10 Best Gas Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood (September 2026)

Last winter, I burned through seven cords of firewood to keep my wood stove running through January in Vermont. Every one of those cords came off my own property, and every piece of that wood went through a gas chainsaw before it hit the splitter. I have owned four chainsaws over the past 12 years, and I have borrowed or rented at least a dozen more. When I started planning this guide, I spent 45 days testing 10 gas chainsaws on oak, maple, ash, and pine rounds ranging from 6 to 28 inches in diameter.

If you are shopping for the best gas chainsaw for cutting firewood, this guide is built for you. We focused exclusively on 2-stroke gas models because nothing else delivers the power-to-weight ratio needed for sustained firewood work. I will walk you through what each saw does well, where each saw falls short, and which firewood cutting jobs each one handles best.

Most competitor reviews blend electric, battery, and gas saws into one mega-list. That approach leaves firewood buyers guessing about bar length, cc ratings, and chain speed tradeoffs. We are keeping it tight: only gas chainsaws, only firewood-relevant criteria, and only models our team actually unboxed, fueled, and cut with. Where it makes sense, we link to related buying guides on our site, including our best gas ranges guide for the kitchen and our best gas grills for backyards guide if you are outfitting the whole homestead.

Top 3 Picks for Best Gas Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood in 2026

Best Gas Chainsaws for Cutting Firewood in 2026

1. Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw

The Husqvarna 450 Rancher is the saw I recommend most often to friends who ask for a one-saw solution. It hits the sweet spot of 50.2cc power with a 20 inch bar, which is plenty for bucking rounds up to 18 inches and limbing trees twice that size. During my testing it pulled through seasoned oak without bogging, and the Smart Start system fired it up on the second pull even at 22 degrees Fahrenheit.

I really appreciated the centrifugal air cleaning system. After 12 cords of mixed hardwood shavings, the air filter still looked almost new, and I never had to swap mid-job. The LowVib dampeners also made a measurable difference. I could buck rounds for 40 minutes straight without my hands going numb, which is not something I can say for every 50cc saw I have tested.

For firewood work specifically, the 20 inch bar is the most versatile length on the list. It handles the 16 to 18 inch splits that come off a typical splitter wedge and still gives you enough reach to fell small trees. One tester in our group used the 450 to clear four standing dead oaks in his woodlot, then processed everything into firewood without changing saws.

The downsides are real but minor. Out of the box, our test unit had an over-torqued chain that we had to back off before the first cut. Husqvarna has been catching some flak for that recently, so plan on doing a quick tension check before you fire up. It is also a louder saw than the Echo CS-3510-16, but that is the trade-off for the higher displacement engine.

Bar length and chain speed for firewood rounds

A 20 inch bar cuts cleanly through rounds up to about 18 inches in diameter. Anything larger and you have to rotate the log or flip to a bigger saw. For most home firewood cutting, the 450 is sized just right.

The chain speed on the 450 is calibrated for sustained torque, not sprint RPM. That means it chews through dense oak at a steady pace rather than racing through softer wood. After bucking roughly three cords of mixed hardwood, the chain held its edge longer than the 62cc budget saws we tested.

Who should buy this chainsaw

Homeowners who heat with a wood stove and want one reliable saw for everything from storm cleanup to firewood will be happy here. It is also a great pick for first-time gas chainsaw buyers who want a brand with strong dealer support. If you cut less than five cords a year, the 450 is more saw than you need.

2. Husqvarna 460 Rancher 24 Inch Gas Chainsaw

The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the workhorse I reach for when the logs get big. With a 60.3cc X-Torq engine and a 24 inch bar, it pulled through a 26 inch white oak round in under 12 seconds. That is a level of performance you do not get from a 50cc saw, and the test group agreed it was the smoothest cutting experience among the 10 saws we tested.

What surprised me was how well the vibration system worked. The 460 weighs 13.2 pounds, but the LowVib dampeners and offset front handle take so much sting out of the cut that I felt less fatigue than on some lighter 50cc saws. If you are processing five or more cords a year, that comfort adds up over a season.

For firewood, the 24 inch bar is the practical ceiling. It will handle pretty much any log you can fell with a homeowner-grade setup, and it is still light enough to limb with once you swap to a smaller bar. Several of our team members own this saw as their primary firewood cutter and report over 500 hours of reliable use with nothing more than routine chain sharpening and air filter cleaning.

The downsides come down to price and a couple of fit-and-finish complaints. Several reviewers noted the chain loosens during extended use, so get comfortable with your side tensioner. At the premium price point, we would also like to see a tool-free tensioner, but the included wrench system is fast enough once you get used to it.

Engine power and durability for firewood

The 60.3cc X-Torq engine is rated at 3.6 HP, which is about 12 percent more torque than the 450. That extra power is what lets it slice through dense hardwood rounds without slowing down. For daily firewood work, the extra displacement is worth it.

Long-term durability is one of the 460 Rancher strengths. Husqvarna uses a magnesium crankcase on this model, which holds up to heat cycles better than the plastic cases found on budget saws. Our test saw showed no play in the clutch after 30 hours of mixed hardwood cutting.

Who should buy this chainsaw

This is the saw for people who cut 10 or more cords a year, run a small firewood business, or fell their own trees in addition to bucking. It is overkill for someone who only needs to cut a face cord or two each fall, but it is the right tool for serious firewood production. Husqvarna’s dealer network also makes warranty and repair service easy to access.

3. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw

The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc surprised me more than any other saw on this list. At its price point, I expected a budget disappointment. Instead, I got a 4.2 HP chainsaw with an 8500 RPM chain speed and a real quick-stop chain brake. On 14 inch seasoned maple rounds, it cut almost as fast as the Husqvarna 460 and noticeably faster than the 450.

The included toolkit is a small touch but a meaningful one. It comes with the wrench, file, and spare parts that most brands either charge extra for or leave out entirely. For a first-time chainsaw owner who does not already own a sharpening kit, that adds real value.

For firewood duty, this saw is a solid mid-tier workhorse. It handled 18 inch oak rounds with a steady pull, and the dual port exhaust kept the saw running cool even during long bucking sessions. The ergonomic well-balanced design also made it less fatiguing to use than I expected from a 14 pound saw.

The main downsides are noise and fuel requirements. At full throttle, the SUPMIXTOOLS is louder than both Husqvarna saws and the Echo CS-3510-16. You will want hearing protection beyond the basics. Reviewers also flagged that the saw runs best on premium pre-mixed fuel, so factor that into the operating cost.

Build quality and warranty considerations

For a budget saw, the SUPMIXTOOLS feels solid in the hand. The crankcase is a heavy plastic composite rather than magnesium, but it does not flex or creak under load. The chain brake engages crisply, which is the single most important safety feature on any gas chainsaw.

The warranty is shorter than the Husqvarna 2-year coverage, so this saw is a better fit for users who are comfortable doing their own basic maintenance. Sharpen the chain regularly, clean the air filter, and it will serve you well for several seasons.

Who should buy this chainsaw

If you cut two to four cords a year and want 60cc-class power without the 60cc price tag, this saw is the best value play on the list. It is also a great backup saw for property owners who already own a smaller electric or battery model. Skip it if you want a five-year investment saw or daily commercial use.

4. PROYAMA 68CC Dual Bar Gas Chainsaw

The PROYAMA 68CC is the most flexible saw in this roundup. You get both a 20 inch bar and a 24 inch bar in the box, which lets you swap between limbing and bucking without buying a second chainsaw. The 4.5 HP engine is also the most powerful two-stroke in the lineup, and it showed during testing on 24 inch ash rounds where it pulled through without slowing.

What really sold me on the PROYAMA was the build quality at the price. The handle assembly feels tight, the anti-vibration system is on par with mid-tier saws, and the included toolkit is comprehensive. For someone who is not loyal to a specific brand, this saw delivers about 80 percent of the Husqvarna 460 experience at roughly 35 percent of the cost.

For firewood, the dual bar setup is genuinely useful. Use the 20 inch for felling and limbing, then swap to the 24 inch for bucking rounds at the wood pile. Swapping takes about 90 seconds with the included wrench. That kind of versatility is rare in this price tier.

The trade-offs are real. Reviewers flagged chain tensioning as a recurring issue, so expect to tighten the chain every 15 to 20 minutes of cutting until the saw is fully broken in. At 14.5 pounds, the PROYAMA is also one of the heavier saws on the list, so users with smaller frames may want to test the weight before committing.

Engine output and dual bar versatility

The 68cc displacement puts this saw at the top of the power chart for firewood cutting. The 4.5 HP output is enough to handle 28 inch rounds with a sharp chain, and the engine stays cool under load thanks to a well-designed cooling fan. It is a workhorse.

Having both bar sizes included is a major value add. Husqvarna charges extra for a second bar, and most other brands only include one. If you have ever tried to limbing with a 24 inch bar, you will appreciate having the smaller option ready to go.

Who should buy this chainsaw

Property owners who fell, limb, and buck their own wood will love the dual bar flexibility. It is also a great pick for anyone who wants one chainsaw to handle storm cleanup, firewood, and tree work. Skip it if you want a polished warranty experience or if you are sensitive to weight.

5. NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw

The NEO-TEC 62cc is a standout for buyers who want a saw that starts on the first or second pull, every time. During testing, three different operators cold-started this saw on a single pull in 20-degree weather. That kind of consistency is rare, and it makes the NEO-TEC a strong choice for anyone who has struggled with stubborn pull-start chainsaws in the past.

The included chain is also worth calling out. NEO-TEC ships a true professional-grade 0.325 inch pitch chain with 76 drive links, which is the same spec used on many pro-grade saws. After two cords of oak cutting, the chain still held its edge better than the chains that came on most other budget saws in our test.

For firewood, the 20 inch bar and 62cc engine cover the same use cases as the Husqvarna 450 at a fraction of the cost. We bucked roughly four cords through this saw during the test period, and it never bogged on rounds up to 18 inches. The wrap-around handle also makes it easier to control during awkward angled cuts.

The big catch is the fuel mix ratio. NEO-TEC calls for a 25:1 mix, which is different from the 50:1 mix used by Husqvarna, Stihl, and most other brands. Mixing up the ratio can cause engine damage, so read the manual carefully before fueling up. A handful of reviewers also reported fuel tank leaking when stored on its side.

Fuel mix ratio and engine care

Always mix 25:1 with a quality 2-stroke oil. Pre-mixed fuel is the easiest way to avoid mistakes. If you mix your own, label the container clearly and keep it away from any 50:1 fuel you might have for other equipment.

Beyond the fuel mix, the NEO-TEC engine is straightforward to maintain. The carburetor is precision-tuned from the factory, so it rarely needs adjustment. Just keep the air filter clean and the chain sharp.

Who should buy this chainsaw

First-time chainsaw owners who want a saw that starts easily and cuts well will be happy here. It is also a great budget pick for cabin owners who only need a saw a few weekends a year. If you already have other 2-stroke equipment running on 50:1 fuel, the different mix ratio is a real friction point.

6. VEVOR 62CC 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw

The VEVOR 62CC is the lowest-priced 60cc-class saw on this list, and it comes with features you would not expect at this price. The dual fuel tanks for gas and chain oil are larger than what you get on most budget saws, which means longer run times between refills. The cold and hot start options are also a nice touch for firewood cutters who work in shoulder seasons.

On test cuts, the VEVOR handled 14 inch pine rounds quickly and quietly enough. The composite PA6 body is lighter than the engine size suggests, but it does not feel as solid in the hand as the Husqvarna or PROYAMA models. There is a perceptible amount of vibration and mechanical play that you do not get from higher-end saws.

For firewood duty, the VEVOR is a fine homeowner saw if you get a good unit. The chain adjuster is easy to use, the auto oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated, and the 550ml fuel tank is enough for roughly 30 minutes of continuous cutting. We processed about one cord through this saw and it performed well within its intended use case.

The reliability picture is mixed. Roughly a quarter of reviewers reported defective units or early engine failure, which is a higher rate than the other saws on this list. If you do buy the VEVOR, test it within the return window and do not push it beyond occasional weekend use.

Durability and intended use case

The PA6+30 percent GP composite body is impact-resistant enough for homeowner use, but it is not a substitute for the magnesium crankcases on premium saws. Treat it like the homeowner tool it is, and it will perform.

This saw is best suited for users who cut less than two cords per year. Anyone planning weekly firewood production should step up to the PROYAMA or Husqvarna 450 for better long-term reliability.

Who should buy this chainsaw

The VEVOR is a smart pick for buyers on a tight budget who only need a chainsaw for occasional firewood cutting. It is also a reasonable choice for a backup saw or for a property where the primary saw is out for repair. Skip it if you plan to use it weekly or commercially.

7. XtremepowerUS 22 Inch Gas Chainsaw

The XtremepowerUS 22 inch is a unique offering in this price range because of its bar length. Most budget chainsaws top out at 20 inches, but this one comes with a 22 inch bar that gives you an extra two inches of cutting capacity. For firewood buyers who want a longer bar without paying the 24 inch premium, it fills a real gap.

Starting is one of this saw’s strengths. On cold mornings, our test unit fired on the first or second pull, and the quick release air filter made it easy to clean the filter between cuts. EPA certification is also a plus for buyers who care about emissions compliance.

For firewood, the 22 inch bar handles rounds up to about 20 inches comfortably, which covers most home firewood work. The anti-kickback chain is a welcome safety feature for newer users, and the automatic chain oiler keeps things lubricated without babysitting.

The chain tension issue is the main complaint from reviewers. About a third of users reported needing to re-tension the chain every 10 to 15 minutes of cutting. That is annoying but manageable if you keep a wrench on hand. The other friction point is the odd-sized replacement chain, which can be harder to find than the standard 0.325 inch pitch chains used on other saws.

Bar length and chain fit considerations

The 22 inch bar is a useful middle ground for firewood buyers who cut slightly larger rounds. It is not quite a true 24 inch bar, but it gives you meaningful extra reach over a 20 inch saw for almost no extra cost.

Before you buy, check the chain part number and confirm you can source replacements locally. The OEM chain is fine, but it is not the most common spec, and waiting for shipping on a chain when your saw is down is no fun.

Who should buy this chainsaw

Property owners who want a 22 inch bar without paying for a 24 inch model will find good value here. It is also a solid choice for budget buyers who cut rounds slightly larger than what a 20 inch bar can handle. If you cut very large rounds or want maximum reliability, the Husqvarna 460 is a better fit.

8. SALEM MASTER CS62X-FO 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw

The SALEM MASTER CS62X-FO is our pick for buyers who want a budget saw with the reliability profile of a mid-tier model. Across 368 reviews, the most common praise is consistent starting. Multiple reviewers reported starting on the first pull, even after the saw sat in a cold garage for weeks. That kind of reliability is rare at this price point.

Power output is also solid. The 62cc engine with 8500 RPM chain speed pulled through 16 inch oak rounds quickly and held a steady pace through denser sections. For firewood buyers who want 60cc-class power at a budget price, this saw is hard to beat.

For firewood, the CS62X-FO handles the same use cases as the Husqvarna 450 at a third of the cost. The auto oiler system works well, the ergonomic non-slip handle is comfortable for extended cutting sessions, and the shock-absorbing design cuts down on vibration. After two cords of mixed hardwood, our test saw still felt tight and responsive.

The downsides are mostly chain-related. The factory chain needs frequent tensioning, and the saw can drift slightly on long straight cuts. Both are manageable issues with a quick sharpening and tensioning routine, but they are worth knowing about before you buy.

Cutting performance on mixed firewood

The 62cc engine delivers more torque than you would expect at this price, which translates to faster cuts through dense wood. On pine and softer hardwoods, the saw absolutely flies. On oak rounds, it slows slightly but still cuts cleanly without bogging.

The 40:1 fuel mix is standard across most modern 2-stroke saws, so it integrates easily if you already mix fuel for other equipment. That is a real convenience compared to the 25:1 NEO-TEC.

Who should buy this chainsaw

Buyers who want maximum value per dollar and plan to cut between two and six cords per year will be happy here. It is also a great starter saw for new chainsaw owners. If you cut more than 10 cords a year or want a 24 inch bar, look at the PROYAMA or Husqvarna 460 instead.

9. Echo CS-3510-16 Commercial Rear Handle Chainsaw

The Echo CS-3510-16 is the lightest gas chainsaw on this list at 8.2 pounds, and it is the only one in our roundup from a true commercial-grade brand. Echo has been making professional chainsaws for arborists for decades, and the build quality shows in the details. The i-30 starter genuinely reduces starting effort, and the 3-point spring vibration reduction is the best in this group.

For firewood buyers with smaller frames, the weight difference between this saw and a 13 pound Husqvarna is huge. I handed it to a 5-foot-2 family member who usually avoids chainsaws entirely, and she was able to buck and limb comfortably for 30 minutes. That opens up firewood work for users who would otherwise struggle with heavier saws.

For firewood, the 16 inch bar is the practical minimum for bucking rounds. It handles rounds up to about 14 inches, which covers most split firewood pieces. If you cut larger rounds, you will need to rotate the log or move up to a 20 inch bar saw.

The all-plastic construction is the main concern. Echo chose plastic for weight savings, and it does cut down on fatigue, but long-term durability is less certain than on the metal-cased saws. Stock availability is also limited, with only a handful of units left at the time of writing.

Weight and ergonomics for extended firewood work

The 8.2 pound weight is a game changer for firewood buyers who have been intimidated by heavier saws. Combined with the rear handle design and excellent vibration dampening, this is the most comfortable saw on the list to use for extended sessions.

The 34.4cc engine is small for firewood work, so plan on bucking rounds in the 12 to 14 inch range. Anything larger and the saw will work but slow down noticeably.

Who should buy this chainsaw

Anyone who has avoided firewood work because of chainsaw weight will love this Echo. It is also a great choice for limbing, pruning, and small bucking jobs on a property with mostly softwood. If you cut large hardwood rounds regularly, the Echo CS-3510-16 is not the right tool for the job.

10. Husqvarna T435 12 Inch Top Handle Chainsaw

The Husqvarna T435 is the premium top-handle option in this lineup, and it carries a price tag to match. What you get for the money is one of the most refined small chainsaws on the market. The X-Torq 35.2cc engine delivers torque comparable to much larger saws, the X-Cut chain stays sharp longer than generic chains, and the X-Force bar is exceptionally light.

This is the saw I would pick if I had to do a full day of limbing and pruning on a woodlot. At 7.5 pounds, it disappears in the hand, and the top-handle design makes it easy to maneuver overhead and through dense branches. The side chain tensioner is also genuinely tool-free, which speeds up routine adjustments.

For firewood, the T435 is limited to the limbing and bucking steps. It will handle rounds up to about 12 inches, which is fine for split firewood but not enough for whole rounds. Most firewood buyers will use this saw in addition to a larger bucking saw, not as their primary cutter.

The premium price reflects the professional grade construction. Husqvarna rates this for daily arborist use, so it will outlast budget saws by a wide margin. The main concerns are the bar oiler which can loosen over time, and the top handle design which requires training to use safely.

Top handle design and safety considerations

Top handle chainsaws are designed for one-handed use by trained arborists. They are not suitable for general firewood cutting, and they require specific training before use. If you have never used a top handle saw, take a chainsaw safety course before picking one up.

For firewood buyers, the T435 works best as a secondary saw for limbing and small bucking tasks. Pair it with a 20 or 24 inch chainsaw for full firewood production, and you will have a setup that handles every step of the job.

Who should buy this chainsaw

This is the saw for buyers who want a premium lightweight chainsaw for limbing, pruning, and small firewood tasks. It is also the right choice for landowners who maintain their own woodlot and need a saw for overhead work. If you are only cutting firewood rounds, save your money and buy the Husqvarna 450.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Gas Chainsaw for Cutting Firewood

Choosing the right gas chainsaw for firewood comes down to matching the saw to your wood, your volume, and your body. Here is what I tell friends when they ask which saw to buy.

Engine size (cc rating) for firewood

For most home firewood cutting, a 50cc to 60cc engine is the sweet spot. That gives you enough torque to handle 18 to 24 inch rounds without being so heavy that you dread using the saw. If you only cut rounds up to 14 inches, a 35cc to 40cc saw like the Echo CS-3510-16 will work. If you cut rounds larger than 24 inches or process more than 10 cords a year, step up to the 60cc to 70cc class. The Husqvarna 460 Rancher and PROYAMA 68CC are the best options in that range.

Forum users consistently recommend 60cc as the practical minimum for serious firewood cutting. Below that, you will be fighting the saw through dense hardwood. Above 70cc, you are buying professional-grade power that most home users will not use.

Bar length and cutting capacity

Bar length is determined by the largest rounds you plan to cut. As a general rule, choose a bar that is at least 2 inches longer than the diameter of your largest rounds. That gives you enough bar to plunge cut and finish the cut without burying the nose.

For rounds up to 16 inches, a 16 to 18 inch bar is enough. For rounds up to 20 inches, choose an 18 to 22 inch bar. For rounds up to 24 inches or larger, go with a 20 to 24 inch bar. Avoid going longer than 24 inches for home firewood use. Long bars are heavier, more prone to kickback, and harder to control.

Key features to look for

The features that matter most for firewood work are chain brake, anti-vibration, automatic chain oiler, and easy starting. Chain brake is a non-negotiable safety feature. Anti-vibration dampeners reduce fatigue during long bucking sessions. Automatic chain oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated without manual intervention. Easy starting saves time and frustration, especially in cold weather.

Other features worth considering include tool-free chain tensioning, side-access chain tensioner, and a fuel pump primer. These are conveniences rather than essentials, but they make the saw easier to live with day to day.

Weight and ergonomics for firewood work

Firewood cutting is repetitive and physical. A saw that is too heavy will limit how long you can work and increase the risk of injury. Look for a saw with a good anti-vibration system and an ergonomic handle design. Top handle saws are lighter but require training.

For most home firewood users, 11 to 14 pounds is the comfortable range. Saws under 10 pounds are great for limbing but may lack the power for large rounds. Saws over 15 pounds will wear you out during long bucking sessions.

Brand reliability and dealer support

Husqvarna, Stihl, and Echo consistently rank as the most reliable gas chainsaw brands in our research. They also have the strongest dealer networks, which makes warranty service and parts much easier. Budget brands like SUPMIXTOOLS, VEVOR, and XtremepowerUS offer good value but generally lack the dealer support infrastructure.

Our forum research also surfaced a useful insight: many firewood buyers prefer to buy from a local dealer rather than online, even if it costs more, because dealer service matters when a saw goes down mid-season. If you have a Husqvarna or Stihl dealer nearby, that is worth factoring into your decision.

Safety considerations for firewood chainsaws

Always wear chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and a helmet when cutting firewood. The chain brake and low-kickback chain are critical safety features. Read your owner’s manual before the first cut, and consider taking a basic chainsaw safety class through your local extension office.

Never cut above shoulder height, never cut with the tip of the bar, and always have a clear escape path when felling trees. For firewood buyers, the biggest safety risk is kickback from the upper tip of the bar, so keep that tip away from solid wood and other sawyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Gas Chainsaw Should You Buy for Firewood?

After 45 days of cutting, comparing, and reviewing these 10 saws, three saws stand out for firewood buyers in 2026. The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is our editor’s choice for serious firewood production. It delivers professional-grade power, handles the largest rounds, and is backed by the strongest dealer network in the industry.

The PROYAMA 68CC is our best value pick for buyers who want maximum power and dual bar flexibility without the Husqvarna price tag. It cut through everything we threw at it during testing and is the most versatile saw on the list. The SALEM MASTER CS62X-FO is our budget pick for buyers who want reliable 60cc-class cutting at the lowest possible price.

If you are outfitting a full homestead with gas-powered tools, you might also find our related guides helpful. We have put together a guide to the best gas ranges, a guide to 36 inch gas ranges, a guide to smoker boxes for gas grills, a guide to gas pizza ovens, and a guide to gas grills for backyards. They use the same hands-on testing approach, so you can trust the recommendations.

Whichever chainsaw you choose, invest in proper safety gear, learn basic chainsaw maintenance, and keep your chain tensioned and sharp. A well-cared-for gas chainsaw will easily produce firewood for a decade or more. Good luck with your firewood season.