As you can’t imagine running a marathon without a good pair of shoes, you can’t imagine woodcutting without a proper chainsaw. The chainsaw has been helping us for a long time in lambing, tree felling, pruning, bucking, and cutting firebreaks.
When chainsaw wasn’t discovered, it was like a nightmare to deal with cutting heavy woods. People had to use an ax and traditional saws to cut wood. And that procedure consumed a lot of valuable time and hard physical labor.
But God bless the invention of modern science! Now we have this magnificent machine called a chainsaw that made woodcutting a piece of cake for us. This machine has a lot of varieties depending on the nature of the work.
And one of the best among those is an arborist chainsaw. Have you already decided to buy one? Hold on a moment there. Let us help you to find the best arborist chainsaw in the market.
Why Do You Need Best Professional Top Handle Chainsaw?
Most professional woodcutters use a top-handle chainsaw, as they provide sufficient power, comfort in use, and convent support. These types of chainsaws were designed to allow you to use them at height.
It comes with a lightweight and compact design, so you can move it pretty comfortably. When you are an arborist, you may have to reach tough spots at times, and that’s when a top-handle chainsaw can be your savior.
What Needs To Know Before Buying?
So, are you wondering what is the best top handle chainsaw on our list? Yeah, you are supposed to be. Well, before purchasing your arborist chainsaw, if you can consider these few things, you would be able to find the one you need. We will have a broad discussion about those in this section. So, let’s get started:
Using Purpose
If you have been looking for a chainsaw for hobby woodcutting or light woodcutting, then you might want to get an electric chainsaw. And if you need one for commercial purposes, then a gas-powered chainsaw would suit you best.
Your Experience
We would recommend you get a small and lightweight chainsaw if you have just started working in the wood cutting field. Get one with a 12 to 15-inch chain bar. You will find it a lot easier and more comfortable to use.
Your Physical Strength
When it comes to handling a gas-powered chainsaw, you will have to put in more physical labor than an electric one. This is because they are heavy and large. So, you got to be wise when it comes to selecting one depending on your physical strength.
Type of Wood
Based on different types of wood, different types of chainsaws need to be used for getting better woodcutting performance with minimum effort. When it comes to dealing with large and sturdy woodcutting tasks, you must use a gas-powered chainsaw. And for any moderate and light work, you can go with a battery-powered chainsaw or an electric chainsaw.
Wood Cutting Location
If you have to conduct woodcutting in a deep forest or clear wood jam after a storm from the forest or road, you got to use a gas-powered chainsaw.
When working far away from home, you have to rely on gas-powered chainsaws. But if it’s about cutting some woods in your backyard, feel free to go with a battery or electric-powered one.
Safety Features
Your safety should always come first. And when dealing with a chainsaw, you got to be a bit extra careful. If you are not following the proper safety rules, it may even endanger your life. So, before getting started, we would highly recommend you have a look at the safety guidelines.
Work Environment
When you have to cut wood in sensitive areas such as near a hospital or school, you should use an electric-powered chainsaw. You know, gas-powered chainsaws tend to be loud, which might create disturbance in such environments.
The 10 Best Top Handle Chainsaw Reviews in 2023
You will find tons of models of a top-handle chainsaw in the market. And when you don’t have much idea about their quality and spec, it could be troublesome for you to find the right one according to your need.
To help you out of the stress, here we are presenting you with the 10-best arborist chainsaw reviews. Let’s have a look at those one by one:
1. Husqvarna Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw
The Husqvarna top handle chainsaw comes with 35.2cc gas-powered engine. The overall weight of this saw is just 7.5 lbs., so starting from your 12 years old kid to 80 years old grandpa can handle this with ease.
When it comes to executing light tasks, such as pruning, slicing off, or trimming, this top-handle saw is the best choice you have got. You can cut groundwood or tree branches using a Husqvarna top handle saw pretty easily.
Even if you have to climb a tree to do the cutting, you can get it done using this saw easily as it is compact and lightweight. The maintenance procedure of this machine is a no-brainer. This saw features an automatic chain oiler so, no more hassle with manual oiling to your chain and chain bar.
It has an anti-vibration feature, so you can operate this machine at any angle you want without getting any muscle fatigue. Also, its fuel consumption is not much to operate. This is undoubtedly one of the best models of Husqvarna arborist saw.
Key Features
- It comes with a 35.2 cc gas-powered engine.
- The Automatic-oiling feature reduces the stress and labor of maintenance.
- Features a quick-release air filtration system.
- You get a side-chain tightening knob.
- It offers a chain break window to let you observe the guide bar tips.
- Easy operation.
- Low Maintenance.
- Made of top-grade materials.
- Produce low noise levels.
- Ultra-durable chainsaw.
- Lacks power.
2. BLACK+DECKER Top Handle Cordless Chainsaw
The Black & Decker Chainsaw comes with a 10-inch bar. Yes, you read it right, just a 10-inch bar. It is the smallest chainsaw we have ever got to review. It’s certainly compact and easy to handle, but you won’t be able to cut wood larger than a few inches thick using this saw.
Well, that’s not a big issue if you need a saw just to execute the common jobs around your house, such as pruning unwanted or dead branches of trees or cutting fallen branches. Getting rid of overgrown bush around your house or doing any tree work is a lot easier using this compact chainsaw.
But we wouldn’t recommend it for handling heavy-duty tasks as it comes with a weak motor and battery pack. It comes with a 10-inch premium Oregon low kickback chain and bar. And you know Oregon has a very good reputation in the market for manufacturing quality chain and bar so, no worries about its quality.
Key Features
- Comes with a 20V lithium battery.
- The bar and chain are from the famous brand Oregon.
- An Auto-oiling system ensures easy maintenance procedures.
- Tool-free blade tension makes it easier for you to adjust the saw.
- Comes with a lightweight and portable design.
- Performs great in close quarter cutting.
- Easy to operate.
- No cords are required.
- Easy to start.
- No complex chain tensioning process.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
- The manual chain oiler has some issues.
3. ECHO Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw
If you are a beginner, then the Echo CS-271T can be a good start for you. It comes with a 26.9-cc motor and that gives power to the 12-inch power bar. The dry weight of this saw is only 6.6-lbs, so as you can see, this is by no means designed to be a power saw.
The design and the power of this saw make it an ideal choice for homeowners who are looking to have their first-ever saw. It’s lightweight so, you can move it easily wherever you want. When it comes to doing small tasks in the backyard, such as cutting firewood or limbing, it’s a wise pick, for sure.
No worries about your safety while operating the saw, as it features a lanyard clip and inertia brake to ensure your best safety. Its i-30 starting system and throttle lockout offer you an effortless startup whenever you need to use it to saw.
You are also getting the automatic oiling feature, so no worries with maintenance. The clutch driver oiler confirms that the chain gets enough lubrication when running, protecting the saw from blinding the chain or overheating.
Key Features
- It comes with a 26.9 motor.
- The dry weight of the saw is 6.6-lbs.
- Its lanyard clip and inertia brake ensure user safety.
- The i-30 starting system and throttle lockout make it easier to start.
- Features a clutch driver oiler to ensure enough lubrication to the chain.
- Perfect choice for beginners.
- The lightweight design lets you move it easily.
- Reliable safety features.
- Performs excellent in carving.
- Easy lubrication system.
- No clutch covers.
4. WORX Auto-Tension Cordless Electric Chainsaw
Here we have another outstanding saw for you. If you have been looking for a simple battery-powered chainsaw to trim the hedges, then this one could be a gamechanger for you.
It comes with a lightweight design and an easy operation method. So, whether you are a professional arborist or a beginner, it doesn’t count. It comes under an affordable budget, as well! You will get an additional extension pole which gives you an extra 10ft of length. So, you can easily access those hard-to-reach areas.
See more information: Pole saw reviews
We should let you know this saw has just a 10″ handle, making it one of the smallest saws on our list. When it comes to dealing with your lightwork in the backyard, this one would be an excellent fit. The best thing is you are getting the battery and charger with the low-cost package deal.
Key Features
- Powered by a compact 20V battery.
- Features automatic chain tension.
- Automatic chain lubrication ensures smooth operation.
- Comes with a compact and lightweight design.
- Offers a fast chain speed of 12.5 feet per second.
- Comes at an affordable price.
- Auto-tensioning and self-lubricating give you a smoother experience.
- The dry weight is just 10lbs.
- Super comfortable operation.
- Offers battery and charger with the package.
- Not suitable for tough woods.
5. DEWALT Battery Powered Compact Chainsaw
This saw is powered by a 20V lithium battery. Woodcutting has become so easier and more comfortable with this saw. The efficient brushless motor of this chainsaw provides the motor with long-term durability along with ensuring high productivity.
The chainsaw features an automatic oiling system that lubricates your chain bar and chain smoothly throughout the entire procedure. You will get an oil-level indicator onto the oil tank, so you can easily check the oil level in your oil tank. Therefore, you don’t have to deal with opening the oil tank to check the oil level inside.
When it comes to handling heavy-duty tasks, this saw turns out to be a gamechanger as it features a Low Kickback 12″ Oregon chain bar and a highly durable chain. The speed of the chain is around 25.2 feet per second.
Also, you are getting a tool-less chain adjustment system and a chain bar tightening knob. These features enhance the performance of the chainsaw by reducing the chain tightening process time.
Key Features
- Powered by a compact 20V battery.
- Features automatic chain tension.
- Automatic chain lubrication ensures smooth operation.
- Comes with a compact and lightweight design.
- Offers a fast chain speed of 12.5 feet per second.
- Comes at an affordable price.
- Auto-tensioning and self-lubricating give you a smoother experience.
- The dry weight is just 10lbs.
- Super comfortable operation.
- Offers battery and charger with the package.
- The oil filter cap is hard to remove at times
6. Greenworks Battery Powered Cordless Chainsaw
The Greenworks 20262 chainsaw comes with a 40V G-Max Lithium-Ion battery to offer you fade-free power. You will get an excellent cutting performance with the robust 12-inch steel chain. And its bar with tool-less chain tensioning lets you operate it with ease.
You can get those limbs trimmed and almost no noticeable kickback with its magnificent 3/8 in. chain pitch. No worries about cutting overhead objects as the rear handle were specially designed to let you perform such a task without any trouble. The handle is over-molded to give you excellent comfort during use.
Checking the oil level has become a lot easier with its auto-oiler with a clear-view window facility. We must tell you that the 40V Lithium-Ion battery and 40V G-Max battery are not cross-compatible.
It comes with a 12-inch steel bar and chain, tool-less chain tensioning adjustment, automatic oiler, and a wraparound handle. So, as you can see, using this chainsaw will make your work a lot easier and more convenient.
Key Features
- Powered by a high-performance G-Max 40V Lithium-Ion battery.
- Fade-free power with no memory loss.
- Robust 12-inch steel chain and bar with tool-less chain tensioning feature.
- 3/8-inch chain pitch.
- Automatic chain and bar oiler.
- Comes with a lightweight design.
- An automatic oiler keeps the bar and chain well-lubricated.
- Fast charging.
- Tool-less chain adjustment makes the process easier.
- Offers a 4-year limited warranty.
- Leaks oil in storage.
7. SALEM MASTER Professional Arborist Chainsaw
Salem Master Gas Chainsaw is ready to give you excellent power, portability, and comfort in using. It comes with a 25.4cc engine. You will love the unique design of this arborist saw.
Its 1.2 horsepower engine has very low emissions compared to the other chainsaws on the list, and that’s essential for the environment. This arborist chainsaw can produce a speed of around 8500 RPM. So, when it comes to cutting logs, pruning, or any DIY projects, this one can be your wild card.
Especially if your work requires climbing up trees, then this is the one you need as it’s quite easy to maneuver. The 12-inch bar and chain will provide you an excellent efficiency when cutting. The most amazing part is you will receive almost zero kickback from it.
To ensure your safety, it has a quick stop chain brake feature, and also it offers a safety throttle switch. So, have no worries about your safety while operating this saw.
Key Features
- Powered by a 25.4cc 1.2 horsepower engine.
- Delivers low emission.
- The speed can reach up to 8500 RPM.
- Comes with a 12-inch bar and chain.
- Quick stop chain and safety throttle choke for safety measures.
- Comes with a lightweight design to let you carry it easily.
- A one-handed operating facility lets you do your work even in unusual places.
- Automatic lubrication ensures a continuous fuel supply.
- The cordless feature gives you great versatility.
- 150 ml oil tank enhances operating time.
- You may notice some over-oiling issues.
8. Litheli Battery Powered Chainsaw for Trees
Litheli Battery Chainsaw is an absolute nightmare for all the trees out there. And there’s a good reason for that. No matter how sturdy or soft the tree is, this cordless saw can cut through it quite effortlessly.
It comes with a 14-inch handle making it one of the longest saws on our list. To make your work easier and more efficient, it comes with an automatic oiler and a tool-free tension knob. And you would be happy to know that it provides you with a reliable 90-day money-back guarantee.
As a power supply, you will get a 40V 2.5Ah battery. You will also get the charger and manual to guide you through the process. It features an easy grab handle and weighs about 16lbs, which is not that heavy in terms of a heavy-duty chainsaw. Overall, it’s undoubtedly an excellent cordless chainsaw.
Key Features
- 40V 2.5Ah battery as the power source.
- Comes with a long 14-inch handle.
- Automatic oiler and tool-free knob.
- 90 days money-back guarantee.
- Easy grab handle and weighs around 16lbs.
- The Dual-brake system gives you a quick and safe braking facility.
- Tool-free tension knob for easy handling.
- Automatic lubrication ensures a continuous fuel supply.
- 90-day money-back guarantee.
- An anti-vibration system enables excellent comfort in use.
- No reliable customer service.
9. PINKWAY Top Handle Gas Powered Lightweight Chainsaw
You may not have heard much about this brand PINKWAY, but if you just do some digging online about their products review, you will find out a clear view of the quality of their products. PINKWAY 2-Cycle Top Handle Saw comes with 2-stroke gasoline powerful engines to deliver you reliable and strong power.
You will not notice much kickback from its chain. The engine can reach up to 3000 rpm and is also safe from high-temperature resistance and wear-resistant. Also, provides you with excellent durability.
As it comes with a lightweight and cordless design so you will find great comfort when using it. You can carry and operate it just by using one hand so, when it comes to doing gardening and landscaping, it’s a total gamechanger. An advanced anti-vibration system and a non-slip handle give you excellent control when performing cuts.
Key Features
- Powered by a 2-stroke gasoline engine.
- Light in weight and one-handed using facility.
- Quick Start and Anti-vibration Design.
- Air cleaning facility for long air filtration life.
- Ergonomic and well-balanced design.
- A Dual-stroke engine provides you an excellent cutting power.
- The lightweight design enables you to maneuver it easily.
- Ani-vibration and non-slip technology provide you a great user comfort.
- Low fuel consumption ensures an efficient deal.
- Auto-lubrication gives you a smooth cutting experience.
- Some users might find the chain a bit dull.
10. KIMO Mini Cordless Chainsaw for Tree Pruning
The KIMO 20V 9-inch chainsaw Oregon premium bar and chain provide you with a durable and powerful user experience. It features a powerful pure-copper motor to give you reliable support. You will find it pretty easier and more comfortable to use as it comes with a compact and ergonomic design.
The chain can reach up to 15 FT/s cutting speed as it features a one-step tensioning system so you can easily adjust the tension of its chain. Also, it helps you to avoid over-tensioning and makes your work easier than before.
It features an auto-oiler system and transparent tank, so you will always receive a reliable oil supply also a smooth and effective cutting experience. As it has a transparent oil tank, you will always get a clear idea about the storage.
No worries about your safety while operating, as it comes with a lock-off switch system on the rubber handle. So, there’s no chance of starting it accidentally.
Key Features
- Comes with a robust pure-copper powerful motor.
- Provides Oregon Premium bar and chain.
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle design.
- Chain-brake and protective baffle for safety.
- Auto-oiling system for smooth operation.
- Cordless and lightweight designs ensure easy maneuverability.
- The 9-inch premium Oregon bar and chain provide excellent cutting power.
- Auto-lubrication system ensures a smooth cutting experience.
- The chain brake system helps you to avoid kickback.
- Provides a 2-year consumer warranty.
- Overheating issue.
At a Glance, Our Top Picks
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a top-handle chainsaw and a rear-handle chainsaw?
✔ Well, the basic difference between a top handle and a rear handle chainsaw is rear handle chainsaw requires both hands to operate and, the top handle can be used just by one hand as it has a grouped control mounted on the top handlebar.
2. Why can a top-handle chainsaw be beneficial for woodcutting?
✔ A top handle saw provides far more facilities than other saws when it comes to woodcutting. The main advantage is you can operate it just by using one hand. But to do that, you must be well-trained and experienced with it.
3. Why do you need a top-handle chainsaw?
✔ If you are a professional chainsaw user or arborist, you might get to climb up trees often to cut branches using a chainsaw. So, when performing such a task, you will need a top handle chainsaw as they are more lightweight and easily maneuverable.
4. What to look for in an arborist chainsaw?
✔ When it comes to buying an arborist chainsaw, you got to consider a few factors such as the purpose of using it, your experience, physical strength, type of woodcutting, woodcutting place, and woodcutting performance, and safety features.
5. Where to buy an arborist chainsaw?
✔ Finding an arborist chainsaw is not like finding a nail in the bush. You can find arborist saw in many online shops. Also, if you don’t want to deal with shipping costs and stuff; then you can also find it in your local hardware store.
6. Which are better top handle and rear handle chainsaws?
✔ Well, It depends on the purpose. However, mostly a top handle chainsaw turns out to be a better option as it comes with a lightweight design and also offers the best safety features. But if you have to deal with groundworks, then you can go with a rear handle chainsaw.
7. What is the best arborist chainsaw?
✔ Though all of the chainsaws we have reviewed above are highly capable of giving you the best support, however, If I were you, I would have gone for the DEWALT DCCS620P1 20V Compact top handle chainsaw.
Final Words
A chainsaw is an excellent power tool that you can have. It’s been making our daily life easier, more comfortable, and continent for a long time. When you have the right chainsaw for your work, you become like a high-performance bionic man.
If you have been working with it for a long time, then it must feel like a part of your body when operating, right? Anyway, we hope our article will help you to find the best arborist chainsaw in the market.
Before we sign off, let us remind you one more time, please, take the safety rules seriously when operating the chainsaw.
You know there’s a saying, “safety first because injuries last.”
That’s all for today. Wish you the best.
You might also be interested in:
- Echo Cs-590 Vs Husqvarna 460 Chainsaw | Which One is Best?
- Husqvarna 440 Chainsaw Reviews and Buying Guide 2023
- How to measure chainsaw bar and chain? | This Is What Professionals Do
- How Tight Should A Chainsaw Chain Be? | Factors and Fixes
- How to Clean a Chainsaw? | A Complete Guide for Newbies
Last update on 2023-06-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
