1. How is it powered?
3 options: electric, gas, and believe it or not - cordless. Deciding which one you want depends on your use. Cordless won't run very long, so you are limited to small cuts where you don't need much power. With an electric, you will be tethered (limited) by your electrical cord. A gas powered saw will allow you to cover anything from the smallest to the largest needs.
2. What is the length of the bar? (the bar is what the chain goes around)
18" is a decent size, but it depends on your use. To approximate how big a tree the chain saw will cut - simply double the bar length. In this case, an 18 inch saw will cut a 36 inch diameter tree
3. How big an engine will you have?
Obviously the bigger the horsepower the more power. Typical HP is from 2-6.
4. What is the motor displacement?
A good displacement will generally be between 50 - 70cc, with the greater the number the more power.
5. How is the chain oiled?
Keeping the chain lubricated is very important. Just make sure you know how it is done before buying. Most have self-oiling mechanisms, but just be aware.
6. How do you adjust the chain tension
It depends on the manufacturers, but you will have to periodically check and tighten your tension, so you want it to be easy to do.
Some manufacturers make their saws to have quick adjustments while others require you to do it manually. If you must do it manually, make sure the adjustment knobs or bolts are easily accessible and not hidden under some plastic guard.
7. What kind of break, or safety feature does it have to stop the chain if something goes wrong?
All should have a quick shut off, of some sort, in case of jam or kickback.
Some have a big plastic guard that gets pushed back and shuts off the saw.
Others have an inertia detector that detects sudden motion change and shuts off the saw. (These obviously cost more)
8. How does it start?
Most have a pull start, but more manufacturers are coming out with devices to make starting easier. Some "easy start" saws have special decompression valves while others have special springs.
9. How is the vibration?
Manufacturers try to minimize the vibrations and such are different for each manufacturer.
Just another thing to look for - do they advertise anything along this line.
10. Does it come with a carrying case?
Most do now a days. Just be sure!
If you have never purchased a chain saw before, these are just a few things to consider. Some models may not offer all these options and other may offer options not listed. In any case, having some prior knowledge about the basic features will help you tremendously in selecting that perfect chain saw for yourself.
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