Electric or petrol model
To understand which of these options is more suitable for a particular owner, you need to familiarize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of each model. A gasoline saw is a more self-contained version of the tool, since it can work without a source of electricity. Also, the saw models under consideration have other important features that it will be useful to know about for each buyer:
- The electric version of the chain saw requires less physical effort than the gasoline counterpart. Due to the presence of an engine, the owner of such a model must have certain skills and techniques for working with this tool. If we talk about a unit powered by an electrical outlet, then the user is not required to have special knowledge.
- The electric saw is safer than its petrol counterpart, as it does not emit exhaust gases during operation. Therefore, it can be used not only outdoors, but also indoors. The petrol model is limited in this regard. Working with it in a confined space can cause a lot of inconvenience to all people nearby.
- A gasoline saw requires regular purchase of fuel, and this increases its operating costs by an order of magnitude. On top of that, the retail price of gasoline saws significantly exceeds the cost of electric ones.
- The electric saw is easier to handle due to its lighter weight, and also convenient, because it creates much less noise than a gasoline saw.
Peculiarities
Any electric saw is designed to replace the classic hand saw in terms of the main source of effort - instead of a human hand, the entire burden of performing a task is now placed on an electric motor. However, if the first electric saws were dependent on outlets, and therefore were used exclusively stationary in a workshop, then the battery allows you to work autonomously for several hours. In this case, rechargeable devices may have certain limitations associated with the specifics of the battery.
Another feature of choosing a specific model of a cordless saw is that different types of accumulators put forward special conditions for their operation. So, nickel-cadmium batteries, considered obsolete almost everywhere, had a "memory effect", that is, they regularly required a complete discharge and then the same charging, otherwise they quickly lost their charge volume, but they were practically not exposed to cold.
Modern lithium-ion batteries, often used not only in saws, but also in other rechargeable devices, with a low weight can boast of a significant charge, and even harmlessly capable of being charged at any time, without losing their charge during prolonged idle time, but they are quickly discharged when work or storage at low temperatures. Considering that in cool regions, of which there are many in our country, the choice may not be so obvious, some manufacturers still offer two different types of batteries in the kit.
How to choose?
If you want to buy a really high-quality and durable battery-powered chain saw, then you need to take it very seriously. Experts advise to rely on some of the characteristics of such tools.
Battery Type. It is advisable to give preference to models in which lithium or nickel-cadmium batteries are present. Such parts are found to be more efficient and durable. They are able to withstand a wide variety of temperatures.
Mode of operation. If you buy a saw for rare use, then you will not be able to avoid its self-discharge. For lithium-ion batteries, it will be negligible, and for nickel - up to 20% monthly
In such conditions, it is important not to forget that charging will be possible only after the charge is completely depleted, and this is by no means convenient in all cases.
Power
It is extremely important to pay attention to the power of the selected chain saw model. As a rule, the range of this indicator lies in the range from 18 to 36 W
It is on the power of the chosen equipment that the degree of its performance will depend.
The more serious work is planned, the more powerful the technique should be.
Ergonomics. It is advisable to buy rechargeable devices that are lightweight. This technique should be comfortable to grip with your hands. The saw should not be inconvenient to use.
Build quality
Be sure to pay attention to the build quality of the model you choose. All parts must be fixed securely and efficiently
There should be no backlash in the structure, as well as any damage. If any were noticed by you, then it is better to refuse the purchase. It is unlikely that such a technique will last long enough.
The presence of useful features. Buy cordless chain saws that have the following functionality: lubrication of the cutting system, locking of the starting part, inertial brake, the most convenient chain tensioner, protection of the motor system from overloads. With such additions, we can safely talk about the durability and wear resistance of the tool.
Manufacturer. Buy only high quality branded cordless saws. There are many brands today - the choice of the best option is left to the buyer. Of course, such copies will cost more, especially if they have many additional options. But such tools will not only last longer, they will not cause any problems, they will cope with all the tasks assigned to them. In addition, branded models are sold with a manufacturer's warranty. It is advisable to buy them at specialized retail outlets. This should not be done in markets and small pavilions.
Rating of the best models
- In second place is the DeWALT DCS380M2, an American brand device manufactured in China. The tool is equipped with a 4-position blade clamp function, which allows cutting in any direction, and is equipped with an open, adjustable sole, which provides good stability of the device and a wide view of the cutting line. The lithium-ion battery of the XR series has a voltage of 18 V and a capacity of 3 A. h. The working blade is replaced by a keyless method, the weight of the device is 3.3 kg, the stroke rate is 2950 cycles per minute. The cost of the unit is 27,170 rubles.
- Next is the DeWALT DCS388N brushless model, designed for sawing timber, steel profiles and pipes. Like all brushless saws, the device has a long service life and a large motor resource. The model is equipped with a lithium-ion battery of the XR FLEXVOLT brand with a voltage of 54 V, which gives it the highest power and performance. For work in darkened spaces, LED backlighting is provided. The cutting depth of wood reaches 30 cm, of metal - 13 cm. The weight of the device is 3.6 kg, the cost is 19,000 rubles.
In addition to the obvious three leaders, saws from Dexter, Ryobi, Metabo and Bosch, equipped with lithium-ion or nickel-cadmium batteries, which have high reliability and long service life, are in stable demand.
Specifications
Cordless chain saws work without constant access to power outlets - this is their main advantage!
These devices are powered by a battery. Its running time is limited and depends on the model. The main advantages of battery packs are power and mobility.
Due to the fact that this type of equipment does not need wires, it is used for cutting materials in hard-to-reach places (for example, at high altitudes). In the domestic environment, cordless chain saws are used for easy pruning and trimming of branches in the garden.
Before using such a device, it is important to familiarize yourself with the principles of its operation:
- The main part of cordless saws is the engine, which is presented in the form of a battery. The tool does not have a starter or a fuel tank. The battery is located where the gasoline engine is located at the chainsaw.
- For the current year, the most advanced type of battery is lithium-ion. They have no memory effect and can function without interruption for about 1 hour. Lithium prevents the equipment from heating up quickly during operation.
- Cordless saws have low vibration levels during use. Thanks to this quality, the tool sits more comfortably in the hand and provides an accurate cut. The weight of such a unit is similar to the weight of a chainsaw with a full tank.
- Cordless chain saws achieve maximum performance immediately after being switched on. Gasoline models, on the contrary, need a certain time to accelerate and set the required speed.
Expert opinion
Dmitry Levin
From a structural point of view, cordless chain saws are no different from fuel-based tools. They consist of a body, guide bar, handle and other standard elements.