Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

Hey guys, I am looking into buying a new chainsaw, but I am torn between buying a gas or an electric one. Which do you recommend?

I've used both gas and electric, but favor the gas model by a wide margin. Portability is much better, and the smaller ones (16" and below) aren't heavy enough to be an issue. Also, it's no contest when it comes to raw power. I've cut down 26" oaks with my 16" gas saw. Won't say it was easy, but it powered through. Electrics are limited by their operating current - usually 15 Amps or less. They just don't have the punch for large logs or heavy felling - let alone running all day long. There's also the concern about live electric cords strewn around your outside work area.

For small timber and limbing work, electric models can get the job done. Plus there's no gas to mix, no oil to fill, much quieter in operation, and no smell (unless you burn up the motor or cord). But I'm surrounded by forest, which requires regular thinning. Hauling around a generator and 200' of cord is just not practical. If all you want to do is buck firewood near your electrified woodshed, this might be your best option. If you intend to use your saw frequently, though, I'd say a smaller gas model would be the better choice.