It doesn’t always take the largest machine to do the work. A mini chainsaw is the best example that even smaller formats are ideal for gardening or DIY. Especially when it comes to quick errands. The mini chainsaw is a successful alternative to conventional models.
In this article we will deal with the mini chainsaw and explain to you which applications it is ideally suited for. We also list popular models for you so that you can get an idea of what to buy when making a purchase decision.
Use of mini chainsaws
A mini chainsaw is ideal for gardening, be it for delimbing trees or pruning bushes. Use is limited by the length of the saw blade. These are usually no larger than 20 cm, with a larger diameter the conventional chainsaw is the better choice. When it comes to efficiency, you work much faster with a chainsaw. Nevertheless, the mini chainsaws have some advantages to offer. After all, it depends on the application and personal needs which format is right for you.
Three popular models in comparison
The choice is plentiful. In addition to no-name products, you will find many models from well-known manufacturers such as Bosch or Makita. It is not always easy to maintain an overview. Especially as a layman, you can easily be fooled by cheap products with gorgeous product descriptions and quickly be disappointed the first time you use them. To prevent this from happening to you, we are introducing you to three popular mini chainsaws in this article, which have already proven themselves many times in practice.
1) Bosch Easy Cut 12 with Nanoblade
The Bosch Easy Cut 12 is excellent for simple and precise work. It is considered to be particularly low-maintenance. The Nanoblade does not need to be sharpened or oiled and the saw blade can be changed without tools. It catches chips with a protective shield and the low-vibration guide ensures additional safety. The length of the chain is approx. 12 cm and, with a weight of approx. 900 grams, it sits comfortably in the hand even for longer work. The battery lasts up to an hour. In the scope of delivery you get everything that is needed for the operation. The Bosch Easy Cut 12 is supplied with a case, a protective cap, a loop and a battery with charger.
2) Stihl GTA 26
The Stihl brand has established itself worldwide and promises products of the highest quality. With the Stihl GTA 26 you can bring a reliable professional mini chainsaw into your home. The display of the battery level is particularly practical. This means that work is not interrupted abruptly and breaks can be better planned. It takes about 70 minutes to charge and can be used for just under an hour. The device weighs just 1.2 kg and the chain is approx. 10 cm long. You get the Stihl GTA 26 together with a transport case, a plastic cap, lubricating oil, a battery and a charger.
3) Goldsea cordless mini chainsaw
The Goldsea mini chainsaw rounds off our selection. It is part of an extensive set and has LED lighting in addition to overheating protection. The length of the saw is around 10 cm and, at around 0.75 kg, one-handed operation is particularly easy. In contrast to the other two models presented, the battery life of 20 minutes is a bit short. However, this is completely sufficient for short work. A second battery is included in the set. You will also receive a charger, work gloves, a screwdriver and two replacement chains in the transport case.
Pay attention to this when buying
A good mini chainsaw will have a clean cut. You should pay attention to a powerful motor with high speed. Some models offer a stepless speed, which allows you to adapt to the work. Depending on the application, the length of the saw blade plays an important role. If you just want to cut a few branches, even the smallest formats are sufficient.
A mini chainsaw is usually found on battery power. In practice, models with a display of the battery level have proven to be very practical. Other variants can be operated with gasoline or have a cable. With a battery or gasoline operation you are of course the most flexible and can use them effortlessly in many places. The limited running time is a disadvantage. The battery has to be charged (or replaced) or the chainsaw has to be refilled with petrol every now and then. With a wired model, you save this process, but you make compromises in terms of range.
Furthermore, attention must be paid to safety. Using the mini chainsaw is a lot easier, but you shouldn’t underestimate it. A nice feature is the overheating protection, because mini chainsaws can quickly overheat when running for a long time. This function protects the device and switches it off automatically before damage occurs. A splash guard is also an advantage so that the small sawdust does not fly towards you.
It will require some maintenance over time. If the mini chainsaw is used more often, the saw blade may have to be changed. The models differ in terms of whether you need extra tools or whether you can do without them. The latter happened much faster in many cases. Therefore, before buying, you should also check whether there are spare parts for the mini chainsaw on the market.
Plus point: the accessories
Depending on the model, you will find a wide variety of accessories in the scope of delivery. A (transport) case is particularly practical to stow the mini chainsaw neatly and safely. A protective cap is useful as a supplement. This protects against injuries caused by careless handling when stowing.
If you decide on a cordless mini chainsaw, additional batteries to change are an advantage. So you don’t have to wait for longer work to be charged, but can continue working after replacing the battery while the empty battery can be recharged at the same time at the socket. Make sure that the chainsaw comes with a charger. These are usually included in the set, but you will also find products that do without them.
Conclusion: the comparison of chainsaws and mini chainsaws
When buying, you should consider the purposes for which you are buying the mini chainsaw. With tree trunks with a large diameter, the limits are quickly reached. Even when working for hours, these are more inefficient compared to the large chainsaw.
A mini chainsaw is ideal for quick use in between. Be it the delimbing of trees, the processing of smaller pieces of firewood or similar woodwork. Thanks to its compact size and comparatively low weight, even inexperienced users find it surprisingly easy to use. The one-handed operation promotes a pleasant way of working and the mini chainsaw can then be stowed away to save space. They are also significantly quieter than conventional chainsaws. Hearing protection is not necessary in this case. Nevertheless, the dangers should not be underestimated and use should always be made with caution. We recommend wearing protective clothing such as work gloves. Just like protective goggles that protect your eyes from flying sawdust.
