With the coming of spring, it’ll be on your shoulders to cut and chop firewood to feed your fireplace. Chainsaws are easy-to-use tools that you may use for various outdoor projects. This review will look at five of the best 18 inch chainsaw tools to help you pick the right one for you.
Things to Consider
Are you looking to cut down trees or prune bushes? Perhaps the most crucial factor to consider when purchasing a new chainsaw is how you want to use it. There are more factors to consider when looking for a chainsaw, however.
Here are five other things to think about when shopping for a new chainsaw to make your job easier.
Determine Your Needs
What are you planning to use the saw for? An electric saw is a perfect choice if you only require a saw a few times a year to perform some pruning and minor trimming around the yard.
It’s essential to pick the proper saw for the job, and remember, bigger isn’t always better! Choose gasoline chainsaws if you frequently chop large amounts of wood. You can also buy used chainsaws if you are not a regular user.
Storage & Weight
If you’re new to chainsaws, a lighter model is preferable since it’s easier to use. Pick a lightweight tool that’s convenient to carry yet capable enough to cut wood.
Gas chainsaws are often the heaviest, whereas corded chainsaws are always the lightest due to the lack of a power source. Battery-powered saws can also be hefty if a multiple-battery holder is used. Learn more about gas-powered vs. battery-powered chainsaws to make a more informed decision.
Bar Length
A chainsaw with a larger blade and bar will let you cut more in a single pass. Chainsaws with bar lengths between ten and fourteen inches are ideal for cutting trees and small limbs in the yard.
If you prefer a highly-efficient chainsaw that can chop slice firewood and small tree trunks, a chainsaw blade of 14 to 18-inches may be the best option. To avoid kickbacks, ensure the chainsaw chain is in good working order.
Power
Power essentially depends on the engine size — the greater it is, the more powerful the engine. Large engines can undertake heavy and challenging tasks like chopping down large trees. Keep in mind that you’d have to deal with a heavier machine if you look at products with large engines.
Small engines are perfect if you need to move around a lot or have light to moderate jobs. The CC rating or capacity of a machine is the best way to determine the power of a chainsaw.
Safety Features
An emergency chain brake is standard on all chainsaws. All you have to do is push it in case anything goes wrong. It’s also relatively simple to turn off the power switch. Although corded devices are safe, you should manage the cable appropriately to avoid accidentally cutting it.
Chainsaw Safety Tips
Always use chainsaws efficiently and safely. Be sure to read your chainsaw’s operator’s manual carefully, as all chainsaws are different. Here are six tips to ensure your safety:
Know the Chainsaw’s Parts
Before turning on the chainsaw, learn about each element and how it works. For example, it’s easy to mix up the chain brake with the handle because they seem similar and are in the same place.
Maintenance Will Help
Your chainsaw’s safety will also depend on how you maintain it. A properly sharpened, tensioned, and oiled chain cuts fast and reduces kickback while minimizing wear on the chain and the bar it rides. On the contrary, an excessively loose chain might slip off the bar and fly towards the operator as it spins.
Wear Proper Protective Clothing
Purchase and put on protective gear. A special pair of chaps can effectively block a spinning chain and save your thigh. A helmet with ear protection and a face screen will protect your head, ear, and eyes. Lastly, wear cut-resistant boots, steel-toed, and a long-sleeved shirt to protect yourself from scratches.
Consider Emissions
While lacerations and amputations are the most common injuries caused by chainsaws, all gasoline-powered instruments emit carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in large quantities. So, never use a gasoline-powered tool inside or in a confined area.
Avoid Kickback
Kickback is when the upper part of the chainsaw guide bar’s nose comes into contact with an object while the chain is running. Another reason for a kickback is when wood or other material closes upon the moving chain and pinches it. Chainsaws with small guide bars have a lower (but not zero) likelihood of kicking back.
Limit Your Proximity to Saw
Chainsaws can not only cut you but also entangle you in their fast-moving chains. Clothing, jewelry, hair, gloves, and anything else that flutters in the hair or moves around could get caught between the chain and prove disastrous.
Best 18 Inch Chainsaw: Our Top Picks
In Hurry! Then here are our top 5 18 inch chainsaw for you.
1. Best Overall – uEGO Power + CS1804 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chainsaw/u
2. Best Budget – uPoulan Pro PR4218 18 Inch 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw/u
3. Best Runner Up – uGreenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw/u
4. Best Under $80 – uMaxlander Electric Chainsaw Corded 18 Inch Electric Chainsaw/u
5. Alternative – uHusqvarna 450R 18 Inch Gas Chainsaw/u
Best 18 Inch Chainsaw Product Review
1. EGO Power+ CS1804 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chainsaw – Best Overall
The EGO CS1804 is my overall winner since it offers the best combination of exceptional performance, ease of use, durability, pricing, and energy efficiency. It’s a standout brand and is unbelievably well-priced for its features.
With a couple of extra inches on the bar, the EGO 18′′ cordless chainsaw is more than simply an upgrade to their 16′′ model. The chain can rotate at a maximum speed of 11000 RPM, ensuring a clean and efficient cut every time. Also, the 18-inch bar makes it much easier to cut deeper and reach higher branches with less effort.
The power tool is equipped with a brushless motor, providing it more power to make for the most fabulous cutting experience. This is useful for felling small trees and performing other slightly heavier jobs.
This tool comes with an Automatic Tool-Free Chain Tensioning System for ease of use. This is the best saw for you if you want an easy-to-use electric chainsaw with a long bar length and a long-lasting battery.
Wait till we tell you its additional features, including an LED light, metal spikes for mounting your tool, and an 18-inch bar that boosts overall performance and convenience of usage.
Say the power goes out, and you can’t wait for the sun to come up. In that case, the LED on this saw will save the day for you.
Specifications
- Brand: EGO Power+
- Product Dimensions: 34 x 9.9 x 9.5 inches
- Item Weight: 22.3 pounds
- Power source: Battery
Pros
- Top-notch performance
- LED lights
- Long bar
- Easy chain tensioning
- Incredible run time
- Fast cutting
- Chain brake
- Fast charging
Cons
- Average wind-up time
2. Poulan Pro PR4218, 18 in. 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw – Best Overall
The Poulan Pro, 18 inch bar chainsaw is perfect for medium-duty storm cleanup, felling trees, and chopping firewood thanks to its powerful 2-cycle engine.
If you don’t have a dedicated room in your garage for power tools, storing your chainsaw can be challenging. The Poulan Pro PR4218 comes with a standard case and is a fantastic choice in this situation.
This lightweight chainsaw comes with extras like a super clean air filter system that extends the air filter’s life and reduces fuel consumption without compromising power.
The PR4218 is equipped with an automated oiler to maintain the bar in top shape. Poulan’s unique OxyPower motors save gas and decrease pollutants by 70%.
The automatic gear-driven oiler also helps keep the chain and bar oiled, decreasing wear and maintenance requirements.
A Poulan Pro Chainsaw combines the best of both worlds, providing a powerful operating saw at an affordable price. The Poulan Pro PR4218 has an incredible power to mass ratio thanks to its great soft-grip handles and low vibration levels.
The 42cc 2-stroke engine is powerful enough to handle fallen trees and heavy branches and is also ideal for cutting up wood into firewood. Since it’s gas-powered, you can use this chainsaw anywhere without worrying about it running out of battery and needing to be plugged in.
Specifications
- Brand: Poulan Pro
- Product Dimensions: 24 x 10 x 11 inches
- Item Weight: 13.25 Pounds
- Power Source: Gas
Pros
- Top-notch air filter system
- Lower emissions
- Less fuel consumption
- Durable
- Requires less maintenance
- Comes with carrying case
- Ergonomic design
- Effortless pull start or EPS
Cons
- Takes some time to start
3. Greenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw – Best Runner Up
Greenworks is a well-known power tool manufacturer and its cordless chainsaws are no exception. The GCS80450 is a cordless chainsaw that features a DigiPro brushless motor. It has the same power as a 45cc gas chainsaw and the same sturdy and solid feel in your hands as a gas chainsaw.
It’s clear why this model is getting so much attention. To begin with, you won’t have to deal with all of the disadvantages of a gas-powered chainsaw.
Brushless motors are a significant advancement that adds to 70% less noise, 30% more torque, and 30% less vibration. Brushless motors also consume less energy, resulting in longer battery life. It’s a lot quieter, and you won’t have to worry about the weather affecting the ease with which you can start your power tool.
This saw offers an excellent cut quality and a long runtime. Most importantly, it boasts a lightning-fast battery recharge time, allowing you to spend less time checking the battery meter and more time getting things done.
This version is one of my favorites because of the charge time and various features like metal bucking spikes, a long bar, an upright oil tank, a conveniently positioned battery compartment, and an easy-to-use chain tensioning system.
It’s suitable for storm cleanup, felling trees, and branch pruning and limbing. The brushless motor and the chainsaw come with a ten and four-year warranty, respectively.
Specifications
- Brand: Greenworks
- Product Dimensions: 32.4 x 9.65 x 7.56 inches
- Item Weight: 10.8 Pounds
- Power Source: Battery
Pros
- More power and longer run times
- Easy to use
- Wrap around handle
- More efficient motor
- More extended bar and more features
- Excellent warranty period
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a battery
4. Maxlander Electric Chainsaw Corded 18 Inch Electric Chainsaw – Best Under $80
MaxLander is a well-known power equipment brand, including electric chainsaws, and is known for producing high-quality items at a reasonable price.
One of the best features of this chainsaw is its rapid start option, which is always a nice feature to have in an electric corded chainsaw. It has a chain speed of 15m/s and an extremely outstanding balance, allowing for quicker cuts.
This chainsaw also comes with a comfortable and ergonomic handle, making handling easier. In addition, it has an automated oiling system and is far less noisy than gas chainsaws.
You can effortlessly cut trees and tree branches with its 18-inch blade driven by a moderately powerful 15A motor.
The battery life on this cordless electric chainsaw is nothing short of impressive, thanks to a 4.0 Ah battery. Say the battery runs out, in that case, you wouldn’t have a cause for concern since the chainsaw’s battery replacement is a breeze.
You get a 2-year warranty with this chainsaw, which is an excellent deal considering its low price. It also has features like an auto oiler, a safety switch, a rapid start, etc. These factors come together to make it an excellent value-for-money alternative for many customers.
Specifications
- Brand: MAXLANDER
- Package Dimensions: 21 x 9.5 x 9 inches
- Item Weight: 12 pounds
- Power Source: AC
Pros
- Excellent cutting performance
- Auto oiling
- Fast cut
- Lightweight
- Easy to balance
- Suitable for cutting large rounds
Cons
- A bit too heavy
5. Husqvarna 450R 18″ Gas Chainsaw, Orange – Alternative
The Husqvarna 450R 18-inch chainsaw has all the features you’d expect from a gas chainsaw.
It’s a high-quality machine with a high-torque engine, an innovative start system, precision-engineered saw that makes it simple to use and run. Its safety features guarantee you don’t injure yourself while operating it and offer the type of power you’d expect from a multi-purpose chain saw.
This 3.2 horsepower gas chainsaw has a razor-sharp blade, a comfortable handle, and a powerful motor, so rest assured as this chainsaw will do nothing but simplify cutting wood.
It’s simple to turn on and get going, thanks to its SmartStart feature. The X-Torq engine can reduce pollution by up to 60% while lowering fuel consumption by 30%.
It also comes with Husqvarna’s LowVib anti-vibration technology, making it comfortable to operate for extended periods. And how can we forget its unique centrifugal air injection cleaning technology, which aids in keeping the machine clean. You’ll also be able to quickly and easily remove the air filter, making maintenance and cleaning a breeze.
It successfully reduces recoil cord resistance by up to 40%, resulting in faster starts and significantly less fatigue for you. All in all, it’s ideal for semi-regular use and is an excellent multifaceted chainsaw, making it a perfect pick for anyone who plans to use it for various tasks.
Specifications
- Brand: Husqvarna
- Product Dimensions: 32 x 10.98 x 9 inches
- Item Weight: 14 Pounds
- Power Source: Gas
Pros
- LowVib vibration dampening system
- Centrifugal air cleaning system
- SmartStart for easy starts
- Lightweight frame
- Easy to start
- Powerful 2-cycle engine
- Inertia activated chain brake
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty activities
FAQs
How do I Know If I Need to Sharpen My Chain?
A sharp saw produces huge chips rather than sawdust. It’s time to give your chain some TLC if you notice your saw making sawdust or if you find yourself having to “push” the saw into the material since it no longer “pulls” itself.
Which Chainsaw is Safer?
Electric chainsaws have slower chain speeds, making them safer than gas-powered chainsaws. They are no longer than 18 inches and also have short bars. In addition, their blades run only while cutting, eliminating the chances of kickbacks.
Can an 18-Inch Chainsaw Overheat?
Yes, it’s possible for a powerful chainsaw motor to get too hot, especially in the summer, since it runs at high temperatures. Debris, dust, or oil collection might jam the suction areas on the saw, causing it to overheat. To avoid this problem, you must maintain and clean the saw regularly. You should also clean and lube the engine, guides, and chains to reduce friction and avoid overheating.
Final Thoughts
Having the best 18 inch chainsaw around the house is essential. Consider how many things you can achieve with just one tool. It has plenty of muscle to get you through any task.
Now that you’ve seen some of the best 18-inch chainsaws available, which one was your favorite? Here’s a quick rundown to assist you in making the decision:
- The EGO Power+ CS1804 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chain Saw is an excellent pick if money and pricing are not a major concern for you and you prefer a more powerful chainsaw with long battery life.
- The Poulan Pro PR4218, 18 in. 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw is ideal for anyone looking for a convenient storage option and a high-quality chainsaw.
- If you’re looking for a professional-grade cordless chainsaw, the Greenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw is what you should be looking at.
- If you need a tool with a lower price tag, Maxlander Electric Chainsaw Corded 18 Inch Electric Chainsaw is a fantastic option — it has good reviews as well.
- Husqvarna 450R 18″ Gas Chainsaw, Orange is an attractive choice for anyone looking for a tool in the mid-power range.
We hope you’re now a proud owner of an awesome 18-inch chainsaw that would serve you well in your household projects, be it for clearing bushes, building new furniture, or adding new landscaping.
