Near the top of every prepper’s list is the ever willing chainsaw. Useful for so many tasks from chopping firewood, improving your BOL and, of course, delegging zombies; however, if you’ve never used one before, they can be pretty efficient at wiping out the main artery in an instant. So, take note, people, ask someone to give you a couple of lessons in how not to die by chainsaw
What Do You Need To Consider When Buying a Chainsaw?
Okay, so when buying a chainsaw the first two initial considerations are weight and size. A machine that’s unwieldy is extremely dangerous, and whilst the normal method for sizing is 2-3 inches larger than the logs you plan to cut, this is an unknown quantity in this case.
Cutting bars can be any size between approx 8’’ – 42’’, but a 16’’ – 18’’ bar covers most eventualities.
Gas or Electric?
Gasoline-powered saws are more expensive to buy, generally bulkier and take more getting used to than their electric counterparts. But as they offer more power, faster speed and are more reliable, we recommend gas chainsaws in the event of a SHTF scenario.
Electric chainsaws are lighter, and better suited to smaller jobs. Quieter, easier to manage, and available with or without cords, they tend to be cheaper to purchase. But, as always, the question for us is, what happens when the power dies? This gas generator may provide an answer to that question in case you have an electricity-powered chainsaw.
Features
Chainsaws have a huge amount of variation when it comes to extras – some have the self-explanatory anti-vibration, spring assisted start or automatic chain oiler. Many also include a visible bar oil gauge, wrap around handle for extra secure hold, or safety cutouts. So it’s well worth deciding what you need, before investing.
1. DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw
Overview
Although this is a battery powered chainsaw, it has some real meat behind it. Weighing less than 9 lbs, thus allowing plenty of maneuverability, and with a 12’’ bar and chain, it runs smoothly and quietly. This DeWalt is surprisingly hard-working, pushing through the pain barrier that is anything battery powered.
The Good
We were pleasantly surprised by the power this chainsaw wields, and the long-lasting battery just keeps it chugging along with a throaty growl. Starting was push-button easy, and it coped with all but the thickest hardwood logs. Having an auto oiling system makes life easier, cutting out the need to keep manually oiling the brute, and with its innovative tool-free tightening system, you can just sit back while it takes the strain.
The Bad
For an electric model, the price is a little hefty.
2. Husqvarna Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Overview
This gas-fueled chainsaw has a robust 20’’ cutting bar, and in a startling orange, looks like it means business. With an automatic oiler that keeps it running smoothly and the simple side tensioner, this has all the hallmarks of the classic Husqvarna power tool.
The Good
The ever-useful x-torque ensures that the saving on fuel consumption is noticeable, which if the SHTF, might be a crucial survival factor, whilst the ergonomic handling and low vibration provide a useful amount of controlled maneuverability. There are several neat safety features that make this model a winner as far as we’re concerned. The chain guard, chain brake and kickback avoidance make this one for the BOL.
The Bad
There’s no getting away from the weight of this baby, but it is surprisingly easy to handle nonetheless.
3. Yosooo Gasoline Chainsaw
Overview
What is it with chainsaw manufacturers and the color orange? That said, this is a neat, compact gas fueled machine. Providing a wide cutting arc, this ergonomically designed saw can happily take on more than you’d think. Well balanced, easy to handle and simple to operate, the anti-vibration feature keeps user fatigue to a minimum.
The Good
Initially, we didn’t like the squat appearance of this Yosooo chainsaw, but it’s grown on us, and now we can see that it’s a perfectly balanced design, making handling comfortable for hours at a time. It’s not too heavy, and the swing arc is perfectly angled. With lots of accessories coming along for the ride, this is a great package.
The Bad
We did have to practice with the on-board chain tensioner, but once we were familiar with it, we wondered how to survive without one!
Although this page is focused on the chainsaw itself here, you’ll also need to think about spare chains, oils, sharpening kits, goggles, and helmets – so remember to include them on your rapidly growing list. Here is some advice by the popular tool brand Husqvarna on the safety issues regarding chainsaw use.
