, and easy-start system cater to many users, from homeowners to professionals.

While noise and maintenance factors should be considered, its overall performance, durability, and automatic chain oiler make it a compelling option for wood cutting and tree tasks. If you’re seeking a chainsaw built to handle tough cutting jobs while ensuring your comfort, the SUNGEL chainsaw is worth considering for your cutting endeavors.

4. NCOEN 12” 40vMax 21V-2 Battery Chainsaw with Battery and Charger

Ready to experience the convenience of cordless cutting without compromising on power? The NCOEN 12” 40vMax Cordless Chainsaw brings you the best of both worlds. Let’s dive into its features:

Power Source: Powered by two 21V-2 4.0Ah batteries, this cordless Chainsaw offers a hassle-free cutting experience without needing gasoline or cords.

Weight and Ergonomics: Say goodbye to the limitations of cords and heavy equipment. The NCOEN cordless chainsaw is designed with a balanced weight distribution and ergonomic features, allowing you to cut easily and comfortably.

Easy Start: No more struggling with pull cords or starting mechanisms. This cordless Chainsaw boasts an easy-start system, ensuring you can work with a simple press.

Tool-free Chain Tension: With the tool-free chain tensioning feature, adjusting your chain’s tension is a breeze. There is no need for additional tools – adjust and return to cutting.

Auto Lubrication: Keep your chain running smoothly with the automatic lubrication system. It ensures your chain stays well-lubricated for efficient and safe cutting.

Digital Display: Stay informed about your battery status with the digital display feature. You’ll always know how much cutting time you have left so that you can plan your tasks accordingly.

Pros

• Cordless convenience with powerful 21V-2 4.0Ah batteries.
• Balanced weight and ergonomic design for comfortable use.
• Easy-start system for quick ignition.
• Tool-free chain tensioning for hassle-free adjustments.
• Automatic lubrication for smooth cutting.
• The digital display keeps you informed about battery status.

Cons

• Limited by battery life; recharging needed.
• It may not be suitable for extremely heavy-duty cutting tasks.
• The cutting capacity might be smaller compared to larger chainsaws.
• Users might need to purchase additional batteries for prolonged use.
• Not ideal for tasks that require continuous, uninterrupted cutting.

Our Verdict

The NCOEN 12” 40vMax Cordless Chainsaw offers various users a convenient and versatile cutting solution. Its cordless design, ergonomic features, and easy-start system make it a user-friendly tool that’s great for tasks around the yard.

While it may not be the choice for heavy-duty professional tasks, its portability and battery power make it perfect for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. The tool-free chain tensioning, automatic lubrication, and digital display enhance its usability. 

5. CRAFTSMAN (CMECS600) Electric Chainsaw

Ready to conquer your cutting tasks with precision and efficiency? The CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 Electric Chainsaw is here to help you finish the job. Let’s delve into its features:

Power Source: This Chainsaw is powered by a robust 12-amp electric motor, providing consistent and reliable cutting power without gas or oil.

Cutting Length: With a 16-inch cutting length, the CRAFTSMAN chainsaw is ideal for various cutting tasks, from pruning to chopping firewood.

Weight and Ergonomics: Say goodbye to fatigue during extended cutting sessions. This electric Chainsaw boasts a well-balanced design and ergonomic features, allowing you to work comfortably and efficiently.

Easy Start: No more wrestling with pull cords. The CRAFTSMAN chainsaw starts with a simple button push, eliminating the hassle of traditional chainsaw ignition methods.

Tool-free Chain Tensioning: Adjusting the chain tension is a breeze with the tool-free chain tensioning feature. It ensures your chain stays properly tensioned for optimal cutting performance.

Auto Lubrication: Keep your chain running smoothly with the automatic lubrication system. It ensures your chain remains well-lubricated for safe and efficient cutting.

Pros

• Powerful 12-amp electric motor for consistent cutting power.
• 16-inch cutting length suitable for various tasks.
• Balanced design and ergonomic features for comfortable use.
• Easy-start system for hassle-free ignition.
• Tool-free chain tensioning for easy adjustments.
• Automatic lubrication for smooth cutting.

Cons

• Limited by cord length and access to power outlets.
• Not suitable for heavy-duty professional tasks.
• Some users prefer the freedom of a cordless chainsaw.
• The corded design might limit mobility during use.

Our Verdict

The CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 Electric Chainsaw is an excellent option for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts seeking a reliable, user-friendly cutting tool. Its electric-powered design eliminates the need for gas or oil, and the easy-start system ensures a hassle-free ignition process.

The tool-free chain tensioning and automatic lubrication enhance its usability, making it a valuable addition to your cutting equipment. While the corded design may have some limitations, such as requiring access to a power outlet, its overall performance, ergonomic features, and 16-inch cutting length make it a great choice for various cutting tasks.

What to look for in Chainsaw for Sawmill?

Powerful Engine

A powerful engine in a chainsaw means the motor inside it is very strong. It’s like having a super-strong muscle that helps the Chainsaw cut through thick and tough things, like big logs.

The Chainsaw can work well when the engine is powerful, even when cutting is hard. It’s like having a lot of energy to finish the job quickly and without getting stuck. So, when you see a chainsaw with a powerful engine, you know it’s good at tackling tough cutting tasks.

Bar Length

The bar length of a chainsaw is like the ruler that measures how long the Chainsaw can reach. It’s the metal part at the front that the chain goes around. If the bar is long, the Chainsaw can cut through big things, like wide logs. But if the bar is short, it’s better for smaller jobs. So, seeing a chainsaw with a certain bar length tells you how big of a thing it can cut in one go.

Durability

Durability is all about how tough and strong something is. When a chainsaw is durable, it’s built to last a long time, even if used a lot. It’s like having a tool that can handle being used repeatedly without breaking easily. 

A durable chainsaw is made from good materials that can withstand all the cutting and hard work without getting damaged quickly. So, when you look for durability in a chainsaw, you’re searching for one that can stay strong even after many uses.

Chain Tensioning

Chain tensioning is like adjusting a belt to fit just right. In a chainsaw, the chain is like a belt that goes around the bar to cut things. But over time, this chain can become loose. Chain tensioning is the process of making it tight again. It’s like pulling the belt to make it snug so that it works properly. 

When you can easily adjust the chain tension in a chainsaw, it’s like being able to fix the belt when it gets loose. This keeps the Chainsaw cutting smoothly and safely.

Automatic Oiling

An automatic oiling in a chainsaw is like having a helper that keeps things smooth. Just like a bike needs oil to move smoothly, a chainsaw needs oil to cut well. With automatic oiling, the Chainsaw can take care of itself. It has a special system that puts oil on the chain while using it.

You don’t have to stop and oil it yourself. It’s like the Chainsaw knows when it needs a little oil and adds it on its own. This helps the chain stay sharp, and the cutting goes smoothly without hiccups.

Vibration Dampening

Vibration dampening is like having cushions to make things less shaky. When you use a chainsaw, it can shake a lot because of the powerful engine. Vibration dampening is a way to reduce all that shaking. It’s like putting soft pads or cushions on the Chainsaw to absorb rough movements.

This makes it more comfortable to hold and use. With good vibration dampening, the Chainsaw doesn’t make your hands feel as tired, even if you use it for a long time. It’s like having a smoother and more enjoyable cutting experience.

Easy Maintenance

Easy maintenance is like caring for something without it being a big chore. When a chainsaw has easy maintenance, you don’t have to spend much time and effort to keep it in good shape. It’s like having a tool that only needs a little special attention.

You can quickly clean it, check its parts, and change things like the chain without too much trouble. Chainsaws with easy maintenance are designed to be simple to take care of, so you can spend more time using them and less time fixing them.

Significance of engine power for efficient sawmill operations

Engine power plays a crucial role in the efficiency of sawmill operations. A powerful engine enables sawmills to process logs and lumber more quickly and effectively. With higher engine power, saws can cut through wood more easily, reducing the time required for each cut and increasing overall productivity.

Efficient sawmill operations depend on a balance between speed and precision. A powerful engine allows for faster cutting, which is especially important when dealing with large timber volumes. This helps meet production demands and reduces the backlog of work.

Moreover, engine power influences the size of logs that a sawmill can handle. A more powerful engine can handle larger and tougher logs, expanding the range of wood that can be processed. This flexibility is valuable in meeting various customer needs and market demands.

In addition, a strong engine contributes to smoother and more consistent cutting. It reduces the likelihood of stalling or jamming during the cutting process, minimizing downtime and the need for frequent maintenance.

Overall, engine power is a key factor in the efficiency and profitability of sawmill operations. It allows for faster processing, increased capacity, and better quality cuts, all contributing to a successful and productive sawmill business.

Different chain types suitable for sawmill applications

Full-Chisel Chain: This chain type features square-cornered teeth that perform aggressive cutting. It’s well-suited for clean and fast cuts in softwoods. However, it can be more prone to dulling when used in dirty or abrasive conditions.

Semi-Chisel Chain: With rounded teeth, this chain type balances cutting speed and durability. It’s versatile and works well in both softwoods and hardwoods. Its design helps it maintain sharpness even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Skip-Tooth Chain: This chain has every second tooth missing, leaving larger gaps between teeth. It’s effective for cutting through thicker branches and logs due to the increased chip clearance. However, it might provide a rougher finish compared to other chain types.

Low-Kickback Chain: Designed with safety in mind, this chain type has reduced kickback tendencies. It features guard links and specially shaped teeth that minimize the risk of kickback, making it a good choice for less experienced sawmill operators.

Ripping Chain: This specialized chain is designed for making long, straight cuts along the wood grain. It has deeper gullets and fewer cutting teeth, which helps in the efficient removal of material while reducing strain on the engine.

Carbide-Tipped Chain: This chain is fitted with carbide inserts on the cutting teeth, providing exceptional durability and extended sharpness. It’s ideal for cutting through abrasive and tough materials like frozen or dense wood.

Full-Skip Chain: Similar to the skip-tooth chain, this type has more teeth missing, resulting in even greater chip clearance. It’s used to cut larger pieces of wood and reduce the strain on the saw, making it suitable for demanding sawmill tasks.

Square Ground Chain: This chain type has square-cornered teeth that are precision ground for smoother and cleaner cuts. It’s often used for tasks requiring precise and fine cuts, such as woodworking and crafting.

Choosing the right chain type depends on factors like the type of wood being cut, the required finish, and the level of operator experience. Selecting the most appropriate chain can significantly impact sawmill operations’ efficiency, quality, and safety.

FAQs

Q: What is the recommended supply range for a sawmill chainsaw?

Chainsaws with a power range of 50cc to 100cc are ideal for sawmill operations, offering sufficient power to handle various wood types.

Q: How does the bar length of a chainsaw affect its performance in a sawmill?

A longer bar length allows for cutting larger logs, but it may also increase the weight of the Chainsaw. Opt for a bar length that suits the size of logs you’ll be working with.

Q: What type of chain works best for sawmill applications?

Semi-chisel chains with aggressive cutting teeth are commonly used in sawmills, providing faster cutting through hardwoods and softwoods.

Q: Can electric chainsaws be suitable for sawmill use?

Electric chainsaws are suitable for small-scale sawmill operations but may need more power and endurance for extensive cutting.

Q: What safety features should I look for in a chainsaw for sawmill work?

Look for chainsaws with features like chain brakes, anti-vibration systems, and ergonomic handles to ensure safety and reduce operator fatigue.

Q: How important is the durability of a chainsaw in a sawmill setting?

Durability is crucial in a sawmill environment where the Chainsaw is heavily used. Opt for models with high-quality materials and construction.

Q: Should I prioritize fuel efficiency when choosing a chainsaw for a sawmill?

Fuel efficiency is important, as sawmill operations can be time-consuming. A chainsaw with good fuel efficiency can save you money and time.

Q: Are there any specific brands known for producing excellent chainsaws for sawmills?

Brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo are well-regarded for producing reliable and powerful chainsaws suitable for sawmill applications.

Q: How often will I need maintenance on a sawmill chainsaw?

Regular maintenance, including cleaning, sharpening the chain, and checking for any issues, should be done after every few hours of operation to keep the Chainsaw in optimal condition.

Q: Can I use a chainsaw with a smaller engine for occasional sawmill use?

Using a chainsaw with a smaller engine might result in slower cutting and increased strain on the equipment. It’s better to opt for an appropriate engine size.

Q: What are the benefits of a chainsaw with a decompression valve for sawmill work?

Chainsaws equipped with a decompression valve make starting the engine easier, reducing the effort required to run the Chainsaw, which can be helpful during long work sessions.

Q: Is wearing any specific safety gear recommended when operating a chainsaw in a sawmill?

Safety gear like helmets, goggles, hearing protection, and chainsaw-resistant clothing is essential to protect yourself from hazards during sawmill operations.

Conclusion

When choosing the ideal Chainsaw for your sawmill operations, remember that power and precision are your closest allies. With the right balance of cutting-edge technology and robust design, your Chainsaw becomes a steadfast partner in transforming timber.

So, as you embark on your lumber journey, equip yourself with the best Chainsaw that marries efficiency and durability, making every cut a testament to your expertise.