Firewood does not need processing like chips or pellets and can be used in raw form. So, you simply need to cut down the logs into appropriate sizes and store them to be used as fuel when needed.
Cutting firewood with an ax or saw can be quite troublesome. You will need to put in a lot of energy and time, along with compromising your safety to higher risks.
Hence to make your job easier, we have brought you the 10 best chainsaws for firewood. These chainsaws can make the job of cutting firewood a lot easier, quicker, and more convenient.
We experienced a difference in time and effort, as the process took minutes instead of hours. It requires neither as much energy nor time, and the chainsaw enables you to cut down logs into smooth firewood pieces.
So, without wasting any time, let’s take a look at some of the most amazing firewood chainsaws that we have tested and reviewed just for you.
Top 10 Best Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood Reviewed
1. DEWALT XR DCCS620B — #1 Best Chainsaw for Firewood in 2024
Technical Specs
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 12 inch | Power: 20 V | Weight: 9 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Top of the list, we have placed one of the most amazing chainsaws in the world, which is recommended by professionals for both home and outdoor use. The chainsaw comes in a small and efficient design that can be handled easily.
DEWALT XR chainsaw is a highly efficient battery-powered tool that comes with low-kickback technology, a powerful brushless motor, a tool-less tensioning system, and maximum user control.
Compared to the competitors, the chainsaw is compact and lightweight, which allows you to easily handle it while cutting down the logs into firewood. So, you don’t need the muscles to control this beast.
A highly efficient brushless motor provides you the power of a gas chainsaw in a battery-powered model. We were able to cut down even the pressure-treated wood smoothly into pieces.
Cordless design makes the best firewood chainsaw an ideal companion for outdoor applications. Worried about the battery dying on you? Don’t be. We personally tested on various kinds of logs, and a single provides 85-90 cuts as per the original claim of the manufacturer.
Personally, I often forgot to keep the chain tensioning tool or wrench with me all the time. The chainsaw solved my problem by providing a tool-free tensioning system and bar tightening knob. So, you don’t need to keep extra tools for maintenance.
Although the price seems less than expected for such an amazing machine, it is only for the tool. The battery and charger are not included with the Dewalt chainsaw and you will have to purchase them separately.
What We Like
- Easier to handle compact and lightweight design
- A powerful motor provides performance equivalent to a gas chainsaw
- Maximum User Control
- Includes Chain Break for Kickback protection
- Tool-free tensioning system
What We Don't Like
- Battery and Charger are not included
- Smaller bar size, not for cutting down large trees
2. Husqvarna 460 Rancher—Best Professional Firewood Chainsaw for Cutting Wood in 2024
Technical Specs
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 24 inches | Engine: 60.3 CC| Weight: 13.2 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
While battery-powered chainsaws do claim to provide equivalent performance to that of a gas chainsaw, the latter is still considered more powerful. Husqvarna 460 Rancher is one of the most powerful gas chainsaws that is recommended by professionals.
The innovative design and technology of the best Husqvarna chainsaw for firewood provide you with impeccable performance and incredible efficiency in a compact design. The chainsaw is much easier to handle compared to its competitors.
Although the gas chainsaw has a powerful 60.3 cc engine along with a massive bar size, it does not weigh as much as you might think it to be. The lightweight design allows you to easily handle the chainsaw while cutting firewood.
During our tests, the chainsaw always started with the first rope pull, proving the smart start technology claim. You would not require multiple pulls or excessive force which has annoyed and exhausted many users in the past.
To reduce fuel consumption, Husqvarna has introduced the X-Torq technology which is patented by the manufacturer. The technology reduces the fuel consumption as compared to previous models of the brand, providing you a longer run.
Another common problem that was faced with gas chainsaws was excessive vibration and kickback. Husqvarna has designed the chainsaw innovatively to minimize the vibrations to provide a comfortable working experience.
Despite all the technology, some users still complain about the noise and fume problems from the chainsaw. Technically, the issue is unavoidable, because the engine is running and consuming fuel. However, Husqvarna’s innovative technology has reduced it significantly.
Check out the Top Husqvarna Chainsaws for impeccable performance!
What We Like
- Innovative Design and Technology
- Powerful Engine Performance
- Lighter than it looks
- Reduced vibration through advanced technology
- Starts at the first rope pull
What We Don't Like
- Noise and fumes are inevitable with a gas chainsaw
- Requires tools for proper tensioning
3. Greenworks G-MAX 40V Chainsaw—Best Cordless Firewood Chainsaw in 2024
Technical Specs
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 16 inch | Power: 40 V | Weight: 10.36 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
If you are looking for a complete package that provides you both the tool and the battery, the Greenworks G-Max 40V is the perfect option. The battery-powered chainsaw provides you efficient performance for various outdoor operations.
Besides cutting firewood, this chainsaw can also be used in a variety of other applications. We have used this chainsaw for cutting firewood, construction wood, trees, and branches and also pressed wood and found it to be efficient.
The chainsaw costs a bit higher than our top pick and is also larger in size. While our top pick is limited to cutting firewood only, this chainsaw is used by professionals for cutting down medium-sized trees as well.
Double voltage capacity and a larger battery with a fast chagrining system allow you to use the chainsaw for longer periods. We have conducted a series of tests and found that the chainsaw provides 130-140 cuts per charge.
Innovatively designed brushless motor provides you higher power and 2x more torque which ensures high performance. You will be able to cut through the toughest of woods with ease.
Gas chainsaws have always had one flaw, noise, and fumes. Greenworks G-Max provides you the perfect option to avoid both of those things without compromising on the performance of the chainsaw.
A minor drawback that some users have mentioned is the unavailability of the battery-full indicator. Once you put the batteries to charging, you will have to note the time because there are no lights that indicate that the battery is fully charged.
What We Like
- Efficient performance for outdoor operation
- Best suited for cutting both trees and firewood
- Double the power and torque
- Easy start technology for instant ignition.
- Safe to use design
What We Don't Like
- No battery-full indication light
- Compatible with only Greenworks batteries.
4. Worx WG304.1 Chainsaw—Best Electric Chainsaw for Firewood 2024
Technical Specs
Type: Corded Electric | Bar Length: 18 inches | Power: 15 amps | Weight: 11.3 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
One of the most common problems with battery-powered chainsaws is their price. The battery and charger increase the cost of the product, which is worth the price, but not for users who are looking for a budget-friendly tool.
So, if you are also looking for a cost-efficient chainsaw that can help you cut firewood easily, then look no further than Worx WG 304.1. This corded electric chainsaw provides you powerful performance with highly efficient features.
Since the chainsaw does not have to house any battery or fuel, the weight is much lighter. The lightweight design provides the users superior control of the chainsaw, allowing them to handle it easily.
Worx uses patented auto-tensioning technology for chain maintenance. The patented technology prevents the chain from over-tightening, which was becoming a nuisance to chainsaw users. So, the chainsaw will not require any maintenance.
I personally found this chainsaw to be perfect for all kinds of uses. The large 18-inch bar size combined with 15 amps powerful motor ensures beastly performance which can cut through trees and large logs to create perfectly shaped firewood.
The chainsaw comes fully assembled right out of the box, hence you won’t need to put any pieces together. The quality and reliability are ensured by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty that covers full replacement.
However, there is a drawback of this chainsaw which is obvious, the wire. You will have to work near a power source or a generator, and the wire has to be monitored. Although the chainsaw design makes it easier, some users still complain about this issue.
What We Like
- Large Bar Size for Cutting down Larger Trees
- Larger Oil Tank Capacity with Automatic Lubrication
- No chain over-tightening problems.
- Gas-like performance in an electric chainsaw
- None of the noise or fumes of a gas chainsaw
What We Don't Like
- The wire is a nuisance to some users.
- Requires a nearby power source.
5. CRAFTSMAN S165 Chainsaw—Best Chainsaw for Firewood Business in 2024
Technical Specs
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 16 inches | Engine: 42 CC| Weight: 15.22 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
While the Rancher 460 by Husqvarna is one of the most powerful gas chainsaws, it is also one of the most expensive ones. So, if you are looking for an affordable gas chainsaw for home and land use, consider the Craftsman S165.
The S165 is an affordable gas chainsaw for multi-purpose use. You can cut the firewood with it efficiently and also take down small to medium-sized trees in a single cut. This chainsaw is highly recommended for maintaining large properties.
First of all, you cannot deny the powerful performance of a 42 cc double-cycle engine which provides enough force to cut down even the toughest of woods with ease. You will be able to make fine firewood pieces and stock them in no time.
The polymer chassis and unique design of the tool provide superior handling comfort. While using the chainsaw for cutting firewood, I didn’t tire easily and was able to cut at every angle with ease.
On the other hand, the handling was enhanced with 3 point anti-vibration system of the Craftsman brand. The innovative technology reduces the kickback and the vibrations so that a person can remain fully in control of the chainsaw.
Maintaining the chainsaw is a lot easier. You have tool-free access to the spark plug and air filter. So, you won’t need any tools to swap them when needed. Furthermore, the automatic chain oiling system keeps your bar and chain lubricated at all times.
Compared to our previous pick, the chainsaw weighs a little more. The affordable price of the powerful chainsaw makes this flaw look negligible. However, some users have still complained about it being a little heavier.
What We Like
- Powerful Performance by a Double Cycle Engine
- Affordable Gas Chainsaw
- Superior Handling Comfort
- 3 Point Anti-Vibration
- Easy Maintenance
What We Don't Like
- Weighs a little more
- Not recommended for cutting larger trees.
6. Greenworks Pro 80V Chainsaw—Best 80V Chainsaw for Firewood
Technical Specs
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 18 inches | Power: 80 V | Weight: 20.65 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
While the Greenworks G-Max was designed for home and construction usage, the Greenworks Pro is specifically designed for professionals. You can consider it an all-rounder chainsaw that can be used for a variety of applications.
So, you can use it to cut firewood, cut down trees, trim the branches, cut construction-pressed wood, and for various other applications as well. The Greenworks Pro has double the power, and double the battery capacity to that of the previous model.
Experience more torque, more runtime, and longer life of the tool with advanced brushless motor technology. The technology provides you with silent performance without any of the gas fumes.
No more hassle of pulling the rope to start a powerful chainsaw. The cordless chainsaw can be started with the push of a small button. During our tests, the chainsaw started every time the first touch.
Without a doubt, the best feature of the chainsaw is the large-capacity battery with a rapid charger that is included with the tool. While using it personally, the single charge provided more than 100 cuts every time and the battery fully charges in 30 minutes.
One of the safest chainsaw designs on the planet. The comfortable grips along with inertia-activated chain brakes provide you superior control of the tool. The chainsaw also incorporates low kickback technology for increased comfort.
Although the side-mounted tensioning system is very efficient, it still requires a tool for maintenance. So, you will need to keep the tool with you at all times for tightening the chain when needed. Some users have complained that tool-less tensioning is better.
What We Like
- All-Purpose Chainsaw
- Quick and Easy Start
- Longer Battery Life and Fully Charges in 30 minutes
- Advanced Safety Features
- Inertia Activated Chain Brakes
What We Don't Like
- Tooled Tensioning requires a tool at all times
- Battery problems with other brands.
7. Husqvarna 440 Gas Chainsaw—Best Lightweight Gas Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood
Technical Specs
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 18 inches | Engine: 40 CC| Weight: 9.7 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
A lightweight and efficient gas chainsaw that comes with one of the most versatile cutting applications.
Husqvarna 440 gas chainsaw allows you to use guide bar sizes from 13 inches to 18 inches, which allows you to use the tool for a wide range of purposes.
You can use it to cut firewood, trim branches, cut off tree limbs or take down whole trees. The slim body and lightweight design make the chainsaw comfortable and easier to operate.
The Smart Start technology allows the chainsaw to start quickly and easily with minimum effort. The starting ease is further facilitated by choke/stop control, which also reduces the risk of engine flooding.
With the advanced X-torque engine technology, you have much more power and efficiency in your hands. This revolutionary technology reduces emissions by 60% and increases fuel efficiency by 20%, ensuring superior performance.
To improve engine life further, Husqvarna has incorporated Air Injection technology. The technology uses a centrifugal air cleaning system to stop the dust and debris from reaching the air filter.
Adding to this, the inertia-activated chain brake system reduces the risk of accidental injury by bringing the chain to an instant stop.
Moreover, the low-vibration technology ensures easier handling and a comfortable user experience.
Not to mention, the side-mounted easily accessible chain tensioning system allows for quick adjustments during chainsaw operation.
Although the tool has the capability to support bar sizes from 13 inches to 18 inches, it only comes with an 18-inch bar and chain included and equipped. So, you will have to purchase the others separately.
What We Like
- Versatile Cutting Applications
- Slim and Lightweight Design
- Smart Start Technology
- Inertia Activated Chain Brake
- Comfortable Handling
- Improved Engine Life
- Enhanced Air Cleaning Technology
What We Don't Like
- No Tool-less chain tensioning
- Only comes with 18-inch bar and chain
8. SALEM MASTER 6220G—Best Durable Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood
Technical Specs
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 18 inches | Engine: 51 CC| Weight: 25 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Since you have been patient and read to the last product, let me show you one of the most monstrous chainsaws that are designed for peak performance. The Salem Master is one of the most durable chainsaws for maintaining a large property.
The chainsaw is built for toughness and has a sturdy construction. So, you can use the machine in the roughest of environments without any worry about damaging it. Hold on, that doesn’t mean you should try damaging it intentionally.
Enhanced comfort with front and back anti-vibration handles. The Salem Master Chainsaw is built for heavy-duty tasks and hence can handle the toughest of woods with ease. The handles allow you to control the beastly performance efficiently.
The chainsaw comes fully assembled and is recommended as an ideal machine for cutting firewood. Large bucking spikes on the chain provide you with controlled cutting performance. Hence, you will be able to cut logs into perfect firewood pieces.
Durability is the prime feature of this chainsaw. The machine is equipped with a high quality chain and high hardness bar which provides faster cutting and higher wear resistance. Moreover, the chain won’t drop easily and will have a longer life.
Monstrous power is packed within the 62cc chainsaw which provides you up to 3.2 horsepower and 8500 RPM. The non-slip and shock-absorption handle allows you to remain in complete control of the chainsaw.
The only flaw you can come across is the price. The chainsaw costs a bit more than its competitors and is also large-sized. So, unless you need to cut down large trees along with firewood, you can choose to go with a smaller size.
What We Like
- Heavy-Duty Performance
- Monstrous 3.2 Horsepower Engine
- Ergonomic Anti-slip and Shock absorption handles
- Unmatched Durability
- 2 Years Limited Warranty
What We Don't Like
- Does not come with a carrying case
- No onboard tool storage
9. Poulan Pro PP5020AV—Best Chainsaw for Firewood with Carrying Case
Technical Specs
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 20 inches | Engine: 50 CC| Weight: 20.85 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
If you are a professional woodcutter and require a chainsaw for outdoor applications, then there is none better than Poulan Pro. The chainsaw is designed for professional use and comes with its own carrying case.
Poulan is a trusted brand among professionals and has designed some of the best chainsaws in the market. The chainsaw is very efficient for cutting both large trees and firewood into finely shaped pieces.
The longest engine life promise by Poulan is verified by professionals who have been using it for a long time. The Dura Life engine provides you more life and higher performance as compared to other competitors.
To enhance the performance further, the Poulan Pro is equipped with a super clean air filter system. The filter prevents larger particles from entering and requires less maintenance as compared to other chainsaws.
Effortlessly start the Poulan chainsaw within the initial pulls. The chainsaw is equipped with low vibration technology and has ergonomic handles. Hence, you can use the chainsaw for longer hours without much fatigue.
One of the best features of the chainsaw is the onboard Scrench holder. The tool holder removes the hassle of keeping the tool with you or forgetting about it. The chainsaw also comes with its own carrying case.
Since the chainsaw is designed for professional application of all sorts, it has a large bar size and a powerful engine which also means more weight. So, the chainsaw will require more energy from the user to carry and handle it.
What We Like
- Longer Engine Life
- Super Clean Air Filter System
- Included Carrying Case
- On-Board Scrench Holder
- Effortless Starting
What We Don't Like
- Weighs more than other chainsaws.
- Bar and chain oil leaking problems may arise.
10. WEMARS 5218G—Best 18” Gas Chainsaw for Firewood in 2024
Technical Specs
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 18 inches | Engine: 52 CC | Weight: 17.9 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
If you are looking for an affordable chainsaw that is fuel-efficient and provides you powerful performance, then there is none better than WEMARS. The brand is rapidly becoming popular and provides you with cost-efficient models.
The chainsaw provides you a large bar size for wide compatibility with various applications. The powerful engine combined with advanced features high performance for all sorts of wood cutting and processing works.
Experience the highest cutting performance that you can expect from a gas chainsaw. With 120000 rotations per minute speed, the chainsaw will cut smoothly through every wood, including raw and pressed wood, with ease.
Easy maintenance is one of the strongest pros of this machine. The automatic chain lubrication system and the automatic tightening function make your job of maintaining the chainsaw a lot easier.
When we put the chainsaw to use, it provided impressive performance for the price. Even the air filter is easy to swap. The quick-release air filter can be swapped out, cleaned, and readjusted without the need for any additional tools.
Not only this, the air filter itself is built-in innovatively with advanced technology that enhances its life. The large dust particles are kept out which ensures that the filter needs less maintenance and has a longer life.
Compared to our previous product, this one does not come with a carrying case. So, you will have to purchase one separately. Although the muffled exhaust reduces the noise, still some users have complained about occasion high noise from the chainsaw.
What We Like
- Larger Bar Size under Affordable Price
- Easy to Maintain Chainsaw
- Impressive Performance and Power
- Efficient Air Filter Technology
- Quick Release Air Filter
What We Don't Like
- Does not come with a carrying case
- Some noise issues reported in customer reviews
How to Select the Best Chainsaw for Firewood in 2024? A Buying Guide
Selecting the best chainsaw for firewood can be a difficult task. A lot of important factors come into account that can significantly affect your decision. So, to help you out, we will discuss some of the most important of those aspects briefly.
Type of Chainsaw
First and foremost, you will have to choose which kind of chainsaw you want to purchase. There are three categories to choose from, cordless or battery-powered, corded electric, and gasoline chainsaw.
Gasoline chainsaws are the most traditional chainsaws that are purchased and used by most professionals. Despite their heavy-duty performance and durability, they come with one major flaw, noise, and fumes.
There is no way to avoid the noise and fumes in a gas chainsaw. The best part is you always have a gallon of fuel with you, so no running out of power. Modern technologies have reduced noise and fumes considerably but they are impossible to eliminate.
Corded electric chainsaws are the most budget-friendly. They come at an affordable price and provide you with impressive performance. Obviously, you will need a power source to plug them in and the wire is a hassle.
Battery-powered or Cordless chainsaws are the most effective in terms of both performance and portability. They are lightweight, noiseless, and provide you with performance equivalent to gasoline chainsaws. However, they are expensive.
Bar Size
Secondly, you can narrow down your options and specify the chainsaw by bar size. The bar size will depend on your usage of the chainsaw.
If you simply require a chainsaw that you can use to trim down branches and cut firewood of medium-sized logs at your home, then the 12 to 14 inches would suffice. They will be compact and handy and will be easier to control.
However, if you have to maintain a large property and cut down trees, then you can go with a larger bar size. That will help you with other purposes in relation to cutting firewood.
The 16-18 inch bar size is ideal for cutting down medium-level trees and maintaining properties. You can also go bigger, for larger trees.
Automatic Lubrication System
Another important factor is the automatic chain and bar oil lubrication system. It is a mandatory feature in a chainsaw because the last thing you need is manually oiling the bar and chain which can really slow down your work.
Most modern chainsaws come with an automatic adjustable chain and bar oil system. The technology will automatically oil the chain and the bar through the reservoir and alert you when the bar and chain oil is low.
Make sure that you have a transparent side to the bar and chain oil tank so that you can keep the levels in check. You must always keep the bar and chain oil tank filled for the best performance.
Read More: Heating Measurement and Details About Chainsaw Muffler
Chain Tensioning System
A chain tensioning system is also important and must be considered when purchasing a chainsaw. The chain tensioning system is basically of three types.
An automatic chain tensioning system is rare and is only available in a few chainsaws. It removes the hassle of adjusting the chain tensioning again and again.
Tool-less chain tensioning system has a knob on the side of the chainsaw that can be adjusted whenever the chain requires tightening or loosening.
A tooled tensioning system requires tools like a wrench or screwdriver to adjust the chainsaw. Some of the chainsaws come with a combined wrench-screw called Scrench which is a single tool for efficient adjustments.
We recommend that you go with tooled tensioning because it’s the most efficient and it tightly keeps the chain in adjusted settings.
Design and Weight
Last but not the least, ergonomics are also of utmost importance. The grip on handles, the comfortable usage, and the weight of the chainsaw must be considered.
You must make sure that the chainsaw is comfortable to hold, lift and move around because you will be handling it.
The brake switch, splinters guard, and front grip also have significant importance when it comes to ergonomics.
Also, the weight of the chainsaw is important. Firewood chainsaws are powerful and you must purchase the one which you can control and lift easily. If you need a bigger chainsaw for cutting down large trees, go with electric options because they have less weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size chainsaw do I need to cut firewood?
You can cut firewood with any chainsaw because the logs are on the ground, and you will have to turn them. So, ideally, any 12 to 16-inch chainsaw would be best for the job. The rest depends on what other purpose you will be using the chainsaw for.
Which chainsaw will cut a thick piece of wood faster?
Gasoline chainsaws are the most powerful ones. So, if you want to cut wood faster, we recommend you go with a gas chainsaw. The cordless battery-powered chainsaws with brushless motors also provide impressive torque.
Should I get a 14 or 16-inch chainsaw for cutting firewood?
It depends on your use. If you only need to cut firewood from time to time, then a 14-inch chainsaw will work perfectly. However, if you are also thinking about cutting down trees and maintaining large property then a 16-inch chainsaw is better suited.
How do I choose a chainsaw for firewood?
Choosing a chainsaw can be a difficult task. There are a lot of important factors that you must consider when shopping for a good chainsaw. For instance, know the type of chainsaw you’d need according to the requirements of the task. Similarly, an ideal bar size for cutting firewood should range from 12″ to 18″. Keep an eye out for ergonomics and comfort. Don’t forget to take care of safety either by wearing chainsaw gloves or chainsaw chaps to ensure protection at all costs while cutting firewood.
What size tree can you cut with an 18-inch chainsaw?
You can cut trees that are 16 inches in diameter with an 18-inch chainsaw easily. However, if you are cutting logs, a larger size can also be cut. So, an 18-inch chainsaw can help you cut down medium to large trees.
Final Takeaways: Which is the Best Chainsaw for Firewood in 2024?
Looking at the list, you will come to know that cutting firewood does not require a large chainsaw. However, since you will be needing chainsaws for other tasks as well, we have covered a wide range of chainsaw sizes and types.
The best among these for cutting firewood is without a doubt the DEWALT XR chainsaw which is also the bestselling chainsaw of 2024.
However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you can choose to go with our budget pick, the Worx chainsaw.
If you require a professional chainsaw that can be used in heavy-duty tasks, then the Husqvarna Rancher 460 is your tool. The buying guide will help you make the right decision based on important factors.
Good Luck!
his personal experience and loves to share their nitty gritty details with his audience.
Although Richard does focus on other home improvement tools, his focus remains on cutting fallen trees or maintaining his backyard via chainsaw tools. He pledges to come up with new knowledge about chainsaws every once in a while.
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