Khoper chainsaws and electric saws are produced at the Volgograd plant by the Khoper company, which began its activities in 1991. Initially, the company sold agricultural products; starting in 2000, Khoper retrained and launched the production of gardening equipment:
- mowers;
- trimmers;
- walk-behind tractors;
- chainsaws and electric saws;
- Charger and battery;
- snow blowers;
- mounted units for walk-behind tractors.
Saw Hopper
The lineup
The Hopper chainsaw is a cutting tool designed for felling small trees and then sawing them. Among the main advantages of chainsaws from this manufacturer are:
- reliable device case;
- easy access to all structural elements for repair work;
- ease of maintenance;
- low fuel consumption compared to similar models;
- easy start system;
- low level of emissions into the atmosphere;
- high level of productivity.
There are several modifications, for example, models 4518 and 5220. They differ from each other in appearance and technical characteristics.
Hopper 4518
The Hopper 4518 chainsaw is a small-sized tool equipped with a powerful power unit and a guide bar. Using this model, you can harvest firewood, process lumber for wooden construction, and care for small bushes. The body is made of high-quality orange plastic.
There are handles with anti-vibration coating for convenient control of the tool. This allows you to remove some of the load from the operator’s hands and increase the duration of work. Free sliding of the saw chain mechanism is ensured by transferring oil fluid to the guide bar.
Technical characteristics and parameters of this modification:
Saw motor power | 3.3 hp |
Displacement of the power unit | 45 cm³ |
Fuel mixture proportion | 25:1 |
Maximum idle speed | 2800 rpm |
Fuel tank capacity | 550 ml |
Chain step | 0.325 inch |
Guide bar length | 450 mm |
Groove width | 1.5 mm |
Number of links in the chain | 72 |
Noise level | 110 dB |
Full mass | 6.5 kg |
Hopper 5220
The Hopper 5220 chainsaw is a household-grade cutting tool. It is equipped with an easy start system and a powerful two-stroke petrol engine. A manual fuel pump element is installed here, which facilitates the process of refueling with gasoline. In order to fully prime this model of saw, you need to press the primer several times.
The body is made of impact-resistant and heat-resistant polymer, which increases the life of the chainsaw. All mechanisms are reliably protected from mechanical damage and sawdust.
Technical data and indicators of this model:
Guide bar length | 500 mm |
Gasoline tank capacity | 0.4 l |
Number of links | 76 |
Power | 2400 W |
Power unit power | 3.3 hp |
Engine displacement | 52 cm³ |
Chain pitch | 0.325 inch |
Link thickness | 1.52 mm |
Operating temperature | -15°…+45°С |
International environmental class | Euro 2 |
Total weight | 4 kg |
User manual
Description of the rules for safe operation of Hopper chainsaws:
- work with the tool only if it is correctly assembled, fill the device with a high-quality fuel mixture (proportion 1:40);
- do not store a petrol tool with a tank full of fuel mixture, always use up the fuel completely if you are going to be inactive for a long time;
- The duration of continuous operation of the household model of the Hopper chainsaw should not exceed 2-3 hours a day.
Description of the rules for safe operation of Hopper electric saws:
- Before starting work, make sure that the cable of the electrical device is not damaged;
- Between the sawing process you need to take breaks - 10 minutes of work, and then 10 minutes of rest; longer work periods are also allowed, provided that the device is used correctly.
Maintenance
Maintenance of Hoper saws is as follows:
- the electric chain saw is connected to a network with a voltage of maximum 230 Volts; if the network voltage is lower, the tool should not be used;
- both types of devices must be cleaned regularly after each use (cleaning air filters, fuel filters as necessary);
- carburetor adjustment is carried out at the service center as long as the Hoper saw is under warranty, later adjustment can be made by the owner no more than twice a year;
- The chain is sharpened with a special file; when the chain wears out, it is replaced with a new one, suitable in terms of the number of links and length;
- the spark plug is replaced on average once every six months with little use, with active use - once a month the carbon deposits are removed, if necessary, the spark plug is replaced;
- The running-in period for a chainsaw is 2-3 hours; you can start using the electric saw without running in, gradually increasing the intensity of work (remember the pauses necessary to cool the engine).
Basic malfunctions and ways to eliminate them
- Overheat
Reason: too intensive use. Remedy: Take short breaks between work sets.
- Doesn't start or stalls after starting
Reason: clogged fuel filters, low fuel quality or sudden power surges. Remedy: Clean the filters, use high-quality gasoline and oil, or make sure the power supply is working properly.
Benzos and electric saws Hopper
You can find information online that the Khoper company was founded in 1991 in Volgograd, where equipment under this brand is produced. However, this is not entirely true. Indeed, in 1991, a company with that name appeared in a city on the Volga, but it was engaged in investment projects and went down in Russian history as one of the most scandalous financial pyramids.
We do not know whether the manufacturer of garden and farm tools is connected with this project. But we can say with confidence that Hopper chainsaws, like other brand equipment, are produced in China. In addition, the manufacturer’s official website states that Hopper is a Chinese brand. It should be noted that there is an extremely wide range of instruments produced. In the Hoper catalog (hoper-shop.ru) you can find various models of petrol and electric saws, walk-behind tractors, power equipment and other power tools.
It should be noted that the high quality of Hoper electric and chainsaws is quite high. They are produced in factories under the supervision of foreign specialists, using imported components. At the same time, the company's management pursues a fairly balanced pricing policy.
Features of Hopper models:
- High-quality assembly of chain saws using Western European and Japanese components;
- High reliability of tools, long overhaul period and good maintainability;
- An extensive network of service centers, a large number of original spare parts on the market.
What manufacturer?
There is no clear and reliable information on the Internet about the Russian production of these products. There is only mention of a Volgograd company, which since 1991 has been engaged in trading agricultural products, and in our time has established the production of chainsaws. This means one of two things:
- Manufacturers do not have the need, means or opportunity to express themselves and talk about real production.
- These products are made in China or in Russia from Chinese components, and the phrase “Russian production” is used as a marketing ploy.
Criteria for evaluation
When choosing a tool yourself, take into account:
- real cost of a chainsaw;
- efficiency and traction characteristics of the drive;
- level of technical equipment;
- in some cases - maintainability and interchangeability of spare parts with similar designs from other brands.
Marketing analysis shows that a good inexpensive chainsaw meets the basic parameters of the needs of ordinary people, agricultural farms, forestry and park management workers.
By all accounts, the best chainsaw for home and garden is an economical, simple in design, easy to use and durable model from a popular brand with a capacity of one and a half to three horsepower. A budget chainsaw, due to its limited capabilities, is most often purchased to perform one-time dismantling or construction work.
The top 10 best chainsaws published in the information field consists of new models from the brands Shtil, Husqvarna and Hitachi, known for the impeccable quality of their products. A test of chainsaws from these manufacturers proved their full compliance with the stated service and operational requirements.
The list also includes several popular tools from the ALPINA A 3700 and Daewoo brands. According to experts, these developments will take leading positions in the “Best Chainsaws of 2022” rating.
The offered range of gasoline-powered saws from different brands can be divided into 5 groups.
This is interesting: Top 4 popular homelite chain saws and their technical characteristics
Summary
When making a final decision regarding one of the models, you must be sure that all operating conditions are suitable for the tasks. After all, only in this case can you count on the exceptionally full efficiency of the selected chainsaw.
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Owner reviews
Nikolay, Rostov:
“An excellent budget option.” Despite the fact that many are accustomed to looking for shortcomings in domestic technology, I am of the opinion that every brand has both successful and unsuccessful models. As for Khoper, I can say that the saws work and do their job perfectly. I have experience using walk-behind tractors from this manufacturer: they are workhorses, and when done properly, they perform well.”
Roman, Chernigov:
“I’ve been using the Hopper 4518 chainsaw for two years now. Advantages: easy to start, works great. Once I had to replace the chain, but it was damaged due to ignorance and lack of experience. Now I use it carefully according to the instructions. Disadvantages: noisy, quite heavy.”
Advantages and disadvantages of Lynx chainsaws
All mechanisms have pros and cons. If Lynx products had no weaknesses, then we would not have seen other manufacturers on the market. But are these disadvantages really that significant and do they interfere with the work of ordinary consumers who do not process wood professionally?
Pros:
- high speed;
- good vibration damping system;
- the ability to cut not only wood (plastic, some metal);
- large fuel tank;
- light weight (good performance to weight ratio);
- compact case.
Minuses:
- requires careful care;
- The recommended mixing ratio of gasoline and oil is 1:25 (and not 1:40 as in modern saws). This means more oil will be lost.
To be fair, it is worth noting that any mechanism requires maintenance. Even the most expensive chainsaw will turn into junk if you don't care for it properly. As for fuel consumption, this is standard for all saws released before 2010. Modern gas-powered saws have new generation engines that provide less fuel consumption (and oil in particular).
Possible faults
- The chainsaw stalls when starting. Most likely, the issue is a broken fuel supply mechanism or a lack of it. Check the oil and gasoline levels, if they are normal, inspect the pump and supply hose.
- The chainsaw does not start. The cause may be a foreign object in the fuel system or a failure in the safety system. If the saw starts and immediately stalls, there is definitely a problem in the fuel system, which is faced with the problem of lack of fuel at start-up.
- The chainsaw slips or cuts poorly. Either the chain is sagging or stretched due to a damaged link. Another reason may be damage to the tire itself, as a result of which its area (and with it the chain tension) has decreased.
- The sound is too loud. A symptom of a lack of lubrication of the chain or damage to the noise suppression system, without which the sound can exceed 120 dB.
- Chips fly in different directions, and the saw trembles. Most likely, the working axis has shifted, as a result of which rotation further weakens the mechanism and leads to breakdown.
- Slowdown of rotation - air entering the fuel compartment or carburetor, as a result of which the concentration of fuel gases decreases, making the operation process impossible.
Review of popular models
There is a basic configuration for each model of Lesnik saws. The basic kit is:
- Tire and chain;
- Candle key;
- User manual;
- Warranty card;
- Measuring cup for mixing oil and gasoline;
- For some brands, the company adds protective gloves and goggles to the basic kit.
Chainsaw Lesnik 2512
The compact petrol saw Lesnik 2512, designed for household and semi-professional work, can be operated with one hand.
Advantages and characteristics:
- Two-stroke internal combustion engine with a power of 0.95 kW (1.2 hp) and a volume of 25 cm3;
- Vibration protection system, shoulder strap for carrying tools;
- Easy starting in cold weather and simple controls;
- Weight – 2.9 kg;
- Tanks for gasoline and oil - 200 ml each;
- Chain pitch - 3/8;
- Chain thickness - 1.3 mm;
- Warranty period – 1 year;
- Bar 30 cm or 12 inches long, 44 links per chain.
Flaws:
- In winter it does not always start quickly;
- Plugs and ignition coils quickly fail;
- The need for constant chain tension.
Chainsaw Lesnik 3816
Well-balanced hand-held chainsaw Lesnik 3816. Designed for work in the garden, on the site and for carrying out minor repair and construction work.
Advantages and characteristics:
- Two-stroke internal combustion engine with a power of 1.4 kW (2.0 hp) and a volume of 38 cm3;
- Easy starting in cold weather and simple control, starting spring, screw tension of the cutting chain;
- Balanced body and ergonomic design;
- Weight – 4.9 kg;
- Tanks for gasoline (310 ml) and oil (210 ml);
- Chain pitch - 3/8;
- Chain thickness - 1.3 mm, bar and chain lubrication - automatic;
- Warranty period – 1 year;
- Bar 40 cm or 16 inches long, 57 links per chain.
Flaws:
- The engine is difficult to start and often stalls;
- The candle is filled with gasoline;
- Chain lube may leak during storage;
- The carburetor has to be adjusted frequently.
Chainsaw Lesnik 4518
The universal gasoline saw Lesnik 4518 is capable of sawing large trunks and industrial forests.
Advantages and characteristics:
- Two-stroke internal combustion engine with a power of 2.13 kW (2.9 hp) and a volume of 45 cm3;
- Easy starting in cold weather and simple controls, starting spring, screw-type, tool-free tensioning of the cutting chain;
- Ergonomics, vibration protection system;
- Weight – 6.5 kg;
- Tanks for gasoline (550 ml) and oil (260 ml);
- Chain pitch - 0.325;
- Chain thickness - 1.5 mm, bar and chain lubrication - automatic, oil pump adjustment;
- Warranty period – 1 year;
- Bar 45 cm or 18 inches long, 72 links per chain;
- Electronic ignition;
- Nylon air filter;
- Three-cam clutch;
- Additional equipment - gear stop.
Flaws:
- Inconvenient tension system for the user;
- After long-term storage, the internal combustion engine is difficult to start.
Chainsaw Lesnik 5220
The powerful chainsaw Lesnik 5220 cuts logs of any diameter and is convenient for construction work. The correct balance is the absence of vibration and minimizing the load on the operator.
Advantages and characteristics of the Lesnik 5220 chain saw:
- Two-stroke internal combustion engine with a power of 2.5 kW (3.4 hp) and a volume of 52 cm3;
- Easy starting in cold weather and simple controls, spring start of the internal combustion engine, screw chain tension;
- Vibration protection system;
- Balanced body and ergonomic design;
- Weight – 8.5 kg;
- Air filter with easily removable bolt-on cover;
- Start blocking;
- Tanks for gasoline (550 ml) and oil (260 ml);
- Chain pitch - 0.325;
- Chain thickness - 1.5 mm, bar and chain lubrication - automatic, oil pump adjustment;
- Warranty period – 1 year;
- Bar 50 cm or 20 inches long, 76 links per chain.
Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting possible malfunctions of the oil pump. Many users, and even sales assistants in stores, require the use of branded oils, for example from the Patriot Garden line.
Specifications
Carefully read the technical specifications before purchasing, pay attention to the parameters being highlighted in green, we highlight positive values in these colors
Manufacturer | Kruger |
Model | GCSK 35-45 |
Homeland of the brand | Germany |
Country of Origin | China |
Saw class | Semi-professional |
Engine | |
Power, hp /kW | 4,5 /3,5 |
Engine capacity, cc. | 52 |
Saw set | |
Tire length, cm/inches | 45/18 |
Chain pitch, inches | 0,325 |
Chain thickness, mm | 1,3 |
Number of links, pcs | 72 |
General characteristics | |
Fuel tank volume, l | 0,55 |
Oil tank volume, l | 0,26 |
Warranty, months | 12 |
Weight, kg | 6 |
Price, rub | 8900 |
Current price | To know |
Of all the listed characteristics, it is worth paying attention to the weight; for the semi-professional class, 6 kg is a good indicator. Light saw
But why is it light? Due to low-quality components or high technology and the use of modern durable materials? This question remains open.
Model range of Hopper chainsaws
Today in the company’s model range we find only four chainsaws from this manufacturer. You can get acquainted with their features and technical characteristics by reading the next section of our review.
Hopper 3816 New
Hopper 3816 New. The universal household-grade chainsaw has gained popularity due to its high performance characteristics and good build quality. Thanks to its relatively low weight (net 4.8 kg) and fairly high power (2.0 hp), this tool can be used both in households and in industrial production. The chainsaw is equipped with a 400 mm long guide bar and a 57-teeth saw chain. Vibration damping is carried out using four modern shock absorbers; starting a cold engine is facilitated by the presence of a primer.
Hopper 4518 New. Another popular model of a universal household saw from this Chinese manufacturer. The tool can be used for various repair and construction work, harvesting firewood, transverse and longitudinal sawing of wood. The saw is equipped with a powerful 3.0 HP two-stroke engine, which allows the use of an eighteen-inch guide bar and a 72-link saw chain. Operator comfort is ensured by an ergonomic, well-balanced body and a vibration damping system consisting of four shock absorbers. The chainsaw is adapted to work in low temperature conditions; it is better to start a cold engine using a primer.
Hopper 5220 NewHopper 5220 New. A completely new model, which immediately became one of the bestsellers. The chainsaw is equipped with a modern high-speed 3.4 hp engine and a saw set with a 20″ guide bar and a chain with a 3/8″ pitch. This configuration of the motor and cutting equipment allows the saw to be used for construction and repair work, sawing wood, harvesting firewood and crowning trees. The chainsaw is equipped with an effective multi-point vibration damping system, a metal chain catcher and a primer that makes it easier to start a cold engine.
Hopper 3816 Farmer
Hopper 3816 Farmer. The most popular model in the manufacturer's line. This powerful semi-professional chainsaw can be used to perform a wide variety of intensive work. The saw is driven by a high-speed two-stroke engine with a power of 2.0 hp. complete with a 16″ guide bar and a 57-link saw chain. The model is equipped with a starter with the Quick Start function and a manual fuel pumping primer, which simplifies starting the engine at low temperatures. We note that the engine is economical; the manufacturer has taken care of a spacious fuel tank (0.55 liters). Now you don't have to stop the engine often to refuel the saw. The vibration damping system involves the installation of four shock absorbers on damper springs.
Review: Chainsaw Fermer garden tools Farmer BP 5220 - FERMER pilosaurus - the chief for firewood!
Good day everyone. Today I have an unusual review - about the Fermer BP 5220 chainsaw. Someday I need to write about it.
My husband and I love the bathhouse very much, and we have not broken the tradition of visiting it every Saturday for many years. The bathhouse is our everything. We go to the suburbs to visit our parents, they live in a private house.
Therefore, the need for firewood does not decrease all year round; we prepare about eight cubic meters for the winter. We still have a lot of relatives and friends who are categorically FOR our tradition and are not averse to sharing a bathhouse and barbecue with us, so we have a well-organized firewood collection.
Previously, my father sent us bathhouse lovers to the penal battalion as soon as we arrived - a two-handed saw for two, and off we went. Retro picture - two serious people, with a saw whack-whack, sawdust flying. And then there are calluses on my palms, my shoulders hurt, and my back feels tight.
In general, we decided to stop penal battalions and bought a FARMER BP-5220 chainsaw. The purchase is a year old, so it serves us for the second season; we did not use it in winter.
The saw is excellent, a decent and high-quality product at a reasonable price. Can be used for both transverse and longitudinal cutting of wood, trees, branches, boards.
For the suburbs, villages, plots, cottages - an irreplaceable thing in the household! He will help with construction and prepare firewood.
Relatively compact, weight 8 kg, I can hold it easily, but I haven’t tried to work it (and thank God, I didn’t buy it for that, so that I could work with it :)).
My husband is not fat and is not particularly accustomed to physical work; he usually doesn’t lift anything heavier than a mouse unless necessary, but he can handle a saw just fine. Not to mention my father, he is the breed of Ilya Muromets, he can even saw a tree with a hacksaw if he wants, let alone chainsaws.
During operation, in my opinion, it is noisy, but my husband claims that for this class of drink it is not at all noisy. You can talk while working, you can hear him, and he doesn’t use headphones.
There is also vibration, but at a quite tolerable level - the hands do not get tired of it. The handle is comfortable, rubberized, non-slip.
It is refilled with 92nd (or higher), and the oil is also preferably branded. The chain tension is set with a screw.
It starts with half a turn and can work for a very long time without interruption. It hasn't served us well yet - we prepared firewood in the fall, and now the time is right for a new harvest.
But last year it was used by all and sundry - my husband and I, my father, a neighbor who rented it, my sister and her husband, my husband’s friend (well, we bought it with our own money, and you can’t refuse anyone).
She worked like an A without a hitch. Copes with any tree with equal success.
The operating requirements are the same as for other chainsaws - use goggles, observe safety, store correctly, clean the lock and air filter. You can look at the technical specifications on the side of the box.
I recommend BP-5220 from Fermer - a reliable and useful unit!
Added 11/01/2015. This year we bought a replacement chain for the saw.
The best semi-professional chainsaws
If the standard set of functions and performance of household tools of this kind is not enough, it is worth considering this rating category. The best semi-professional chainsaws offer durable assembly materials, innovative production technologies, increased performance, and a longer service life. Which semi-professional chainsaw is better can be determined by the length of the tire, service life, weight, reliability of assembly, and cost.
Echo CS-260TES-10
The Japanese manufacturer offers a semi-professional portable chain saw that is in no way inferior to European models. The presented functionality will be able to perform sawing garden or forestry tasks. With a power of 910 W and 1.24 horsepower, the engine provides sufficient chain speed. This is one of the lightest units in its category. It does not need to clean the air filter. The built-in ES-start system and primer are responsible for rapid starting in severe frost.
Advantages
- Two-stage air self-cleaning;
- Comfortable shoulder strap;
- Resource engine;
- High-quality case;
- Service guarantee up to 5 years;
- A light weight.
Flaws
- Oil leaks;
- Low power.
Due to such a low weight, the unit is most often used by summer residents, travelers, and carpenters in their business. Due to the fact that the oil reservoir may leak slightly, it is best to store it away from flammable mixtures. The disadvantage is considered to be low power, although we are talking about a semi-professional model.
Champion 254-18
This high-performance, powerful model, designed for intensive work, deserves special attention. During its creation, materials with increased thermal conductivity were used; the manufacturer offered a high-quality Walbro carburetor and an Oregon saw set. The tire length here is 45 cm, the power is 3.4 horsepower along with 2500 watts. With a light weight, it offers a high chain speed, which distinguishes the model from competitors' offerings. Economical fuel consumption, a capacious tank, blocking against accidental activation, a decompressor, standardized spare parts - this is not all that it can boast of.
Advantages
- The best power density in the manufacturer's line;
- Ergonomics;
- Balanced design;
- A light weight;
- Emergency chain stop system;
- Effective vibration damper;
- Cold start.
Flaws
- The oil supply cannot be adjusted;
- Plastic housing.
Users gave high marks to the rare combination of light weight and power of the power unit in this technique. Performance also received praise. But the plastic case was considered an indicator of fragility. Due to the fact that the owner will not be able to regulate the supply of oil, there may be excess consumption.
The best jigsaws
Bison PBC-560 45dp
This tool is designed for complex, time-consuming tasks. Due to two compression rings and a chrome cylinder, engine reliability is ensured. The design includes a carburetor from the popular Walbro brand (Japan) along with a primer for forced fuel pumping, this guarantees a simplified, quick start in any weather. Precise fuel supply, in turn, saves costs. Power is 3.3 horsepower at 2400 W, chain length is 45 cm with 72 links. The vibration damper will facilitate protection during operation. Environmental friendliness is guaranteed by electronic ignition, lubrication is performed automatically, which is very convenient. The service life is increased by the air pre-cleaning system, which removes large particles at the inlet.
Advantages
- Ergonomics;
- Excellent weight distribution;
- Electric ignition;
- Air pre-cleaning system;
- Japanese carburetor;
- Cost-effective;
- Quick start at any temperature.
Flaws
- Heavy weight;
- Noise.
On average, such a unit can operate continuously for up to 4-5 hours. Most often it is used on construction sites, but due to its heavy weight it will not be very convenient to use at height. The ability to influence wood of any density or volume leads to the creation of noise. Otherwise, all the characteristics are excellent, especially the carburetor, automatic lubrication control, electric ignition, fuel economy.
Jigsaw for household work
There can be a huge number of criteria by which tools are selected for home use. But there are not many main indicators
When choosing a jigsaw you need to pay attention to the following:
- engine power, its power type and jigsaw class;
- tool saw stroke frequency;
- what type of fastening is there;
- is there a pendulum motion;
- possible functions;
- manufacturer, model, cost of the tool.
Video - Choosing a jigsaw for home use
Now let's take a closer look at each of these points and find out what the average values of a good tool should be.
Motor power
The purpose or class of the jigsaw depends on this indicator: will it be intended for home or professional use.
The power of common household models usually varies between 380-700 watts. They are capable of processing steel no larger than 40 millimeters in size, and wood no larger than 70 mm. These tools do not provide a large number of functions.
The cost of these jigsaws can vary greatly compared to professional ones. It depends on the manufacturing company and, of course, the capabilities of the tools. So, for example, the latter are able to “take” centimeter steel and two-centimeter aluminum, and wood cutting increases from 7 to 15 centimeters.
Blade stroke frequency
This section determines the speed of work with a jigsaw and means the movement of the file
When choosing a jigsaw, it is important to consider what you will most need it for, since the stroke rate is different for each material. For example, it is better to work with wood with a tool with a high stroke rate, and with steel - with a lower stroke rate.
You can change the speed of the saw either immediately before work, before turning on the tool, or already during work using a special locking button
The higher this indicator, the less time it will take to work and, accordingly, productivity increases
You can change the frequency of the saw either immediately before work, before turning on the tool, or already during work using a special locking button. The higher this indicator, the less time it will take to work and, accordingly, productivity increases.
Pendulum mechanism
This mechanism is used today in almost all models of electric jigsaws. Thanks to this, the file moves not only in the vertical, but also in the horizontal direction, thereby improving the work and its speed, as well as the operating time of the tool.
The pendulum mechanism has one big disadvantage. The point is that the canvas can be seriously damaged due to the use of this function. Therefore, when working with a finishing cut, it is better not to turn on the pendulum mechanism. But when working with steel or dense wood, this is not the case and the function is practically necessary.
Additional feature set
Nowadays, many tools are made more comfortable to use, and therefore create a lot of new functions. One of these is additional lighting on an electrical appliance when working in the dark or in a poorly lit room.
The engine fan also has the ability to work as a kind of dust and sawdust cleaner, blowing them off with a stream of air along the cut line. In addition, for the same function, some devices can now be connected to an ordinary vacuum cleaner. There is one more function - the ability to rotate the saw, which is very helpful when working with round holes.
Which company should you prefer when choosing a jigsaw for home use?
It is now quite difficult to say that an instrument is bad or, conversely, good. Each of them is intended for a specific purpose and may please one buyer, but disappoint another. From this side it is much easier to talk about inexpensive, but high-quality tools. Among them the following stand out:
- Bosch and Makita devices are of excellent quality;
- Hitachi tool is gaining popularity;
- Black&Decker, Skil, Bosch (green), as well as the Russian-made Baikal jigsaw are ideal for household purposes;
- from professional: Makita, Bosch (blue), Metabo, Hitachi;
- Hilti makes the best jigsaws, but their price is not affordable for everyone.
Overview of the main models
Let's look at the main models of chainsaws of this brand and their features.
Model Hopper 3816
Equipped with a 2-stroke engine whose power is 2 horsepower. The engine capacity of such a power unit is 38 cubic centimeters, the chamber volume is 0.55 liters. The guide rail of this tool is 40 centimeters long. This is a device that can be classified as a classic household device. When assembled, this brainchild of the Khoper company weighs 4.85 kilograms.
This model confirms that the Volgograd manufacturer uses modern technologies when developing power units, since the Khoper 3816:
- the Quick Start system has been implemented (the device has an additional spring in the starter system), as well as a special fuel pump, making starting the saw easy and simple;
- modern technology has been implemented to save fuel (the system reduces fuel consumption, but this does not negatively affect the performance of the tool), to reduce toxic exhaust gases;
- the cylinder is covered with chrome, a wear-resistant material that is used by all leading manufacturers of power units of various classes (even premium);
- There is a vibration suppression system (possibly due to springs on the handle and special pads).
An additional plus of the Hopper 3816 is the fast operation of the inertial brake. This will protect the operator in the event of a kickback.
To access the filter of this unit, you do not need to use additional tools.
Chainsaw Hopper 4518
The Hopper 4518 chainsaw is powerful (3.3 horsepower), has a larger engine (45 cubic centimeters) and an extended guide (5 centimeters longer than the previous model).
This tool is heavy (weighs 6.3 kilograms when assembled). Like other power units of this company, model 4518 has a heat-resistant housing, which means that during long-term operation the device will not heat up much.
Starting such a saw is not difficult due to the improved starting cable, which is connected to an inertial spring, as well as a manual primer (this is a special fuel pump).
Also be sure to pay attention to the popular and very similar chainsaw SD-Master 4518. In terms of characteristics and other parameters, it is identical
An important distinguishing characteristic is the presence of a decompression valve in the second most important component of the saw. When purchasing equipment, keep in mind that, regardless of its size and performance, you will not feel tired when working with the tool for a long time, thanks to the shock-absorbing springs built into the handle of the chainsaw (dampen vibrations harmful to the body)
If we take into account the feedback from tool owners, the system is one hundred percent effective.
An additional pleasant bonus is that to get to the air filter, you don’t need to disassemble the device with a tool; just use the rotary roller.
Chainsaw Hopper 5220
In terms of power, the model is identical to the previous one, but the volume of the main unit is much larger (by as much as 7 cubic centimeters). In addition, the power unit can be used for cutting large-diameter wood, since the guide bar is elongated (50 centimeters). The entire unit weighs 4 kilograms (without all the saw accessories).
Heat-resistant plastic was used to make the device body. Additional advantages:
- the handles have special springs that dampen vibration;
- quick-acting chain brake, which protects the operator from kickback;
- simplified access to the air filter;
- easy access to chain brake;
- innovative technology for fuel consumption (which also reduces the amount of harmful exhaust that enters the atmosphere when the saw is operating);
- quick and easy starting system (improved starter, thanks to which the tool will start even in extreme frost);
- decompression valve;
- the presence of a high-quality coating on the cylinder (it wears out slowly, so you don’t have to worry about frequent replacement of the unit).
Also, if you are considering domestically produced chainsaws, look at the review of Taiga chainsaw models.
You can put Hopper Farmer chainsaws into operation using the universal setup instructions.
User manual
Description of the rules for safe operation of Hopper chainsaws:
- work with the tool only if it is correctly assembled, fill the device with a high-quality fuel mixture (proportion 1:40);
- do not store a petrol tool with a tank full of fuel mixture, always use up the fuel completely if you are going to be inactive for a long time;
- The duration of continuous operation of the household model of the Hopper chainsaw should not exceed 2-3 hours a day.
Description of the rules for safe operation of Hopper electric saws:
- Before starting work, make sure that the cable of the electrical device is not damaged;
- Between the sawing process you need to take breaks - 10 minutes of work, and then 10 minutes of rest; longer work periods are also allowed, provided that the device is used correctly.
Maintenance
Maintenance of Hoper saws is as follows:
- the electric chain saw is connected to a network with a voltage of maximum 230 Volts; if the network voltage is lower, the tool should not be used;
- both types of devices must be cleaned regularly after each use (cleaning air filters, fuel filters as necessary);
- carburetor adjustment is carried out at the service center as long as the Hoper saw is under warranty, later adjustment can be made by the owner no more than twice a year;
- The chain is sharpened with a special file; when the chain wears out, it is replaced with a new one, suitable in terms of the number of links and length;
- the spark plug is replaced on average once every six months with little use, with active use - once a month the carbon deposits are removed, if necessary, the spark plug is replaced;
- The running-in period for a chainsaw is 2-3 hours; you can start using the electric saw without running in, gradually increasing the intensity of work (remember the pauses necessary to cool the engine).
Basic malfunctions and ways to eliminate them
- Overheat
Reason: too intensive use. Remedy: Take short breaks between work sets.
- Doesn't start or stalls after starting
Reason: clogged fuel filters, low fuel quality or sudden power surges. Remedy: Clean the filters, use high-quality gasoline and oil, or make sure the power supply is working properly.
Features of chainsaws
In general, this is a model range with qualities and characteristics that are standard for the modern market in its price category. In terms of design and stated characteristics, they are comparable to expensive chainsaws from well-known brands. But they are inferior to them in terms of reliability and durability.
Of the three options, Model 4518 Farmer has the greatest differences. It is much heavier, which is typical for many Russian-made products:
- Greater margin of safety due to strengthening and increasing the size of the nodes.
- There is more noise during operation, which is not typical for foreign products with a tendency to fight for the environment and silence.
Owner reviews
Nikolay, Rostov:
“An excellent budget option.” Despite the fact that many are accustomed to looking for shortcomings in domestic technology, I am of the opinion that every brand has both successful and unsuccessful models. As for Khoper, I can say that the saws work and do their job perfectly. I have experience using walk-behind tractors from this manufacturer: they are workhorses, and when done properly, they perform well.”
Roman, Chernigov:
“I’ve been using the Hopper 4518 chainsaw for two years now. Advantages: easy to start, works great. Once I had to replace the chain, but it was damaged due to ignorance and lack of experience. Now I use it carefully according to the instructions. Disadvantages: noisy, quite heavy.”