The Remington RM4214 Rebel 42cc 14-inch Gas Chainsaw is the best small gas chainsaw for the value it provides.
If you have a large garden with many trees, it can be hard work pruning the branches with a pruning saw.
A small gas chainsaw can give you the power and portability that can help you trim the branches fast and efficient.
Let’s take a look at the best small gas chainsaw you can buy that will give you the best cutting performance.
What is a small chainsaw?
A chainsaw is a cutting tool that comes with a motor-driven saw with a chain around it.
There are different types of chainsaw based on size and power that you can choose. A small chainsaw is one with less power, small size, and lower cost.
What are the different types of small chainsaw?
There are two types of small chainsaw based on their power source.
Gas-powered small chainsaw
A gas-powered chainsaw has a motor that runs on a mixture of oil and gas.
This type of chainsaw is powerful compared to an electric one. It can run for a long period of time on a full tank. This makes it very portable to use around the garden.
The gas-powered small chainsaw is more expensive than an electric one. It’s heavier and needs more maintenance. It’s also noisy and has higher emissions compared to an electric one.
Electric small chainsaw
An electric small chainsaw can either be corded or cordless.
The corded chainsaw is lightweight and can be used for a long period of cutting. It’s limited in range by the outdoor extension cord you use. It’s inexpensive compared to a cordless chainsaw.
A cordless chainsaw runs on battery power. This makes it portable compared to a corded one. But this also makes it a bit heavier.
An electric small chainsaw needs less maintenance compared to a gas chainsaw. They don’t create much noise and emissions as well.
Do you need a small gas chainsaw?
If you have a few small plants in your garden, a hand saw is all you need for the pruning. But if you have many trees that need to be trimmed, a small gas chainsaw can get the job done fast.
How to choose the best small gas chainsaw
There are a few characteristics of the small gas chainsaw that will help you make a better buying decision.
Guide bar length
The guide bar length is the distance from the tip of the chainsaw bar to the end where it meets the motor.
This length determines the thickness of the branch that the chainsaw can cut. You should select a chainsaw that has a guide bar length at least 2 inches more than the thickness of the wood you’re going to cut.
A small gas chainsaw should be used to trim small branches, trees, and shrubs. So a guide bar length between 10 to 16 inches should be enough.
Power
The power of the small gas chainsaw determines the speed and efficiency with which it can cut the branches. Higher the power, faster and smoother the cutting will be.
The power of a gas trimmer is measured in cc (cubic centimeter). A small gas trimmer with 30cc to 40cc power should be quite enough.
Portability
If you have many trees in your garden, you’ll need to carry around the chainsaw for quite some time.
That’s why it’s important to have a small chainsaw that is lightweight and has a good work capacity. Work capacity means for how long the chainsaw can work before it needs a gas refill.
A small gas chainsaw usually has a good work capacity thanks to its gas tank. But that also means it could be a little heavy. Pick one that you feel most comfortable to use for a long period of cutting.
Tension adjustment
The chainsaw comes with a chain wrapped around the saw. This chain needs to be adjusted so it’s not too tight or loose. This will help give you the best cutting performance and extend the life of the chainsaw.
So before using the small gas chainsaw, you’ll need to adjust the chain tension.
Some chainsaws come with a manual tension adjustment system where you need to use a hand tool. Some come with a easy to use tension adjustment system that can be adjusted with the turn of a knob.
There are some modern chainsaws that come with an automatic adjustment system that works with the push of a button.
Safety features
A chainsaw is useful for trimming branches in your garden. But it’s also a dangerous tool if you’re not careful with it.
That’s why you need to get a small gas chainsaw that comes with the required safety features.
A common problem with chainsaws is the kickback that happens in case the tip of the saw touches the wood.
So choose a chainsaw that comes with a hand brake that engages in such a situation and stops the chainsaw. Some chainsaw come with an automatic anti-kickback system that triggers in such a situation.
You could get a beginner level chainsaw that has a cover at the tip of the saw to protect you from kickback.
Automatic oiling system
The friction that occurs when using the chainsaw can wear down the saw and chain. That’s why it needs to be kept well-oiled. This will give you good cutting performance and extend the life of the chainsaw.
Some chainsaw don’t have an oiling system so you need to manually apply the oil between the cutting periods by pressing a button.
Some other chainsaws come with an automatic oiling system that squirts oil on the bar and chain while cutting.
Ergonomics
A small gas chainsaw will be much more comfortable than a regular one. But you should try holding it for some time and see how it feels.
You should make sure the handle is comfortable to hold and the weight is well-distributed on the chainsaw. Check that the weight is comfortable for you to use it for a long period of time.
Auto chain sharpener
The chain of the chainsaw will get dull after several uses for cutting. So you’ll need to get it sharpened.
A well-sharpened chainsaw will give a good cutting performance, improve the life of the chainsaw, and protect you from injury.
You could use a chainsaw chain sharpening tool or get it sharpened by a professional. There are some chainsaws that come with an auto chain sharpener to sharpen the chain with the click of a button.
Price
A gas chainsaw tends to cost a bit more than an electric one. But you get the cutting performance and portability in exchange.
It’s good to go for a high-quality small gas chainsaw that will give a good cutting performance and last you a long time.
If you have a limited budget, there are several good budget small chainsaw based on your needs.
Precautions when using a small gas chainsaw
The small gas chainsaw can be a dangerous equipment if you’re not careful with it. So let’s take a look at some precautions you need to take.
The safety gear is a must when using a chainsaw. This includes a pair of jeans, safety chaps and covered boots that will protect your feet in case of a kickback.
A good pair of safety gloves and safety goggles will protect your hands and eyes from debris.
You’ll also need a safety helmet to protect your head from falling debris. It’ll also protect your eyes and ears from the flying debris and noise.
Always make sure the chainsaw blade is sharp before using it. This will reduce the chances of a kickback because the blade got stuck in the wood.
Use the tension adjustment system so that the chain is not too tight nor too loose on the bar.
Make sure the bar and chain are well-oiled before use. Check that there is plenty of oil in the reservoir in case of an automatic oiling system.
Test that the handbrake is working before you use the chainsaw. This will protect you in case of a kickback. When the chainsaw is not in use, always engage the handbrake.
Before using the chainsaw, make sure the work area is clear of unwanted objects. Ensure that people, pets, and children don’t wander around in the work area.
When using the chainsaw, don’t stand behind it but next to it. You’ll be able to see the blade and it’ll protect you in case of a kickback.
Don’t use the chainsaw on a ladder or lifting it above your head. It’s safer to use a pole saw for trimming branches on a height. Or use the help of a professional.
Use the lower end of the bar close to the motor to do the cutting. Place the bar on the branch and let it do the cutting. There’s no need to apply a lot of pressure while cutting.
How to use a small gas chainsaw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8OCieiU4Lo
To start the throttle you’ll need to push the throttle control on the inside of the handle. But this can be done only when you also push the throttle lock as well. This is a safety feature from accidental starts.
Fill the gas tank with enough gas and the oil reservoir with the required oil by placing the chainsaw on a stable surface.
Before using the chainsaw, place it on the ground and clear the area of any debris. Make sure the handbrake is engaged so that the chainsaw does not start running the chain.
If the engine is cold, you’ll need to pull the choke all the way out. Put the right foot partway through the rear handle and hold the left handle firmly with your left hand. Push the choke in again halfway and continue to pull the starter handle until the saw starts.
Hit the throttle once so the engine speed drops to idle. If the engine is already warm, you don’t need to use the choke but the other steps are the same.
If you find the engine difficult to start, pull out the choke fully and push it back again.
When the chainsaw is started, don’t disengage the handbrake until you’re ready to saw. Test that the handbrake is working by testing it out after starting the chainsaw.
Maintaining your small gas chainsaw
It’s good to check out the manual that comes with your chainsaw for the steps to maintain your chainsaw.
You want to make sure there’s fresh fuel in your small gas chainsaw. The maximum time to keep fuel in the gas tank is 30 days.
If you’re storing the small gas chainsaw, make sure to drain the fuel. Put a funnel into a gas can. Open the fuel tank of the chainsaw and tilt it so that the fuel drains into the gas can.
Inspect the air filter to make sure it’s clean and there are no holes in it. You shouldn’t blow compressed air on the air filter or you can blow a hole in it.
To clean it, you could just tap it on the workbench. If the air filter has a hole or it’s worn out, you’ll need to replace it with a new one.
Make sure the handbrake is applied and put the scabbard on before you store the chainsaw.
When you want to again use the chainsaw, take the scabbard off and check the handbrake is working. Check that the required tension is present in the chainsaw chain.
Take out the air filter and make sure it’s free from any debris. If it’s dirty, try tapping it on the workbench to remove those debris.
Take out the spark plug and make sure it’s free from debris and in working condition. If not, you’ll need to replace it. Check your manual for the torque specifications when installing the spark plug.
Check the fuel lines so there’s no cracking or aging that’s taken place where you need to get it replaced.
Make sure the chain is sharp before using the chainsaw. If not, you’ll need to use a chainsaw sharpener to sharpen it. Or get the help of a professional to sharpen it.
When done using the chainsaw, clean it with a damp cloth. Cover the blade with the scabbard and store it in a safe place away from pets and children.
Reviews
No products found.
The Remington RM4214 Rebel is a 14-inch gas chainsaw that comes with a powerful 42cc 2-cycle gas engine. This is a good chainsaw to prune trees, branches, and shrubs in your garden.
The 14-inch bar and chain has a low-kickback feature and is suitable for pruning branches up to 12 inches thick.
The handle of this chainsaw is ergonomic and has a cushion wrap that makes it comfortable to use for a long period of time.
The Remington RM4214 comes with a QuickStart technology that makes it easy to start the chainsaw.
It also comes with a 5-point anti-vibration system that will make the cutting comfortable and reduce fatigue on your hands.
This chainsaw is quite durable and comes with an automatic oiler so you don’t need to worry about keeping the bar and chain lubricated. Some users have found that it tends to leak oil when not in use.
The Remington RM4214 weighs about 15.7 lbs which is good considering that it’s a gas chainsaw.
This chainsaw comes with a limited two-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
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- With the OxyPower engine technology, you can get that extra power for virtually any task. This technology offers a more powerful engine, but also 70% less emissions and 20% lower fuel consumption
- Effortless pull starting system reduces pull force 30% for easier starting and reduced wear on the starter mechanism
- The combi tool is integrated into the rear handle, it's always there when you need it for maintenance
Last update on 2024-04-17 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
The Poulan PL3816 is a 16-inch gas chainsaw that comes with a 33cc 2-cycle engine. This is good enough for trimming branches and shrubs in your garden.
It comes with OxyPower engine technology that helps you get extra cutting power. This also has 70% less emissions and 20% less fuel consumption.
The starter mechanism is fast starting and easier to use and reduces the wear and tear on the system.
The Poulan PL3816 comes with a combi tool in the rear handle that you can use for maintenance of the chainsaw.
The purge bulb that provides the carburetor with fuel is protected and reduces the risk of damage.
It comes with an easy tension adjustment system so you can keep the right tension in the chain before using it. The chainsaw weighs about 17 lbs which is heavy when you want to use it for a long trimming session.
The Poulan PL3816 comes with a limited two-year warranty good enough in case of manufacturing defects.
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The Husqvarna 240 is a 2-cycle gas chainsaw that comes with a 38.2cc engine and a 16-inch bar and chain. This gives a great performance for trimming branches in your garden.
This is one of the best gas chainsaw that adheres to environmental regulations. With the X-Torq feature, it consumes less fuel and produces reduces exhaust emission levels.
It comes with an air injection system that prevents larger dust and debris from reaching the air filter. This reduces cleaning of the air filter and improves life of the engine.
It has a low vibration system which means you’ll not suffer from fatigue when using this chainsaw.
The smart start and fuel pump make it very easy to start this chainsaw. There is a learning curve on how to start the chainsaw.
The Triorake system helps to stop the chain rapidly which improves protection and use of the chainsaw.
The Husqvarna 240 gas chainsaw weighs just 10.3 lbs which makes it lightweight considering it’s a gas chainsaw. You can use this chainsaw for a long trimming session without feeling fatigue.
It comes with a limited one-year warranty which is the least you can expect from such an equipment.
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The Blue Max 8901 is a 2-cycle gas engine that comes with a powerful 45cc engine. This is great for trimming branches, trees, and shrubs in your garden.
This is a unique chainsaw because you can attach either a 14-inch or 20-inch bar to it so you can cut trees and branches with different thickness.
It has 30 percent more chain teeth which means you’re cutting time is reduced. The handle is anti-vibration so you won’t feel fatigue using this chainsaw.
It comes with a quick start system so you don’t have problems when starting it. But you do need to learn how to use this system or you’ll have a bit of trouble starting it.
It has an automatic oiler system so your bar and chain are always lubricated. This improves performance and increases life of the chainsaw.
The chain tension system is easy to use so the chain is adjusted to the right tension on the bar. It should not be too tight nor too loose.
The low range kick-back brake that comes with this chainsaw will help you from chainsaw accidents due to kick-back.
The Blue Max 8901 gas chainsaw weighs about 18.19 lbs which makes it pretty heavy to carry around the garden.
This chainsaw comes with a limited one-year warranty which is the least you can expect from it.
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The Poulan PL3314 is a gas chainsaw that comes with a 33cc powerful engine and 14-inch bar and chain. It’ll help you trim branches, trees, and shrubs in your garden.
The OxyPower technology gives you more power while reducing fuel consumption and emission levels.
The Super Clean filtering system means the air filter lasts longer and fuel consumption is reduced.
It has an automatic oiler that ensures the bar and chain are lubricated well so you get good cutting performance and the chainsaw lasts longer.
The reduced vibration handle means you won’t feel fatigue while using this chainsaw.
The starter mechanism is fast starting and easier to use and reduces the wear and tear on the system.
The Poulan PL3314 gas chainsaw weighs about 17 lbs which makes it a bit heavy to use for a long period of time.
It comes with a limited two-year warranty which should be good enough in case of manufacturing defects.
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Our Recommendation
We recommend the Remington RM4214 Rebel 42cc 14-inch Gas Chainsaw as the best small gas chainsaw you can get.
The powerful 42cc 2-cycle engine can help you trim branches and trees with ease.
It’s a breeze using this chainsaw thanks to the ergonomic and cushion wrap handle. The 5-point anti-vibration system helps in making the cutting experience comfortable.
The QuickStart technology helps you start this gas chainsaw with minimal effort. And the automatic oiler helps to keep the bar and chain in the best cutting condition.
Fact Checked, Written, and Published by Kevin Rodrigues
Kevin is the founder of Gardening Mentor, a website that aims to teach people to grow their own food in a limited space. As a self-taught gardener, Kevin has spent several years growing plants and creating gardening content on the website. He is certified in Home Horticulture and Organic Gardening from Oregon State University. He has a Post Graduate Diploma in Horticulture and Landscape Gardening from Mumbai University.
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