Chainsaws are serious pieces of equipment that pack a lot of power, which is why you need to handle them with care. Wrong handling of this tool while using it can lead to deadly injuries. The chainsaw you choose must be ideal for both your physical strength and the job you need it to do. You need to always be in control of this piece of machine. In this article, we will tell you all about how much does a chainsaw weigh.
It should not escape your control. Depending on the scale of the job you want to get done, you might end up holding your chainsaw for an extended time. You do not want a chainsaw that is too heavy or makes your arms tired. That is also the reason that chainsaw users need to be aware of their heft or weight.
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What Determines How Much Does A Chainsaw Weigh
No one thing affects the weight of a chainsaw. Several factors come into play. But the main contributors to the heft of chainsaws are the various parts and how they are sized.
The Parts Of A Chainsaw
Although chainsaws have a general construct, different manufacturers use different methods of assembly. They also use different materials to create them. The various makes and models will also affect the overall weight.
The length of the blade and the weight of the chain can be bigger or smaller by a few millimeters or inches. The bigger and longer the blade and chain, the heavier and harder the chainsaw will be to lift and control.
These parts will affect how much does a chainsaw weigh.
- The size of the metal body housing the blade and chain
- If you have a gas-powered machine, the fuel tank and engine size will add extra weight. As light as gasoline is, it will also increase the heft of the chainsaw when you add it in. You also need to consider the oil you need to add to keep the engine greased.
- If you have an electric chainsaw, the battery and engine size will also affect the weight. Here is an example. A chainsaw with a 62Cc two-cycle engine is much heavier than a 38Cc two-cycle engine.
- There is also the carburetor box, which houses the carburetor.
- The front and back handle with handguards
These are the larger components of a chainsaw that affect the weight and size. We have not included all the nuts and bolts or sprockets in this list. These items are small. But added together, they will increase the mass of your chainsaw, even if each one only weighs a few ounces.
The power source of the chainsaw will also affect the final weight. There are three types.
Battery-powered Chainsaws
You would think that battery-powered chainsaws are the lightest of the chainsaw pack. They are not. Thanks to the powerful battery they use, they tend to be heavier than gas-powered chainsaws by a pound or two.
A fueled fifty Cc gas-engine chainsaw with an 18-inch saw weighs between 11 and 12 pounds. A battery-operated chainsaw of the same dimensions weighs between 11 and fourteen pounds. Without the battery added, these chainsaws will be lighter than gas-powered chainsaws. It does not matter if they have similar dimensions. But do not be fooled. Once you add the battery, the overall weight will jump.
These chainsaws are friendly to the environment. But other than being heavy when you add the battery, there is also a limit to how long you can use this chainsaw. The battery will run out of juice. It might be wise to have a backup if you need to use this tool longer than the battery life lasts.
Gas-powered Chainsaws
Gas-powered chainsaws are the second heaviest in the chainsaw family. Without fuel and oil, these tools will be lighter. Once you add fuel and oil, the weight will increase.
These chainsaws usually are bigger in body and more powerful than a battery chainsaw. It is also bigger and more powerful than electric chainsaws. They are better for bigger cutting jobs.
Electric Chainsaws
Electric chainsaws are the lightest of the three in the chainsaw family. That’s because there is no added weight from a battery or fuel and fuel tank. But you need a power source for them to work. You need a long extension cord if your power source is far from your job site.
How Much Does A Chainsaw Weigh
There is no standard weight for chainsaws. They might all have the same general shape – a body and a revolving blade. But not all chainsaws are built with the same design or to complete the same jobs.
There are small, compact electric chainsaws that weigh as little as 6 to 7 pounds. Then you have the intimidating gas-powered beasts. Those can be very heavy, pulling in at around 25 pounds or more.
But the average weight of a standard chainsaw is more like 10 to 15 pounds.
Here are a few necessary facts to remember.
- Dry Weight
The dry weight of the chainsaw refers to the heft of the chainsaw when there is no fuel or bar oil added. - Powerhead Weight
The dry weight of the chainsaw in the absence of the guide bar and chain attached is known as the powerhead weight. In this case, with the engine and handlebars, only the main component of the chainsaw needs measuring. - Weight
Unless stated by the manufacturer, this refers to the total dry weight of the chainsaw. It includes the guide bar and chain.
You will find one of the measurements above on the packaging of your chainsaw. It will also be in the manual that comes with your equipment.
But once you add the fuel or battery, blade and chain, and oil, the weight will change, even if it’s not by a lot.
How To Find Out How Much A Chainsaw Weighs
There is only one way to find out how much does a chainsaw weigh. It is the same way you will find out what your body strength and back can handle. That is to test it out yourself.
If you want to buy a chainsaw, I recommend going into a home improvement store. Handle the different brands that they have to find the right fit for you.
No matter what amount of time you plan to use the chainsaw, you need to be able to maneuver it with ease and safely. It could be for five minutes or an hour safety should always be your primary concern.
When packaged, these tools will not be fueled and may not have the blade assembled. It might be a good idea to test out fully assembled equipment to ensure it is the right fit for you.
