Best Chainsaw for Milling [2024 Review]

Milling lumber is a painstaking and challenging task that requires a ton of effort, both out of you and your saw. Using a chainsaw mill with a powerful chainsaw will help you make short work out of your project.

However, finding the best chainsaw for milling presents a few challenges. Most chainsaws are designed for handheld operation, such as felling trees or cutting branches. You need to go with a saw that was designed for milling.

Top Chainsaw for Milling Reviews

If you’re into woodcutting, then owning a chainsaw for milling should definitely be at the top of your list. These power tools are a great investment because they’re a convenient and handy tool to have around.

Store-bought lumber is expensive, whereas milling your own lumber will save you money. Plus, you’ll be able to control the size of the board and beam, as well as the quality of each piece.

Milling chainsaws are portable and easy to use. They’re also incredibly convenient when you have lumber in your backyard that can’t be cut with a traditional mill.

1. Best Overall Chainsaw for Milling: Echo CS-590-20

If you’re looking for an overall terrific piece of woodcutting equipment, then the Echo CS-590-20 chainsaw is for you. You can use it to mill slabs, beams, and planks within a few minutes.

This milling chainsaw also has the power to cut through thick logs and tree trunks with precision and efficiency. All that extreme power comes from the saw’s impressive 59.8cc professional-grade 2-stroke motor with a 3.9 horsepower (HP).

The 20-inch bar length also plays a significant role. It helps ensure that you can cut through almost anything with minimal hassle and fuss.

Product Specs

• Motor: gas-powered, 59.8cc, 2-stroke, 3.9 HP
• Bar length: 20 inches
• Gas fuel tank capacity: 21.8 ounces
• Item weight: 17 pounds

Feature Highlights

• Translucent fuel tank
• Anti-vibration handle
• Decompression valve
• Heavy-duty air filter
• 5-year consumer warranty

Another feature I like is the see-through fuel tank. It’s a nice addition that gives you peace of mind knowing how much fuel you have left, so you’re not caught off-guard. It also has a sufficient capacity of a little less than 22 ounces.

The handle is classified as ‘anti-vibration.’ Yet, it’s not as comfortable as the anti-vibration system found on the Husqvarna models.

Nonetheless, the Echo’s 5-year warranty is an excellent incentive. I only wish more manufacturers offered extended warranties like that.

Pros

• Easy-to-read user manual
• Includes safety tips to help keep  novice and experienced operators safe and vigilant
• The light load provides an ideal weight-to-power ratio
• It has a good balance, which makes it easy to use even for beginners

Cons

• Plastic housing and hand-guard tends to crack after some time
• The carburetor needs to be adjusted frequently when working at an elevation above 1,100 feet above sea level

2. Best Value: XtremepowerUS Chainsaw

The XtremepowerUS 22-inch chainsaw is one of the most affordable chainsaws for milling on the market. It’s also one of the easiest to get started.

The engine revs up with a couple of pulls. Best of all, it doesn’t act out like many other gas-powered saws seem to be in the habit of doing.

The main feature that impressed me was the two extra inches on the bar length. It may not be much, but it certainly gives you more reach to mill larger and wider lumber.

Product Specs

• Motor: gas-powered, 45cc, 2-stroke, 2.4 HP
• Bar length: 22 inches
• Gas fuel tank capacity: 18.5 ounces
• Item weight: 20 pounds

Feature Highlights

• EcoBoost engine boosts power and reduces CO2 emissions
• An Air-intake system prevents dust from jamming up the engine
• Anti-kick-back chain reduces vibration
• Assisted Starting System and Quick Stopping Control offers added user safety
• EPA-approved

We also like that it’s EPA-approved. So, you can rest easy knowing you’re getting your woodcutting down without harming the environment.

That said, it’s not as powerful as the Echo, for example. The engine is 45cc with only 2.4 HP, which is a bit lower than some of the other models on my list. Still, it gets the job done, but it can be a bit limiting at times.

It’s also slightly heavier than other saws on my list, weighing a little over 20 pounds. As a result, it can get tiring if you’re using it for a long time.

Pros

• It starts quickly and without fuss
• 22-inch bar length gives a better reach than its competitors
• Well-written, user-friendly instructions
• It doesn’t overheat even after extended use

Cons

• The saw goes through a tank of gas pretty quickly compared with other models
• It doesn’t come with a warranty

3. Best Budget: Podoy Chainsaw

The Podoy Chainsaw is a handy little woodcutting tool. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver yet still manages to do a lot of impressive cutting and milling.

The first feature that caught my attention is this saw’s low operating noise. I’m happy to say that it’s not as harsh-sounding as the Husqvarna’s 60.3cc engine.

Unfortunately, the reason for the low-noise operation is that the engine isn’t as powerful as the others. The Podoy comes with a 25cc 2-stroke engine and a fuel tank of nearly seven ounces.

Product Specs

• Motor: gas-powered, 25cc, 2-stroke, 4.1 HP
• Bar length: 12 inches
• Gas fuel tank capacity: 21.8 ounces
• Item weight: 7 pounds

Feature Highlights

• Anti-slip, ergonomically designed handle
• Distributorless Ignition System offers lower emissions and higher power
• Automatic Pump Sprocket provides constant lubrication rate
• Comes with fuel mixing bottles, Allen wrenches, a fun, and a tool kit
• Chain Brakes offer maximum safety during usage

It may sound too weak to mill any lumber. Nonetheless, I can say that it managed to cut a regular-sized piece of wood without a hitch.

That said, however, it was unable to mill thick pieces of wood like the Husqvarna. The saw’s 12-inch bar can only reach so far. Plus, I didn’t want to risk overheating the engine.

Still, you can use the Podoy if you usually do minimal milling in your backyard. It’s also ideal for typical garden work, thanks to its portability and lightweight.

Pros

• Lightweight makes transportation and storage hassle-free
• Chain brakes apply steel brakes to stop the chain movement to ensure user safety
• Offers automatic oiling system to ensure consistent lubrication of chain and bar
• Operation noise is minimal

Cons

• The fuel tank needs to be frequently refilled due to its small size
• It has no anti-vibration system

4. Best Lightweight: Poulan Pro PR5020

Poulan Pro is a well-known name in the chainsaw world, and the Poulan Pro PR5020 is no exception. It’s versatile, easy to use, and best of all, lightweight for easy transport.

The PR5020 also features a powerful operating power with a 50cc, 2.8 HP engine. Though, it’s not as dynamic as the 2.4 HP motor of the XtremepowerUS saw.

However, it still has a pretty dynamic force behind it, thanks to the motor’s OxyPower technology. This proprietary technology allows for reduced fuel usage and lower emission levels. So, it’s a win-win for you and the environment!

Product Specs

• Motor: gas-powered, 50cc, 2-stroke, 2.8 HP
• Bar length: 20 inches
• Gas fuel tank capacity: 14.3 ounces
• Item weight: 17 pounds

Feature Highlights

• Effortless Pull-Start (EPS) System offers minimal cord-pulling effort
• The sidechain tensioning system provides easy access
• A high-quality air filtration system
• Integrated choke/stop control to prevent engine flooding
• 2-year limited warranty

We especially like the ease of starting this chainsaw. Anyone who has tried operating a gas chainsaw knows how they’re notorious for being so difficult to start.

However, with the Effortless Pull-Start (EPS) system, turning on this saw is a piece of cake. It took a few pulls to get it up and running, but it actually went much smoother than expected.

Unfortunately, it still lags a bit when temperatures drop. So, that’s something you have to keep in mind if you live in cold climates.

Pros

• OxyPower technology boosts engine power
• Well-balanced design for ease of use
• A built-in air filtration system reduces harmful emissions
• Low fuel consumption

Cons

• It may prove difficult to start in cold temperatures
• The chain tension requires frequent adjusting

5. Most Powerful: Husqvarna 460 Rancher

Ask any woodcutter about Husqvarna tools, and they’ll tell you they’re one of the most powerful and durable products on the market. Yet, they’re also the most expensive, and for good reason.

The Husqvarna 460 Rancher features a hefty 60.3cc 2-stroke engine. It also comes with the proprietary X-Torq technology for faster, more substantial operation, yet with less fuel consumption.

In fact, this chainsaw is full of proprietary systems. They’re all part of what makes the Husqvarna saws stand out from the rest.

Product Specs

• Motor: 60.3cc, 2-stroke, 3.6 HP
• Bar length: 18 inches
• Gas fuel tank capacity: 14.8 ounces
• Item weight: 13 pounds without cutting equipment

Feature Highlights

• The Air Injection system prevents dust and debris from entering the air filter
• X-Torq engine boosts power and lowers fuel consumption
• LowVib system decreases vibration levels
• Smart Start technology for no-fuss operating
• Choke/stop controls prevent engine flooding

Let’s start with the Air Injection system that keeps debris out of the air filter. Since you can’t reuse the air filter, you’ll want to keep it in optimal condition for as long as possible, so this system helps with that.

Then there’s the LowVib system that reduces vibration. I’m happy to report that it works beautifully, and I felt minimal fatigue once I were done testing out this saw. So, no more numb arms after milling!

However, the one system I like best is the Smart Start technology. It takes a couple of pulls on the cord, and the engine starts up without any hassle.

Pros

• User-friendly starting system
• Anti-vibration system absorbs vibration and reduces arm fatigue
• Low fuel consumption, similar to the Poulan Pro PR5020
• Accessible tank caps allows for quick and easy re-oiling and re-fueling

Cons

• High priced compared to the other four models on my list
• The air filter isn’t reusable

Miling Chainsaw Features to Consider

There are several features to look for when choosing the best chainsaw for milling. Yet, it basically comes down to one major factor: the size of the trees you’ll be cutting.

To help you navigate the world of chainsaw mills, consider the following:

Power Source

There are two main types of chainsaw power sources: electric and gas.

Electric chainsaws are much quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. They also can run off of any wall supply all the time, which means you don’t have to stop and refill the gas tank. Electric-powered chainsaws are also lighter since there’s no engine weighing them down.

Their only drawback is that they’re not as robust and hardworking as gas-powered chainsaws.

This could be one reason why many woodworkers prefer gas-powered chainsaws. The most common type features a two-stroke engine and run on an oil-gas combination.

If you can handle the noise and slightly heavier weight, then a gas-powered chainsaw is your best bet. Look for a gas chainsaw that’s anywhere in the range of 50cc. It should also have a two-horsepower (HP) engine for best results.

Bar Length

The length of the bar determines the size of the lumber that can be cut. On average, the bar length should be no more than two inches longer than the dimension of the wood you need to cut.

Bar lengths usually run between 18 and 36 inches with the most common being 20 inches long. This length is considered sufficient to cut through most types of wood with no fuss.

Still, it’s better to check the type of wood you’ll be cutting, as well as what the actual chainsaw can handle. Then, choose the right chainsaw bar length accordingly.

Cutting Capacity

A chainsaw’s cutting capacity is measured in inches, and they typically range between 14 and 36 inches. Some heavier duty models extend even further in length.

Thus, when choosing a suitable chainsaw for milling, the maximum diameter of the milled log determines the cutting capacity. Not only that, but it’s also determined by the width of the plank.

Ease of Use

The biggest advantage of using a milling chainsaw is portability. That’s why it’s important to find a model that’s lightweight for hassle-free milling.

Most models weigh about four or five pounds. Even the large-capacity models rarely weigh more than 20 pounds.

Another benefit is that many chainsaw mills are made of a combination of aluminum and steel. Steel is highly durable and long-lasting, so it’s used to make the framing and main structure of the mill.

Alternatively, aluminum is lightweight and weather-resistant. Thus, it’s generally used to make the guide rails.

Price

There’s an abundance of choices of chainsaws available on the market. They range from the expensive to the budget-friendly chainsaws.

The one you pick should have all the requirements you need to mill your lumber. Yet, at the same time, it should be in your price range as much as possible.

There’s no doubt these power tools are a great investment, but you should still avoid going over budget as much as you can.

Why You Should Use a Chainsaw for Milling

Chainsaws are incredibly powerful tools. They’re heavy-duty and hard-wearing, providing you with the right one for the woodcutting jobs you need.

Yet, there are several benefits that come with using a chainsaw for milling. Their main advantage is that they’re portable and can be used on-site by one or two people.

In addition, they make excellent investments if you prefer to mill your own lumber. You could also opt for the best portable sawmill, but this is a bigger investment.

Take a second to calculate the cost of whatever project you’re working on. You’ll soon realize that buying ready-made lumber can be costly.

So, if you have access to logs and lumber on your property, then owning a chainsaw is a must.

It just makes sense to use your own chainsaw for milling wood. You save time, money, and ensure that you get precise measurements every time.

FAQs

Chainsaws for milling are also portable, making them easier to transport to the worksite. The alternative is to chop down the lumber in one area, then carry it to a workshop to be milled and cut. That’s just too arduous and time-consuming.

Yet, it works at a slower pace than the wood mill. Plus, there’s a lot more loss of material.

Conclusion

The best chainsaws for milling come in many shapes and sizes. So, you have to consider various features when deciding on the right one for you and your wood cutting needs.

Our top pick is the Echo CS-590-20. It features a 20-inch chain bar, which is the most versatile length currently on the market.

The Echo chainsaw features a powerful, gas-powered engine. In addition, it offers a smooth, hassle-free start-up and weighs only 17 pounds for easy portability. Best of all, it comes with a 5-year warranty, which is the longest offered by any manufacturer.

However, if you’re looking to spend a bit less, go with the more cost-effective XtremepowerUS 22-inch chainsaw. This chainsaw may not be bursting at the seams with power like other models, but it’s still a force to be reckoned with.

Its 44cc, 2.4 HP engine does pretty well milling various types of lumber with minimal problems. It could be due to the additional two inches on the bar that make it stand out from its competitors.