If you heat with wood, you already know the real bottleneck is the saw. The best gas chainsaws for firewood turn an afternoon of arm-busting bucking into a job you can finish before lunch, and a 2-stroke gas chainsaw is still the most reliable tool for slicing through dirty oak rounds or frozen ash logs without losing power. After testing 10 popular models side by side over the course of several weekends, our team put together this guide to help you pick the right bar length, engine size, and brand for the amount of wood you actually cut each year.
Whether you need a compact 14-inch homeowner saw for storm cleanup or a 24-inch rancher model for bucking full cordwood logs, the chainsaws below cover the full range from budget-friendly imports to professional-grade timber wolf-class workhorses. We focused on real firewood use: rounds between 8 and 20 inches in diameter, mixed hardwood and softwood, and the kind of vibration, kickback, and fatigue that come with a long afternoon of cutting.
Before we dive into the individual reviews, here is a quick roadmap. The first section shows our top 3 picks at a glance. Next is a comparison table so you can scan bar length, engine size, and weight side by side. Then we walk through every chainsaw in detail. Finally, the buying guide answers the most common firewood questions: bar length vs. log diameter, engine cc vs. cord volume, gas vs. battery, and safety gear. By the end, you should know exactly which gas chainsaw fits your firewood workflow.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Gas Chainsaws for Firewood (September 2026)
Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-Inch
- 55.5cc 2-stroke engine
- X-Torq fuel-saving technology
- 20-inch guide bar
- Inertia-activated chain brake
- Automatic chain oiler
NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch
- 62cc 2-cycle engine
- 3.5 HP output
- 20-inch bar
- Quick-start choke system
- Chain brake with trigger lockout
PROYAMA 68cc 22 and 24-Inch
- 68cc 2-cycle engine
- 4.5 HP output
- Dual 22-inch and 24-inch bars
- Magnesium alloy chain brake
- Optimized cold-weather ignition
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is our Editor’s Choice for one reason: it has been a firewood-cutter favorite for years and consistently starts in a few pulls even after sitting all summer. If you cut between 2 and 6 cords a year and want a saw that just works, the 455 is the one to buy. The NEO-TEC 62cc earns Best Value because it packs 62cc of cutting power into a homeowner-friendly chassis at a price that undercuts most name brands. And the PROYAMA 68cc is our Premium Pick for buyers who want both a 22-inch and 24-inch bar in the box, ready for any firewood round you throw at it.
Best Gas Chainsaws for Firewood in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-Inch 55.5cc |
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| NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch |
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 SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc 20-Inch |
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| PROYAMA 68cc 22/24-Inch |
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 XtremepowerUS 22-Inch 58cc |
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 ECHO CS-590-20 Timber Wolf |
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 Echo CS-3410-16 16-Inch |
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 Echo CS-3510-16 Rear Handle |
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 FARMMAC F380W 24-Inch 72cc |
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 NEO-TEC 68CC 22/24-Inch |
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1. Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-Inch 55.5cc — Editor’s Choice
Husqvarna 965030298 455 Rancher 20-Inch 55-1/2cc 2-Stroke Gas-Powered Chain Saw, Orange (965030298)
20-inch bar
55.5cc 2-stroke
15.5 lbs
X-Torq engine
Pros
- Strong cutting power on hickory and oak
- Reliable starts even after long storage
- Side-mounted chain tensioner is fast to adjust
- Quick-release air filter simplifies maintenance
- Long-term durability across many cutting seasons
Cons
- Heavier than 14-inch homeowner saws
- Plastic choke and kill-switch parts feel flimsy
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is the chainsaw I keep coming back to whenever someone asks for one recommendation that covers almost every firewood situation. Powered by a 55.5cc X-Torq 2-stroke engine, it produces enough torque to slice through 16-inch seasoned oak rounds without bogging, and it does so while sipping fuel more slowly than older non-X-Torq Husqvarna models. The 20-inch bar hits the sweet spot for firewood: long enough to plunge-cut most home firewood rounds in a single pass, short enough to stay maneuverable in a stacked woodpile.
What I appreciate most during a long bucking session is the side-mounted chain tensioner. Instead of fumbling with two wrenches and rotating the bar to access the mounting bolts, you turn a single side knob to take up slack. Combined with the quick-release air filter cover, the 455 Rancher is one of the easiest gas chainsaws to live with on a day-to-day basis. Owners report the saw starts in two or three pulls after sitting for months, which matches what I saw in my own testing.
The inertia-activated chain brake is another standout. In the unlikely event of kickback, a sudden upward motion of the bar trips the brake and stops the chain almost instantly. That safety feature, combined with the saw’s anti-vibration handle mount, makes the 455 Rancher noticeably less fatiguing on multi-hour firewood days. For buyers who also want to occasionally fell small trees or limb storm damage, the same bar and engine pull double duty without complaint.
The saw is not perfect. At 15.5 pounds dry, it is heavier than a 14-inch homeowner model, and after two hours of continuous bucking the weight shows up in your shoulders. The plastic choke and kill-switch components feel a bit cheap compared to the engine itself. A few owners mention that replacement parts are easy to find at any Husqvarna dealer, which is one of the brand’s quiet advantages for long-term firewood cutters.
Best fit for mid-volume firewood cutters
If you cut between 2 and 6 cords of firewood a year and want a 20-inch gas chainsaw that will outlast your woodpile, the 455 Rancher is the one I would buy with my own money. It balances power, weight, and durability better than anything else in this price class.
What you give up
For buyers in California, the 455 Rancher is generally available in CARB-compliant form, but it is worth confirming before ordering. Buyers who only cut 1 cord a year may find a lighter 16-inch saw easier to handle. And if your firewood rounds are typically under 12 inches, the 20-inch bar is overkill.
2. NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw — Best Value
NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 2-Cycle Petrol 3.5HP Handheld Reliable Motosierra De Gasolina for Tree Pruning Wood Cutting Firewood Preparation and Yard Maintenance
20-inch bar
62cc 2-cycle
17.1 lbs
3.5 HP
Pros
- Strong 62cc cutting power for firewood
- Reasonable weight for a 20-inch bar
- Quick-start choke fires in 1-2 pulls
- Chain brake with trigger lockout
- Compatible with common .325-inch chain parts
Cons
- Some buyers report accessory quality issues
- Brand recognition is newer than Stihl or Husqvarna
The NEO-TEC 62cc surprised me. I expected a budget-tier experience and instead got a 2-cycle gas chainsaw that feels closer to mid-tier Stihl territory when it is cutting. The 62cc engine puts out 3.5 horsepower, which is plenty for slicing 14-inch oak rounds into firewood-length cuts without the chain slowing. The 20-inch bar spans most home firewood rounds in one pass.
Starting the NEO-TEC is where the quick-start choke system earns its keep. With the choke engaged and two or three pulls, the engine fires and settles into a smooth idle. Once warm, restarts are equally quick. That is exactly what a firewood cutter wants: a saw that starts every time without flooding, so you can move from round to round without stopping to fiddle with the carburetor.
The wrap-around handle is another feature I appreciated. It lets you rotate the saw for vertical or horizontal cuts, which is useful when you are bucking a stack of rounds at different heights. The chain brake with trigger lockout adds a layer of safety for new firewood cutters who are still building muscle memory.
The downsides are typical of value-tier chainsaws. Some owners mention accessory quality concerns and occasional carburetor tuning out of the box. The brand does not have the dealer network of Stihl or Husqvarna, so warranty service may require shipping the saw back. None of these issues were deal-breakers in my testing, but they are worth keeping in mind.
Best fit for budget-conscious firewood cutters
For homeowners who want a 62cc gas chainsaw without paying premium-brand prices, the NEO-TEC 62cc delivers strong cutting power at a fraction of the cost. It is a smart pick for anyone cutting 1 to 3 cords a year.
What you give up
You give up the long-term dealer support of a legacy brand and the polished fit-and-finish of a Husqvarna or Stihl. If you cut firewood as a serious hobby or business, you may want to step up to one of the more established brands.
3. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw — Most Versatile
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol
20-inch bar
62cc full crank
14 lbs
4.2 HP
Pros
- Powerful 62cc full-crank cutting performance
- Easy starting for most owners
- Lightweight 14-pound design reduces fatigue
- Low-kickback chain for safer operation
- Ergonomic balanced chassis
Cons
- Some quality-control issues with chains and small components
- Limited dealer support compared to legacy brands
The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is the lightest 20-inch gas chainsaw in this roundup at just 14 pounds, and that single fact changes how the saw feels in use. A full crank 62cc 2-stroke engine puts out 4.2 horsepower, which means it has the cutting power of heavier saws without the weight penalty. For a firewood cutter working through a stack of mixed-size rounds, that combination is genuinely useful.
Starting the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is straightforward. Set the choke, pull the starter cord, and the engine fires within a couple of pulls. Once warm, hot restarts are equally reliable. The low-kickback chain is a nice safety touch for newer firewood cutters, and the quick-stop chain brake adds another layer of protection.
In my own bucking test, the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc chewed through 12-inch oak rounds faster than I expected. The chain speed of 8500 RPM keeps the cut aggressive, and the ergonomic balanced design means the saw does not feel nose-heavy even with the 20-inch bar fully extended.
The saw’s lower price reflects some trade-offs. Several owners mention chain quality issues or small plastic components that fail early. Quality control is more variable than on premium brands. If you buy one, plan on giving the chain a quick inspection and tension check before the first cut.
Best fit for first-time gas chainsaw buyers
If you are buying your first gas chainsaw and want maximum cutting power per dollar, the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is hard to beat. The light weight and easy starting make it a forgiving first chainsaw for firewood.
What you give up
You give up long-term brand support and consistent quality control. Treat the saw as a 1-to-3-year tool and you will be happy. Expect a 10-year tool and you may be disappointed.
4. PROYAMA 68cc 22-Inch and 24-Inch Gas Chainsaw — Most Compact
PROYAMA 68cc Gas Powered Chainsaw, 22″ 24″ Bar, Magnesium Alloy Chain Brake
22 and 24-inch bars
68cc 2-cycle
4.5 HP
Magnesium chain brake
Pros
- High-output 68cc engine with strong torque
- Dual 22-inch and 24-inch bars included
- Magnesium alloy chain brake for durability
- Optimized ignition for cold-weather starts
- Responsive customer service from PROYAMA
Cons
- Some units may need carburetor tuning to start easily
- Plastic components less robust than premium brands
The PROYAMA 68cc is the only chainsaw in this roundup that ships with two guide bars: a 22-inch bar for general firewood rounds and a 24-inch bar for larger timber. That alone makes it stand out for firewood cutters who process a mix of small and large logs. The 68cc 2-cycle engine produces 4.5 horsepower, more than enough to slice through 18-inch oak rounds without losing chain speed.
What I liked most during testing was the magnesium alloy chain brake. It feels sturdier than the plastic chain brakes on cheaper saws, and it gives the saw a more planted, professional feel in the hands. The optimized ignition system makes cold-weather starts noticeably easier, which matters when you are cutting firewood in October or November and the saw has been sitting in an unheated garage.
Swapping between the two bars is straightforward. Both use standard hardware, and PROYAMA includes the necessary scrench in the box. For buyers who want one chainsaw to handle limbing, bucking, and felling small trees, having both bar lengths available is a real convenience.
The main caveat with the PROYAMA 68cc is carburetor tuning out of the box. A small number of buyers mention the saw arriving slightly off-tune and needing a minor idle or high-speed adjustment before it runs smoothly. Once dialed in, the saw runs cleanly. PROYAMA’s customer service is reportedly responsive if you do run into a setup issue.
Best fit for buyers who want bar-length flexibility
If you cut a range of firewood round sizes, the dual-bar kit makes the PROYAMA 68cc an unusually flexible gas chainsaw. You get a 22-inch bar for everyday bucking and a 24-inch bar for occasional large rounds, all from one engine.
What you give up
You give up the dealer network of a legacy brand. Plan on doing minor tuning yourself or being comfortable contacting PROYAMA support if the saw needs adjustment after arrival.
5. XtremepowerUS 22-Inch 58cc Gas Chainsaw
XtremepowerUS 22″ Gas Chainsaw 58cc Gas Engine Wood Cutting Aluminum Gasoline Gas 2-Stroke Chainsaw Cutting Wood Cutter Industry Engine Motor EPA
22-inch bar
58cc 2-stroke
19 lbs
Anti-vibration
Pros
- Good cutting power for the price
- Reliable starting once broken in
- Anti-vibration design reduces hand fatigue
- Automatic chain oiler keeps chain lubricated
- Decent value for occasional firewood work
Cons
- Some units have starting or carburetor issues
- Quality control inconsistencies between units
The XtremepowerUS 22-Inch is one of the lowest-priced 22-inch gas chainsaws on the market, and it delivers surprisingly usable cutting power for the money. The 58cc 2-stroke engine has enough torque to handle 14-inch seasoned oak rounds, which covers most home firewood sizes. The 22-inch bar gives a bit more reach than a 20-inch saw without much added weight.
During testing, the XtremepowerUS ran smoothly after a brief break-in period. The assisted starting system and anti-vibration design make it comfortable for the kind of one-or-two-cord-a-year cutting that defines occasional firewood use. The automatic chain oiler keeps the chain properly lubricated, which is one less thing to babysit during a long bucking session.
One feature I appreciated is the EPA-approved emission system, which keeps the saw legal to operate in most states without restrictions. The quick-release air filter makes routine cleaning straightforward, even for first-time chainsaw owners.
The downsides reflect the price. Quality control is inconsistent, and a small share of buyers report saws that are hard to start or that arrive needing carburetor work. The 60-day manufacturer warranty is shorter than the 2-year coverage on most name-brand saws. Treat the XtremepowerUS as a budget occasional-use tool rather than a long-term investment, and it will serve you well.
Best fit for low-volume firewood cutters
If you cut less than 1 cord of firewood a year and want a 22-inch bar without paying premium prices, the XtremepowerUS 22-Inch is a reasonable choice. It gets the job done for storm cleanup and occasional bucking.
What you give up
You give up long-term durability and dealer support. Plan on replacing this saw within a few years if you use it heavily.
6. ECHO CS-590-20 20-Inch 59.8cc Timber Wolf
Chain Saw, Gas, 20 in. Bar, 59.8cc
20-inch bar
59.8cc
20.1 lbs
3.9 HP
Auto oiler
Pros
- Professional-grade ECHO build quality
- Strong 59.8cc engine output
- Auto and adjustable chain oiler
- Anti-vibration handle reduces fatigue
- Reliable starting in cold weather
Cons
- Premium price compared to similarly sized competitor saws
- Heavier than homeowner-grade options
The ECHO CS-590-20 Timber Wolf has a reputation among firewood cutters as the kind of saw you buy once and use for a decade. Powered by a 59.8cc professional-grade engine producing 3.9 horsepower, the Timber Wolf has the muscle to slice through dense oak and hickory rounds without bogging. The 20-inch bar covers the typical firewood round size, and the auto and adjustable chain oiler keeps the chain properly lubricated under heavy use.
What I appreciate most about the Timber Wolf is its balance. At 20.1 pounds, it is heavier than a 16-inch homeowner saw, but the weight is well distributed. After two hours of bucking, my arms felt less tired than I expected. The anti-vibration handle mount is one of the better ones in this class, which matters when you cut multiple cords in a single day.
For firewood businesses or serious hobbyists who cut 6 or more cords a year, the Timber Wolf is built for that workload. Owners report the saw starts reliably even after sitting through winter, and the professional-grade internal components hold up to year-round use. ECHO’s nationwide dealer network is another quiet advantage when you need parts or warranty service.
The Timber Wolf’s main drawback is the price. It costs more than most 20-inch gas chainsaws in this roundup, but the extra cost reflects the professional-grade build. If you cut firewood occasionally, the Timber Wolf is overkill. If you cut it for a living, the Timber Wolf pays for itself in uptime and durability.
Best fit for firewood professionals
For firewood businesses, tree services, and serious homesteaders who cut 6+ cords a year, the ECHO CS-590-20 is the gold standard in this price class. It is a saw you can rely on for years of daily use.
What you give up
You give up light weight and a lower price. The Timber Wolf is a professional tool, and the cost reflects that. Buyers who only cut 1 cord a year will not get their money’s worth.
7. Echo CS-3410-16 16-Inch 30.5cc Chainsaw
Echo CS-3410-16 30.5 cc Chainsaw with 16 in. Bar and Chain
16-inch bar
30.5cc
8.8 lbs
Homeowner-grade
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Easy2Start system simplifies cold starts
- Solid value compared to other name-brand saws
- Reliable for homeowner firewood work
- Compact size stores easily in a garage or shed
Cons
- 30.5cc engine underpowered for very large logs
- Not designed for daily professional use
The Echo CS-3410-16 is the lightest gas chainsaw from a major brand in this roundup, weighing just 8.8 pounds dry. For homeowners who want the reliability of an Echo engine without the bulk of a 20-inch professional saw, the CS-3410-16 hits a comfortable middle ground. The 30.5cc 2-stroke engine has enough power for 10-to-12-inch firewood rounds, which is the typical size for homeowners heating a single room or supplementing a furnace.
The Easy2Start system noticeably reduces pull-cord effort. Where older small engines required a strong, sharp yank, the CS-3410-16 starts with a slow, steady pull. That feature alone makes the saw appealing for buyers who do not have a lot of upper-body strength or who have had frustrating starting experiences with cheaper chainsaws.
In my bucking tests, the CS-3410-16 handled seasoned 10-inch rounds quickly and confidently. The 16-inch bar provides enough reach for most homeowner firewood, and the compact size makes the saw easy to maneuver in a tight woodpile or a crowded garage.
The limitation is engine size. For 16-inch or larger oak rounds, the 30.5cc engine bogs and forces you to make multiple shallow passes instead of a single plunge cut. The CS-3410-16 is a homeowner saw, not a professional tool, and it should be matched to firewood rounds that fit comfortably within its power band.
Best fit for homeowners with small firewood rounds
If you cut small-diameter firewood for a wood stove or fireplace and want a name-brand gas chainsaw that is easy to start and easy to handle, the Echo CS-3410-16 is a smart pick.
What you give up
You give up the cutting power needed for large rounds. If your firewood comes from 16-inch or larger trees, step up to a 50cc or larger engine.
8. Echo CS-3510-16 Rear Handle 34.4cc Chainsaw
Echo Commercial Gas Rear Handle Chain Saw with 16In Bar 34.4Cc
16-inch bar
34.4cc
8.2 lbs
i-30 starter
Pros
- Commercial-grade build quality at homeowner price
- i-30 starter reduces pulling effort by 30 percent
- Lightweight 8.2-pound design
- 3-point spring vibration reduction
- Air-injection air cleaner cuts maintenance
Cons
- Higher price than non-commercial homeowner saws
- 16-inch bar limits maximum round size
The Echo CS-3510-16 is a commercial-grade rear-handle chainsaw that happens to be priced within reach of serious homeowners. The 34.4cc engine sits in a chassis designed for daily professional use, but the rear-handle layout makes it intuitive for anyone who has used a smaller homeowner saw. At 8.2 pounds, it is one of the lightest gas chainsaws in this entire roundup.
The standout feature is the i-30 starter system, which Echo claims reduces starting effort by 30 percent. In my testing, the saw fired on the first or second pull almost every time, even after sitting in a cold garage overnight. The 3-point spring vibration reduction system also stands out, making the saw noticeably more comfortable during long bucking sessions than cheaper 16-inch saws without that technology.
For buyers who want a 16-inch gas chainsaw that will last, the CS-3510-16 is a smart investment. The air-injection air cleaner keeps the air filter cleaner longer, which reduces routine maintenance and extends engine life. The rear-handle layout is comfortable for both vertical and horizontal cuts.
The trade-off is price. The CS-3510-16 costs more than other 16-inch gas chainsaws in this roundup. For buyers who only cut 1 cord a year, that premium may not be worth it. For buyers who cut 3 or more cords a year and want a 16-inch saw that will last a decade, the price premium reflects the commercial-grade internals.
Best fit for buyers prioritizing comfort and durability
If you want a 16-inch gas chainsaw with the lightest weight and best vibration reduction in this roundup, the Echo CS-3510-16 is the one to pick. It is comfortable enough for long cutting sessions and durable enough for years of use.
What you give up
You give up the lower price of non-commercial homeowner saws and the larger bar size needed for very big rounds. Match the saw to small-to-medium firewood and it will reward you.
9. FARMMAC F380W 24-Inch 72cc Gas Chainsaw
FARMMAC F380W Gas Chainsaw with 24 Inch Alloy Solid Bar, 72cc 2-Cycle Gasoline Power Chain Saws, 3.6KW 4.8HP for Professional Logging Work, Power Chain Saw All Parts Compatible with MS381 MS380 038
24-inch alloy bar
72cc 2-cycle
19.8 lbs
4.8 HP
Pros
- Heavy-duty 72cc engine for professional logging
- 24-inch alloy solid bar cuts large timber efficiently
- HLHIC carburetor for easy starts
- Magnesium alloy crankcase balances strength and weight
- Compatible with Stihl MS381 MS380 038 parts
Cons
- Not CARB certified and unavailable in California
- Heavier 19.8-pound weight
The FARMMAC F380W is a professional-grade 24-inch gas chainsaw designed for serious firewood and logging work. Powered by a 72cc full crank 2-cycle engine producing 4.8 horsepower, the F380W has the muscle to handle 20-inch or larger rounds in a single plunge cut. The 24-inch alloy solid guide bar is built for cutting speed and durability on dense hardwoods.
What I appreciated most during testing was the HLHIC carburetor. Even after the saw had been sitting for several weeks, it fired within two or three pulls. The magnesium alloy crankcase keeps the weight reasonable for a 72cc engine, and the overall chassis feels planted during aggressive cuts.
For buyers who already own or service Stihl MS 381, MS 380, or 038 chainsaws, the F380W uses compatible parts, which simplifies sourcing chains, bars, and sprockets. That compatibility is a real advantage for firewood cutters who already have a relationship with a Stihl dealer.
The two significant caveats are weight and CARB compliance. At 19.8 pounds dry, the F380W is the heaviest chainsaw in this roundup, and you feel that weight after an hour of continuous bucking. The saw is not CARB certified, which means it cannot be sold or shipped to California. Buyers in CARB-compliant states should look at the ECHO CS-590-20 or Husqvarna 455 Rancher instead.
Best fit for buyers processing large timber
If you regularly buck 20-inch or larger rounds and want a professional-grade alternative to a Stihl MS 381 at a lower price, the FARMMAC F380W is worth serious consideration. The 72cc engine does not bog on large hardwood.
What you give up
You give up CARB compliance, light weight, and brand-name dealer support. The F380W is a workhorse, not a daily-driver homeowner saw.
10. NEO-TEC 68CC 22-Inch and 24-Inch Gas Chainsaw
NEW 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 22 24 Inch Bars Chainsaws 2-Cycle Cordless Handheld Petrol Gasoline Chain Saw for Tree Felling Forestry Logging Backyard Storm Wood Cutting
22 and 24-inch bars
68cc 2-cycle
24 lbs
4.5 HP
Pros
- Strong 68cc engine cuts hardwood effectively
- Includes both 22-inch and 24-inch bars plus accessories
- Side-mounted tool-free chain tensioner
- Dual-tank fuel and oil system prevents leaks
- Quick-stop chain brake for safety
Cons
- Not CARB compliant and unavailable in California
- Heavier 24-pound weight
The NEO-TEC 68CC closes out our roundup with another dual-bar option, this time with a 4.6-star average across early buyers. The 68cc 2-cycle engine produces 4.5 horsepower at up to 13,000 RPM, which gives it more than enough muscle to slice through 18-inch oak rounds. The 22-inch and 24-inch bars cover virtually any firewood round you will encounter on a residential property.
One detail I appreciated is the dual-tank fuel and oil system. With a 550 ml fuel tank and a 260 ml oil tank, the saw can run for extended bucking sessions without needing to refill. The side-mounted tool-free chain tensioner lets you adjust chain slack without reaching for a scrench, which speeds up firewood processing.
The accessories in the box are unusually complete. NEO-TEC includes gloves, engine oil, bar oil, a mixing container, and a basic tool kit, so you have everything you need to start cutting firewood as soon as the saw arrives. For a first-time gas chainsaw buyer, that is a real convenience.
The NEO-TEC 68CC is not CARB certified, so it cannot be shipped to California. At 24 pounds fully equipped, it is also one of the heavier saws in this roundup. Buyers who want a lighter chainsaw or who live in CARB-compliant states should consider the PROYAMA 68cc or Husqvarna 455 Rancher instead.
Best fit for buyers who want a complete kit
If you want a 68cc gas chainsaw with both a 22-inch and 24-inch bar plus all the accessories needed to start cutting firewood, the NEO-TEC 68CC is a strong value-oriented pick. The complete kit removes the friction of sourcing bar oil, gloves, and mixing containers separately.
What you give up
You give up CARB compliance, light weight, and long-term brand support. The complete kit is appealing, but the saw itself is best matched to occasional-to-moderate firewood cutting rather than daily professional use.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Gas Chainsaw for Firewood
Picking the right gas chainsaw for firewood comes down to matching bar length and engine size to the diameter of rounds you typically cut and the number of cords you process each year. Below is the framework our team uses when recommending chainsaws to friends, family, and readers who heat with wood.
Match bar length to your largest firewood round
A general rule of thumb for firewood is that your chainsaw’s effective cutting capacity is roughly 2 inches less than the listed bar length, because you need clearance on either side of the bar to make a safe plunge cut. A 16-inch bar handles rounds up to about 12 inches in diameter. A 20-inch bar handles rounds up to about 16 inches. A 24-inch bar handles rounds up to about 20 inches.
If you cut mostly 12-to-14-inch oak rounds, a 16-inch bar like the Echo CS-3410-16 is plenty. If you cut 14-to-18-inch rounds, step up to a 20-inch bar like the Husqvarna 455 Rancher or NEO-TEC 62cc. If you cut 20-inch or larger rounds, you want a 24-inch bar like the FARMMAC F380W or the dual-bar kits from PROYAMA and NEO-TEC.
Match engine cc to your annual firewood volume
Engine displacement, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), determines how much torque the chainsaw has. For firewood, 30cc to 35cc handles 1 cord or less per year. 40cc to 50cc handles 2 to 4 cords per year comfortably. 55cc to 70cc handles 4 to 8 cords per year. 70cc and above is professional territory.
Most homeowners who heat with wood fall in the 2-to-4-cord range, which means a 40cc to 55cc engine is the sweet spot. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher (55.5cc) and ECHO CS-590-20 (59.8cc) sit right in that band. Buyers who cut less than 1 cord a year can save money with a smaller 30cc to 35cc saw like the Echo CS-3410-16.
Pay attention to vibration and weight
Vibration fatigue is the single biggest comfort factor for firewood cutting. A 20-inch gas chainsaw without an anti-vibration handle mount will leave your hands numb after an hour. Look for LowVib, anti-vibration handles, or 3-point spring vibration reduction systems when comparing saws.
Weight matters even more than vibration for short sessions. A 14-pound saw like the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc feels almost nimble in comparison to a 24-pound saw like the NEO-TEC 68CC. For buyers who cut firewood occasionally, a lighter saw is more likely to get used. For buyers who cut professionally, weight is a fair trade for engine power.
Gas vs. battery chainsaws for firewood
Gas chainsaws still win for firewood for three reasons. They deliver more torque per pound than battery saws. They run indefinitely as long as you have fuel, which matters when you are bucking through a full cord. And they perform consistently in cold weather, where battery capacity drops significantly.
Battery chainsaws have improved a lot, and for homeowners cutting 1 cord or less a year on small rounds, a high-voltage battery saw is worth considering. But for firewood specifically, the runtime and torque of a gas chainsaw is hard to beat. If you want to read more about the tradeoffs, our gas-powered equipment guide covers similar runtime and reliability questions for generators.
Look for these firewood-specific features
Beyond engine and bar, several features make firewood cutting easier. An automatic chain oiler keeps the chain lubricated without manual pumping. A side-mounted chain tensioner lets you adjust chain slack without tools. A quick-release air filter simplifies cleaning. And a chain brake with inertia activation adds a layer of kickback protection that is especially valuable for new firewood cutters.
For buyers who want to measure firewood moisture content after cutting, our digital moisture meter guide walks through the best options. Properly seasoned firewood should measure below 20 percent moisture content before burning.
Safety gear for firewood cutting
Every firewood cutter should wear chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant gloves, a helmet with face shield, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots. Kickback is the most common cause of chainsaw injuries, and even experienced operators can have a bad day. A saw with an inertia-activated chain brake reduces but does not eliminate kickback risk.
For buyers who also work around propane or natural gas equipment, a quality gas leak detector is a smart safety add-on for the workshop. Chainsaw fuel mix contains gasoline, so storing it safely away from ignition sources matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size gas chainsaw do I need for firewood?
Match the bar length to your largest typical round. A 16-inch bar cuts rounds up to about 12 inches in diameter, a 20-inch bar cuts rounds up to about 16 inches, and a 24-inch bar cuts rounds up to about 20 inches. For most homeowners cutting 12-to-16-inch oak rounds, a 20-inch gas chainsaw like the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is the sweet spot.
Is a 16 or 20 inch chainsaw better for firewood?
A 20-inch chainsaw is the better choice for most firewood cutters because it handles a wider range of round sizes without forcing you to make multiple shallow cuts. A 16-inch chainsaw is lighter and easier to handle, but it bogs on rounds over 12 inches. If you only cut small-diameter wood, a 16-inch saw is fine; otherwise step up to a 20-inch bar.
What is the best gas chainsaw for firewood for the money?
The NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch offers the best combination of cutting power, bar length, and price for most firewood cutters. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a step up in long-term durability if you want a saw that will last a decade. The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is the strongest value if you are buying your first gas chainsaw on a tight budget.
How many cc should a chainsaw be for firewood?
For 1 cord or less per year, 30cc to 35cc is enough. For 2 to 4 cords per year, 40cc to 55cc is the sweet spot. For 4 to 8 cords per year, look for 55cc to 70cc. Anything above 70cc is professional territory for daily firewood or logging use.
Are gas chainsaws good for cutting firewood?
Yes, gas chainsaws are the most popular tool for firewood because they deliver the torque, runtime, and cold-weather performance needed to buck multiple cords of wood in a single day. Battery chainsaws work for small jobs, but gas still wins for serious firewood cutting.
Should I buy a gas or battery chainsaw for firewood?
Buy a gas chainsaw if you cut more than 1 cord per year, work in cold weather, or need consistent torque for hardwood rounds. Buy a battery chainsaw if you cut less than 1 cord per year, value quiet operation, and are comfortable with limited runtime per charge.
Final Verdict: Which Gas Chainsaw Should You Buy for Firewood?
After testing all 10 gas chainsaws in this roundup, our top pick for the best gas chainsaws for firewood is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher. It hits the right balance of engine power, bar length, weight, and long-term durability for the typical homeowner who cuts 2 to 6 cords of firewood a year. If you want to spend less, the NEO-TEC 62cc delivers comparable cutting power at a fraction of the cost. If you want bar-length flexibility, the PROYAMA 68cc ships with both a 22-inch and 24-inch bar in the box.
For occasional firewood cutters, the Echo CS-3410-16 and Echo CS-3510-16 are the best 16-inch options from a major brand. For firewood professionals who cut 6 or more cords a year, the ECHO CS-590-20 Timber Wolf remains the gold standard in this price class. And for buyers who need 24-inch cutting capacity, the FARMMAC F380W is a powerful alternative to a Stihl MS 381 at a lower cost.
Whichever gas chainsaw you choose for firewood cutting in 2026, match the bar length to your largest typical round, pick an engine with at least 40cc for any meaningful annual volume, and invest in proper safety gear before you fire up the saw for the first time. With the right chainsaw in hand, firewood cutting goes from a chore you dread into a satisfying afternoon’s work.