If you’re looking for the best petrol chainsaw for domestic use in the UK, you need a model that offers the right balance of power, safety, ease of use, and affordability. Domestic petrol chainsaws are designed for homeowners who need a reliable tool for pruning, cutting firewood, trimming branches, and occasionally felling small trees. These chainsaws should be lightweight, easy to handle, and equipped with essential safety features. Here’s a list of the top petrol chainsaws that are perfect for domestic use in the UK.
Best Domestic Petrol Chainsaws in the UK
1. 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, Air Injection™ air cleaning system, inertia-activated chain brake
- Pros: Lightweight, fuel-efficient, easy to start, great for general garden use
- Cons: Slightly heavier than some competitors
The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is an ideal chainsaw for homeowners who need a versatile and reliable tool for light to medium-duty tasks around the garden. With a 38.2cc X-Torq® engine, this model offers excellent cutting power while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The LowVib® anti-vibration system helps reduce user fatigue, and the Air Injection™ system keeps the engine cleaner for longer, reducing maintenance. The inertia-activated chain brake enhances safety, making it a great choice for users of all experience levels. It’s a dependable, easy-to-use chainsaw that offers excellent value for domestic tasks.
2. Stihl MS 170 Petrol Chainsaw
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 30.1cc, 2-stroke engine
- Bar Length: 30 cm (12 inches) or 35 cm (14 inches)
- Weight: 4.1 kg
- Features: Anti-vibration system, side-access chain tensioner, Ematic chain lubrication system
- Pros: Lightweight, easy to handle, low fuel consumption, great build quality
- Cons: Smaller bar length, not suitable for very heavy-duty tasks
The Stihl MS 170 is a lightweight, user-friendly petrol chainsaw that’s perfect for smaller domestic tasks such as pruning, limbing, and cutting firewood. The 30.1cc engine provides ample power for most light to medium-duty jobs, and the anti-vibration system ensures comfortable use over extended periods. The Ematic chain lubrication system reduces oil consumption by up to 50%, making it more efficient and economical to operate. Its compact design and ease of use make it particularly suitable for beginners or those with smaller gardens. It’s a high-quality chainsaw from a trusted brand, ideal for regular home 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, good build quality, reliable for regular use
- Cons: Smaller fuel tank, not for heavy-duty cutting
The Makita EA3201S35B is another excellent option for homeowners looking for a reliable and easy-to-use petrol chainsaw. With a 32cc engine, it’s powerful enough for cutting firewood, pruning, and general garden maintenance. The Easy Start system reduces the effort needed to start the chainsaw, while the automatic chain lubrication system ensures smooth operation. Weighing just 4.1 kg, it’s one of the lighter models, making it easy to handle and maneuver. It’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks, but for typical domestic use, it’s a dependable and efficient choice.
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, low emissions
- Cons: Lower power output, limited for heavier tasks
The Echo CS-310ES is a lightweight and compact petrol chainsaw designed for small to medium-sized garden tasks. Its 30.5cc engine offers sufficient power for pruning, trimming, and cutting smaller logs. The Easy Start system makes it incredibly easy to get the chainsaw running, and the side-access chain tensioner allows for quick and easy adjustments. The automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated during use, reducing wear and tear. At just 4.0 kg, it’s extremely easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for those who want a lightweight, user-friendly chainsaw.
5. McCulloch CS 450 Elite Petrol Chainsaw
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 45cc, 2-stroke engine
- Bar Length: 45 cm (18 inches)
- Weight: 5.3 kg
- Features: OxyPower engine technology, Soft Start, anti-vibration handle, tool-less chain tensioner
- Pros: More powerful engine, suitable for heavier tasks, easy start system
- Cons: Slightly heavier, higher fuel consumption
The McCulloch CS 450 Elite is a great choice for those who need a more powerful chainsaw that can handle tougher jobs around the home. With a 45cc engine, it provides the extra power needed for cutting thicker logs and felling small to medium-sized trees. The OxyPower engine technology offers increased power with lower fuel consumption and emissions. It also features a Soft Start system that reduces resistance in the starter cord by up to 40%, making it easier to start. The tool-less chain tensioner allows for quick adjustments, and the anti-vibration handle adds comfort. It’s ideal for users who need a versatile chainsaw that can handle more demanding tasks.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Domestic Petrol Chainsaw
When selecting the best petrol chainsaw for domestic use, consider these key factors to ensure it meets your needs:
- Engine Size: A chainsaw with an engine size between 30cc and 40cc is ideal for most domestic tasks, providing a good balance between power and weight.
- Bar Length: A bar length of 12 to 16 inches is ideal for general garden use, offering versatility for pruning, limbing, and cutting firewood.
- Weight: A lighter chainsaw (4-5 kg) is easier to handle and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. Heavier models offer more power but can be tiring.
- Safety Features: Look for features like anti-vibration systems, chain brakes, and easy-start mechanisms to improve safety and comfort.
- Ease of Maintenance: Choose models with tool-less chain tensioning, automatic chain lubrication, and accessible air filters for easy maintenance.
- Reliability and Build Quality: Opt for reputable brands known for their quality, reliability, and after-sales support.
Conclusion
Choosing the best petrol chainsaw for domestic use in the UK depends on your specific needs, experience level, and the range of tasks you plan to tackle. For a versatile and reliable choice, the Husqvarna 120 Mark II and Stihl MS 170 are top picks that offer excellent performance, build quality, and ease of use. If you prefer a lightweight and easy-to-handle model, the Makita EA3201S35B and Echo CS-310ES provide great value and user comfort. For those needing more power for tougher jobs, the McCulloch CS 450 Elite delivers robust performance and versatility.
With the right petrol chainsaw, you can confidently handle any cutting job in your garden with ease and safety!