Chain saws can make the tasks of pruning trees, clearing land, preparing firewood or cleaning up after a storm much easier and faster. Several manufacturers offer dozens of chain saw models that are specifically designed for the homeowner. You can choose from cordless electric, corded electric or gas-powered models. Sizes on chain saws range from a 6-inch bar on a corded electric model that offers scissor-like operation to a 20-inch (or more) bar on a gas model than can cut down a 24-inch diameter tree. There are plenty of good saws on the market to choose from. Cordless models offer the least power. Corded electric models are lightweight and easy to use within the limits of a 100-foot extension cord. Gas models offer the most power and are fully portable, but they also require more maintenance. Here are a few models we've recently reviewed.


Black & Decker Alligator Lopper LP1000

The corded electric Black & Decker Alligator Lopper LP1000 is a 6-inch chain saw that operates in a scissor-like fashion. The lower jaw of the tool holds the wood in place while the upper portion does the cutting. The operator closes the scissor-type handles down to bring the saw bar in contact with the wood. This tiny chain saw works surprisingly well. It can bite through branches or small tree trunks up to 4 inches in diameter. It's a great tool for pruning smaller limbs and many other similar tasks. And at just 6.5 pounds, this model is easy to control and maneuver into tight spaces.

Black & Decker Alligator Lopper LP1000 chain saw
Black & Decker Alligator Lopper LP1000 chain saw



Craftsman 35088 Gas Chain Saw

The Craftsman 35088 gas chain saw is a good homeowner saw that has a reasonable price of $199.99, but it is rather heavy at 18 pounds. The 35088 starts easily and uses an automatic oiler to keep the bar and chain lubricated without operator fuss. It includes several safety features, including an anti-kickback feature. It has good power with its 42 cc two-cycle gas engine and it cuts cleanly with its 18-inch bar. The Craftsman 35088 also has an anti-vibration feature that assists in lessening operator fatigue. A carrying case comes with the purchase.

Husqvarna Corded Electric Chain Saw 316

The corded electric Husqvarna 316 uses a 1600-watt electric motor and a 16-inch cutting bar. Since it's a corded model, it is limited to the range of a 100-foot extension cord, but it offers flip-of-the-switch convenience. This slim, lightweight saw will fill the needs of many homeowners who want a chain saw for light wood-cutting chores. It's quiet and doesn't vibrate excessively. And since it doesn't create any exhaust fumes, you have the choice of using it in your garage, shed or other outbuilding that has electrical service. If you need more power than what a corded electric chain saw such as this one can provide, check out several gas models Husqvarna offers. The gas models, like the Husqvarna 316, are also excellent-quality homeowner chain saws.


Poulan Wild Thing P4018WT Gas Chain Saw

The Poulan Wild Thing P4018WT is representative of many lower-cost, readily available gas chain saws. The 40 cc two-cycle gas engine with an 18-inch cutting bar ensures enough power and cutting reach. But the whole saw is less sturdy and well built than more costly models from manufacturers that also develop, build and sell professional saws. The Wild Thing will, however, serve the needs of a homeowner who simply wants an affordable saw on hand for occasional wood cutting.