8 Best Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood Like a True Pro

The best chainsaws for cutting firewood like a pro balance power, comfort, and safety so the work feels steady instead of stressful. Strong 62cc gas saws with 18- to 22-inch bars rip through thick logs, while lighter models like the Husqvarna 450 Rancher offer smoother handling and cleaner cuts.

Compact cordless mini chainsaws shine for small logs and pruning. Handy extras like auto-oilers and magnetic measuring gauges quietly turn tough jobs into satisfying routines, and the next sections explain how.

Top Chainsaw Picks for Cutting Firewood

62CC Gas Chainsaw with 20-Inch Bar 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw with 20 Inch Bar Handheld Cordless Heavy-Duty WorkhorsePower Source / Type: Gas chainsaw (62cc, 2‑cycle engine)Primary Use Case: Heavy-duty tree cutting, storm cleanup, and firewood preparationBar / Working Length: 20‑inch guide bar, cuts trunks up to 20 inches thickVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Seesii 6-Inch Cordless Mini Electric Chainsaw Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless, Handheld Electric Power Ultra-Light PrunerPower Source / Type: Cordless electric mini chainsaw (battery powered)Primary Use Case: Light tree trimming, pruning, and small‑log wood cuttingBar / Working Length: 6‑inch guide bar, cuts logs up to about 5.91 inchesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
62cc 20″ Gas Chainsaw with Anti-Vibration System 62cc Gas Chainsaw, 20 Inch Professional Chainsaw with 2-Cycle Engine All-Weather PerformerPower Source / Type: Gas chainsaw (62cc, 2‑cycle engine)Primary Use Case: General firewood cutting and logging in all weatherBar / Working Length: 20‑inch cutting barVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
8-Inch Cordless Mini Chainsaw with Battery and Auto-Oiler VOTREK 8-INCH Mini Chainsaw Cordless, [3.0AH] Battery Powered Electric Chain Best for HomeownersPower Source / Type: Cordless electric mini chainsaw (battery powered, brushless motor)Primary Use Case: Backyard trimming, pruning, and small‑diameter firewood cuttingBar / Working Length: 8‑inch cutting bar, handles thicker limbs than 6‑inch minisVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20″ Gas Chainsaw Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw, 50.2-cc 3.2-HP, 2-Cycle Professional GradePower Source / Type: Gas chainsaw (50.2cc X‑Torq, 2‑cycle engine)Primary Use Case: Tree pruning, yard cleanup, and firewood cuttingBar / Working Length: Compatible with 13–20‑inch bars; commonly sold with 20‑inch barVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Strong Magnetic Firewood Measuring Gauge for Chainsaws FILKO Strong Magnetic Firewood Measuring Tool, Used for Fast Measure Must-Have AccessoryPower Source / Type: Manual magnetic firewood measuring gauge (chainsaw accessory)Primary Use Case: Measuring and cutting uniform firewood lengths with any chainsawBar / Working Length: Adjustable measuring rod from 16 to 29 inches for log lengthVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
NEO-TEC 12″ Top Handle Gas Chainsaw NEO-TEC 12 Inch Top Handle Gas Chainsaw 25.4cc 2-Stroke Portable Best for ArboristsPower Source / Type: Gas chainsaw (25.4cc, 2‑stroke engine)Primary Use Case: Tree climbing, precision pruning, limbing, and firewood prepBar / Working Length: 12‑inch bar with 3/8LP chain (44 drive links)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
62cc Gas Chainsaw with 18 & 22 Inch Bars 62cc Gas Chainsaw, 18 & 22 Inch Professional Chainsaw with Versatile Bar OptionsPower Source / Type: Gas chainsaw (62cc, 2‑cycle engine)Primary Use Case: General logging and firewood cutting with optional bar sizesBar / Working Length: Includes 18‑inch and 22‑inch bar optionsVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. 62CC Gas Chainsaw with 20-Inch Bar

    62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw with 20 Inch Bar Handheld Cordless

    Heavy-Duty Workhorse

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    Should you need a chainsaw that can power through real firewood, not just small limbs, a 62CC gas chainsaw with a 20 inch bar is built for exactly that kind of work. You get a 3.5 HP, 2 cycle engine that hits 7500 RPM, so you slice through thick logs fast, often under 18 seconds.

    You feel that power most at the moment you’re clearing storm damage or bucking a big stack of hardwood. The anti vibration system and non slip handle protect your hands, so you can keep working. Quick starting, easy chain tensioning, strong safety features and clear fuel mix marks keep you confident.

    • Power Source / Type:Gas chainsaw (62cc, 2‑cycle engine)
    • Primary Use Case:Heavy-duty tree cutting, storm cleanup, and firewood preparation
    • Bar / Working Length:20‑inch guide bar, cuts trunks up to 20 inches thick
    • Key Safety Mechanism:Quick‑stop chain brake, safety switch lock, front hand guard
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:Optimized cold/hot start system and side‑mounted, tool‑free chain tensioner
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:Anti‑vibration system and ergonomically designed non‑slip handle
    • Additional Feature:Starts in three seconds
    • Additional Feature:Dual‑tank leak‑resistant system
    • Additional Feature:Clearly marked 25:1 mix
  2. Seesii 6-Inch Cordless Mini Electric Chainsaw

    Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless, Handheld Electric Power

    Ultra-Light Pruner

    View Latest Price

    Should you want a small saw that feels as easy to grab as a hand tool, the Seesii 6‑inch cordless mini electric chainsaw fits that role beautifully. At just 2.62 pounds, you can hold it with one hand, move around brush, and trim branches without feeling worn out. It cuts logs up to about 5.9 inches thick in around eight seconds, so you can quickly slice firewood or prune trees.

    You get two 2.0 Ah batteries, a fast charger, extra chain, tools, gloves, and a case. It comes fully assembled; you just adjust chain tension and start cutting.

    • Power Source / Type:Cordless electric mini chainsaw (battery powered)
    • Primary Use Case:Light tree trimming, pruning, and small‑log wood cutting
    • Bar / Working Length:6‑inch guide bar, cuts logs up to about 5.91 inches
    • Key Safety Mechanism:Overload and temperature protection on batteries; safe one‑hand design
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:Fully assembled out of the box; only chain tension adjustment needed
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:Compact 2.62‑lb body for one‑handed operation
    • Additional Feature:Cuts 5.91″ logs quickly
    • Additional Feature:Self‑overload battery protection
    • Additional Feature:Fully assembled on arrival
  3. 62cc 20″ Gas Chainsaw with Anti-Vibration System

    62cc Gas Chainsaw, 20 Inch Professional Chainsaw with 2-Cycle Engine

    All-Weather Performer

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    Power users who cut a lot of firewood will appreciate how this 62cc 20″ gas chainsaw balances raw strength with smart comfort features. You get a powerful 62cc 2-cycle engine and a 20-inch bar, so big hardwood rounds don’t feel so intimidating. Quick start technology helps you fire it up fast, even during your hands are cold.

    The winterized carburetor with pre-heating lets you work in freezing weather without constant stalling. A forged magnesium crankcase adds long-term durability. The 3D anti-kickback chain brake and anti-vibration design protect your hands, while tool-free chain tensioning keeps maintenance simple and stress-free.

    • Power Source / Type:Gas chainsaw (62cc, 2‑cycle engine)
    • Primary Use Case:General firewood cutting and logging in all weather
    • Bar / Working Length:20‑inch cutting bar
    • Key Safety Mechanism:3D anti‑kickback chain brake system
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:Quick start technology and tool‑free chain tensioning
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:Anti‑vibration and balanced 62cc/20‑inch configuration (implied heavy‑duty comfort)
    • Additional Feature:Winterized carburetor pre‑heating
    • Additional Feature:Forged magnesium crankcase
    • Additional Feature:EPA & CARB compliant
  4. 8-Inch Cordless Mini Chainsaw with Battery and Auto-Oiler

    VOTREK 8-INCH Mini Chainsaw Cordless, [3.0AH] Battery Powered Electric Chain

    Best for Homeowners

    View Latest Price

    In case you want a light, easy tool that still cuts serious firewood, this 8-inch cordless mini chainsaw feels like it was built for you. The 800W brushless motor and 10 m/s chain speed give you real cutting power, not a toy. You can work through oak, pine, and hardwood limbs that are 30 percent thicker than what 6-inch minis can handle.

    The 3.0Ah battery keeps you going for up to 150 cuts on 6-inch logs or 300 cuts on 4-inch branches. At just 2.6 pounds, plus the auto-oiler, safety lock, and kickback-resistant chain, it turns tough work into easy, confidence-building progress.

    • Power Source / Type:Cordless electric mini chainsaw (battery powered, brushless motor)
    • Primary Use Case:Backyard trimming, pruning, and small‑diameter firewood cutting
    • Bar / Working Length:8‑inch cutting bar, handles thicker limbs than 6‑inch minis
    • Key Safety Mechanism:Double security lock, kickback‑resistant chain, protective shield
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:Tool‑free chain tensioning knob and ultra‑light 2.6‑lb body
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:2.6‑lb lightweight design ideal for overhead pruning; ergonomic grip
    • Additional Feature:Brushless 800W motor
    • Additional Feature:Smart electronic auto‑oiling
    • Additional Feature:Lifetime warranty support
  5. Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20″ Gas Chainsaw

    Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw, 50.2-cc 3.2-HP, 2-Cycle

    Professional Grade

    View Latest Price

    For a serious firewood cutter who still wants a saw that feels friendly in the hands, the Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20″ Gas Chainsaw hits a very comfortable sweet spot. You get a 50.2 cc, 3.2 HP X Torq engine that has real muscle, so you can confidently run bars from 13 to 20 inches and slice through hardwood without babying the saw.

    Starting feels forgiving, too. Smart Start cuts the effort, so you’re not yanking forever. While you work, the inertia chain brake, LowVib dampeners, soft grip, and smart air cleaning system all team up to keep you safer, less tired, and more in control.

    • Power Source / Type:Gas chainsaw (50.2cc X‑Torq, 2‑cycle engine)
    • Primary Use Case:Tree pruning, yard cleanup, and firewood cutting
    • Bar / Working Length:Compatible with 13–20‑inch bars; commonly sold with 20‑inch bar
    • Key Safety Mechanism:Inertia‑activated chain brake and LowVib anti‑vibration technology
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:Smart Start system with specially designed starter for minimal‑effort starting
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:LowVib dampeners, soft inlay grip, ergonomic trigger, and asymmetrical handle
    • Additional Feature:X‑Torq fuel‑saving engine
    • Additional Feature:Air Injection filtration system
    • Additional Feature:LowVib vibration dampening
  6. Strong Magnetic Firewood Measuring Gauge for Chainsaws

    FILKO Strong Magnetic Firewood Measuring Tool, Used for Fast Measure

    Must-Have Accessory

    View Latest Price

    Tired of guessing log lengths and ending up with a messy woodpile, you’ll really appreciate how the FILKO Strong Magnetic Firewood Measuring Gauge turns your chainsaw into a simple, accurate cutting system. You just set the telescopic arm between 16 and 29 inches, lock it with the one button buckle, and cut. Every round comes off the log the same size.

    The strong 2.2 inch magnetic base grabs your bar and stays put, even with vibration. Its lightweight aluminum body and bright orange finish keep it tough, rust resistant, and easy to spot in the brush or woodpile.

    • Power Source / Type:Manual magnetic firewood measuring gauge (chainsaw accessory)
    • Primary Use Case:Measuring and cutting uniform firewood lengths with any chainsaw
    • Bar / Working Length:Adjustable measuring rod from 16 to 29 inches for log length
    • Key Safety Mechanism:Strong magnetic base and one‑button buckle to prevent slipping/separation
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:One‑step magnetic installation with telescopic, clearly scaled rod
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:Lightweight aluminum alloy construction and high‑visibility design for less strain and easier sighting
    • Additional Feature:Telescopic 16″–29″ range
    • Additional Feature:High‑visibility orange finish
    • Additional Feature:Strong 2.2″ magnetic base
  7. NEO-TEC 12″ Top Handle Gas Chainsaw

    NEO-TEC 12 Inch Top Handle Gas Chainsaw 25.4cc 2-Stroke Portable

    Best for Arborists

    View Latest Price

    Serious about cutting firewood yet want something light enough to use all day without wrecking your arms and shoulders, you’ll likely connect with the NEO-TEC 12″ Top Handle Gas Chainsaw. You get a 25.4cc 2 stroke engine that puts out 1.2 horsepower and spins up to 12,000 RPM, so cuts feel fast, not forced. The precision carburetor and smart combustion design help you burn less fuel while keeping steady power.

    At only 8 pounds with the 12 inch bar, it feels nimble in your hands. The wrap around handle and low vibration design help your grip stay relaxed instead of tense. A metal lanyard ring lets you run it one handed whenever you’re in a tree or tight spot, so pruning, limbing, and small tree felling feel more controlled. The spring assisted starter lights it up in about 5 seconds, so you spend more time cutting and less time yanking a cord.

    • Power Source / Type:Gas chainsaw (25.4cc, 2‑stroke engine)
    • Primary Use Case:Tree climbing, precision pruning, limbing, and firewood prep
    • Bar / Working Length:12‑inch bar with 3/8LP chain (44 drive links)
    • Key Safety Mechanism:Lightweight top‑handle design with wrap‑around handle for better control aloft
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:Spring‑assisted ignition for one‑pull starts in about 5 seconds
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:8‑lb compact top‑handle saw with wrap‑around handle and reduced vibration
    • Additional Feature:12,000 RPM max speed
    • Additional Feature:Metal lanyard ring
    • Additional Feature:Pre‑inspected before shipping
  8. 62cc Gas Chainsaw with 18 & 22 Inch Bars

    62cc Gas Chainsaw, 18 & 22 Inch Professional Chainsaw with

    Versatile Bar Options

    View Latest Price

    A 62cc gas chainsaw with both 18 and 22 inch bars is a strong match in case you want one saw that can tackle big hardwood rounds yet still feel manageable for regular firewood cutting. The 62cc 2 cycle engine gives you serious cutting power, while quick start technology helps you fire it up without wearing out your arm. You can keep the 18 inch bar on for routine bucking, then switch to the 22 inch bar whenever you face thicker logs or gnarly trunks.

    You’ll also appreciate the winterized carburetor, forged magnesium crankcase, tool free tensioning, and 3D anti kickback chain brake.

    • Power Source / Type:Gas chainsaw (62cc, 2‑cycle engine)
    • Primary Use Case:General logging and firewood cutting with optional bar sizes
    • Bar / Working Length:Includes 18‑inch and 22‑inch bar options
    • Key Safety Mechanism:3D anti‑kickback chain brake system
    • Ease‑of‑Use Highlight:Quick start technology and tool‑free chain tensioning
    • Notable Ergonomic / Comfort Feature:Forged magnesium crankcase for balanced weight and reduced user fatigue (paired with anti‑kickback brake)
    • Additional Feature:Includes 18″ and 22″ bars
    • Additional Feature:Winterized carburetor system
    • Additional Feature:Forged magnesium crankcase

Factors to Consider When Choosing Chainsaws For Cutting Firewood

At the moment someone chooses a chainsaw for firewood, a few key factors quietly decide whether the work feels simple or stressful. Engine power and torque, bar length, and total weight all affect how easily the saw cuts and how tired the user feels afterward. At the same time, safety features, as well as the type of fuel or battery and its runtime, shape how confident and comfortable a person feels every time they pull the trigger.

Engine Power and Torque

Ever contemplate why some chainsaws glide through thick firewood while others choke and slow down? The difference usually comes down to engine power and torque. At the time a saw has higher engine displacement in CCs, it can create more strength and twist. This extra muscle helps the chain keep moving during the wood gets tough.

Two-cycle engines play a big role here. They reach high RPMs quickly, so the saw bites into logs fast and keeps chips flying. Horsepower tells a similar story. More HP means the saw can handle larger logs without dragging down.

Torque really matters at the moment the bar is buried deep. Good torque keeps the chain from stalling and lets the user work steadily without forcing the cut.

Bar Length and Capacity

Power is only part of the story; the length of the bar quietly decides what size wood a saw can really handle. Bar length sets the ceiling on how thick a log you can cut in one smooth pass. Should the bar be too short, every big round feels like a wrestling match.

For most firewood work, many people find an 18 to 22 inch bar hits the sweet spot. It can comfortably tackle logs up to about 20 inches thick, which covers what most wood burners face. Longer bars do increase capacity, yet they can start to feel awkward in tight stacks or around smaller limbs. Tool free chain tensioning on these bars lets users fine tune performance quickly as they move between different log sizes.

Weight and Ergonomics

Although raw cutting power often gets the spotlight, weight and ergonomics quietly decide how long a person can actually keep working without feeling worn out. A lighter saw, often in the 2.6 to 8 pound range, lets someone cut for longer without burning out their shoulders and wrists. This matters a lot whenever a simple “quick job” turns into a full afternoon of firewood.

From there, ergonomics shapes how the saw feels in real hands. Non-slip or soft inlay grips help fingers relax instead of clawing the handle. Wrap-around handles let the user shift positions smoothly. Anti-vibration systems calm the buzz in the arms. At the time these pair with compact, well-balanced bodies and easy, tool-free chain tension knobs, the saw simply feels cooperative instead of punishing.

Safety Features and Brakes

During the period someone is picking a chainsaw for firewood, safety features and brakes matter just as much as cutting power, because they decide what happens in case things go wrong. If a chain grabs or binds, a quick-stop chain brake can freeze the chain in a split second. This helps stop serious injuries before they happen.

A good saw also includes a safety switch lock, so the trigger cannot start the chain accidentally. This is especially comforting around kids, pets, or tired hands. Anti-kickback chain brake systems then step in once the bar suddenly jerks upward.

Strong front hand guards shield fingers from flying chips and the chain. When these features work together, they create a multi-layered safety net that builds real confidence.

Fuel, Battery, and Runtime

During the moment someone is choosing a chainsaw for firewood, fuel type, battery size, and runtime quietly shape how easy and stress free the whole job feels. Gas models usually run longer between stops, since tanks often hold around 550 ml of fuel. For big piles of hardwood, that steady power can feel like a relief.

However, gas needs the right fuel oil mix, such as 25:1, so the engine stays strong and smooth. Someone who prefers simple starts and less smell might lean toward battery power instead.

With batteries, capacity really matters. A 3.0 Ah pack can deliver around 150 cuts on medium logs. Modern protections against overload and heat help each charge stay consistent, even during cutting hard and fast.

Maintenance and Durability

Power and runtime matter a lot, but the way a chainsaw holds up to real firewood work often depends on its maintenance needs and general build quality. Whenever someone is cutting week after week, a fragile saw quickly turns into a headache.

Durable models usually start with strong bones. Forged magnesium crankcases add stiffness and resist warping under heat and stress, so the engine stays tight and reliable. From there, smart details make upkeep less stressful. Tool-free chain tensioning lets a user tighten a loose chain in seconds, which helps prevent kickback and bar damage.

Good fuel system design, like dual-tank setups, limits leaks and supports steady runtime. Anti-vibration systems protect hands from fatigue while also reducing internal wear, so essential parts last longer. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and tension checks then tie everything together.

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Gardening Editorial Team
Gardening Editorial Team

Founded to help gardeners grow healthy, thriving plants, our team of experienced horticulturists and gardening experts carefully researches and produces content grounded in practical knowledge and proven techniques.