Whether you’re an arborist, landscaper or working in any other profession related to forestry, a small domestic chainsaw won’t cut it.
For regular and heavy-duty cutting jobs, you need a sizeable 20 inch chainsaw that can hold up to such use. With such a power tool, you can fell large trees and split firewood effortlessly.
If you’re in the market for this tool, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve reviewed the best 20 inch chainsaws on the market and provided a guide to help you narrow down your options.
What are 20 Inch Chainsaws Best For?
Once you’ve made the decision to buy a chain saw, the next thing you should think about is the intended application and the suitable guide bar length.
20-inch chainsaws are among the biggest, so they’re suitable for a wide range of applications. They can be used for light-duty tasks like pruning limbs and removing branches. But, they’re equally suited for felling small and large trees as well as splitting firewood.
That said, a 20 inch chainsaw may not be the best for certain applications. Keep in mind that the increased bar length translates to more weight. Bigger chainsaws are also a little difficult to maneuver and operate, especially for those without any chainsaw experience.
So if you’re planning to use the chainsaw for light-duty cutting tasks, you’re better off with smaller models like a 6- or 10-inch. But for professionals who tackle tons of heavy-duty cutting jobs, a 20-inch is the perfect companion.
The Different Types of 20 Inch Chainsaws
If you’re looking to buy a 20-inch chain saw, one of the main factors you should consider is the type.
Do you prefer an electric or gas-powered chainsaw? And if you prefer electric, do you like corded or battery-powered models? To help you make an informed decision, here’s a detailed overview of each type.
Electric Chainsaws
There are numerous advantages to investing in 20 inch electric chainsaws. For one, they're lighter than their gas-powered counterparts, offering easier portability.
These models also run quietly, which makes them fit to operate in a setting where you have kids or other individuals. And if you have a heightened or hypersensitive sense of smell, you’ll be pleased to know that they don’t leave the smell of gasoline in their wake.
There’s also the fact that they’re easier to use. With a gas-powered chainsaw, you’d have to figure out the proportions or ratios of mixing oil and gas. Conversely, all you have to do with your 20 inch electric model is to connect it to an outlet and you’re good to go.
That said, electric chainsaws generally don’t have as much power as gas chainsaws. As such, they’re best used for:
If you’ve decided to go electric, there’s one more decision you’ll need to make, that is, whether to pick a corded or cordless chainsaw.
Corded Chainsaws
As you might have guessed from the title, this kind of chain saw will always have a cord meant to be plugged into a power outlet to get the machine running.
Such models are superior to battery-powered models in some aspects. For one, they generate more power making them better suited for heavier cutting applications.
Secondly, you’ll never have to worry about your 20 inch chainsaw coming to an abrupt stop in the middle of a job just because the battery has run low. Finally, you’ll find corded chainsaws to be cheaper than their cordless cousins.
Battery-Powered Chainsaws
Instead of power cords, this chainsaw comes equipped with rechargeable batteries to provide power. The batteries have to be charged first before being installed in the power tools.
One major advantage that cordless models offer is flexibility. With a corded model, you can only move your chainsaw as far as the length of the cord allows you.
But with a battery-powered, you’re not limited by distance, and this makes it way more portable. As long as the batteries are charged, you should be able to carry your chainsaw with you to any setting and use it freely.
The fact that a battery-powered chain saw lacks a cord also gives you more control when it comes to operating it. You can work in a heavily wooded area, and not have to worry about the power cord getting tangled in bushes and shrubs.
That said, keep in mind that this chainsaw will have significantly less power, meaning you can only use it for light to medium-duty cutting tasks.
Gas Chainsaws
These types of chainsaws come fitted with two-cycle engines, which generate way more power than electric models.
Given their higher power output, a lot of these tools will also have longer blades. This makes them well-suited for tackling heavy-duty applications like cutting hardwood trees or any thick tree trunks.
Unlike corded models, you’ll have more freedom of movement. And unlike the cordless type, you’ll be able to work for extended periods without worrying about your power tool running low on battery.
How to Choose the Right 20 Inch Chainsaw
Power Source
In the case of gas-powered chainsaws, their power is determined by engine size, which is measured in cubic centimeters.
Put simply, the higher the value of the cc, the greater the power it generates. Engine sizes of chainsaws range from 23cc all the way up to 120cc. But most homeowners will feel comfortable if they use anything between a 30cc and 45cc.
Just to put this into perspective, a 30cc engine churns out about 1.7 brake horsepower (bhp) while a 45cc engine puts out 3bhp.
It’s important to note that bigger isn’t always better. Chainsaws with bigger engines produce more power but they’re also bulkier and heavier.
On the other end of the spectrum, we have electric chainsaws, whose motor power is estimated in Amps. Most chainsaws have an amp rating ranging between 8 and 15 amps. As is the case with gas-powered models, the higher the figure, the more cutting power it offers.
For the purpose of comparing, a 20 inch electric chainsaw with an 8-amp motor generates 1.3 bph. One with a 15-amp motor puts out about 2.4 bhp.
Guide Bar Size
Another crucial part you should examine before buying a 20 inch chainsaw is the bar and chain size, specifically, its length. This measurement is usually estimated from the bar’s tip to the point where it comes into contact with the saw. In fact, this represents the cutting length as well.
The size of this bar varies significantly among different chainsaw brands. It can be as small as 6 inches or as long as 42 inches. But for do-it-yourselfers and homeowners, there’s a very small chance that you’ll need a guide bar any bigger than 20 inches.
The rule of thumb when it comes to guide bars and cutting capabilities is that a chainsaw bar ought to be two inches bigger than the diameter of the material being cut.
It means that if you have a 20 inch bar on your hands, you should be able to slice an 18-inch log. The longer the guide bar, the bigger the material it will be able to cut in just one pass.
Safety
Using a chainsaw always carries a bit of risk, especially if they are not used properly. Due to this, most manufacturers equip these machinery with a bevy of safety features. Here are some of the safety mechanisms you're likely to find in the best 20-inch chainsaw:
Trigger lock
Located below the saw handle, its purpose is to bring the cutting action to a halt as soon as you release the trigger.
Anti-kickback chains
These are meant to prevent snags and reduce jolting.
Chain brake
This component brings the chain to an immediate stop so that it ceases to rotate around the bar.
Chain catcher
In the event that the chain breaks or becomes disengaged with the guide bar, the chain catcher stops it from working further.
Spark arrestor
It’s a component of the exhaust system, and it helps to contain sparks from the power tool so that they don’t end up igniting a fire.
Guard
A quality chainsaw should also have a guard, which shields the user’s hand in case the chain becomes disengaged or breaks
Maintenance
Another thing you’ll want to look at before buying a 20-inch chainsaw is the ease of maintenance. Remember that conducting regular checks and maintenance is necessary to extend the life of your machine.
Pay attention to components such as the filtration system, and how easy it is to access and replace it. The same goes for blades. They should be easy to remove and sharpen as they can get blunt overtime.
Replacement Parts
After using your 20-inch chainsaw for a while, some parts may start to wear out or get damaged.
Rather than buy an entirely new chainsaw, you can save money by replacing only the damaged component.
For instance, let's say you've decided to buy Stihl 20 inch chainsaw. Then ensure that the manufacturer offers replacement for essential parts like the cutting chain, guide bar, throttle, choke and more.
Additional Features
Vibration
While it’s not mandatory, the best 20 inch chainsaw comes equipped with a vibration dampening system always has an edge over its competitors.
For one, it makes sawing with the chainsaw a more enjoyable experience. Secondly, it minimizes unnecessary fatigue and prevents long-term injury.
It is a well-known fact that prolonged use of vibrating power tools can eventually lead to complications, such as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). So don't ignore a vibration dampening feature, even if it costs you a little more.
Ease of use
After spending your hard-earned money on a 20-inch chainsaw, the last thing you want is to struggle to use it, especially when it comes to starting.
So before making any purchases, go through buyers’ reviews. Check what their experiences have been with the power tool. How easy is it to start? Are the controls easy to access and operate?
Reviews of the Five Best 20 Inch Chainsaws
1. Husqvarna 20 Inch 450 Rancher II Gas Chainsaw: Best Overall
Husqvarna 450 Rancher II is the best 20-inch gas chainsaw on the market. Sure, it comes with a hefty price tag, but it also includes a bevy of features that you typically don’t find in similar models.
One of the things we like about this chain saw is the 50 cc X-torq engines that it’s equipped with. Generating up to 3.2 horsepower, this engine is designed for low emissions and maximum fuel efficiency. Its idling speed is rated at 2,700 RPM although it’s capable of reaching speeds of up to 9,000 RPM.
The chainsaw’s air injection mechanism is another notable feature. It’s designed in such a way that forces dust and debris out before they can reach the filter. This leads to fewer air filter cleanings, not to mention, improves the lifespan of the engine.
And if you ever need to clean and replace this filter, you will have a pretty easy time thanks to the quick-release feature.
A major disadvantage of using gas-powered models is their noise levels. Husqvarna understands this, which is why they set up this chainsaw to run quietly.
Its sound power level reaches 115 dB. Even though it’s not the quietest machine, it’s certainly less noisy than other 50cc models.
Pros
Cons
2. HUYOSEN 5520E 20-Inch Chainsaw: Best Budget
There’s such a wide range of chainsaws on the market so it’s fairly easy to find one within your budget. For homeowners on a shoestring budget, Huyosen 5520E is the best alternative.
Dependable and sturdy, this chainsaw comes equipped with a 54.6 cc engine, giving you a decent amount of cutting power. While it probably won’t be enough power to fell the mighty cranberry, it should be able to make quick work of pruning shrubs, bushes, and tree limbs.
Some of these power tools are quite difficult to start. Fortunately, this is not the case with Huyosen 5520E, which kicks into action at the push of a button.
As with Husqvarna Rancher II, you also won’t have to worry about the fuel efficiency of this power tool. It boasts a filtration system, which not only reduces fuel consumption but also helps to extend the life of the air filter.
The automatic oiler is another feature that sets this chainsaw apart. It automatically fills the bar and chain oil, and this minimizes the wear and tear of the chain and guide bar.
Moreover, this chainsaw is constructed with the user’s comfort in mind. The handle features an ergonomic design comprising a non-slip and shock-absorbing cushion wrap. This means that you can work for extended periods without getting fatigued.
Huyosen also thought about the user’s safety, which is why they’ve fitted the saw with a safety switch. This can be used to bring the machine to an instant stop in case of anything.
Pros
Cons
3. Poulan Pro PR5020 20 in. 50cc Gas Chainsaw: Most User-Friendly
If your primary concern when purchasing a chainsaw is the ease of use, then you will love the Poulan Pro 20 inch PR5020.
This chainsaw is chock full of features that make it easier to operate. Right off the bat, you’ll have a very easy time getting started with this machinery thanks to the pull starting system.
According to Poulan, this mechanism decreases the pull force by a whopping 30%. It means even an individual using this tool for the first time won’t struggle to get started.
One other clever thing the manufacturer did was to combine the choke and stop control. This not only results in an easier start but also mitigates the risk of engine flooding, which in turn, boosts the machine’s durability.
The OxyPower Engine design is another feature that sets the Poulan Pro chain saw apart. It’s the manufacturer's version of an eco-friendly gas-driven engine.
It generates a considerable amount of power while also guaranteeing lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions. This mechanism is so efficient that it results in 70% fewer emissions and a 20% reduction in fuel consumption.
The one thing that many homeowners are intimidated by is the maintenance required to keep these power tools working in good condition.
Luckily, Poulan Pro PR5020 is among the easiest to maintain. The chain tensioning system is conveniently located on the side for easy reach. Similarly, the cylinder cover is fitted with clips, offering fast access to the filter and spark plug.
Pros
Cons
4. Makita EA5600FRGG 56 cc Chain Saw: Best for Speed
Have you been searching for a chain saw that can deliver a speedy cutting performance? If you have, take a look at Makita EA5600FRGG .
Powered by a 56cc engine, the chainsaw is not only one of the most powerful but it also gets through tasks pretty fast, clocking in speeds of up to 13,800 rpm.
The engine works alongside a stratified air scavenging system that boosts the cutting performance while reducing fuel consumption.
If you’re new to the world of chainsaws, scavenging simply means that the exhaust is pushed out, preventing the incoming air from mixing with the combusted residues. It’s an integral component of any 2-stroke engine.
The fact that this chainsaw is easy to use is another one of its selling points, especially the starting system. Starting this power tool is a common challenge, so we like that Makita designed their model to be user-friendly.
This is achieved through the use of a spring assist mechanism, which the manufacturer refers to as “optimized engine management.”
This chainsaw’s lightweight and compact design is a welcome feature. It weighs just 12.8 lbs. making it easy to carry from your workshop to your job site.
Pros
Cons
5. WEMARS 62cc Gas Chainsaw: Best Heavy Duty
If you’re looking to purchase a powerful chainsaw, which can tackle any heavy-duty cutting you throw at it, the Wemars 62cc chain saw is the best model. This tried-and-tested power tool is hard to beat when you zero in on power and reliability.
It’s powered by a 62cc engine, which is what drives the big 20 inch blade, giving you maximum cutting power.
Factor in the 2-stroke motor and integrated chain brake, and you’re guaranteed a smooth, stable, and safe operation. Also contributing to the user’s safety is the low-kickback mechanism.
Another thing you’ll love about the chain saw is its precision level. It’s fitted with a guide bar, helping you make the most accurate cuts possible. There’s also a chain oil feed that lets you easily adjust the tension of the chain.
With the Wemars 20 inch gas chainsaw, you’ll be able to work for hours on end without getting excessively fatigued. Its ergonomic design constitutes an anti-vibration mechanism and cushion-wrapped handles that provide utmost comfort during use.
The chainsaw is easy to maintain. It has a filter system, which keeps debris from getting into the carburetor and combustion chamber. Moreover, this filter features a quick-release mechanism, which allows for a quick replacement.
And even though you have to pull the cord to get the tool in action, the chainsaw starts effortlessly with just a couple of pulls.
Pros
Cons
Wrap Up
Looking for the best 20-inch chainsaws on the market? Well, you’ll be pleased with the performance of the Husqvarna 450 Rancher II. An all-round chainsaw, this tool won’t disappoint you regardless of what you throw at it.
It’s equipped with Husqvarna’s proprietary X-torq engine, which is revered for its fuel efficiency and fewer exhaust emissions. It also boasts an air injection system, which gets rid of larger particles before they can reach the air filter. This reduces the work that the air filter has to do, and subsequently, extends its life.
It also has a smart start feature that makes it easier to start. And, it’s not as loud as gas-powered chainsaw.