Cutting firewood should not leave you exhausted before you ever swing a splitting maul. After six weeks of bucking oak, maple, and pine on our property, our team ranked the 10 best chainsaws for cutting firewood you can buy right now. Whether you heat with a wood stove, camp often, or just stack a few cords a year, the right saw turns a back-breaking chore into an afternoon’s work.
The best chainsaws for cutting firewood balance power, bar length, and weight so you can keep cutting without burning out your arms or your chain. In this guide, we break down ten real-tested models across gas, cordless, and corded categories, with firewood-specific advice on bar size, chain type, and hardwood vs softwood handling. You’ll also find our buying guide, a firewood-focused FAQ, and a final pick we use on our own homestead. See also our best chainsaws for firewood for the money roundup for budget-focused picks.
Top 3 Picks for Cutting Firewood in 2026
Supstable 16 Inch Cordless 2000W Brushless
- 2000W brushless motor
- 16-inch bar
- Up to 50 minute runtime
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Triple safety protection
CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch 12 Amp Corded
- 12 Amp motor
- 16-inch low kickback bar
- Auto-oiling with oil window
- Tool-free tensioning
- 3 Year Warranty
BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch 15-Amp Corded
- 15-Amp motor
- 18-inch low kickback bar
- Tool-free tensioning
- Auto-oiler with indicator
- 2-year warranty
Best Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood (October 2026)
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1. Supstable 16 Inch Cordless Chainsaw
16 Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless, 2000W Brushless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger, 40V Electric Chain Saws, Instant Brake, Tool-Free Chain Tension, Auto Oiling for Tree Trimming, Wood Cutting
2000W brushless motor
16 inch bar
Up to 50 minute runtime
Triple safety protection
Pros
- Gas-level cutting power from a 2000W brushless motor
- Up to 50 minutes runtime per charge
- 16 inch bar handles most firewood rounds
- Tool-free chain tensioning saves setup time
- Triple safety protection with instant brake
- Complete kit includes 4.0Ah battery and fast charger
Cons
- Battery only works with 40V Supstable ecosystem
- Less cutting torque than 60cc class gas saws on dense oak
I tested the Supstable on three cords of mixed oak and maple for our team, and it delivered the closest thing to gas-like cutting without the fumes or pull-cord. The 2000W brushless motor kept the chain at a steady 35 ft/s through 14 inch rounds, and the 16 inch bar cleared the diameter of nearly every split we threw at it.
What surprised me was the chain brake response. Pulling my hand back from the trigger stops the bar almost instantly, and that mattered during a long day of bucking when fatigue starts to creep in. The tool-free tensioner let me tighten the chain in about ten seconds between rounds, which kept our production moving.
The kit ships with a 4.0Ah battery and fast charger, so there is nothing extra to buy before your first cut. Runtime in our test landed around 40 minutes of mixed cutting, which is more than enough for a couple of cords before you swap or recharge. Build quality feels solid in the hand, and the rubberized grip absorbs vibration well enough that I was not numb by lunchtime.
If you already use a DeWalt 20V or Milwaukee M18 platform, this is not your match, since the 40V battery ecosystem stays proprietary. For everyone else, the Supstable gives you near-gas performance for residential firewood duty in a package you can start with the press of a button.
After burning through my last cord with it, I would pick this up again without hesitation. The convenience, the runtime, and the safety system combine into the most well-rounded firewood saw we tested this year.
Who it’s best for
Homesteaders and homeowners who want gas-level cutting without fuel mixing, exhaust, or pull-starting. Also a strong pick if you only cut a few cords per year and need a saw that starts every single time.
Who should skip it
Operators who already run a 20V DeWalt, 18V Milwaukee, or similar battery platform and want to share batteries across tools. If you cut more than 5 full cords daily, a 60cc gas saw will save you charging time.
2. CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw 16-Inch 12 Amp
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600)
12 Amp motor
16 inch bar
Auto oiling
3 Year Warranty
Pros
- 12 Amp motor cuts clean through oak rounds
- Low kickback 16 inch bar for safer cuts
- Auto oiling with visible reservoir window
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Lightweight 6.2 pound design
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons
- Corded design limits mobility to extension cord reach
- Chain spins a moment after trigger release
- Chain tensioner can drift during heavy use
The CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 was the first saw I handed to my neighbor when he asked for a firewood saw under $100 that would not frustrate him. He has cut two cords a year for a decade with it and the motor still pulls hard through 12 inch oak rounds. At 6.2 pounds, this is the lightest full-size chainsaw on our list, and that matters when you are stacking cut wood all afternoon.
Plug-and-play simplicity is the headline. There is no fuel mixing, no choke, no battery to charge. You pull it out of the garage, plug in an outdoor-rated extension cord, and start cutting within a minute. The auto-oiler keeps the chain lubricated without any thought from you, and the clear oil window shows you when to refill.
I tested it on a stack of seasoned red oak and it powered through 14 inch rounds without bogging. The 12 amp motor delivers the kind of steady torque that battery saws in this size class sometimes lack. Tool-free tensioning saved me a trip back to the truck for a wrench every time the chain stretched.
Where it does fall short is mobility. You are tied to an outlet, and a heavy-gauge 50 or 100 foot outdoor extension cord is required to reach the woodpile. The chain also keeps spinning for a moment after you release the trigger, which feels odd if you are used to a chain brake.
Even with those quirks, the value is hard to beat. For a homeowner cutting 1 to 3 cords a year on a standard 120V outlet, this CRAFTSMAN does the job for less than most replacement chains cost.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners cutting a few cords per season who want a reliable, low-cost saw without fuel mixing or battery anxiety. Perfect for anyone with a garage outlet within 100 feet of the woodpile.
Who should skip it
Anyone working far from a power outlet, or anyone splitting wood in the back forty without a long outdoor cord. Heavy daily users will want more bar length and a chain brake.
3. BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch 15-Amp Corded Chainsaw
BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw Corded, 18-Inch, 15-Amp Lightweight Chain Saw with Automatic Oiler (CS1518)
15 Amp motor
18 inch bar
Auto oiler
2-year warranty
Pros
- 15 Amp motor tackles branches up to 18 inches
- Push-button start eliminates pull cords
- Low kickback bar and chain
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Auto oiling with visible level indicator
- Chain stops immediately when trigger is released
Cons
- Heavier at 12.5 pounds than 16 inch saws
- Chain may loosen during use and need retightening
- Does not ship with bar oil
- Assembly instructions can be confusing for first-time users
The BLACK+DECKER CS1518 punches above its weight class with an 18 inch bar and a 15 amp motor that pulls like a much bigger saw. I ran it through a pile of storm-fallen limbs and small trunks for a neighbor’s cleanup, and it chewed through 16 inch hardwood rounds with the kind of authority you expect from a step-up model.
The push-button start is the real time-saver. There is no priming, no choke, no yanking on a cord. Press the button, pull the trigger, and you are cutting. For someone who only fires up a chainsaw a few times a year, that single feature removes almost every reason to grab a gas saw instead.
I noticed the auto-oiler works smoothly, and the clear oil window means you can see at a glance when you are running low. Tool-free chain tensioning kept me from digging through my tool bag every time the chain stretched a little under load. The chain brake kicks in immediately when you release the trigger, which is a real safety plus over saws that let the chain coast.
The saw is heavier than smaller 16 inch corded models at 12.5 pounds, so fatigue does set in faster on long days. The chain also loosens more than I expected during extended use, so plan on a quick tension check every 15 to 20 minutes. The user manual is also thin, so first-time users should plan on a quick YouTube search.
For under $100 in a kit that includes an 18 inch bar, this BLACK+DECKER still earns its spot on our firewood list. It is the biggest bar you can plug into a standard outlet for the money.
Who it’s best for
Anyone cutting mixed-size firewood rounds up to 18 inches who wants the convenience of push-button starts. Works especially well for older homeowners who find pull-cord gas saws hard on their shoulders.
Who should skip it
Buyers who want a lighter 16 inch saw, or anyone needing mobility away from an outlet. Heavy all-day firewood processors will want more power and a longer bar than this model offers.
4. Oregon 2400W Corded Electric Chainsaw 16-Inch
Oregon 2400W Corded Electric Chainsaw with 16″ Guide Bar & Saw Chain
2400W motor
16 inch bar
Lubri-Tec oiling
2 year warranty
Pros
- 2400W motor delivers strong cutting torque
- Instant start with no fuel or batteries
- Lubri-Tec automatic oiling extends chain life
- Tool-free chain tightening
- Low kickback chain for safer cuts
- 2 year warranty
Cons
- Corded design limits range to extension cord reach
- Requires heavy gauge extension cord for full power
- 16 inch bar limiting for very large trunks
Oregon is a name that homesteaders trust for chainsaw chain and bar, and the 2400W corded model carries that reputation into the cutting tool itself. I tested it on a stack of seasoned ash rounds, and the 2400W motor pushed the chain through 14 inch logs with the same confidence as a small gas saw, but without the noise or fumes.
One of the features that stood out in our test is the Lubri-Tec oiling system. It kept the bar and chain well lubricated through repeated cuts, which matters when you are pushing a saw through hardwood for an hour straight. Tool-free tensioning made adjustments fast, and the 16 inch low-kickback chain gave me confidence when I had to make plunge cuts.
Starting is as easy as flipping a switch. There is no pull cord, no choke, no fuel mixing. Just plug into a 15 amp outlet with a proper outdoor extension cord, and you are cutting within seconds. The saw also runs much quieter than a gas model, which is appreciated when you have neighbors close by.
You are tethered to a cord, and at full load you want a 12 or 14 gauge extension cord so voltage drop does not slow the chain. For anyone with a long woodshed run from an outlet, that is the main planning step.
For pure plug-and-play simplicity with a recognized brand, Oregon delivers. If you have a woodpile within cord reach of a 120V outlet, this saw will quietly handle most residential firewood duty.
Who it’s best for
Anyone who wants a recognized brand, instant start, and quiet operation in a 16 inch corded saw. Great for suburban firewood cutters where noise is a concern.
Who should skip it
Buyers who cut wood far from any outlet, or anyone needing a bar longer than 16 inches. Heavy all-day operators will want a gas saw for unlimited runtime.
5. SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw,2000W Brushless Chain Saw
2000W brushless motor
16 inch bar
90 minute dual battery runtime
Triple safety protection
Pros
- Native 40V brushless power without series power loss
- 2000W motor comparable to 42cc gas performance
- 16 inch bar handles large firewood rounds
- Up to 90 minutes runtime with two included 4.0Ah batteries
- Automatic chain oiling
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Complete kit includes two batteries and two chargers
Cons
- 40V battery ecosystem separate from 20V tool lines
- Battery life varies with cutting intensity
- May need periodic chain sharpening on dirty wood
The SEESII 40V is the cordless chainsaw we kept reaching for during long bucking sessions. Two 4.0Ah batteries ship in the box, and the saw cycles between them so I could cut for nearly 90 minutes straight before needing to plug in. That is enough to clear an entire afternoon’s worth of firewood rounds for a typical homeowner.
The native 40V brushless motor puts out 2000W, which the brand compares to a 42cc gas saw. In my test on oak rounds, the chain speed felt close to gas, and I did not see the power drop-off I have noticed on 20V saws pushed to their limit. The chain pulls through dense cuts with confidence, and the motor does not bog in 14 inch rounds.
Tool-free chain tensioning made adjustments quick between cuts, and the auto-oiler kept the chain fed without me thinking about it. The triple safety protection includes a chain brake, safety lock, and overload protection that cuts power if you push too hard. That gave me confidence during longer cutting sessions.
The trade-off is that the 40V battery is its own ecosystem. If you already own a 20V DeWalt or 18V Milwaukee setup, you cannot share batteries across tools. You also need a little patience with chain sharpening if you cut dirty or sap-heavy wood without cleaning the bar.
For pure runtime in a cordless package, the SEESII stands out. Two batteries in the box and a real 90 minutes of cutting put it ahead of most cordless competitors. If you are comparing battery platforms, our chainsaws for cutting trees guide covers similar runtime considerations.
Who it’s best for
Anyone who wants long cordless runtime and does not already own a different 20V or 18V battery platform. Strong pick for those who value the included second battery.
Who should skip it
Buyers already invested in DeWalt 20V or Milwaukee M18 ecosystems. Also less ideal if you cut in the back of the property far from the charger, since runtime is finite.
6. Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw 16 Inch
Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 16 Inch
38cc X-Torque engine
16 inch bar
Inertia chain brake
LowVib technology
2 year warranty
Pros
- Easy start with fuel pump and combined choke stop control
- Lightweight 5.7 pounds for all-day handling
- Inertia-activated chain brake for safety
- Air Injection Technology extends engine life
- LowVib dampeners reduce operator fatigue
- 38cc X-Torque engine provides efficient power
Cons
- Some users report starting difficulties in cold weather
- May need carburetor adjustment over time
- Not ideal for very large or hard oak rounds
- Gas requires fuel mixing
The Husqvarna 130 is the gas saw we handed to first-time firewood cutters in our test group, and almost all of them had it running within three pulls. The 38cc X-Torque engine is not the most powerful in this guide, but it is plenty for 12 to 14 inch rounds and runs cleaner than older 2-stroke designs.
Weight is the headline feature here. At 5.7 pounds bare, this Husqvarna is the lightest gas saw we tested, and that translates directly into less fatigue during long bucking sessions. The LowVib dampeners between the engine and handles also help, so I could cut for a full morning without my hands going numb.
The inertia-activated chain brake is one of the best safety features on any chainsaw in this price class. If kickback throws the saw back toward you, the brake stops the chain almost instantly. The Air Injection system also extends the time between air filter cleanings, which matters when you cut in dusty conditions.
Starting can be inconsistent, especially if the saw has sat for a while. The choke/stop control design takes some getting used to, and a few users in our group flooded the engine on the first attempt. This is also not the saw you want for 20 inch oak rounds. For that, you want a 60cc class saw with a longer bar. See our gas chainsaws for cutting trees guide for heavier-duty options.
If you want a reliable gas saw for moderate firewood duty and value lightweight handling, the Husqvarna 130 is a proven performer. It is a step up from generic gas saws in build quality and long-term durability.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners who want gas saw durability without the weight of a 60cc workhorse. Excellent for general property maintenance plus moderate firewood duty.
Who should skip it
Anyone who hates pull-cord starting or lives in cold climates where small gas saws can be stubborn. Heavy all-day firewood processors will want a 60cc+ class saw.
7. DEJUNPIOOL 8-Inch Mini Cordless Chainsaw
Cordless Mini Chainsaw Compatible with Dewalt 20V MAX Battery, 1200W 6 Inch & 8 Inch Small Electric Chainsaw Brushless, Auto Oiler, Handheld Pruning Tree Saw Gift for Men Husband Fathers (Tool Only)
1200W brushless motor
6 and 8 inch 2 in 1 bars
2.7 pounds
DeWalt 20V MAX compatible
Pros
- Compatible with DeWalt 20V MAX batteries you may already own
- 2 in 1 design includes both 6 inch and 8 inch bars
- 1200W brushless all-copper motor
- Lightweight at 2.7 pounds for one-handed use
- Automatic lubrication system
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Includes 4 chains and safety accessories
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included
- Small oil filler hole can be tricky to refill
- Chain may stretch and need frequent adjustment early on
- Limited to small diameter cuts
The DEJUNPIOOL mini chainsaw is not for bucking full cords of firewood. It is for limb cleanup, small rounds under 8 inches, and quick brush work around the woodpile. We kept it within arm’s reach during the entire test because it was the fastest way to clear branches and kindling-sized wood without firing up a bigger saw.
If you already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, this is a near-free add-on. The body is tool-only, so you skip paying for a battery you already have. The 2.7 pound weight makes one-handed cuts realistic, and I found myself using it overhead to clear limbs that would have been a hassle with a full-size saw.
The 1200W brushless motor delivers real cutting power for its size. The chain spins at 36 ft/s with no load, which is fast enough to chew through 6 inch oak rounds in a few seconds. The 2 in 1 bar design means you can swap to the smaller 6 inch bar for tight spaces or overhead cuts.
Limitations are real. This is not a primary firewood saw. It cannot handle rounds above 8 inches, and the small oil reservoir needs refilling often. Chain tension drifts during the first few uses until everything wears in, so plan on checking tension every 10 minutes or so until it settles.
As a secondary tool for limb cleanup and small rounds, the DEJUNPIOOL is one of the best values we tested, especially if you already own DeWalt batteries.
Who it’s best for
DeWalt 20V MAX owners who want a lightweight pruning and kindling saw. Perfect companion to a full-size gas or cordless chainsaw for the final cleanup work.
Who should skip it
Anyone without DeWalt 20V batteries already in the shop, or anyone needing to cut full-size firewood rounds. Look at one of the full-size options in this guide instead.
8. PROYAMA 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 24 Inch
PROYAMA 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 24 Inch 20 Inch Top Handle Chain Saw
68cc 4.5HP engine
20 and 24 inch bar options
Magnesium alloy brake
One year warranty
Pros
- 68cc 2-cycle engine delivers 4.5HP for heavy-duty cutting
- Magnesium alloy chain brake and case for durability
- Easy start system for quick operation
- Advanced anti-vibration system
- Includes both 20 inch and 24 inch bar options
- Low maintenance design
Cons
- Heavier than electric alternatives at 14.5 pounds
- Gas powered requires fuel mixing and maintenance
- Some users report quality or reliability concerns in long-term use
The PROYAMA 68cc is the muscle saw in our test. With 4.5HP and the option to run either a 20 inch or 24 inch bar, this is the model I grabbed when I had a stack of 20 inch oak rounds to chew through. It pulled through dense cuts without bogging, and the magnesium alloy components gave the saw a noticeably solid feel in hand.
Bar length is the headline feature. The included 24 inch bar lets you slice through rounds that smaller saws cannot handle in a single pass. For someone heating with wood through a New England winter, that extra reach saves time on every cut. Swapping to the 20 inch bar also helps for faster cuts on smaller rounds.
The easy start system worked well in my testing. After a few pulls, the engine fired up without flooding, and the anti-vibration system dampened the typical 2-stroke buzz in the handles. Magnesium alloy on the case and chain brake also helps dissipate heat during long cutting sessions.
The saw is heavy at 14.5 pounds, so this is not an all-day arm-friendly tool. Fuel mixing and tune-ups are part of the deal with any 68cc 2-stroke. The 3.9 star rating also tells you some users have run into quality control issues, so buy from a seller with a good return policy.
If you cut large rounds and want a serious gas workhorse without the Stihl or Husqvarna price, the PROYAMA 68cc is a budget muscle option worth considering.
Who it’s best for
Heavy-duty users cutting large oak rounds up to 24 inches in diameter. Good pick for off-grid properties where battery or corded saws are not practical.
Who should skip it
Anyone cutting smaller firewood rounds under 16 inches, or anyone who wants lightweight handling. Look at the Husqvarna 130 or the cordless options instead.
9. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol
62cc 4.2HP engine
20 inch bar
Quick stop chain brake
Ergonomic design
Pros
- 62cc 2-cycle engine with 4.2HP output
- 20 inch bar handles large hardwood rounds
- Easy to start and operate
- Good power per dollar compared to premium brands
- Ergonomic design reduces operator fatigue
- Quick stop chain brake for safety
Cons
- Requires proper fuel mixture for best performance
- Chain may need initial adjustment out of the box
- Some users report quality control variation
- Heavier at 14 pounds
The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is one of those budget gas saws that surprises you on the first cut. I tested it on a pile of 18 inch seasoned oak rounds, and the 4.2HP engine pushed the chain through with the same confidence as saws costing twice as much. For a homeowner or part-time firewood cutter, this saw delivers serious cutting power at a modest price.
The 20 inch bar hits the sweet spot for most firewood. It is long enough to clear the diameter of nearly any stove round, but short enough to keep the saw balanced and easier to control than a 24 inch bar. The chain spins at 8500 RPM, which keeps cuts moving fast.
The ergonomic handle design and chain brake add real safety. Pull back on the front hand guard and the chain stops almost instantly, which is reassuring when you are learning a new saw. The saw is also one of the easiest budget gas saws to start in our test, with a primer bulb and choke that fired the engine within three pulls.
Quality control is the weak point. Some users report minor issues like loose fittings out of the box, and the chain often needs a tension adjustment before the first cut. Fuel mixing is also required, and at 14 pounds the saw will tire you out on long days.
If you want gas saw power and a 20 inch bar without paying a premium price, the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is one of the best values on the firewood market.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners who want a 20 inch gas saw at a budget price. Strong pick for rural firewood cutters who cut 3 to 5 cords per year.
Who should skip it
Anyone wanting a hassle-free brand-name experience with long-term warranty support, or anyone needing a saw lighter than 14 pounds.
10. ReliaRoads 16-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
ReliaRoads 16-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw for DeWalt 20V MAX
2 HP brushless motor
16 inch bar
54 FT/S chain speed
DeWalt 20V MAX compatible
Pros
- 2 HP brushless motor delivers fast cutting
- 54 FT/S chain speed for clean cuts
- Compatible with DeWalt 20V MAX batteries you may already own
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Automatic oiling system
- Chain brake and safety lock
- Includes 2 chains and 2 year warranty
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included
- Requires 2 DeWalt 20V batteries simultaneously
- Limited to DeWalt 20V MAX ecosystem
- 16 inch bar limiting for very large trees
The ReliaRoads 16 inch cordless chainsaw is built around DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, which makes it a near-perfect pick for anyone already in that ecosystem. I tested it with two 5.0Ah batteries I already had, and the saw pulled through 12 inch oak rounds without slowing down. The brushless motor feels like it has the torque to spare.
Chain speed is the standout. At 54 ft/s, this is one of the fastest cutting cordless saws in our test, and the cuts feel smoother and quicker than slower cordless competitors. The 16 inch bar handles most firewood rounds, and the automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated without me thinking about it.
Tool-free tensioning saved time between rounds, and the chain brake is responsive if you push the saw hard into a pinch. The saw body also includes a safety lock that prevents accidental starts, which I appreciated when carrying the saw between cuts.
The main catch is that this is a tool-only purchase. You need two DeWalt 20V batteries to run it, plus a charger. If you do not already own those, the total cost climbs quickly. The 16 inch bar also limits you to rounds under that diameter.
For DeWalt 20V MAX owners, the ReliaRoads is one of the best battery-native firewood saws you can buy. Skip it if you are not already invested in that platform. Compare with our best chainsaws for firewood tested roundup for context on top picks.
Who it’s best for
Anyone with two or more DeWalt 20V MAX batteries and a charger ready to go. Excellent for property owners who already standardized on the DeWalt platform.
Who should skip it
Anyone without DeWalt 20V batteries in the shop, or anyone who wants a complete ready-to-use kit out of the box. The Supstable or SEESII include batteries in the kit.
How to Choose the Best Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood?
Choosing the best chainsaws for cutting firewood comes down to matching bar length, power source, and engine size to the wood you actually cut. A saw that works great for kindling-sized pine will struggle through 18 inch oak rounds, and a 60cc gas workhorse is overkill for a single cord a year. Here is what we look for when we test a firewood chainsaw.
Bar Length and Log Diameter
For most firewood rounds in the 12 to 16 inch range, a 16 inch bar is the practical sweet spot. It clears the diameter of typical stove wood, keeps the saw light enough for all-day use, and works well for both hardwood and softwood. If you regularly buck rounds over 16 inches, step up to an 18 inch or 20 inch bar.
Going past 20 inches only makes sense if you cut large rounds regularly. Anything bigger adds weight, slows the chain, and tires you out faster than it speeds up the work.
Gas, Battery, or Corded Electric
Gas chainsaws still dominate serious firewood work because of unlimited runtime and high torque. A 50 to 60cc gas saw will run all day on a tank of mixed fuel and pull through dense oak without complaint. The trade-off is fuel mixing, pull-cord starting, and engine maintenance.
Battery chainsaws have improved dramatically. A 40V brushless saw now rivals a small gas saw in cutting power and starts with the press of a button. Runtime is the limitation, so look for kits that include two batteries or a high-capacity 5.0Ah or larger pack.
Corded electric chainsaws offer unlimited runtime and instant start at the lowest cost. The trade-off is mobility, since you need an outdoor extension cord and a nearby outlet. For firewood cut within 100 feet of a garage outlet, corded saws are an unbeatable value.
Engine Size and Motor Power
For gas saws, look at cc (cubic centimeter) displacement. A 38cc saw handles light to medium firewood. A 50 to 60cc saw is the sweet spot for daily firewood work, and 60cc and up is for serious processors.
For battery saws, look at voltage and watts. A 40V brushless motor in the 1500W to 2000W range matches a 38 to 42cc gas saw in cutting ability. For corded saws, look at amp rating. A 12 to 15 amp motor handles most residential firewood rounds without bogging.
Chain Type: Full-Chisel vs Semi-Chisel
Full-chisel chains cut faster on clean wood but dull quickly on dirty or sap-heavy firewood. For most firewood cutting, semi-chisel chains hold their edge longer and are more forgiving on bark-covered or outdoor-stored wood. Reviewers on arboristsite.com consistently recommend semi-chisel chains for firewood duty.
Hardwood vs Softwood Considerations
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory dull chains faster and require more cutting torque. A 60cc gas saw or a 2000W brushless battery saw is the right tool for these species. Softwoods like pine and fir cut easily with any chainsaw, but they create more sap and resin buildup on the bar and chain.
If you cut mostly hardwoods, plan on chain sharpening every few cords. If you cut mostly softwoods, clean the bar and chain more often to prevent sap buildup.
Safety Features to Look For
A chain brake is non-negotiable for serious firewood work. Inertia-activated chain brakes stop the chain almost instantly during kickback, and they have saved many fingers. Low-kickback chains, bucking spikes, and anti-vibration handles all reduce fatigue and risk during long bucking sessions.
Weight and Ergonomics
A 14 pound gas saw feels light for the first hour and heavy by the end of a long day. Look for anti-vibration handles and a balanced design if you cut more than a cord at a time. Cordless saws in the 8 to 11 pound range are easier on the arms during extended sessions.
Battery Runtime and Charging
For battery saws, runtime depends heavily on the wood you cut. A 4.0Ah battery delivers 30 to 50 minutes of mixed cutting in hardwood. For longer sessions, buy a kit that includes two batteries, or buy a higher-capacity 5.0Ah or 8.0Ah pack separately.
Maintenance Tips for Firewood Chainsaws
Sharpen the chain every 2 to 3 cords on clean wood, more often on dirty hardwood. Keep the bar oil reservoir full, since firewood cutting generates heat that burns through oil fast. For gas saws, drain the fuel mix if you are storing the saw for more than a month, and check the spark plug every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best size chainsaw for cutting firewood?
A 16 inch bar is the practical sweet spot for most firewood cutting. It handles 12 to 16 inch rounds cleanly and stays light enough for all-day use. If you regularly cut rounds over 16 inches, step up to an 18 inch or 20 inch bar.
What type of chainsaw chain is best for cutting firewood?
Semi-chisel chains hold their edge longer than full-chisel chains when cutting firewood, particularly on dirty or bark-covered hardwood. Full-chisel chains cut faster on clean softwood but dull more quickly. For mixed firewood duty, semi-chisel is the most forgiving choice.
Are electric chainsaws good enough for cutting firewood?
Modern corded and cordless electric chainsaws handle most residential firewood duty. A 12 to 15 amp corded saw or a 40V brushless battery saw can cut through oak and maple rounds up to 16 inches. For large rounds or all-day work, a 50 to 60cc gas saw still offers more torque and unlimited runtime.
How long should a chainsaw bar be for firewood?
Match the bar length to the largest round you typically cut, plus one inch of clearance. For 12 to 14 inch stove rounds, a 16 inch bar is plenty. For 16 to 18 inch rounds, go with an 18 inch bar. For larger rounds above 18 inches, choose a 20 inch bar.
What is better Stihl or Husqvarna for firewood cutting?
Both Stihl and Husqvarna make excellent firewood chainsaws. Stihl is known for slightly better build quality and dealer support, while Husqvarna often offers more features at lower prices. For most homeowners, the choice comes down to local dealer availability and specific model preference rather than a clear winner.
Final Verdict on the Best Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood
After six weeks of bucking oak, maple, and pine on our test property, the Supstable 16 Inch Cordless Chainsaw stands out as the best chainsaw for cutting firewood for most homeowners. The 2000W brushless motor delivers gas-like cutting, the 16 inch bar handles nearly every round size we threw at it, and the included battery makes the saw ready to use right out of the box. Nearly 5000 reviewers agree with our hands-on experience.
For buyers who want a plug-and-play corded saw at the best price, the CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch 12 Amp is our pick. For shoppers who already own DeWalt 20V batteries, the ReliaRoads or DEJUNPIOOL are smart ecosystem-friendly buys. If you need gas saw power for daily firewood duty, the Husqvarna 130 or SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc deliver without a premium price tag.
Whichever model you choose, match the bar length to your largest round, choose a power source that fits your property, and respect the chain brake. The right chainsaw turns firewood from a chore into a satisfying afternoon of work, and you will be stacking seasoned rounds before sundown.