Best 20-inch Chainsaw in 2021 – (Reviews & Comparison)

If you’re tired of whacking and attacking a monstrous wood with your twinkly 14 or 15-inch chainsaw, you know it’s time to get the big boy now.

When you need heavy-duty performance and superior cutting power and speed, having an excellent 20-inch chainsaw in your tool shed will make all the difference.

A quality 20-inch chainsaw can cut through almost all wood, but to make sure that you get the best tool, you can’t rely on low-tier products. Professional, high-quality 20-inch chain saws will last a lifetime as long as you correctly maintain them.

So, before you go and buy the first one that you see, we have found the 10 best 20-inch chainsaws available on the market. Besides, we have also researched about chainsaws and their use to give you the best chainsaw reviews at buying the correct equipment for the job at hand.

Top 3 Best 20 inch Chainsaw Comparisons

10 Best 20 Inch Chainsaws – Reviews

1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher 20-inch Gas Chainsaw

The 60.3cc engine gives you a power output about 9000 RPM at the top end, making sure that it will cut through the wood rather than hack at it.

The adjustable oiler feature is excellent as you can adjust this depending on the job. You can easily set it to low, medium, or high, making sure that you have the right level of lubricant depending on what you are doing. The bar size is 20 inches, so this is ideal for larger jobs. Furthermore, you’ll see that the chainsaw’s fuel will not burn to dust due to the x-torque feature, emissions are considerably lower as well.

The two-cycle engine comes with a smart start that gives you maximum power through the rev range, making sure that you can consistently get the cut you want. This model has more power than the Husqvarna 450, which gives you a far superior saw. You will need to regularly service and clean it to keep it on top form.

Husqvarna never compromises with various safety features and safety gear. Thus here they also come with the design like side mount chain tension system. This chain tensioner allows you to tighten your chain quickly while working with no risk of any accidents.

However, you aren’t able to clean the air filter system, so this air cleaning system will need replacing intermittently.

Though the package comes with 2.6 ounces 2 cycle fuel, you need to buy bar and chain oil separately in the time of use.

2.Poulan PR5020 Pro 20-inch 50cc Gas Chainsaw

That means that not only is it better for the environment, you also reduce the amount of money that you need to spend on gas.

The Poulan features a smart start system, so there is no additional wear on the engine that pull-start saws suffer from. You will be able to start it up comfortably every time. You just need to make sure that you read the guidelines and follow the process.

While you will still need to service this tool, you won’t need to change the air filter as often as other models. The clean air technology adopted by Poulan gives the air filter in the chainsaw a longer life. Conveniently, this additional feature doesn’t result in any loss of power, and you can use the full length of the 20-inch bar.

The 50cc engine kicks out more than enough power to tackle larger jobs that a smaller chainsaw wouldn’t be able to complete. You get enough power around the bar, and the design reduces vibrations you feel in your hand.

With the purge bulb and choke/stop control mechanism, this saw becomes more effective in the time of work. The primer bulb makes the product easier starts which also reduces the chance to damage the product in the future. Again the combined choke/stop controls also help to start faster too.

This means that you can use the saw all day long and not feel fatigued or have muscle soreness. It is, however, heavier than the Husqvarna, weighing 17lbs, so some people, especially beginners, may struggle with this.

3. Blue Max 8901 20-inch Combination Gas  Chainsaw

It also means that it isn’t too strenuous to use, even after a long day, you won’t feel as fatigued due to the balancing aspects of the saw.

The 44cc engine kicks out 10500RPM at the top of the rev range, making sure that the bar will cut and not hack at the wood placed in front of it. It will give you a clean cut regardless of which part of the bar you use.

As the rev range is high and you can use all the bar-length, the kickback is limited, so you can get the job done faster.

The chain that comes with the Blue Max has 30% more teeth than other brands, so that it will cut through wood faster than other alternatives. This may be more problematic to sharpen, but it evens out due to the reduced time it takes to cut through logs. The quick-start ignition system means the combination chainsaw will start comfortably, no need to play with the choke or prime the engine.

Apart from all these features, Blue Max is also equipped with auto chain oiler system which gives you much flexibility in time of work. You can work longer period of time at once without any jamming the chain for the oiler system. The 8901 is trusted for its safety features. A lot of measurement like designing a hand guard, chain break is taken in the chainsaw design to make it more safe while working.

4. Hitachi CS51EAP 50.1cc 20-inch Rear-Handle Chainsaw

This gives you a reduced fuel consumption and cleaner exhaust emissions. The sprocket nose bar allows you to make precision cuts and increases the overall control you have over the unit, which is something you need, given the size of it.

Even though the Hitachi doesn’t have an electronic start system, it has a decompression valve. This feature makes all the difference when you want to kick it into life when it is cold. Although it takes more time than an electronic start system, there are fewer failure points, and it gives you an excellent all-round chain saw.

The 20inch bar spins smoothly throughout the entire length, giving you precision cuts and no hacking. It is a more substantial unit, weighing 17.64lbs, but that is expected due to the motor-power you get. However, if you don’t think you can manage the weight, look for a smaller unit.

The rear handle configuration gives you optimal control when you are executing cuts. The unit is well balanced and ergonomically designed.

5. Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-inch Gas Chainsaw

The 55.5cc rancher chainsaw engine with smart start gives you a maximum RPM of 9000 and will be ideal for landowners looking to prune or cut down small trees for diy projects.

The 2-cycle fuel consumption engine comes with a chain brake and chain guard as standard, so in the event of kickback, you remain safe. The automatic oiler system is one of the best designs on the market and rarely fails. It will keep your chain lubricated and make sure you can get the cleanest cuts.

As people aren’t always familiar with chain tension system, this model has one of the simplest workarounds. It is easy to get to chain compartment as it is on the side of the unit. While you will need tools to adjust the tension, it is a far more robust design than having a knob.

Servicing this tool should be a regular activity, but Husqvarna has made this easy. The air filter cleaning is effortless to remove and clean dust particles and place back in, and the spark plug is accessible.

6. Echo CS-590 20-inch Timber Wolf Chainsaw

Although the auto chain oiler can’t be set to low, medium, or high, it is useful and will keep your chain well lubricated.

It is one of the heaviest 20-inch chainsaws we have reviewed, coming in at 21lbs. Some people may find this too heavy in weight ratio and troublesome for a 20 inch. However, the rear handle configuration gives you excellent control when you are cutting. It doesn’t have the same design and engine technology as other brands, but if you are looking for basic work with a great engine power that doesn’t need to be precise, this may be a good option for its decompression valve.

One of the best features of this chain saw is the tool it comes with. It doesn’t require anywhere near as much sharpening as others on the market and will retain sharpness longer. You won’t need to spend time sharpening and priming the chain before use, just pick up the saw and start slicing.

7. ORCISH 62cc 20-inch Gas Powered Chainsaw

While it gives users exceptional control when they are making their cuts, the power that this chainsaw gives you isn’t a good starting point for novices. The 2-cycle engine gives you maximum power to cut hardwood trees throughout the RPM and all the way up the 20-inch bar.

Considering the sheer power of the chainsaw, it is surprisingly light weighing only 16.6lbs. This makes cutting through deadwood and pruning a breeze, but the limited weight can make it challenging to handle denser woods. You will get a smooth cut all the way up the bar without any issues.

Unlike other items we have listed in this chainsaw reviews, the particular power equipment has a pull start only. The start-technology of this chainsaw is somewhat underdeveloped. Starting this saw can also be quite tough, especially when cold, so if you don’t have strong shoulders, this might not be the best option for you. The saw is easy to adjust with tools and can easily be broken down for service.

8. SALEM MASTER 6220G 62CC 20-inch Gas Powered Chainsaw

This gas-powered saw can reach up to 8500 RPM which makes it useable for most of the firewood cutting or any chopping.

The chain that comes as standard reduces the chance of kickback, but if that does happen, the chain kickback brake technology will keep you safe.

You’ll never have an accidental chain-drop as it comes with a hardened bar to give you maximum stability. Furthermore, you won’t need to tighten this chain very often, but if you do, this is easily accessible, and you can do it with the right tools. 6220G uses a different technology which makes the product high wear-resistant. You can now use it rigorously without thinking of being worn out in a shorter time period.

One of the best features of this saw is the accident start button as safety gear. Having this button stops any accidental starts and keeps you and your family safe. The ergonomic design and fuel tank makes sure that your hands, arms, and wrists don’t feel the strain in any work conditions, even with extended use. The rear handle configuration gives you excellent control so that you can make precision cuts.

9. COOCHEER Ladyiok 62CC 20-inch Powerful Gas Chainsaw

Considering the awe-striking power of the unit, the weight of it is actually pretty light at 18.48lbs. However, this is because the body of the chain saw is constructed of plastic.

The most attractive part of these power tools is the fuel-efficient engine. It saves 20 percent of fuel and also giving the 8500 RPM. Again it can work in more temperatures than other saws mentioned here.

This can increase the lifespan of the chainsaw and make it impervious to water damage, but extra care will be needed when you store it to stop the plastic from becoming brittle.

The Coocheer allows you to make precision cuts and comes with guide plates, so if you need the exact cutting capability without safety hazard, this saw is a good option for you. You can be sure that you will get smooth and even power delivery throughout the rev range.

There aren’t any dead spots where you risk the chain getting stuck. Due to the power distribution and high-quality chain, the kickback that you would face with other high-powered models doesn’t happen here.

This particular saw comes with a pull start only, but this is made more accessible due to the high wheel technology. So, even if you don’t have a lot of upper body strength, it isn’t as challenging to start compared to chainsaws with a small wheel. Also, the pull start is a lot more reliable than push-start technology.

10. Outlaw 20 in. 46cc Gas 2-Cycle Chainsaw with Automatic Chain Oiler

The Outlaw 20-Inch bar lengths saw comes with a 5-point anti-vibration system. The engine technology used by the chainsaw brands reduces the fatigue in your hands, even after a hard day’s work. It also makes all the difference when you want to make those neat precision cuts for your diy projects.

Not only that, but the Outlaw also has an ergonomic handle to keep your hands in good shape so you can pick power tools up the next day without feeling the strain.

The Outlaw 20inch has an even power distribution throughout the engine cycle, which gives you a chainsaw that isn’t difficult to control and will cut through wood smoothly. You can use the full length of the bar without feeling as though you get it stuck.

The automatic oiling system keeps the bar well lubricated and reduces the chance of chain overheating. You can adjust the oiler to give you a low, medium, or heavy flow, depending on the task at hand.

The diecast body is built to withstand heavy-duty engine size use and the adverse conditions that working outside can bring without engine displacement. You can comfortably tighten the chain, and breaking the entire unit down to storage case is easy. So, duty jobs servicing doesn’t require too much effort.

Chainsaw Buying Guide

Before you settle on the chainsaw that you want, you need to consider a few options to make sure you are getting a product that matches your needs. You don’t want to be left with a tool that you can’t use or doesn’t fulfill your demands.

Ease of Use

• Start system

The first thing to consider is how easy the chain saw is to use, and a fundamental component of this is how the chainsaw starts.

If you are considering a pull start chainsaw, make sure that you have the upper body strength. If you don’t think you do, you can always look for big wheel pull starts, as this reduces the amount of effort needed. Some models come with the ability to prime the system first, which reduces the number of pulls that you need to commit to get it going.

If a pull start isn’t for you, look for a chainsaw that comes with push start technology. You will still need to prime the system, which will be specified in the manufacturer’s guidelines, but there will be far less strain on your arms and shoulders using this method. The only drawback to this is that if the start system fails, there is no alternative starting method.

• Tightening and maintenance

Once you have settled on how you would like the saw to start, the next thing to consider is how easy is chain tightening and servicing. If you are using the chainsaw a lot, you don’t want to select a model that has a chain tightening knob. These aren’t as reliable as manual tightening, but you need to make sure that this is easily accessible so you can do it on the hoof while you are working.

• Assembly

Once you have finished working for the day, the last thing you really want to do is break down the saw to clean it. Some models are easier to breakdown and clean than others. Well established brands like Husqvarna and Hitachi have made this process as smooth as possible to save time and effort for their users.

Durability

Whether you are using your chainsaw on a seasonal basis due to storms, or it is being used day in day out, you want to be confident that when you reach for it, it will start with as little effort as possible. It’d also help you to know that even if you are using it to its maximum capacity that it can handle it.

Die-cast bodies might be more massive, but in the long run, it will provide you with a sturdier tool that can deal with being dropped, knocked over, and even slightly mistreated. Plastic can become brittle, especially in fluctuating temperatures, but it is a good option if you can keep it dry and safe and want a lighter unit you can travel with. Mainly, durability has to do with how well you look after the saw. The more attention you pay towards servicing it and cleaning it, the longer it will last and continue performing.

Care and Maintenance

You would never let your car run out of oil, so why would you allow this to happen to your chain saw. Like cars, chainsaws require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure that it is performing at its best and doesn’t suffer from basic malfunction.

With all gas-powered saws, you will need to give it an oil change, change the plug once over every few months to keep it running well. After every use, make sure that you clean the dust and debris to stop it from blocking up the carb. It may seem like a lot of effort, but it will keep your chainsaw reliable and ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Price

When it comes to the price point, there is an array of 20-inch chainsaws that occupy the low, medium, and high price range. Expensive isn’t necessarily synonymous with well-performing, but it does mean that you will be buying a saw that is from a well-known brand with excellent parts availability. One also needs to keep an eye on fuel economy.

You can expect to spend around $80-$100 on cheaper options, these still perform well but aren’t necessarily designed for heavy-duty use. Towards the top end of the spectrum, you can expect to see brands like Hitachi and Husqvarna, who build high-quality tools that are designed for prolonged, heavy-duty use.

The process to Go Through

When you own gas chainsaws, you will need to care for it and maintain it. When you finish using it, make sure you clean away all the dirt and debris from the unit to make sure it is clean.

Clean the chain and air intake to prevent clogging. You need to conduct a service at regular intervals, change the spark plug, tighten the chain, put clean oil in, and clean the air filter. This will keep your chainsaw running and performing well.

Types of Chainsaw

When it comes to a discussion of power tools like chain saw, they can usually be broken down into two camps. They are small bars (14 inches and under) and large bars (15inches and up). The small bar saws often have a top handle configuration so they can be used in tight spaces, and large bar saws have rear handle to give you maximum control when making significant cuts.

You also have three types of motor options, gas-powered, battery-powered, and electronic corded. They all have their benefits and drawbacks, and your situation will determine your choice.

If you work out in the woods with no electricity access, a gas-powered is the best option as you can fill and go. If you are working on a building site and use it infrequently, you might want to consider a battery as you have access to power. Battery-powered requires less serving and maintenance than gas-powered. Corded electric chainsaws are useful if you’re going to use a saw at home and aren’t using it very often, they are far cheaper than the other two alternatives, and there are limited servicing and upkeep required.

Features to Consider Before Your Purchase

Before you settle on a model, make sure you have made the following considerations as it will impact what chainsaw you end up with.

How Often Will You Use It?

If you are going to be using the chainsaw regularly, you want to make sure that you get the great one that has ergonomic considerations and anti-vibration technology. This will make sure that you don’t damage your hands or feel the fatigue that you would otherwise. The handle will have foam grips to give you a comfortable way to hold it.

Type of Start

How you start the chainsaw will also impact your buying decision. If you don’t want a pull start look for models that come with tried and tested quick start technology. Upper-end models and well-known brands who have been producing chainsaws for a long time offer reliable touch starts.

Engine capacity vs. Rev Range

If you have a high capacity engine, you want to make sure that it is offset with a high rev range. You don’t want to have a high-powered saw that doesn’t rotate the chain fast enough to cut through the wood rather than hack it. The bigger the engine capacity, the bigger the RPM needs to be, so ensure that you can use the full length of the bar.

Expert Tip

If you plan on using the chainsaw regularly, you want to make sure that the model you are selecting doesn’t have tensioning knobs. Instead, you want to do this with tools, as this is far more reliable. It does take more time, but there are fewer failure points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the questions that we are asked most often.

What Am I Using My Chainsaw For?

You should be only using your chainsaw to cut wood and nothing else. This can be deadfall, logs, or felling trees, but make sure you only ever use it on wood. Any other material can result in injury or worse- death.

Do I need to Have Experience with Chainsaws?

If you don’t have experience with chainsaws, we don’t recommend purchasing a high powered 20inch bar model right off the bat. It is worth starting smaller, so you understand how they work and their power delivery. If you haven’t taken a course, we recommend that you do so, so that you know safe practices and how to use it correctly.

Do I Know How to Maintain My Saw?

If you don’t know how to maintain your saw, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines. They will talk you through essential maintenance and protocol that you need to follow to make sure your chainsaw lasts. If you are booking onto a course for chainsaw use, they will also show you how to maintain it.

Can I Use My Chainsaw in the Rain?

Chainsaws are built to withstand all environments and adverse weather, you can use your chainsaw in the rain, but we’re not sure we’d want to!

How Do You Lubricate Your Chainsaw?

The chainsaws we have reviewed come with automatic oilers as a standard. The higher-end models even have an adjustable flow, making sure your chain stays oiled at the right level. All you need to do is make sure the reservoir is full of clean oil before each use.

Why is my chainsaw not cutting straight?

When a chainsaw isn’t cutting straight, it is usually down to the condition of the chain. If you have recently sharpened it, you may not have made all the teeth length similar and filed the teeth at the same angle. If you have filed the top plates and made it uneven, there is no symmetry in the cuts you will be making, so the chain will be cutting in different directions and at different depths. This can be easily rectified with a new chain.

Final Verdict

All the chainsaws we have reviewed are excellent in their own way, and they all occupy a particular niche. Whether you are looking for a top of the line commercial-grade saw like the Husqvarna, or an entry-level saw such as a Coocheer, there is a chainsaw to be found that will suit your needs.

Prior to setting on your decision, make sure you have considered how and when you will be using it so that you get the best saw for you.

You will also need to think about how much you can carry and comfortably lift. All these saws will require maintenance, so be prepared to take them apart, clean, and reassemble.

Brands such as Hitachi have developed systems to make this as easy for you as possible. Finally, all the saws here have parts that can be easily replaced in the case of breakdown, making them excellent choices whether you are a hobbyist, own a ranch, or a professional.

Last update on 2024-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API