Chainsaws are used for pruning branches, felling small trees and cutting firewood in a garden or on a smallholding. Our range includes battery-powered and mains-powered models, over 20 saws for home gardens and for heavier regular use.
Most models come from Bosch and Makita, and you will also find saws from Gardena, DEWALT and Black+Decker.
How to choose a chainsaw
Power source. A battery saw does not depend on a socket, so it suits the far corners of a plot, but the battery capacity limits how long you can work. A corded model runs without interruption, though the length of the extension lead limits where you can go. Our range includes both types. If you buy a battery model, check whether the battery and charger are included and whether they fit other tools from the same maker.
Guide bar length. The length of the bar determines the thickness of wood you can cut, and the cut diameter is usually a little smaller than the bar itself. For pruning and small logs, a bar of 25 to 35 cm is generally enough. A longer bar is heavier and harder to control, so choose one only if you will regularly cut thick logs.
Chain speed and power. Chain speed is given in metres per second. Models in our range include speeds of 6.95 m/s, 12 m/s and 14 m/s. A higher speed usually means faster cutting in thicker wood, while a slower saw is often enough for light pruning. Judge speed together with motor power or battery voltage.
Safety and handling. A chain brake and kickback protection are the most important safety features, so look for them in the specification. Tool-free chain tensioning and automatic chain lubrication are useful extras. Also check the weight: a saw that is tiring to hold at arm's length quickly wears you out when you prune overhead. Always wear gloves, eye protection and a helmet.
Brands in our range
- Bosch: makes a green line of tools for home users and a blue line for professionals.
- Makita: known for its 18 V LXT battery system, which powers many different tools from the same maker.
- Gardena: a garden equipment and watering systems manufacturer that belongs to the Husqvarna Group.
- DEWALT and Black+Decker: both belong to Stanley Black & Decker, but DEWALT is aimed at professionals and Black+Decker at home and garden users.
- Stihl: a German manufacturer best known for chainsaws used by foresters and arborists.
Also in our range: Ryobi, Mowox.
Chainsaw FAQ
Can I cut firewood with a chainsaw?
Yes, an electric or battery chainsaw can cut firewood as long as the log is no thicker than the guide bar is long. A saw made for home users is enough for a modest amount of logs. If you regularly cut thick logs or fell trees, choose a more powerful model with a longer bar.
Battery or corded chainsaw: which is better?
A battery saw is better if you need to move around the whole plot, while a corded saw suits work near a socket where you want uninterrupted running. A battery model is easier to carry, but its running time depends on the battery. A corded saw never needs charging, but it does need a socket or an extension lead.
Does a chainsaw need oil?
Yes, the chain and guide bar need constant lubrication with dedicated chain oil while you cut. Many models have an oil tank and automatic lubrication, but you should check the oil level before every job. Without oil the chain wears quickly and overheats.
What length of guide bar do I need?
For garden pruning and small logs, a bar of 25 to 35 cm is usually enough. The diameter you can cut is typically a little smaller than the bar length. A longer bar suits thicker trunks, but the saw becomes heavier and harder to control.
