An alternative to gasoline units for cutting and processing wood are chain saws, the reliability rating of which is due to the presence of certain elements, the manufacturer and the correct operation. The unit under consideration is quieter, easier to snap than a gasoline counterpart. Nevertheless, it is tied to power and has less power. Given all the features of devices that are suitable for industrial and domestic purposes, we can distinguish several popular brands, which are mentioned below.
How to choose the right power tool?
The choice of a chain saw requires consideration of certain parameters. These include:
- Power indicator. For individual use, an indicator of 1600-1800 watts is quite enough. It is important to consider the possibilities of the power supply network, where the instrument will be connected, its weight and frequency of use. For industrial operation, tools with a capacity of over 2 thousand volts are used. There are copies on the market that optimally combine weight, performance and power.
- Ability to use a battery. A chain saw, the price of which depends on various parameters, may in some variations operate on battery power. The advantage of such a tool is independence on the length of the wire, which fetters movement. However, such modifications are subject to the negative effects of low temperature.
- Chain brake. This unit must be equipped with a fuse (rejection) of the chain when it touches the material being cut.
Leading brands
In the domestic market, chain saws, the reliability rating and quality characteristics of which are valued above all, are represented by several modifications. The most popular among both professionals and fans of the Makita saw. They are famous for reliability, but have a high cost. In the middle and price category, cheap electric chain saws “Energomash” stand out, as well as “middies” Bosch and “Calm”.
Having studied the review of the tool by specialists, customer reviews and quality characteristics, one can single out the rating table for the demand for electric saws with a chain taking into account the price in the following table.
Indicative Rating Table
It is worth noting that Energomash PC 99160 is a domestic chain saw, the price of which is an order of magnitude lower than its famous counterparts, received 8.5 rating points at a cost of 4 thousand rubles or more.
Powerful professional electric saws | The best electric saws for periodic needs and personal use | Leaders among battery chainsaws |
Makita UC 4030A (rating - 10 points, estimated price - from 11 300 rubles) | Makita UC 4020A (price - from eight thousand rubles, 9.5 points) | Makita BUC 122 RFE will cost no less than twenty thousand rubles, but has an optimal rating of ten points |
"Calm" MS-361 (9.5 rating points, cost - from 40 thousand rubles) | ECHO CS (with 8.5 points its price is pretty decent - from 20 thousand rubles) | Bosch AKE 30 LI: 9 points, costs from 28,000 rubles. |
Bosch GKE 40 will cost no less than 10 thousand, its rating indicator is 9.0 | Bosch AKE 30S (rating points - 8.5, cost - about 8,200 and higher) | |
Makita UC 4030A
Among the popular cutting tools is a Makita chain saw with an index of UC 4030 F. The device has a capacity of 2000 watts, designed for industrial work. The length of the tire for the chain is 400 mm with the ability to install an analog of 450 millimeters. There is a braking function during cutting into the material, a large chain pitch provides high performance.
Advantages of the tool in question:
- A decent indicator of power.
- High performance and light weight.
- High quality build.
- Profitability.
- Equipped with rubberized handles.
The disadvantages of this unit include the fact that after a certain period of operation, oil often starts to leak.
Makita UC 4020A
This modification has a power of 1.8 kW, a mass of 4.5 kg, a chain bus length of 400 mm. The large pitch of the links of the working chain allows you to use it in production? as well as at home with frequent and intense loads.
Pros:
- Great build.
- Optimum tire length with the ability to adjust chain tension without the use of additional tools.
- Good power, light weight, comfortable handles.
A fairly substantial oil consumption can be considered some structural flaw in this unit.
Bosch
The Bosch chain saw in the review is represented by two modifications:
- GKE 40 BCE. This model is designed for industrial construction and wood processing, will perfectly help in individual farming, where frequent and lengthy wood processing is required. The unit is equipped with a 2.1 kW engine, overload protection, has a smooth starter, which significantly prolongs the capacity of the device. The saw has a comfortable grip, it is ergonomic, has a low vibration indicator. No special tools are required to set up the circuit; there is an auto-brake and a circuit breaker lock.
- AKE 30 S. This Bosch wood chain saw is rated for 1.8 kW, has a 300 mm bus bar and a special system that allows you to adjust the chain tension without using special tools. The device is very maneuverable and great for domestic needs.
Stihl MS 361
The chain saw “Calm” is the best option for logging and sawing firewood. This unit perfectly combines high power and an adjustable tire length, which is adjusted within 400-450 mm. The tool has a reduced level of vibration, heating the working motor to accelerate a smooth start in cold weather.
The special Quick Stop brake system is guaranteed to stop the chain instantly in case of exceeding the permissible load or jamming. This saw fits comfortably in your hands, has a very acceptable weight.
Other popular models
In addition to the considered brands of electric saws, which have a lot of modifications, the following brands are popular in the domestic market:
- Chain power saw "Interskol". It is an acceptable and economical option. It has good characteristics. There are models for both domestic use and industrial work. The advantage of this unit is its affordable price, long service life with proper handling, as well as equipping with all the necessary protective equipment.
- Saw "Energomash". At a minimum price, the unit is highly popular among the population and enterprises involved in woodworking. The main advantages: low cost, ease of operation and repair, a wide range of models.
- In addition, electric chainsaws of the brands Champion, Husquvarna, Gardena are often purchased.
Operating conditions for electric chain saw
It is necessary to adhere to certain safety measures and operation, using chain saws in operation. Reliability rating largely depends on the correct mode of operation of the device. First of all, you must remember that any power tool during operation is subject to heat, therefore, it requires a regular break to cool.
In addition, when using the devices in question, the following rules must be remembered:
- When buying a tool, you must specifically understand its subsequent use. The power of the device and the durability are directly dependent. On average, cheap chain saws are designed for use from 4 to 6 years, depending on the intensity of use, device characteristics and compliance with the instructions for use.
- You should regularly replenish the oil level to lubricate the chain, monitor its proper tension, avoiding excessive loosening, due to which it can simply fly off.
Features of the tool in question
A chain saw, the price of which is lower than a gasoline analogue, has certain nuances during maintenance and operation. Firstly, it is worth remembering that professional models have a cost of 2-3 times higher than household variations. At the same time, they are more powerful, heavier and more efficient. However, to care for a garden or a personal plot, buying a professional tool will become an extra waste of money and energy.
Secondly, cheap chain saws fail faster and have a less equipped safety structure. Any product in this class should be equipped with a mechanism for adjusting the chain tension, an additional accidental start lock and a protective cover. In addition, it must be borne in mind that for movement over long distances, you will need an appropriate cord or battery. Also, do not forget about the possibility of motor overheating, regular lubrication and the dangerous effects of dampness.
Design nuances
The best electric chain saw is an aggregate that maximally meets the required indicators of power, safety and reliability, combined with the price. High power has its pros and cons. Not every wiring can withstand the long-term use of a powerful saw, which must be taken into account.
The length of the tire and the take-off of the teeth also play an important role. For example, small and often located teeth will not be sawed as fast as chains with a large take-off, but they will save energy and internal equipment of the unit. Be sure to pay attention to the safety of using the tool. At a minimum, a chain saw, the price of which is as affordable as possible, should be equipped with an additional stopper and a chain guard.
In more expensive models, there is a quick braking system on the machine, a special device for adjusting the tension without the use of tools and a soft start controller. Any saws require proper care, timely cleaning and replenishment of the oil level.
Consumer Reviews
Judging by the feedback from users, chain saws, the reliability rating of which was considered earlier, is a very common tool in any household production related to wood. The general disadvantages of the owners include insufficient power and the need to connect additional wires to the mains.
Meanwhile, consumers note that electric saws are cheaper than gasoline counterparts, easy to repair, maintain and operate, and a variety of brands and types in terms of power and additional functionality allows you to choose a tool for specific purposes. The brands are most in demand: Makita, Bosch, Husqvarna, Champion. Among budget models, the Interskol chain saw, as well as Energomash, are in demand.
Total
Studying the market of chain electric saws, you should pay attention to their quality indicators. First of all, it is power, protective devices, tire length, take-off of chain teeth. For industrial purposes, a high power apparatus with a wide gap between the teeth will be required. This allows you to do the job faster and better, regardless of the size of the sawn tree. At home, such models will be economically disadvantageous, they can ruin the wiring.
It is quite realistic to find a good unit at an affordable price if its use is not expected every day from morning to evening. Another key point is the area to use the tool. If this is a decent area, then you should worry about purchasing an electric saw with a battery, otherwise you will have to puzzle over how and where to place tens of meters of additional wiring.
Popular brands, as a rule, produce models of electric saws for various needs. Having studied consumer reviews, expert recommendations, comparing them with your experience and financial capabilities, it is quite realistic to choose the best option for an electric chain saw.