TOP 5 chainsaws for private use

Partner P350S

A good option for chain saws for household and garden work, as well as for hunters, fishermen and travelers. If necessary, the 40 cm long tyre can be detached for transportation. The Partner P350S is equipped with a 40 cm3 engine with a rated power of 1.52 kW, which is powered by an electronic ignition system. The fuel supply is carried out according to an improved scheme: the fuel pump makes it possible to remove the remnants of gasoline and air from the carburetor. In addition, the resistance of the starter cable is reduced by 40% compared to non-optimized models. These two factors make it easier to start.

The chainsaw's dual filtration system – in addition to the air filter, there is a CCS pre–cleaning module — handles with its responsibilities quite well. The chain brake can be activated in two ways: either by inertia, when the saw is thrown at the operator, or by a switch that is easily activated with the left hand. The device is equipped with a standard anti-vibration system and a chain catcher.

Note that devices of this type are not designed for long-term continuous operation. In this case, you will have a chain fast enough, which, judging by the reviews on the Internet, instead of constant adjustment, it is better to immediately replace it with a better one. However, even in this case, the saw is not suitable for felling the forest, since various saw modules will start to fail due to overload: starter, chain brake, air filter, etc. Nevertheless, this is a good option for irregular, but no less important work. The device is made using high-quality plastic, does not make too much noise when working and generally leaves a pleasant impression.

McCulloch CS 360

The American company McCulloch, like the Partner company, is part of the Swedish concern Husqvarna. Therefore, many of the developments described in the previous model are also implemented in the CS 360: a simple start system, which is facilitated by using a primer for pumping fuel and reducing the resistance of the starter cable; an inertial and manual chain brake system; a CCS centrifugal air purification system; an anti-vibration system standard for similar models. The model is positioned as a device for simple felling and pruning of trees, minimal harvesting of firewood and wooden construction. It includes a standard 45-centimeter tyre with a chain, which can be replaced with a 35- or 40-centimeter version.

Unlike the Partner model assembled in China, the McCulloch CS 360 saw with a 36 cm3 engine and a power of 1.3 kW is manufactured at a factory in the USA. This explains such a significant difference in the price of these, generally similar, models. Structurally, the device is distinguished by the presence of a combined ignition control unit and an air damper, as well as the presence of an updated OxyPower engine technology, which, in accordance with Western exhaust emission control standards, reduces harmful exhaust emissions by 70%. This is due to mixing of the exhaust air containing the remains of unburned fuel with clean air, which leads, among other things, to a reduction in gasoline consumption.

According to a few customer reviews, when overloading while working with this saw, the crankshaft may fail. This speaks, rather, about the high quality of the assembly of the secondary components of this model, as well as about the most common problem in the use of chainsaws – incorrect target operation when the household model is used as a professional one.

Makita EA3203S40B

Unlike the two previous models, the Makita EA3203S40B can be classified as semi-professional, not household devices, although this division will be somewhat conditional. Nevertheless, it is designed for longer continuous operation, as evidenced by the larger volume of the gas tank compared to other models – 0.4 liters. This chainsaw is equipped with an engine with a volume of 32 cm3 and a power of 1.35 kW, is equipped with a 40-centimeter tyre with a chain and has all the basic characteristics necessary for this class of saws. The country of manufacture is China.

A manual fuel pump and a spring-loaded starter torque booster make it easier to start the engine. In this case, the electronic ignition system can be switched to cold start mode (the switch also has a "Start" and "Stop" position). The device is equipped with an inertial chain brake, a water-resistant air filter, an anti-vibration system of 4 steel spring shock absorbers. It is also important that the oil pump is turned off at idle in this model. The kit includes a protective case and a container for mixing gasoline and oil.

The model is positioned as optimal in terms of price-quality ratio and it meets these requirements. The undoubted ease of operation adds the ability to fine-tune the chain without a key, which is especially important for non-professionals. Firstly, it is much more convenient than carrying a key and a screwdriver, and secondly, it is much easier to get the skills of adjustment in this way.

Husqvarna 240 16

A completely reliable and high-quality saw of the initial semi-professional level, the resource of which should be enough for the owner of a private or country house. The engine with a volume of 38.2 cm3 and a power of 1.5 kW will cope with work on a country plot, but its potential may not be enough for harvesting firewood for the winter. The device is equipped with traditional technologies for Husqvarna saws: light start system (fuel pump), inertia brake, anti-vibration system, centrifugal air purification system, reduction of harmful engine exhaust.

A standard 40-centimeter tyre with a chain handles with its work, and the reviews found on the Web about the wear of the leading sprocket and tyre say, rather, that not all chainsaw users are familiar with the rule of three elements "3-2-1". After replacing three chains, it is necessary to change the sprocket, and after replacing two sprockets, the tyre.

Husqvarna 240 E can be produced both in China and in the USA (depends on the year of manufacture). Also note that its users most often complain about excessive oil consumption, the need to monitor the condition of the oil tank, as well as problems with idling. At the same time, the saw is convenient to operate due to the ability to adjust the chain tension without additional tools.

STIHL MS 180 35

A compact and lightweight (3.9 kg) saw with an engine volume of 31.8 cm3 and a power of 1.5 kW will optimally cope with all household needs both in the private sector and when traveling. The model is equipped with a short 35-centimeter tyre, which makes it easier to operate the device and use the engine's capabilities more efficiently. There are technologies necessary for comfortable operation, such as an anti-vibration system and a chain brake, but there is no fuel pump. Nevertheless, there are no problems with cold or, especially, with hot start-up: there are 4 modes of operation (cold and hot start, operation, shutdown), which are controlled by a lever on the housing.

The economical chain lubrication system works well: according to the manufacturer, the adjustable oil pump provides 50% savings. The compensator on the carburetor, when the air filter is dirty, stabilizes the power and exhaust of the engine, as well as fuel consumption, which minimizes maintenance. We can say that by the total combination of user characteristics and product reviews, this saw is one of the best in its category.

STIHL MS 180 withstands overload well and is capable of long-term work on felling trees and sawing firewood. However, keep in mind that such overloads are allowed only occasionally, otherwise the wear of key nodes will accelerate. Country of manufacture: Germany/USA, however, be careful, there are also Chinese fakes of both chainsaws themselves and components for them.