The 5 Best Arborist Chainsaws of 2024[Top Handle]

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Whether you are a professional tree surgeon or a homeowner who wants to carry out your own tree landscaping and maintenance then look no further!

Below are the five best arborist chainsaw options you can add to your arsenal in 2024...

Top 5 Top Handle Arborist Chainsaws

TIMBERPRO 26cc 10-Inch Top Handle Chainsaw
5/5
Tanaka TCS33EDTP 14 Inch Arborist Saw
5/5
Husqvarna 966997234 35.2cc Gas Chainsaw
5/5
Makita XCU02Z LXT Cordless Top Handle Arborist Chainsaw
5/5
Hitachi CS33EDTP 2-Stroke 14" Arborist Chainsaw
5/5

1. TIMBERPRO 26cc 10-Inch Top Handle Chainsaw

This top handle chainsaw from Timberpro is gas operated, allowing for easy and convenient use when off the ground and in the woods away from your workshop.

The single cylinder, two stroke engine is air cooled for a longer lifespan and better function while the saw blade has a length of 10 inches.

With two chains, this machine is lightweight, coming in at only 12 pounds, making it easy and comfortable to handle even when cutting at height.

Despite its small size, this tool is powerful enough to cut through wood with ease.

This model also has an automatic chain lubrication system for optimal convenience for the user as well as an easy starting system for faster start ups in all weather conditions.

This saw comes with a host of useful accessories including a blade guard, carrying mag and fuel mixing bottle.

It also comes complete with a manufacturer’s two-year warranty for the purchaser’s peace of mind.

Pros

  • Lightweight operation at only 12 pounds
  • Automatic chain lubrication system
  • Comes with useful accessories supplied

Cons

  • Tricky chain brake reset mechanism
  • Gas operated so ongoing refilling costs may be an issue

2. Tanaka TCS33EDTP 14 Inch Arborist Saw

Built for commercial use, this 14″ top handle chainsaw is ideal for all kinds of shaping, pruning and hobby work.

This model features a 2 stroke 32.2 cc Pure Fire commercial grade engine which gives a powerful and clean performance while reducing fuel consumption and produces lower harmful emissions to protect the environment.

The Oregon chain and sprocket nose bar give the user improved control and an easier cutting experience.

Thanks to the gear driven automatic oiler and side-access chain tensioning system which can be quickly and easily accessed, this is a very convenient choice for the user.

Some of the other excellent features offered by this chainsaw is the half throttle choke which is equipped with a purge primer bulb allowing for an easier warm up and start.

Also an anti-vibration system to improve the user’s comfort and safety during use, and an inbuilt lanyard ring to make climbing easier.

This model also offers easier access to the rear access filter, and thanks to the excellent power to weight ratio, user fatigue is greatly reduced.

Pros

  • Anti-vibration system for better user comfort and safety
  • Easier start up system
  • Powerful 2 stroke engine for lower emissions and better fuel consumption

Cons

  • Heavier than some of its competitors
  • Small gas tank means frequent refills

3. Husqvarna 966997234 35.2cc Gas Chainsaw

This powerful yet lightweight top handle chainsaw is perfect for use when pruning trees both on and off the ground.

Its well balanced saw body design makes handling much simpler while the X-Torq engine delivers a lower rate of fuel consumption as well as lower harmful exhaust emissions for better environmental protection.

The oil pump is adjustable, enabling the user to control the oil flow dependant on the weather and application, and the air filter has a quick release system to facilitate its replacement and cleaning.

The side access to the chain tensioner is extra convenient for the user and the air filter cover is also quick release to save time.

The improved low vibration design gives the user better visibility of the tip of the guide bar while the rope attachment feature gives the user a sturdy point to which they can fasten a rope for hoisting the saw into the trees.

This model also features an inertia activated chain brake to reduce the chance of accidental injuries from kickback.

Pros

  • X-Torq engine for lower emissions and fuel consumption
  • Adjustable oil pump and quick release air filter
  • Low vibration design

Cons

  • Comes without a case

4. Makita XCU02Z LXT Cordless Top Handle Arborist Chainsaw

This battery operated top handle chainsaw allows the user all of the convenience and portability of a gas powered machine without any of the ongoing maintenance or expensive refills.

The Makita motor delivers a chain speed of 1,650 FPM ensuring rapid cutting while the 18 volt LXT Lithium ion batteries deliver performance and power.

A lower noise level of just 89 decibels, makes this a good choice if you are put off by the louder gas powered options.

The 12 inch guide bar allows for increased capacity while the tool-less chain adjustment system makes maintenance and operation much more convenient for the user.

This saw only weighs just over 10 pounds, making it easier and lighter to handle and this results in a maueuverable tool when cutting at height.

The Makita also features Extreme Protection Technology for better resistance to water and dust even under harsh conditions on the job site.

The top handle features a rubberized soft grip for more even application of cutting pressure and this model also features instant start up for easy cutting every time.

Pros

  • Low noise levels of just 89 decibels
  • Lightweight at just over 10 lbs
  • Extreme Protection Technology for better dust and water resistance

Cons

  • Batteries must be purchased separately
  • Must wait for batteries to recharge before using again

5. Hitachi CS33EDTP 2-Stroke 14" Arborist Chainsaw

This gas powered top handle chain saw from Hitachi features a two stroke 32.2 cc engine and is ideal for all kinds of hobby work, pruning and shaping whether by homeowners or professional users.

The 1.6 HP Pure Fire engine produces lower emission levels than some other gas powered tools and its forged steel connecting rod, chrome plated cylinder and gear driven heavy duty oiler ensures excellent reliability and cutting performance.

With an outstanding power to weight ratio, this machine ensures a lower amount of user fatigue and the integrated anti-vibration system ensures better user comfort while increasing productivity through its ease of use.

This machine is also equipped with a 14″ sprocket nosed guide bar and a chain with side access tensioner for more convenient and rapid chain adjustments.

There is also a purge primer bulb and half throttle choke for easier start ups in all conditions and an inbuilt lanyard ring to facilitate climbing.

Pros

  • Pure Fire engine has lower emissions
  • Anti-vibration system for improved user comfort
  • Side access chain tensioning system for convenience

Cons

  • Gas powered operation means ongoing maintenance and refills
  • Best suited to lighter duty tasks

About THE AUTHOR

Drew - CountrySilo

Drew

Co-Founder CountrySilo

Growing up around the farmlands of the Midwest you learn at an early age getting your hands dirty is a way of life. Whether it was helping my Grandpa make cedar furniture, mowing neighborhood lawns or throwing bails of hay the do-it-yourself mentality runs strong in our family.

I am excited to help you tackle your projects and discover new ways to make your house a home!

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