A 14-inch petrol chainsaw is a great tool for general garden maintenance, light tree felling, pruning, and cutting firewood. The 14-inch bar length strikes a perfect balance between maneuverability and cutting capability, making it suitable for homeowners who need a reliable chainsaw for various tasks. If you’re looking for the best 14-inch petrol chainsaw in the UK, here’s a list of top options that combine performance, safety, ease of use, and affordability.
Best 14-Inch Petrol Chainsaws in the UK
1. Stihl MS 181 Petrol Chainsaw
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 31.8cc, 2-stroke engine
- Bar Length: 35 cm (14 inches)
- Weight: 4.3 kg
- Features: Anti-vibration system, tool-less fuel and oil caps, quick-stop chain brake
- Pros: Lightweight, reliable, low fuel consumption, easy to handle
- Cons: Slightly higher price for a homeowner model
The Stihl MS 181 is a top choice for homeowners looking for a high-quality, reliable 14-inch petrol chainsaw. With its 31.8cc engine, it offers ample power for general garden tasks like pruning, limbing, and cutting small logs. The anti-vibration system significantly reduces user fatigue, making it comfortable to use over extended periods. It also features a quick-stop chain brake for added safety and tool-less fuel and oil caps for easy maintenance. Although it’s slightly more expensive than some other models, its build quality and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a dependable chainsaw.
2. Husqvarna 120 Mark II Petrol Chainsaw
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 38.2cc, 2-stroke X-Torq engine
- Bar Length: 35 cm (14 inches)
- Weight: 4.85 kg
- Features: LowVib® anti-vibration system, X-Torq® for lower fuel consumption, Air Injection™ air cleaning system
- Pros: Powerful engine, fuel-efficient, great for general use
- Cons: Slightly heavier than some competitors
The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is designed for homeowners who need a versatile chainsaw for light to medium-duty work. Its 38.2cc engine provides excellent cutting power, while the X-Torq® technology reduces fuel consumption and emissions. The LowVib® anti-vibration system enhances user comfort, and the Air Injection™ system helps keep the engine cleaner for longer, reducing maintenance needs. At 4.85 kg, it’s slightly heavier than some other 14-inch chainsaws, but the robust build quality and features make it an excellent choice for regular garden maintenance.
3. Makita EA3201S35B Petrol Chainsaw
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 32cc, 2-stroke engine
- Bar Length: 35 cm (14 inches)
- Weight: 4.1 kg
- Features: Easy start system, automatic chain lubrication, anti-vibration system
- Pros: Lightweight, easy to start, reliable brand
- Cons: Smaller fuel tank, not for heavy-duty cutting
The Makita EA3201S35B is known for its user-friendly design and reliable performance, making it a great option for beginners or those who need a lightweight chainsaw. The 32cc engine provides enough power for pruning, trimming, and cutting firewood. It features an Easy Start system that reduces the effort needed to start the engine and an automatic chain lubrication system that ensures smooth operation. Weighing just 4.1 kg, it’s one of the lighter options, making it easy to maneuver around the garden. It’s not designed for heavy-duty work, but it’s perfect for regular maintenance tasks.
4. Echo CS-310ES Petrol Chainsaw
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 30.5cc, 2-stroke engine
- Bar Length: 35 cm (14 inches)
- Weight: 4.0 kg
- Features: Easy Start system, side-access chain tensioner, automatic oiler
- Pros: Very lightweight, low vibration, easy maintenance
- Cons: Lower power output, limited for heavier tasks
The Echo CS-310ES is a compact, lightweight chainsaw designed for small to medium-sized cutting tasks. Its 30.5cc engine provides sufficient power for general gardening work, and its Easy Start system makes starting the engine a breeze. The side-access chain tensioner allows for quick and easy adjustments, and the automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated for smoother cutting. At just 4.0 kg, it’s one of the lightest options available, reducing user fatigue and making it ideal for extended use. It’s best for lighter garden work, but its ease of use and reliability make it a strong contender.
5. McCulloch CS 42S Petrol Chainsaw
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 42cc, 2-stroke engine
- Bar Length: 35 cm (14 inches)
- Weight: 4.9 kg
- Features: Soft start, OxyPower engine technology, anti-vibration handles
- Pros: Powerful engine, easy start system, budget-friendly
- Cons: Slightly heavier, more vibrations than higher-end models
The McCulloch CS 42S offers excellent value for those who need more power on a budget. With a 42cc engine, it can handle more demanding tasks than many other 14-inch chainsaws, such as cutting thicker branches and small to medium-sized logs. The OxyPower engine technology provides extra power with lower emissions and fuel consumption. The Soft Start feature reduces resistance in the starter cord by 40%, making it easier to start. While it’s slightly heavier at 4.9 kg, the anti-vibration handles help to minimize user fatigue. It’s a great option for those who need a bit more power without spending too much.
Key Considerations When Choosing a 14-Inch Petrol Chainsaw
When selecting a 14-inch petrol chainsaw, consider the following factors to ensure it suits your needs:
- Engine Size: A chainsaw with an engine size between 30cc and 40cc is ideal for light to medium-duty tasks. For more demanding tasks, a higher cc (like 42cc) may be necessary.
- Weight: The lighter the chainsaw, the easier it is to handle, especially for extended periods. A weight of around 4 to 5 kg is manageable for most users.
- Safety Features: Look for features like anti-vibration systems, chain brakes, and easy-start mechanisms to improve safety and user comfort.
- Ease of Maintenance: Models with tool-less chain tensioning, automatic chain lubrication, and easy-access fuel and oil caps make maintenance simpler.
- Reliability and Build Quality: Choose a chainsaw from a reputable brand known for durability and reliability, especially if you plan to use it frequently.
Conclusion
Choosing the best 14-inch petrol chainsaw in the UK depends on your specific needs and the type of tasks you’ll be tackling. For those who want a high-quality, reliable chainsaw, the Stihl MS 181 and Husqvarna 120 Mark II are top choices that offer excellent performance and build quality. If you’re looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use model, the Makita EA3201S35B and Echo CS-310ES provide great value and user comfort. For those needing more power on a budget, the McCulloch CS 42S delivers robust performance at an affordable price.
With the right chainsaw, you can confidently tackle any garden task with ease, efficiency, and safety!