Straight off the bat I’ll say gas powered chainsaws of any size can be intimidating and recommend anyone with zero to little experience to seriously consider looking at smaller form battery powered alternatives when starting out with a chainsaw
Why buy a gas-powered chainsaw?
The big advantage gas powered chainsaws have over battery powered chainsaws is increased power and better up time.
Fill it up with gas and oil and you’re off and running.
Gas powered chainsaws are the bread and butter of the chainsaw world – very reliable, very powerful and are used professionally everywhere.
Seasoned chainsaw users will no doubt be familiar with the features of the gas powered devices.
The main attributes, as stated above, are no doubt attractive when it comes to choosing gas over battery powered however, for anyone not familiar with the raw power of a the gas chainsaw, battery powered is the way into the chainsaw world, especially for novice, infrequent users.
Power & Weight
Of course, anyone wanting to add a smaller form chainsaw to their arsenal will have a great range to choose from that suits many budgets. The weight advantage is obvious.
Excellent power in a smaller unit and not having to lug around something thats 20 + pounds is a huge benefit, especially if traveling distances.
A powerful motor does add extra weight and most certainly be overkill for certain jobs. A lower powered engine thats bundled into a smaller form gas models, compared to battery powered models still have great benefits whilst having a reduced weight.
Smaller gas chainsaws will have engine sizes ranging between 32 -45cc making them cost effective. Very tempting; not needing the extra muscle whilst potentially pulling a muscle can only be a good thing.
Tackling the trees
I have no doubts whatsoever that a gas powered chainsaws would have completed the job of cutting fallen trunks and branches behind my house.
Had I the experience and knowledge at the time my decision may have been different.
Fortunately my task was localized to around 200m from my house so didn’t have to travel light years when the battery died. Plus I had extras so was a case of quick change, quick rest then crack on.
As a comparison, the gas needed for the duration of my task would have been more than sufficient on a 32-35cc model and would not have required a top up.
Noise is a given for these tools but was minimal compared to the noise coming from the woods the night of the storm.
Maintenance & Storage
Gas powered chainsaws will require more maintenance than their battery powered counterparts.
When you have an engine connected to mechanical parts theres no getting away from it but with routine checks, cleaning and minor servicing you will have a tool that will last a lifetime.
Clean the chainsaw after use
All sorts of dust and dirt will get splattered around and get sucked into the housing vents and guide bar.
Its coming into contact with wood, and dirt and all sorts of stuff so cleaning it is important.
Sharpen the blades
Clamp the chainsaw to a vice and secure it in place. Get the appropriate file then sharpen the blades by pushing it away, horizontally across the blade. Once completed, clean with a cloth or compressed air then lube with oil.
Clean the intake components
Debris builds up over time and will eventually block the fuel intake. You can dissolve this using a carburetor cleaner, which is inexpensive.
Keep the engine and parts lubricated
Chainsaws that have an in-built oiling system to keep the guide bar and chain fluid will need the levels checked and topped up – do this before use.
Inspect the air filter
Air intake is vital to the efficiency of an engine so ensure the air filter has no blockages. If not cleaned the engine will overheat. Metal filters can be removed and cleaned with soapy water. Paper filters will need to be replaced.
Spark Plugs
Loose connections between the spark plug terminal and the ignition wire terminal could cause a fire. Use authorized spark plugs and keep them clean.
Store in a cool, dry place
Empty the fuel tank, drain the oil, and if you can remove the chain and store it separately.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN
Best Small Gas Powered Chainsaw for 2022
Weight
Engine Size (cc)
Guide Bar size (ins)
#1 Remington RM4214 Rebel
Why this Chainsaw?
The Remington Rebel 14″ has a great profile thus being the first on this list. In my opinion it will suit a more experienced user due to the power it produces from its 42 cc, 2 stroke engine.
From what I’ve gleaned and reviewed it houses a reliable engine that punches well above its weight so expect a lot of energy from this chainsaw.
Be in the field or for general domestic use, it will be more than suitable. A 14″ blade will cut through soft and hard wood without issues. The build is neat, compact and is well constructed, with materials well placed for comfort and efficiency. Rubber, plastics and metal where they should be.
Pros
– most powerful engine on the list.
Cons
– heaviest chainsaw on the list
Key Features
- weight – 15.7 lbs
- power – 42cc 2 stroke engine
- guide bar length – 14″
- 5-point anti-vibration system for handling
- QuickStart technology – makes pull starts easier
Whats in the box?
- 1 x chainsaw
- Bar and chain oil
- instructions
Main uses
With the 14″ bar you’ll have no issues getting stuck into soft or hard woods. Its ideal for smaller trunks (one or two passes wont be too difficult), branches, pruning or trimming. Its the heaviest chainsaw in the list so some may find elevated work a bit tiresome.
Summary
Based on my gas powered chainsaw, this one will make a great addition or better replacement. The build quality is robust and with a 42cc engine it will do more than what I need. Not just that – you can change the guide bar sizes and go larger. The engine will be more than capable of handling larger bars for larger jobs. Great versatility.
With most gas powered chainsaws, watch out for oil leaks but again, store it correctly and follow manufacturers guidelines for optimum performance.
Without having an auto tensioner for the chain you will need to keep on top of it in terms of maintenance
Well balanced and literally big bang for your buck.
#2 Tanaka TCS33EDTP/12
Why this Chainsaw?
Marketed as a chainsaw for pruning, shaping and hobby work I have no doubts this little monster could do a load more without being pushed too hard.
It has a 12″ guide bar and 32cc Pure Fire engine – a 2-stroke engine that is designed to produce low emissions without the need for additional internal moving parts making it more efficient, cleaner and powerful.
Automatic gear-driven oiler and a side access chain tensioning provides quick and convenient chain adjustment.
Pros
– joint cleanest for the environment
Cons
– 12″ blade may not be suitable for some tasks
Key Features
- weight – 11.9 lbs
- power – Pure Fire 32.2 cc 2 stroke engine
- guide bar length – 12″
- 7-year consumer, 2-year commercial and 1-year rental warranty
- Automatic oiler for bar and chain
Whats in the box?
- 1 x chainsaw
- Bar and chain
- instructions
Main uses
Cutting smaller trunks, pruning trees and chopping logs will be a piece of cake for this one. Lightweight and top handle makes it convenient for climbing trees.
Summary
Again, Based on my gas powered chainsaw, this one will make a great addition or better replacement.
Under 12 pounds in weight is a huge plus for me and the item has been well reviewed by a varied demographic.
The build quality is robust and will cut whatever you want within reason.
With most gas powered chainsaws, watch out for oil leaks but again, store it correctly and follow manufacturers guidelines for optimum performance.
Light, solidly build and an excellent warranty.
#3 Tanaka TCS33EDTP/14
Why this Chainsaw?
As above but with 14″ guide bar and weights a slightly higher 12.4 pounds
Marketed as a chainsaw for pruning, shaping and hobby work, again, I have no doubts this little monster could do a load more without being pushed very hard.
It has a 14″ guide bar and the same 32cc Pure Fire engine, as described above.
Automatic gear-driven oiler and a side access chain tensioning provides quick and convenient chain adjustment.
Pros
– joint cleanest for the environment
– lightest 14″ chainsaw on the list
Cons
– smaller engine may mean tasks take longer to complete.
Key Features
- weight – 12.4 lbs
- power – Pure Fire 32.2 cc 2 stroke engine
- guide bar length – 14″
- 7-year consumer, 2-year commercial and 1-year rental warranty
- Automatic oiler for bar and chain
Whats in the box?
- 1 x chainsaw
- Bar and chain
- instructions
Main uses
Will give more flexibility with slightly larger trunks and branches. Cutting smaller trunks, pruning trees and chopping logs will be a piece of cake. Lightweight and same top handle design makes it convenient for climbing trees.
Summary
Again, Based on my gas powered chainsaw, this one will make a great addition or better replacement.
Just over 12 pounds in weight it wont make much of a difference to me but will for others. Its not a back-breaking deal breaker, however.
The build quality is robust and will cut whatever you want within reason.
With most gas powered chainsaws watch out for oil leaks but again, store it correctly and follow manufacturers guidelines for optimum performance.
Still, its light, solidly built and an excellent warranty.
#4 Hitachi CS33EDTP
Why this Chainsaw?
The Hitachi CS33EDTP has a similar spec to the Tanaka model (Hitachi is the parent company), so if you expect to find obvious differences you may be disappointed or pleased. I’d hasten a guess at the latter.
It has a 14-Inch 32.2cc 2-Stroke Gas Powered Pure Fire engine, same as the Tanaka but has a 14″ guide bar.
Hitachi has citied a chrome-plated cylinder, forged steel connecting rod and heavy-duty, gear-driven oiler for excellent cutting performance and reliability – I have no doubts this is all true and will perform exceptionally well.
Other features consist a half throttle choke and purge primer bulb for easy starting and built in lanyard ring for easy climbing.
It actually looks like something that belongs in the forest, with its black and green housing. An irrational observation, agreed, but I pleases me nonetheless – a Tanaka in a green jacket.
Pros
– joint cleanest and lightest 14″ on list for the environment
Cons
– smaller engine may mean tasks take longer to complete.
Key Features
- weight – 12.4 lbs
- power – 32.2 2cc, 1.6 HP, 2 stroke engine
- guide bar length – 14″
- half throttle choke and purge primer bulb for easy starting
- Advanced anti-vibration system reduces fatigue and provides maximum comfort
- 7-year consumer warranty, 2-year commercial warranty and 1-year rental warranty
Whats in the box?
- 1 x chainsaw
- instructions
Main uses
With the 14″ bar you’ll have no issues getting stuck into soft or hard woods. Its ideal for smaller trunks (one or two passes wont be too difficult), branches, pruning or trimming. Relatively light-weighted so can be carried deep into the forest. Has been reviewed positively by a varied demographic. 50+ yo have citied it as comfortable and easy to handle. Makes it a winner in my book.
Summary
I’ve used Hitachi drill drivers and found them to be dependable and reliable.
This chainsaw will no doubt be another robust and no-nonsense offering for anyone who wishes to use product from a reputable and reliable brand.
Based on my gas powered chainsaw, this one will make a great addition or better replacement and fit in beautifully with my other green tools. Ha!
With most gas powered chainsaws, watch out for oil leaks but again, store it correctly and follow manufacturers guidelines for optimum performance. Without having an auto tensioner for the chain you will need to keep on top of it in terms of maintenance.
I really like the compact design and it just looks fit for purpose. My kind of of tool.
#5 Echo Chain Saw - Gas 12 in
Why this Chainsaw?
This little beast caught my eye and then poked it out. I read the reviews and didn’t see a bad one.
Lots of kudos for reliability, power, durability and of course, weight.
Echo don’t seem to mess about with citing major highlights for this bit of technology – the chainsaw appears to speak for itself, and based on the feedback, its up there with the best.
OK, its priced quite a bit higher than the others on this list however, if you have the budget for a device that’s as capable as this AND you’ll be using it regularly you should consider one of these very bad boys.
Pros
– lightest chainsaw on the list/most efficient engine
Cons
– may be too expensive for infrequent use.
– smaller engine may mean tasks take longer to complete.
Key Features
- weight – approximately 10 lbs
- power – 26.9cc,
- guide bar length – 12″
- anti-vibration handle
Whats in the box?
- 1 x chainsaw
- 1 x wrench
- 1 x bottle of 2-stroke oil
- instructions
Main uses
Will pretty much slice anything put in front of it. Will handle for smaller trunks (one or two passes wont be too difficult), branches, pruning or trimming. Lightweight and small form makes lugging it around a load easier.
Would I have bought one? Probably not as my budget and need at the time didn’t allow for such an expense.
Would I buy one now? Definitely – based on the work I’ve been doing for friends & family this chainsaw would pay for itself.
Summary
Echo have been around for a long time and established a reputation for making top-end tools.
I’ve not used them but after speaking with a local tree surgeon and reading reviews, he nor I cannot fault them.
Of course, I’d love to get my hands on one and see for myself.
Echo are a 70 year old Japanese tool manufacture with their products still assembled there. This is a positive thing in my book.
More expensive for the infrequent user. Worth the money if not.
