A chain saw is a portable, mechanical tool that has the ability to cut through tree trunks, branches, and other woods with its rotating sharp-edged metal teeth. It is typically used for limbing, pruning, cutting firebreaks in wildland fire suppression, harvesting firewood, bucking, and felling. This powerful tool consists of two main parts. One of the parts is the saw blade that is built in the chain and has a long metal guide bar wrapped around it. The other part is the small cylinder for gasoline or petroleum, but sometimes it has a battery pack or cord, depending on what kind of chain saw it is.
The difference between a chain saw and a hand saw is that a hand saw functions when it is being pulled back and forth manually to cut the wood, whereas a chain saw is powered by a metal chain that keeps rotating to cut through the wood. A chainsaw is portable and –most of the times- it can be used anywhere.
Although the first chain saw was created during the 1920s, a lot has changed since there. Purchasing the right kind of chain saw can be a difficult task for individuals, especially those who lack the experience. This is why it is important to be aware of the different types of chain saws before spending on one.
Types of Chain Saws
Even though they all have the same purpose, a lot of thinking goes into making the decision of choosing the right chain saw. Questions like “how often will I use it?” “What is my budget?” “Do I want one where I have to refill the tank or one where I can just plug it into the wall?” begin to linger in mind.
To take away these queries, below are the different types of chain saws mentioned that can aid you in getting your hands on the right one.
Gas-powered chain saws are the most popular option amongst occasional and professional users. As the name suggests, a gas powered chain saw is powered by gas. This type of chain saw has a 2 cycles or a two-stroke engine that mixes oil and gas together so it can be used. The oil is used as lubrication for the internal part of the engine while preventing wear and damage, and the gas is used for combustion. These chain saws require regular maintenance so they can work properly.
Power: The engine provides the chain saw with a higher power-to-weight ratio, making gas-powered chain saws effective and powerful. This chain saw cuts wood faster than any other chain saw. In addition, gas-powered chain saws are considered to be a heavy duty which causes them to produce vibration and make noise. They also need regular servicing and fueling as compared to the other models.
Cost: These chain saws are expensive and they can cost up to twice as much as other chain saw options.
Corded electric chain saws run on electricity and have a plug-in power cord. Since they are not running on fuel, they do not have engines. Corded electric chain saws are considered to be immobile because they need to be plugged in when they are being used. Luckily, with the help of a portable generator, you can make the most of this chain saw. With a long extension cord, you can plug the chain saw in and use it. Keep in mind, though, a corded electric chainsaw cannot be used for certain tasks including felling in tree woods.
Power: Corded electric chain saws have less power and can be limited tasks (the ones that do not require much more) as compared to gas-powered chain saws. But, compared to battery-powered chain saws, these ones are more powerful and they can do tasks like cutting and sawing small trees, limbs, and thick branches.
Corded electric chain saws do not produce fumes or noise compared to gas-powered chain saws. Additionally, since they are lightweight, they can be used by new, inexperienced users as they are great to perform basic tasks around the house. What you do need to keep in mind is that they require special extension cords so they can perform to their fullest potential.