A petrol chainsaw is an essential tool for cutting trees, trunks and firewood and for clearing farms after pruning. The right choice depends on engine power, bar length and the kind of work you will do. A saw that is too big wears you out, and one that is too small will not cut thick trunks.
This article explains how to choose the right petrol chainsaw, how to mix fuel and oil, how to maintain the chain, and how to stay safe while working.
What makes one chainsaw different from another
1. Engine power (cc)
- 30 to 40 cc: for firewood, heavy pruning and garden trees. Lighter and easier to carry.
- 40 to 50 cc: for farms, medium trunks and daily work.
- Over 50 cc: for large trunks and continuous work.
2. Bar length
- 35 cm: for branches and medium firewood.
- 40 cm: the most popular, suiting most farm work.
- 45 cm and above: for thick trunks with a powerful engine.
The rule: the bar should be about 5 cm longer than the wood you are cutting.
3. Weight and comfort
A light saw lets you work longer and more safely. Try the grip before buying, and make sure it has a chain brake and an anti-vibration system.
Mixing fuel and oil
Most petrol chainsaws are two-stroke, which means they need oil mixed with the petrol:
- Usual ratio: according to the saw's manual, often between 1:25 and 1:50.
- Use oil made for two-stroke engines.
- Mix only enough for one or two weeks, because old mix loses quality.
- Never use petrol without oil, because it ruins the engine quickly.
Chain oil
This is a separate oil from the fuel mix, filled into its own tank to lubricate the chain while it runs.
- Fill the chain oil tank every time you refuel.
- A dry chain overheats, stretches and wears quickly.
Chainsaw maintenance
- Sharpen the chain when it throws fine dust instead of chips, or needs pressure to cut.
- Clean the air filter after every few hours of work.
- Tension the chain correctly: not so loose it falls off, and not over-tight.
- Clean the bar of sawdust and resin after work.
Safety
- Wear goggles, ear protection, gloves, trousers and suitable boots.
- Always hold the saw with both hands.
- Watch the tip of the bar, because contact with wood causes a strong kickback.
- Do not cut above shoulder height.
- Start the saw on the ground, not while holding it in the air.
For other farm tools, read Essential Farm and Garden Tools: What You Actually Need.
Products from Orkida
- REDMAX Japanese Petrol Chainsaw 35.2 cc, 40 cm: two-stroke, light and powerful for farms and gardens.
- MARUYAMA Japanese Petrol Chainsaw 40 cm, MCV35: Japanese quality for daily farm work.
- EFCO Italian Petrol Chainsaw 35 cm, MTH400: light and suited to pruning and medium firewood.
- TANAKA Petrol Chainsaw 40 cm, CN-45E: two-stroke for cutting trunks and firewood.
- GRANADA Petrol Chainsaw 40 cm: an economical choice for home use and small farms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best petrol chainsaw for a farm?
A saw with a 35 to 45 cc engine and a 40 cm bar suits most farm work, and Japanese and Italian brands are known for durability.
Why does the chainsaw stall after starting?
Usually the fuel mix is old, the air filter is blocked, or the carburettor needs adjusting.
How often should I sharpen the chain?
When it starts throwing fine dust or cutting becomes hard. With daily work you may need a light sharpening every day or two.
Can I use car oil for the chain?
Dedicated chain oil is better, because it clings to the chain and reduces wear.