With the exception of professionals in the woodworking industry, most people assume that chainsaws are only useful in felling trees from the ground.
But the truth is, a considerable portion of applications requires an operator to work off the ground. This can seem impossible if you’re using an ordinary chainsaw. Not only can it be difficult to carry it up a tree but also challenging to maneuver.
This is where top handle chainsaws come in handy. These tools are specially designed for off-the-ground applications. Wondering what the best top handle chainsaws are? Read on to learn more.
What are Top Handle Chainsaws?
If you’re new to the world of chainsaws, you might be wondering about the difference between top and rear handle chainsaws.
Well, it all boils down to the position of the controls. With a top handle design, the grouped controls are strategically placed near the top handlebar. This then makes it easy to engage any of these features using one hand and frees up the other hand.
Due to this, a top handle chainsaw is way easier to wield when you’re working off the ground.
Essentially, you won’t struggle to hold and operate the saw with one hand while you use the other hand to support yourself on a branch or tree. This explains why top handle models are also referred to as climbing or in-tree chainsaws.
A rear handle chainsaw, on the other hand, has the handle positioned on the unit’s rear. Unlike the top handle model, this one needs to be held with both hands. For this reason, it’s best used for on-ground applications, such as cutting fallen logs.
The 5 Best Top Handle Chainsaw Reviews
1. Makita XCU02PT Chain Saw Kit
Looking for a chainsaw that has a good selection of features? You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better model than Makita XCU02PT Chainsaw Kit.
One of the first things you’ll notice about this saw entails its sturdy construction. It’s designed using the brand’s Extreme Protection Technology, which constitutes several protective seals incorporated in the unit.
Their role is to prevent water, debris, and dust from coming into contact with the chainsaw’s core internal parts.
The XCU02PT is a cordless 12 inch top handle chain saw that’s powered by two 18V LXT batteries. So in total you get 36V to work with.
But what truly sets these batteries apart is their fast charging mechanism. According to Makita, they charge three times faster than conventional batteries. Better yet, the unit comes equipped with a dual-port charger, enabling you to charge the two batteries concurrently; hence, saving time.
Also on board the Makita XCU02PT is a motor that offers 1,650 FPM. This gives you increased cutting speed without generating too much noise. Another point worth mentioning is the tool less chain adjustment, which makes for a seamless operation.
Pros
Cons
If the Makita XCU02PT turns out to be too heavy, consider investing in the Dewalt DCCS620P1 chainsaw kit instead.
This saw tips the scales at just 8.8 pounds, making it ultra-light; hence, easier to maneuver. However, just because it’s lighter doesn’t make it any less effective than its counterparts.
If anything, it sports one of the best designs, which comprise a generous hand grip. This handle has a rubber coating that feels quite firm. But, it also offers a soft grip, guaranteeing maximum comfort, and stability.
A bonus point from the rubber coating is the fact it minimizes vibrations, preventing excess fatigue - which is imperative when working for extended periods.
Like the Makita, Dewalt DCCS620P1 is also cordless. Its power source is a highly efficient brushless motor alongside a 20V Max 5Ah battery. This promises up to 90 cuts on a single charge while giving you enough power to slice through 4x4 pressure-treated wood.
We also like that Dewalt DCCS620P1 was designed with the user’s safety in mind. This explains why its 12 inch bar is fitted with a low-kickback tip, protecting you from avoidable accidents. Lastly, you will be impressed by the chain adjustment on this unit as it does not require any tools.
Pros
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One thing that Husqvarna power tools pride themselves in is having a great power to weight ratio and this unit is the ideal example.
Ranked as the best arborist chainsaw, the Husqvarna T435 offers ample power while still managing to keep its weight low. It weighs a measly 7.5 lbs, and still delivers adequate cutting power. Factor in the top handle, and you have a unit that’s easy to carry around.
The gas powered chainsaw boasts a user-friendly design. The unit comes fitted with an adjustable chain oil pump. This gives you the freedom to regulate oil flow depending on weather conditions and the task at hand. This saw also boasts an anti vibration system to help you work for longer without getting fatigued.
Another feature that makes it user-friendly is the quick-release air filter. This saves you a huge chunk of time whenever you need to change or clean this part. To add to this, the chain tensioning system is positioned on the side, which makes for quick and seamless adjustments.
Husqvarna T435 Saw doesn’t disappoint in its performance either. It employs Husqvarna’s proprietary X-torq engine, which delivers a low fuel consumption with minimal exhaust emissions.
Also important to note is that the saw includes a guide bar (12 inch), though, it can work with guide bars of up to 14 inches in length.
In terms of safety, Husqvarna T435 comes equipped with a chain brake window, providing a clear view of the guide bar tip. The manufacturer was also generous enough to include a rope attachment for hosting the tool up a tree.
Pros
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Tanaka TCS33EDTP 12 is often ranked the best top handle gas chainsaw, and it’s easy to see why.
It's the cheapest top handle chainsaw and comes equipped with Tanaka’s 32.2 cc Pure Fire engine. This engine offers a clean and powerful execution whilst guaranteeing optimal fuel efficiency.
Now, this top handle chainsaw is very similar to its sibling, the Tanaka TCS33EDTP 14. In fact, the only difference between these two is the bar length. While Tanaka TC33EDTP /12 offers a length of 12 inches, the latter has a 14 inch guide bar.
As you probably know, top handle gas chainsaws have a bad rep of being difficult to start. Thankfully, this model includes a feature that makes it easy to start. We’re referring to its half throttle choke that has a purge primer bulb.
To use this, close the choke completely at first. Then once the unit starts briefly, shift to a half-choke position till it gets to a point where it’s up and running. This trick prevents the unit from stalling after it’s been started.
Also on-board the saw is a side chain tensioning system. This is meant to provide quick access to the chain tensioner; hence, enabling you to make chain adjustments swiftly and smoothly.
Another impressive aspect of Tanaka TCS33EDTP /12 is the provision of a warranty. The warranty period varies depending on whether you’ll be using the unit for commercial or residential use. For commercial use, you get a 2-year warranty. Consumers get a 7-year warranty while renters get a 1-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
The bar length on most of the top handle saws we’ve looked at is 12 inches. If your project calls for an extensive bar length, the Hitachi CS33EDTP gas powered saw is just what you need.
This one comes fitted with a 14 inch bar and chain featuring a side access chain tensioner. Now, this is the perfect size for a top handle chainsaw. It offers increased cutting length but it doesn’t add too much to its weight. This means it’s still easy to handle when tackling off-ground applications.
Another reason why the Hitachi CS33EDTP is described as the best top handle chainsaw entails its power. Like the Tanaka TCS33EDTP /12, its power source is the Pure Fire engine with a 32.2 cc capacity.
This 2 stroke engine delivers a lower consumption of fuel and minimal exhaust emissions. In fact, this top handle chainsaw has been tested and found to be compliant with The California Air Resource Board (CARB) regulations. This is the organization responsible for regulating air pollutants in the state of California.
Hitachi CS33EDTP gas chainsaw is the kind that's designed with user's comfort in mind. Not only does it have incredible power to weight ratio, but it also boasts an anti vibration system.
This prevents you from feeling excessively fatigued whether you're working for a prolonged period or tackling heavy duty work. Also contributing to its ease of use is the automatic chain oiler.
Pros
Cons
How to Choose the Right Top Handle Chainsaw
Battery vs Gas Powered
One of the most crucial decisions you’ll have to make is deciding between battery and gas powered saws.
To make an informed decision, think about the intended applications and location of use. Do you plan to use the top handle chainsaw at a site that is miles away from home? Will the job site have a source of power?
Gas powered chainsaws
For outdoor applications, a gas-powered chainsaw is the best because it offers a steady supply of power. With an engine on-board, this unit delivers power on-demand as long as it contains enough fuel.
That said, you’ll have to put up with a couple of things such as extra weight, noise from the engine, and emissions.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that all gas powered saws are loud or produce a lot of missions. Models like Husqvarna utilize an X-torq engine that delivers a solid performance with minimal emissions.
Battery chainsaws
If you prefer a top handle chainsaw that is a little more compact, lightweight, and runs quietly, a battery powered model is your best bet.
Another benefit you’ll get from this unit is that it’s easier to start. Since it doesn’t require any fuel, all you have to do is equip it with the right batteries, and you’re good to go!
On the downside, this unit delivers less power as its battery runs out.
For this reason, you'll want to pay attention to the type of motor that comes with the battery chainsaw. Ideally, it should have a brushless motor, which minimizes friction; thus, providing a longer runtime.
Overall, battery powered top handle saws are best reserved for light duty work or cutting jobs that can be done swiftly before the battery starts running out.
Grip Comfort and Ergonomics
Once you’ve figured out which type to go for, the next thing you’ll want to check is whether the saw is ergonomically designed.
The fact that it has a top handle already makes it easier to wield. But, there are a couple of features that can make it even more user-friendly. The best top handle chainsaw will include features like:
Rubberized Grip
A top handle chainsaw that has a rubber coating on the grip is the best. This is because it offers you a firm grip, enhancing the unit’s stability during operation. The rubber handle also helps with reducing vibrations.
Anti-vibration Handle
If the handle lacks a rubber coating, then it should have another anti-vibration mechanism. This way, you can work for a prolonged period without getting overly fatigued.
Ample Spacing Within the Handle
This ensures that your hand can fit comfortably and retain a secure grip on the handle throughout the cutting process.
Chain Adjustment Mechanism
The best top handle chainsaw ought to have a chain tensioner that's quick to access
Weight
For the most part, top handle saws are much lighter than their rear handle counterparts. This is because they’re meant to be held with one hand.
Still, some top handle saws are lighter than others, so you’ll want to check the specific power to weight ratio of the machinery.
If it’s your first time using this saw for an off-ground application, go for the lightest saw you can find. Thus, you won’t end up struggling to maintain a secure hold of the machine when you’re high up on a tree.
If you have some experience using this type of saw, you can go for slightly heavier models. But it shouldn’t be so heavy that it becomes difficult to wield.
Guide Bar
Another feature you’ll want to pay attention to is the length of the bar and chain. The longer the bar, the more heavy duty work it can tackle.
That said, you’ll need to keep in mind that a longer bar and chain will also add to the saw’s weight. If you choose a very long bar, the saw may wind up being too bulky to wield. So look for a saw bar that hits the sweet spot between length and weight.
Safety Features
Considering that you’ll probably be holding your top handle chainsaw with one hand, it’s important for it to have all the safety features possible. Examples of these extra add-ons that enhance a user’s safety are:
Chain Brake
A chain brake brings the chain to an immediate stop in case of a malfunction; hence, preventing it from causing some serious injury. For the best outcome, opt for inertia activated chain brake that's simple to operate.
Hand Guards
These serve a fairly similar role to the chain brake. They’re meant to protect your hands in case the chain derails or snaps.
Safety Throttle
Another feature you’ll appreciate having is a safety throttle. This prevents engagement of the chain by accident.
Protective Gear
Using a climbing saw presents a much greater risk than using a traditional chainsaw. For this reason, you’ll want to ensure that you’re wearing all the necessary protective gear. This includes:
In addition to this, you’ll want to ensure that your rope attachment is well secured before you start any cutting jobs.
If you’re working from an elevated point, there’s a good chance that your climbing harness will be tethered to a tree. So be sure to check whether this attachment is secure.
On the same note, your power tool should be well anchored to your chainsaw chaps or jacket. So pay attention to the lanyard ring where your saw is attached to and ensure it won’t come loose.
Commonly Asked Questions
Are top handle chainsaws better?
Yes, to an extent, top handle saws are superior to their rear-handle counterparts. For one, they’re compact, which is why they’re easy to carry when you have to climb up a tree.
They’re also lightweight, a feature that makes them easy to handle or wield when tackling off-ground applications.
That said, a top handle chainsaw is not suitable for just any arborist. Being able to do cutting jobs from an elevated point while wielding this power tool requires a high level of expertise.
Does Husqvarna make a top handle chainsaw?
Yes, it does. As one of the most renowned power tool brands, it’s not surprising that Husqvarna makes both battery powered and gas powered chainsaws.
Better yet, their range of saws boast exceptional features such as:
What are top handle chainsaws used for?
Top handle chainsaws are best suited for professional, full time applications. They’re equipped with features that make them easy to maneuver when working in trees.
For this reason, they’re a better choice for trained arborists as opposed to newbies. In fact, in some areas, you should have appropriate certification to be allowed to use or purchase a top handle saw.
Why are top handle chainsaws so expensive?
Oftentimes, you’ll find that top handle chainsaws are more expensive than their rear handle counterparts. The core reason for this is the fact that they offer a wider range of use.
With a top handle, you can easily climb a tree and cut branches, and still, maintain a secure grip on your tool. You cannot achieve this with a rear handle chainsaw because this would require a two-handed operation.
Final Verdict
Have you been searching for the best top handle chainsaws? Well, look no further than the Makita XCU02PT Chainsaw Kit.
It’s an electric chainsaw that runs on 5.0Ah batteries, delivering an impressive speed of about 1,650 FPM. And since the batteries are the LXT lithium ion kind, they provide up to 50% increased run time.
This chainsaw also boasts a tool free chain tensioning system, which makes for easy adjustments. With a 12 inch bar, you also get maximum cutting capacity.