Best 16 Inch Chainsaw – Top 5 Picks & Review

Imagine standing in your yard, facing a fallen tree that’s blocking your path. You need a tool that can cut through it quickly and safely. That’s where a 16-inch chainsaw comes in. It’s a popular size, great for many jobs around the house. But with so many brands and models out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.

You want a chainsaw that’s powerful enough for your tasks but also easy to handle. Maybe you’ve felt overwhelmed by all the technical details, or worried about making the wrong choice and wasting money. You might be wondering, “Which 16-inch chainsaw will be best for me?”

In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know. We’ll explore what makes a good 16-inch chainsaw and highlight key features to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident about choosing a chainsaw that fits your needs and budget. Let’s dive in and find the right tool for your next project!

Our Top 5 16 Inch Chainsaw Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 16 Inch Chainsaw Detailed Reviews

1. Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw

Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw, 38-cc, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 16 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Wood Cutting and Tree Pruning, 970739616

Rating: 8.7/10

The Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw is a fantastic tool for homeowners. It’s designed for light cutting tasks and tree pruning. This chainsaw makes tackling yard work much easier.

What We Like:

  • The 16-inch bar is a good size for many jobs.
  • Its X-Torq engine gives you plenty of power for its size.
  • The inertia-activated chain brake adds an important layer of safety.
  • LowVib technology greatly cuts down on shaking, making it more comfortable to use.
  • Separate choke and stop switches help prevent the engine from flooding.
  • Air Injection technology keeps the engine clean and running longer.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This chainsaw is best suited for homeowner tasks, not heavy-duty professional use.
  • The 38cc engine, while efficient, might struggle with very large or dense wood.

Overall, the Husqvarna 120 Mark III offers a great balance of power, comfort, and safety for your home’s wood cutting needs. It’s a reliable choice for keeping your property looking its best.

2. Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw

Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 38-cc 2-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 16 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Wood Cutting and Tree Pruning

Rating: 9.0/10

Tackle your yard work with the Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw. This 16-inch chainsaw is built for homeowners who need a reliable tool for cutting wood and pruning trees. Its powerful 38-cc, 2-HP X-Torq engine makes quick work of branches and logs. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to start and handle, making your outdoor projects smoother. This chainsaw is designed to make your life easier.

What We Like:

  • Easy to start: The fuel pump and choke control help you get going quickly and prevent flooding the engine.
  • Safe to use: An inertia-activated chain brake helps protect you from kickback injuries.
  • Good for the environment: The X-Torq engine cuts down on emissions by up to 60% and uses less fuel.
  • Lasts longer: Air Injection Technology keeps dust and debris out of the air filter, helping the engine run better for more years.
  • Comfortable to hold: LowVib technology reduces vibrations, so your hands and arms won’t get as tired.
  • Versatile size: Works well with 14-inch or 16-inch bar lengths, perfect for many home tasks.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Limited availability: Finding this specific model might take some searching.
  • Not for heavy-duty jobs: While great for home use, it’s not designed for very large trees or professional logging.

The Husqvarna 130 is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a dependable and user-friendly chainsaw. It balances performance, safety, and comfort for most common yard tasks.

3. DeForce 16″ 36V Cordless Electric Chainsaw

DeForce 16" 36V Cordless Electric Chainsaw, for Milwaukee M18 18V Batteries, Brushless Battery Powered Chain Saw, with Auto Oiler, Handheld Chainsaw for Wood Cutting Tree Pruning(Bare Tool Only)

Rating: 8.6/10

The DeForce 16″ 36V Cordless Electric Chainsaw is designed for efficient wood cutting and tree pruning. It runs on Milwaukee M18 18V batteries, offering a powerful and convenient way to tackle your outdoor projects. This brushless, battery-powered saw features an auto-oiler and a comfortable handheld design.

What We Like:

  • It has a powerful cutting performance thanks to its high-speed motor and chain speed.
  • The 16-inch guide bar lets you cut larger logs and branches.
  • You can adjust the chain easily without needing any tools.
  • It’s IPX4 water-resistant, so it works well even in wet weather.
  • The chainsaw is lightweight at only 8.3 lbs and has an ergonomic grip, making it comfortable to use for longer periods.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This is a “bare tool only” purchase, meaning batteries and a charger are not included.
  • The 36V designation is achieved by using two 18V batteries in series, which might be an extra step for some users.

This chainsaw offers a great balance of power and portability for DIYers and homeowners. It makes tough cutting tasks much simpler and more enjoyable.

4. CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw

CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600)

Rating: 8.9/10

Tackle your yard work with confidence using the CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600). This saw is designed to make cutting easier and more efficient for a variety of tasks around your home.

What We Like:

  • The 12-amp motor is strong. It helps you cut through wood with ease.
  • It has a 16-inch bar and chain that are designed to reduce kickback. This makes it safer to use.
  • The auto-oiling system keeps the chain lubricated. You don’t need to prime it before starting.
  • You can adjust the chain tension without needing tools. This is very convenient.
  • It comes with a 3-year limited warranty. This gives you peace of mind.

What Could Be Improved:

  • As a corded electric saw, you are limited by the length of the power cord. You may need an extension cord for larger jobs.
  • While powerful, it might not be as robust as a gas-powered chainsaw for extremely heavy-duty, professional work.

This CRAFTSMAN chainsaw offers a good balance of power and user-friendly features for homeowners. It’s a solid choice for keeping your property tidy.

5. SEYVUM Brushless 40V 16 Inch Chainsaw with 2 x 4.0Ah Batteries

SEYVUM Brushless 40V 16 Inch Chainsaw with 2 x 4.0Ah Batteries, Electric Chain Saw Cordless with Tool-free Chain Tension, Auto Oiling, Heavy-Duty for Tree Felling, Firewood Cutting, Pruning

Rating: 8.7/10

Tackle tough outdoor jobs with the SEYVUM Brushless 40V 16 Inch Chainsaw. This cordless powerhouse offers gas-like performance without the fuss. It’s built for serious work like felling trees, cutting firewood, and pruning branches.

What We Like:

  • The brushless motor gives you strong power and runs longer. It’s also quieter and lasts more years.
  • You get two 4.0Ah batteries, so you can work for a long time. It can make up to 200 cuts on one charge.
  • It has two speeds. A fast speed for hard wood and a slower speed for other tasks.
  • Adjusting the chain is super easy with no tools needed. The automatic oiler keeps the chain running smoothly.
  • Safety is a big deal. It has a safety button, a special chain guard to reduce kickback, and a fast chain brake that stops in just 0.2 seconds.
  • You get everything you need in the box: the chainsaw, chain, bar, cover, batteries, charger, and manual.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Remember to add oil before you start cutting. Let the saw run for about 10 seconds to make sure the oil is flowing properly.

This SEYVUM chainsaw is a reliable and safe tool for your outdoor projects. It offers great power and convenience for any cutting task.

Choosing Your 16-Inch Chainsaw: A Smart Buyer’s Guide

A 16-inch chainsaw is a fantastic tool for many jobs around your home and property. It’s not too big to handle but powerful enough to tackle a good range of tasks. This guide helps you pick the right one.

What to Look For: Key Features

When you shop for a 16-inch chainsaw, keep these important features in mind.

  • Engine Power: This is how strong the chainsaw is. Look for a good engine size, often measured in cubic centimeters (cc). For most home use, a chainsaw with 40cc to 50cc is a great choice. More cc means more power to cut through thicker wood.
  • Bar Length: You’re looking at 16 inches, which is perfect for cutting branches and medium-sized trees. A longer bar cuts bigger things, but a shorter bar is lighter and easier to control.
  • Chain Brake: This is a safety feature. It stops the chain quickly if the saw kicks back. Always choose a chainsaw with a reliable chain brake.
  • Anti-Vibration System: Chainsaws can shake a lot. A good anti-vibration system makes the saw easier to hold and use for longer periods. It reduces fatigue and makes your work more comfortable.
  • Automatic Oiling System: This system keeps the chain lubricated. It’s important for the saw to run smoothly and last longer. Some saws let you adjust the oil flow.
Important Materials

The parts of your chainsaw matter for how well it works and how long it lasts.

  • Bar and Chain: These are usually made of hardened steel. High-quality steel means they stay sharp longer and don’t bend easily.
  • Engine Components: Look for durable materials in the engine. This ensures the saw runs reliably.
  • Handle and Body: Good plastic or composite materials make the chainsaw lighter and more comfortable to hold.
Quality Boosters and Reducers

Some things make a chainsaw great, while others can make it less good.

  • What Makes it Better:
    • Reputable Brands: Well-known brands often use better parts and have better quality control.
    • Easy Starting: A chainsaw that starts up quickly and easily is a joy to use.
    • Good Balance: A saw that feels balanced in your hands is safer and easier to control.
  • What Makes it Worse:
    • Cheap Parts: Using low-quality materials can lead to parts breaking or wearing out fast.
    • Poor Design: A poorly designed chainsaw can be hard to start, heavy, or uncomfortable to use.
    • Lack of Safety Features: Missing or weak safety features are a big problem.
User Experience and Use Cases

A 16-inch chainsaw is a versatile tool for many different jobs.

  • Homeowners: You can use it for trimming branches that have fallen in your yard. It’s also great for cutting firewood for your fireplace. If you need to take down a small tree, this size is often suitable.
  • DIY Projects: Building a wooden fence or creating outdoor furniture? A 16-inch chainsaw helps you cut lumber to size quickly.
  • Gardening and Landscaping: Clearing overgrown bushes or shaping hedges becomes much easier.

A 16-inch chainsaw offers a good balance of power and ease of use for many common tasks. By understanding these key features and materials, you can confidently choose a chainsaw that will serve you well for years to come.


Frequently Asked Questions about 16-Inch Chainsaws

Q: What is the main advantage of a 16-inch chainsaw?

A: A 16-inch chainsaw is a good size for most home tasks. It’s powerful enough for many jobs but not too heavy to handle easily.

Q: How much power do I need in a 16-inch chainsaw?

A: For home use, look for an engine between 40cc and 50cc. This provides enough power for most cutting needs.

Q: Is a 16-inch bar good for cutting down trees?

A: It can be good for smaller trees. For larger trees, you might need a longer bar and more powerful saw.

Q: What is a chain brake and why is it important?

A: A chain brake is a safety device that stops the chain very quickly. It helps prevent injuries if the saw kicks back.

Q: How does an anti-vibration system help?

A: It reduces the shaking of the chainsaw. This makes it more comfortable to use for longer periods and reduces tiredness.

Q: Should I worry about the automatic oiling system?

A: Yes, it’s important. It keeps the chain well-oiled, which helps the chainsaw work better and last longer.

Q: Are gas or electric 16-inch chainsaws better?

A: Gas chainsaws are usually more powerful and don’t need to be plugged in. Electric chainsaws are lighter and quieter but need a power source.

Q: How often should I sharpen the chain on my 16-inch chainsaw?

A: You should sharpen the chain when it starts to cut slowly or leaves sawdust instead of wood chips. Regular sharpening keeps it working well.

Q: What safety gear do I need when using a 16-inch chainsaw?

A: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, sturdy gloves, and cut-resistant boots. A helmet with a face shield is also a good idea.

Q: Can a 16-inch chainsaw be used for professional work?

A: For light professional tasks, maybe. But for heavy, daily use, professionals often choose larger and more powerful chainsaws.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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