Good and very good: a comparison of an electric saw and a chainsaw

Comparison of chainsaws and electric saws

Electric saw

Electric chain saw - universal a tool used for a variety of woodworking operations. The most common modern use of an electric saw is work in furniture production, domestic use for the purpose of preparing firewood, as well as construction work (for example, building a wooden shed, house, summer cottage, sauna, bath), sawing woodwork

Electric chain saws

The mechanism that supports the operation of the saw is an electric motor that works when the tool is connected to the mains through the power cable. Cordless saws can also be roughly classified as electric, since the battery is also charged from the mains. The power of electric saws differs depending on the type of tool: household, semi-professional or professional.

The main field of application of the electric saw:

• sawing wooden boards, beams;
• furniture blanks;
• construction work with wood;
• work indoors, in conditions of limited space;
• sawing off branches, cutting bushes, cutting down diseased trees, the function of a delimber;
• the ability to work outside the home (for battery models) with any volume of wood.

Chainsaw

A gasoline chain saw or chainsaw is a tool that is used along with an electric chain saw. This type of tool is designed for working with wood both on a domestic and industrial scale.

Chainsaws are filled with a special fuel mixture, for which oil is mixed with gasoline in different proportions. The most common proportions that allow engines to perform well are 1:40, 1:50, and for some chainsaws, 1:25.

Chainsaws

For professional tasks and intensive loads, chainsaws with four-stroke engines are used, their engine volume is from 70 cubic meters. cm and more. The capacity of the fuel tanks of such units can exceed 4 liters of gasoline.

The main scope of the chainsaw:

• work at a great distance from a gas station, residential buildings, public places (for example, at sawmills, in the wild, on the construction of wooden structures - houses, summer cottages, saunas, wooden fences, houses, baths, etc.);
• powerful load, long-term use of chainsaws on a professional scale - forestry, construction in desert areas, forestry;
• sawing off branches, shrubs, thinning dense forest plantations;
• household use of a chainsaw - harvesting firewood, minor household chores related to working with wood and other soft materials (chipboard, OSB-plates, fiberboard, etc.).

The common element for electric and gasoline chain saws is the saw blade made up of the chain, bar and sprocket, and the key principle of operation is that the chain rotates along the diameter of the bar, providing a sawing effect. The length of the chain of a gasoline or electric saw can be different for different models, there are chains with 45, 50, 75 links.

The general device of the chainsaw

Also, the saws differ in the length of the bar and, accordingly, in the ability to cut logs of different diameters. Professional chainsaws and electric saws can work for a total of 6-8 hours a day, cooling down quickly and maintaining productivity.

Household units are focused on rare use and light loads.

What is better to buy for home - a chainsaw or an electric saw

When I bought my first chainsaw, I did not pay attention to these questions at all. I just went and got a chainsaw to cut the trees in the garden from time to time.A little later, I regretted my rash decision a little, because I often had to cut wood right in the yard, not far from the house, to which I could easily connect an electric saw.

At the same time, I would not know the hassle of buying gasoline and constantly mixing it with oil. I would forget about the problems with the overheating of the chainsaw, and about other, very unpleasant moments. Therefore, it turned out that my choice was wrong, it was necessary to buy an electric saw.

Chainsaws are great where there is no way to connect to electricity. That is, if electricity is not supplied to the site or you often have to stock up on firewood in the forest belt, then your choice is obvious - this is a reliable middle-class chainsaw.

However, if you often have to work with a saw near your home, where you can connect to electricity, an electric saw has significant advantages over a chainsaw. Firstly, it does not need to be refueled with gasoline every time. Moreover, it should be understood that even a little fry, a powerful chainsaw, will consume a fairly large amount of it.

Plus, gasoline must be constantly mixed with two-stroke oil, preferably semi-synthetics or synthetics, but not with mineral oil. The prices for synthetics and semi-synthetics are quite high, so here, in addition to buying gasoline, you will have to fork out.

In addition, it is much safer to work with an electric saw than with a gasoline one. Given the high risk of explosion and fuel fire, there is a fairly high risk of injury. This is why you must not smoke while refueling and operating your chainsaw.

Range of application of electric saws

The analysis of the conducted surveys and consumer reviews showed that in the list of additional advantages, users note the compact design, the presence of stable traction characteristics.

The electric chain saw is quickly turned on by pressing a button, which saves working time by reducing the amount of prestarting.

• Due to their small size and reliable grip, electric saws are used in the construction of wooden residential buildings, crowning of tall trees and other special work.
• In particular, the electric saw does not cause noise discomfort when working in closed spaces, does not create problems in the absence of exhaust ventilation.
• Longitudinal engine models are characterized by good balance, even cuts, and no kickbacks when the chain enters dense and sticky wood.

Tools of a higher power range can master the volume of work corresponding to the capabilities of semi-professional chainsaws.

The working set of household tools of many owners includes an electric and a chainsaw. The presence of two tools allows you to significantly reduce the cost and expand the list of sawing works of different levels of complexity.

The main disadvantages of gasoline and electric saws

As with any technique, the chain saw has its drawbacks.

The main disadvantages of chainsaws:

• Gasoline chain saws weigh an order of magnitude more than electric models of similar power.
• The combustion engine is a noticeable noise source and the saws are much quieter.
• Gasoline saws require regular servicing. The owner of gasoline vehicles must constantly monitor the lubrication level, as well as clean the air filter and change the spark plug.
• Gasoline powered tools require regular refueling with liquid fuel.

This is where the obvious disadvantages of chainsaws end.

As for the weight of chainsaws, some craftsmen are of the opinion that the chainsaw should be heavier. If you make vertical cuts, then the chain will cut into the wood literally under the weight of the saw itself.

The main disadvantages of electric saws:

• The operation of the power tool depends on the availability of a stable 220 (V) power supply. This means that the chain saw can only be used next to the outlet.You can't work with an electric saw in the field.
• Any electric saw has a current-carrying cord, which considerably limits the free movement of the tool. The cord will get tangled under your feet, creating additional danger.
• The working life of electric saws is noticeably inferior to a gasoline tool.
• High level of repair complexity. The electric motor of the chainsaws is virtually maintenance-free, with the exception of the electric brush assembly. If the rotor shaft is deformed or the stator winding is short-circuited, it will be almost impossible to restore the motor by a handicraft method.

Notes on the operation of chain saws boil down to the fact that this type of sawing tool is intended for the most part only for home use. This technique is not physically designed for frequent and long work.

To understand which is better, an electric saw or a chainsaw, consider the advantages of these types of saws.

Advantages and disadvantages

Electric saw

The main advantages of electric saws:

• a large selection of models for any task;
• relatively low noise compared to gasoline saws;
• environmental friendliness and availability of electricity as a cheaper resource, if we compare it in cost with gasoline, as you know, powerful chainsaws like to "drink" gasoline and the owner cannot influence the degree of fuel consumption during long-term operation;
• it is safer to work with an electric saw, especially in closed rooms - there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning during long-term operation;
• modern manufacturers produce saws that can work reliably under overload conditions, long-term operation, many of the semi-professional models function no worse than the "pro" category saws;
• an electric saw is a good and reliable assistant in small private farms, in the absence of professional tasks for cutting or harvesting wood, there is simply no point in taking a chainsaw.

Electric chain saw device

The main disadvantages of electric saws:

• the saw is operating within the power cord or battery life (that is, the tool will need to be recharged or kept close to the power source);
• professional electric saws are somehow inferior in power to gasoline ones;
• Cordless saws require a battery change from time to time, and some models of electric saws are sold without a battery, which automatically increases their overall cost.

Chainsaw

The main advantages of chainsaws:

• high power, endurance, ability to withstand frequent use and heavy loads;
• the autonomy of the chainsaw (before running out of fuel), which is supported by refueling a new portion of gasoline or an oil-gasoline mixture;
• a huge selection of gasoline saws of different power, purpose, for different volumes of work;
• simple operation and maintenance of the chainsaw;
• the ability to work with a chainsaw remotely from a source of electricity (unlike electric saws), autonomy.

Chainsaw device

The main disadvantages of chainsaws:

• the presence of harmful exhausts (the good thing is that this disadvantage is minimized on modern models of chainsaws);
• it is recommended to work with a chainsaw only outdoors in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning;
• the high cost of professional chainsaws;
• expensive spare parts, especially when it comes to chainsaws from top global manufacturers.

Working conditions and environmental friendliness

Comparing two tools - a chainsaw or an electric saw, many consumers pay attention to such factors as ease of use and environmental friendliness. Electric saws are quite convenient to use: the tool is started by pressing one button

Quite lightweight and compact devices will become indispensable helpers for simple work: to cut something nearby at home, cut knots, cut thin logs. But when working with a tree with a denser structure, the power of the electric saw may not be enough.

Electric saws are quite easy to use: the tool is started by pressing one button. Quite lightweight and compact devices will become indispensable helpers for simple work: to cut something nearby at home, cut knots, cut thin logs. But in working with a tree that has a denser structure, the power of the electric saw may not be enough.

You should also take into account the fact that the power tool can work continuously for only 20 minutes, since its engine heats up very quickly, while chainsaws work successfully without interruption for several hours.

Choosing an electric saw for work, you should be prepared for the fact that it will be possible to use it only under favorable weather conditions. Excessive moisture can damage the instrument. The electric saw is an indispensable tool for working indoors: the compact design in operation emits a minimum of vibration and little noise.

Recent Entries
5 unusual zucchini dishes instead of pancakes and stews that have set the teeth on edge 8 folk remedies for fighting the Colorado potato beetle: for those who are against "chemistry" in the garden 5 ways to use garlic arrows that experienced gardeners know about

Chainsaws run on a fuel mixture. The engine of the tool is started by means of a starter cord

For many users who have not encountered chainsaws, the need to prepare a fuel mixture, monitor the quality and quantity of components, is a limiting factor in choosing this type of product. The manipulation of starting and maintaining the instrument is not as difficult as it seems at first glance.

For work in closed rooms, a chainsaw is not the best option: the fumes and exhaust gases emitted during the operation of the tool do not make it possible to spend a long time in an unventilated room

Chainsaws are less picky about weather conditions: light rain and even snow do not interfere with her work. But, at the same time, in severe frost, the chainsaw may not start at all, which cannot be said about the electric saw.

The advantages of the chainsaw range

The main advantages of chainsaw equipment of all categories are autonomy and the ability to choose the optimal operating mode, less dependence on rain and snow precipitation.

Independent of stationary and mobile power supplies, tools can be used:

• for dumping and crosscutting of decommissioned trees located in remote areas;
• clearing forest plantations and other wide-profile sawing operations;
• for arranging temporary campsites on hikes and long-distance expeditions.

Interesting: Top 5 chainsaws from the South Korean manufacturer hyundai

Advantages of branded chainsaw import

• The products of leading European brands are practically devoid of the disadvantages characteristic of cheap chainsaw equipment. Chainsaws of the brands Shtil, Husqvarna, Makita, Oleo Mak and a number of others have positively proven themselves in all respects.
• The use of wear-resistant materials and modern technologies for their processing made it possible to bring the production of branded chainsaws to the highest quality level.

The exception is several varieties of low-quality Chinese counterfeits, which are sold in small outlets at a lower cost. The risks of acquiring a counterfeit chainsaw are eliminated by purchasing the selected model in a company store.

Top best chainsaws for summer cottages

If you do not take into account the price, but focus on quality and reliability, then the leadership is shared by the brands German Stihl and Swedish Husqvarna. Drawing an analogy with cars, we can say that these are BMW and Volvo. Less known in Russia, but also high-quality Japanese ECHO chainsaws.

The following models are ideal for giving.

Husqvarna 140

The Husqvarna 140 chainsaw is powered by a 2.2 hp engine. (1.6 kW). Tire length 16 inches. Weight 4.4 kg.Assembly - USA, unlike many Husqvarna models, assembled in China at Husqvarna factories. The start price of 2019 is 11-12,000 rubles.

Husqvarna 137

• power 2.18 hp (about 1.6 kW);
• tire length 16 inches;
• assembly - Sweden;
• the price is about 10 thousand rubles.

Husqvarna 137 and Husqvarna chainsaw models of similar power (236, 240,142), assembled in China, cost about half the price. They are quite popular, but their quality is wary due to their geographical origin (China). Although these are factory-assembled chainsaws, and not counterfeit junk of unknown origin.

Stihl offers at least 5 models of chainsaws with a capacity of 1.8 - 2.2 hp for giving. As an example, one of them.

Stihl MS 180

Stihl MS 180 is the most popular chainsaw in Russia, but the price really bites, almost 3 times more expensive than high-quality Chinese chainsaws such as Carver, Partner, Champion.

• power 2 hp (1.5 kW);
• tire length 14 inches (16 can be installed);
• weight 3.9 kg;
• price from 12 500-13 500 rubles.

ECHO CS-353ES

Another expensive brand known for its quality is the Japanese ECHO. The ECHO CS-353ES chainsaw is perfect for working in the country. It is also assembled in China, but the manufacturer gives a 5-year warranty, while most other brands have a 1-year warranty. In this case, to justify the geography of assembly with a low reputation, it can be recalled that the Japanese have long established the production of their quality products, including cars, outside Japan.

Specifications:

• power 2.1 hp (1.6 kW);
• tire length 16 inches;
• weight 4 kg;
• the price at the beginning of 2019 is about 16,000 rubles.

Budget chainsaws for summer cottages are presented much more widely

Among them, you should pay attention to the following manufacturers:

• German Huter;
• factory Chinese PIT;
• Carver;
• Patriot;
• Partner;
• Champion.

The power supply is the main distinguishing feature

Since the saw is powered by electricity, the use of this type of tool is possible only in places where it is possible to connect to the mains. It is convenient to work with such a tool at home, during construction. When working with an electric saw, difficulties may arise when it is necessary to carry out work not only in the immediate vicinity of the house, but also to process the entire area.

For smooth movement with the tool around the site for outdoor work, you will need to purchase an extension cord several tens of meters long

In addition, during active movement, for example, when pruning fruit trees, it is necessary to ensure that the cord from the power tool does not get tangled under your feet and does not fall under the operating saw chain.

The electric saw is more intended for construction work: it is convenient for it to cut wood lengthwise and cut thin boards. The cuts from the electric saw are flat and smooth.

Due to the main feature of chainsaws - mobility, they are an indispensable tool for logging. Easy-to-use tools can be used in virtually any position

The main trump card of the chainsaw is autonomy. The chainsaw will become a handy tool for farming in rural areas, where power surges are not uncommon. Owners who practice outings in order to organize active rest: a picnic, expedition, hunting or fishing, can always take a handy tool with them in the trunk of their car.

Benefits of gasoline and electric saws

In addition to significantly speeding up the work and making work easier, chain sawing technology has many additional advantages.

Pros of chainsaws:

• Absolute autonomy. The chainsaw can be safely used even in those areas that do not have electrification.
• High mobility. The absence of a live cord allows the chain saw to work from any position. With a chainsaw, you can freely move around the site without getting tangled in the wires.
• Reliability and durability. The service life of an ordinary chainsaw engine is at least 5,000 - 7,000 hours before the first overhaul.The same amount of internal combustion engines will be able to work out after planned restoration.
• Good performance. The internal combustion engine provides a very, very good tractive power.

Pluses of electric saws:

• Low weight. With equal power characteristics, electric saws weigh much less than gasoline models. After a lot of experience with a chainsaw, an electric tool will feel almost weightless.
• Low noise level. The electric motor is much quieter than an internal combustion engine.
• Solid power. Modern electric motors are capable of developing very, very good tractive power. Electric models are very, very productive.
• Unpretentiousness to service. Electric chain saws do not need any service. The power tool is grease-free, filter-free, and spark plug-free.
• High environmental friendliness. The absence of exhaust allows the use of electric chain saws in the garden and vegetable garden, that is, where a good ecology is extremely important.

Let's summarize and decide what to choose, an electric or gasoline saw.

Test method and course

The saws were checked before testing, the chains were corrected so that it would not turn out that one works with a sharp chain, and the other with a blunt one. We filmed the entire test. It shows that large sawdust is flying from both saws, and not fine dust - and this is a sure sign that the teeth are sharp, and the chains are in good technical condition.

For the first stage of the test, we decided to buy a 100 × 100 mm bar and made 10 cuts with each saw, recording the working time. The Stihl 180 chainsaw is in the lead here, taking 10 cuts in 22 seconds. Rechargeable DeWALT took 27 seconds for the same amount of work. There is a difference, but not very big, and one could already conclude that the "accumulator" will soon catch up with gasoline technology in terms of performance.

But here we decided to complicate the task. They took six pieces of timber, folded them in a "package" with a total size of 300 × 200 mm and began to saw this package. And not as in general it is supposed to work, when the saw cuts only under its own weight, but at speed, that is, with decent pressure on the handles. And here the cordless saw showed that the rumors about the lower performance in comparison with the "gasoline" are somewhat exaggerated. 5 cuts of the package (ie 30 "single" cuts) took 53 seconds, for Stihl 180 - a minute. DeWALT holds the load clearly better: under the load when the Stihl was already starting to choke, the cordless saw worked the same way as under its own weight. No drop in engine speed was felt. We invite you to watch all the video material that we have prepared based on the test results:

Scope of application

When choosing a device, take into account the peculiarities of operation. If you plan to use the equipment at home, where the amount of work will be small, you will not need to cut constantly, using both options is approximately equally convenient.

A gasoline saw is best for gardening. It does not weigh too much, works in various weather conditions, and is mobile. The radius of its movement is not limited. The electro option will be limited by the length of the cable; in addition, it is unsafe in wet weather, in the morning with dew.

A gasoline saw should also be chosen for work in the forest. There is no possibility to connect a cable, it is necessary to cut a large number of trees, so the electric option will quickly become unusable. In addition, weather conditions can be unfavorable.

For construction work, the electrical option is well suited. If the work is carried out indoors in a small number of rooms, this technique will be more convenient. It works quieter, which will be more convenient for the people around, neighbors. In addition, exhaust gases will not be generated when using it.

Electric saws are most often made for short-term work on construction or summer cottages, for domestic use.If you plan to perform a large amount of work using the device, give preference to gasoline options.