Rating of mini chainsaws: advantages and disadvantages, care rules

The compact and economical mini chainsaw has become a real bestseller from the first weeks of its appearance on the domestic household appliances market. Manufacturers who have relied on the development of small-displacement chainsaw equipment with a power of up to one and a half horsepower have implemented their projects with maximum efficiency.

The operational capabilities of such saws, better known as top cutters, are limited by the moderate traction characteristics of the power units, but all mini-models presented in the assortment are suitable for mechanizing small-scale sawing work.

Scope of application

An easy-to-use, small and lightweight chainsaw is included in the list of technical equipment for large tourist groups, student search teams and scientific expeditions.

The presence of such a tool allows you to clear the area in a short time for a comfortable rest and subsequent overnight stay, or prepare the area for the start of survey work.

This is facilitated by:

• combination of light weight and class-optimal performance;
• minimal consumption of fuels and consumables;
• simple maintenance;
• layout of systems and units convenient for service and repair access;
• increased reliability of loaded parts and assemblies.

Designed for a wide range of applications, the mini chainsaw for tourists, gardeners and builders has become a basic solution to many current problems.

Is it possible to do it yourself?

If a person has enough experience with a similar tool and has some technical knowledge, then you can try to create the device yourself. Of course, the process is not easy and requires maximum concentration. Also, we must not forget about safety precautions when working on a mini-chainsaw.

There are no uniform instructions for designing the device. Therefore, creating complex options will not work. However, anyone can make a simple model for everyday work. To do this, you will need a small motor, for example, from an old scooter and a chain for a chainsaw. There are only two main components, but they must be combined correctly.

We must not forget about lubrication, because without it the unit will break after a few cuts in a small tree. Each part must be well lubricated so that friction does not destroy the homemade tool. You should take care of the vibration damping system. Safety equipment increases safety by stopping the engine if kickback occurs.

Before the first start and all subsequent starts, you should check the chain tension. If it meets working standards, you can start cutting down the trees. In another case, the element is pulled up.

Operational Capabilities

The tool can be effectively used at height for crowning large trees, pre-installation cutting of building materials during the construction of wooden buildings.

Work comfort is ensured by:

• modern industrial product design;
• excellent tool balancing;
• minimal levels of background noise and vibration.

In addition, a secure and comfortable grip allows you to hold the tool with one hand. This design feature is highly valued by users when performing overhead sawing work.

The scope of application of small chainsaws of the Mini category also includes clearing areas of thickets of tall bushes, forming living fences in accordance with the style of landscape design.

Size matters. And not only big

In reality, chainsaws come in different sizes, which affects their purpose. Even at a logging site, where complex professional work is carried out, workers have several types of saws in their toolkit - from powerful “felling” saws to “loppers” that can be used with one hand. It is not the size, but the quality of workmanship and reliability during long-term operation under load that distinguishes a professional tool. But it should be noted that the need for units of large power and size arises exclusively in logging; in everyday life, such parameters are unnecessary.

Household and semi-professional (farm) tools are most often produced in a medium size. It allows you to give the chainsaw a high degree of versatility, which is exactly what the user needs throughout the year - from felling dry trees on the site to preparing timber for building a bathhouse.

Quite often there is a need for small-sized units. In this case, even average weight or extra centimeters of the tire can interfere with work.

Features of alternative applications

Motorists living in wooded areas include mini-chainsaws in their lists of on-board equipment.

Popular in its category, the smallest chainsaw of the Stihl brand weighs only less than 3 kg. With the saw set removed, the tool takes up minimal space in the trunk of a car or travel backpack.

The tool is capable of sawing a tree that has fallen on the road in a short time, and in inclement weather, cutting branch material for paving a problem area of ​​a dirt road.

Weak sides

Alas, like any product, small chainsaws also have negative aspects. That is why everyone still uses standard models, and does not switch to “toys” that are so convenient and easy to use. So, here we go:

• Not suitable for large volumes of work. If you feel that you will have to work a lot and with massive materials, it is better to give preference to standard parameters.
• High price. Small chainsaws are considered rare, which is why their pricing is very high. Moreover, they cannot be found everywhere.

Well, now we propose to find out exactly what mini-chainsaws are on sale. A review of small chainsaws will allow you to choose the most suitable option for yourself from the most popular products.

Structural properties

Despite the small dimensions and moderate power, small-cube chainsaw equipment is equipped with modern systems for starting, ignition and lubrication of the saw set.

The service life of even budget models is increased by the use of modern technologies for processing components, applying wear-resistant coatings to the cylinder bore, piston group and loaded parts of the connecting rod crank.

The advantages of small-cube models:

• reliable start-up independent of temperature factors;
• stable traction parameters;
• Full-fledged emergency stop systems ensuring the safety of sawing operations.

Briefly about the device

When choosing a saw, it is worth considering many factors, in particular the load level and the main purpose of the unit. In order to cope with small volumes and harvest wood, clear a personal plot of branches and thickets, and also build small wooden fences, a small version of this equipment is quite suitable.

The design of a mini saw is not much different from the design of a regular, average unit, such as an echo saw. The only characteristic difference is the length of the tire. These units have short tires, which are successfully used for high-quality cutting of branches or thin trunks of small trees.

Mini chainsaw bar length

As a rule, the tire is fully consistent with the rated power characteristics of the purchased device. If you have chosen a product with a long tire surface but little power, then you will need to put in a lot of effort to get the desired result in your work. And this factor, in turn, cannot but affect the operation of the saw and the need for material investments...

Mini chainsaw device:

• Fast starting engine (mainly equipped with Power Boost Vortex system);
• Working tire;
• Starting amplifier;
• Automatic digital ignition control system;
• A special mechanism designed for easy chain tightening;
• Tank for oil and fuel;
• An oil pump, which takes responsibility for the timely supply of the lubricant mixture;
• Frame filter ensuring system cooling and uninterrupted operation;
• Anti-vibration system, which is designed to reduce hand fatigue;
• Inertia chain brake;
• Mini chainsaws weigh no more than 4 kg, which makes them very practical to use.

Operational Benefits

An easy-to-use small chainsaw for hiking and multi-day excursions, it suits all parameters. It only takes a few minutes to install the tire and get the engine ready to start.

• Small-cube models are very economical, even with prolonged use in operating mode. To prepare a place chosen for an overnight stay for a tourist group of 10-12 people, the consumption of the fuel mixture is only 200 - 250 cm3.
• The stability of the operating modes of Mini class chainsaws is ensured by the practically trouble-free operation of the ignition system and modern varieties of economical carburetors. Some models feature effective dual-circuit air purification.

How to choose

The company may produce high-quality hand tools, but chainsaws may be weak.
It is important to understand how the tool will be used in order to select the optimal model. Don't focus only on price. But you shouldn’t blindly believe in a familiar brand either, since each company has its own specialization.

Here are the most important points when choosing this device:

1. Tire size . It can be from 10 inches or more. The larger the size, the larger the logs can be sawed. Typically, 10 - 12 inch tires are used for home use.
2. Convenient hand position on the rear handle . This is an important parameter, since it determines how securely the chainsaw will be in your hands during operation. If it accidentally falls out of your hands during operation, it can cause serious injury.
3. Availability of vibration isolation . It exists on almost all models so that you can work normally without feeling vibration.
4. The presence of a primer in order to start the tool in “cold” mode.
5. Location of the safety shield in front of the front handle. If the distance is small, it can be difficult for a person with a large brush to work.
6. Noise level . This is not a very important parameter, but it is worth considering when working close to other people.

Expert opinion
Dmitry Konstantinovich Levin

The chainsaw is required to be well balanced. Otherwise it will be inconvenient to work. Household appliances usually do not have additional functions and protections, so you should not count on them. However, balancing is one of the most important indicators. Before placing an order in an online store, you should try holding the instrument in your hand in the sales area.

Mini saw with electric motor

A separate category of household-grade sawing equipment consists of electric-powered saws. The operational capabilities of such equipment are limited by the need to connect to a power source.

The working radius is limited by the size of the cable extension, so electric saws are indispensable for working in closed interior spaces and in hard-to-reach places of building structures being built.

The undeniable advantages of models with electric drive:

• significantly lower cost compared to the chainsaw range;
• low-cost operation and simple maintenance;
• an order of magnitude lower level of vibration and operating noise, promoting comfortable work and high productivity.

Let's look at the main models of chainsaws that will help the consumer make an unmistakable choice.

Rating of popular premium models

ECHO CS-3700ES-15″

A reliable option that features quick start-up and simple operation. High productivity makes it possible to perform various operations in a short period of time.

The product is used not only in the home sector, but also in the construction industry. There is a built-in muffler that ensures quiet operation. The kit contains all the necessary tools for maintenance. You can control the chain tension level using a side mechanism.

The average cost is 23,400 rubles.

ECHO CS-3700ES-15″

Advantages:

• Strength;
• Wear resistance;
• Convenient body;
• Simple controls;
• Mobility;
• Light weight;
• Withstands high loads.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Stihl MS 230 16″picco 1.3mm

A semi-professional device that copes with complex types of work. The product is capable of sawing wood of any species. The saw can easily withstand high loads, and the main elements do not wear out over time. The engine starts easily in any weather and temperature. A high-quality anti-vibration system increases comfort and reduces wear of main parts.

Sold at a price: from 22,000 rubles.

Stihl MS 230 16″picco 1.3mm

Advantages:

• High-quality assembly;
• Semi-professional device;
• Withstands high loads;
• Low wear;
• Durability;
• Multifunctionality.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Husqvarna 440e II 9677887-35

A durable model that recently went on sale. The device features an effective quick start system and convenient operation. There is a high-quality engine that reduces fuel consumption and emissions. There is also an automatic return tool switch.

The fuel level indicator makes it possible to refuel in a timely manner, which increases the comfortable use. The crankshaft is made of durable material, so the equipment can operate for several years.

Sold at a price: from 23,500 rubles.

Husqvarna 440e II 9677887-35

Advantages:

• Appearance;
• Wear resistance;
• Frame;
• Chain adjustment;
• Control.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Model Shtil MS 150 CE

In the domestic market of household appliances, this category is worthily represented by the branded Stihl chainsaw model MS 150 CE. The drive uses the advantages of a fuel-efficient carburetor internal combustion engine with a working volume of 23.6 cm3.

• The power unit runs on a standard mixture of high-octane gasoline with a special motor oil designed for high-speed two-stroke engines.
• Drive power 1.3 hp. is fully sufficient for the full activation of the saw set, 30 cm long. The saw is equipped with an effective and reliable Oilomatic 1/4 Picco Micro 3 saw chain lubrication system and an emergency stop device.
• The small weight of the tool, around 2.8 kg, determines its suitability for high-altitude work. The thoughtful layout of the internal equipment provides easy access to the saw's setting points and filler caps.

Strengths

Even the smallest chainsaw has tangible advantages that make it so popular. They are as follows:

• Very small weight - 3 or 4 kg.
• Operational work - the device very quickly copes with any tasks in the yard and garden.
• There is significantly less vibration - this allows you to work longer without fatigue and without interruptions.
• The security system is at a very high level. The emergency stop works instantly.
• It is very easy to use - even beginners can handle the task.
• It is also easy to care for the instrument; everything is clearly described in the instructions for the specific model.
• Fuel consumption is very low compared to its larger counterparts.

Echo brand mini chainsaw

The semi-professional chainsaw Echo CS-260TES-10 has identical characteristics. The tool differs from the previous model in a three-stage air purification scheme and a more advanced design of the proprietary vibration damper.

The power of a carburetor engine with a displacement of 26.9 cm3 and an output power of 1.13 hp. sufficient to drive a saw set 250 mm long. The saw is equipped with an automatic chain lubrication system, an easy start device and a booster pump.

Tips for choosing

What chainsaw do you use?
StandardMini

When choosing a compact tool, it is not necessary to carefully select the characteristics of power, chain pitch and compatible tire, parameter by parameter. All of them are standard and tested by manufacturers. Rather, you should pay attention to reviews and the overall build quality of the tool. If you use an average saw in your country house and, in case of a malfunction, you can take it to a service center, then a tourist in the middle of a dense forest is deprived of this opportunity. Therefore, the saw, although small, should be as reliable as possible.

For owners of medium-sized household and semi-professional chainsaws, we can recommend an economical method: purchase a compatible replacement bar and a chain for it for your unit. At the same time, you must not forget that if the pitch of the new chain is smaller, then the drive sprocket will also need to be replaced. Unfortunately, for some models it will be problematic to use a chain with a different pitch. So, on some Makita models the drive sprocket is made in the form of a single block with the clutch disc.

DDE CS2512

This model is less known, but its characteristics deserve due attention. The tool belongs to the category of garden equipment intended for crowning fruit and ornamental trees. The 25 cc carburetor engine produces 1.2 hp and has a torque reserve sufficient to drive a headset 30 cm long.

Many leading manufacturers successfully specialize in the production of small-sized and compact chainsaw equipment.

The best manufacturers

In our review we will list the companies whose models are the most popular:

• Stihl is a German brand of high-quality garden tools. They are one of the best on the market, the price of their products is high but the benefits they offer are fantastic.
• Husqvarna belongs to the category of high-class models. This is a Swedish manufacturer that provides the highest quality and offers all types of chainsaws.
• Einhell is a German company of gardening tools for the home. It stands out for its excellent price-quality ratio in the DIY segment. One of its strengths is the “Power X-change” battery system, which allows them to be exchanged between all Einhell tools.

When compiling the top list, attention was paid to issues of quality and price, but it is important to note that these are not the only quality brands on the market