10Best.Guide

Pole Saw

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to use for all ages.
  • Powerful and effective for cutting branches and logs.
  • Good value for the price.
  • Works well with other Milwaukee tools.
  • Can be used for low-level work.
Cons
  • Leaks bar and chain oil.
  • Not suitable for professional tree work.
Bottom Line
The Milwaukee M18 Quik-Lok Pole Saw is a great value for homeowners looking for an effective and easy-to-use tool for trimming branches and cutting logs. It may not be suitable for professional tree work, but it is powerful and versatile enough for most DIY projects. However, buyers should be aware of the oil leakage issue.
Pros
  • Works great with Makita powered tool head.
  • Useful tool for pruning plants and taking down trees.
  • Cuts faster than expected with 18 volt X 2 powerhead.
  • Easy and fun to use.
  • Standardizes with other Makita tools.
Cons
  • Heavy and difficult to use with extension.
  • Chain won't stay tightened and keeps falling off.
Bottom Line
The Makita Pole Saw is a useful tool for pruning plants and taking down trees, but it can be heavy and difficult to use with an extension. It works best with a Makita powered tool head and standardizes with other Makita tools. However, some users have experienced issues with the chain and the lack of battery or charger in some orders.
Pros
  • Works well for cutting branches and trees.
  • Powerful and durable.
  • Good value for the price.
  • Easy to assemble and use.
  • Allows for precise cutting in tight spaces.
Cons
  • Heavy and awkward to use.
  • Oil tank empties quickly.
Bottom Line
The Greenworks 6.5 Amp 8 inch Corded Electric Pole Saw is a powerful and durable tool that is good value for the price. It works well for cutting branches and trees, but can be heavy and awkward to use. The oil tank empties quickly and filling it can be tricky. However, it allows for precise cutting in tight spaces and cuts through hard and dead branches with ease.
Pros
  • Works well for limbing up branches
  • Can cut up to 6" limbs without any problem
  • Attaches easily to power head
  • Works great with proper chain tension
  • Well-made and has an articulating head built-in
Cons
  • No documentation provided
  • Chain oil inlet hole may be on the wrong side of the bar
Bottom Line
This pole saw is a good buy for the price, but buyers should be aware of potential issues with documentation, packaging, and missing parts. It works well for limbing up branches and can cut up to 6" limbs without any problem. Proper chain tension is essential for optimal performance.
Pros
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Easy to assemble, disassemble, clean, and maintain
  • Saves money compared to hiring someone to trim trees
  • Cuts through wood quickly and easily
  • Can reach high branches without a ladder
Cons
  • Difficult to maneuver and hold when trimming high branches
  • Top-heavy when the pole is extended
Bottom Line
This pole saw is a good option for those who want to trim high branches without a ladder and save money compared to hiring someone to do it. However, it may be difficult to maneuver and hold when trimming high branches, and requires substantial arm and shoulder strength. The chain may rip and tear through branches instead of cutting them, and the pole mount is weak.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Pole Saw | Types, Key Considerations, Features, Prices, and Tips

Overview

Pole saws are essential gardening tools that make pruning and trimming trees easier and safer. They come in different types, sizes, and shapes, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs. This buying guide will help you understand the different types of pole saws available, key considerations to keep in mind when buying one, features to look for, prices, and tips to help you get the most out of your pole saw.

Types

1. Electric Pole Saw - These are the most popular type of pole saws and are powered by electricity. They are lightweight, easy to use, and require minimal maintenance.

2. Gas Pole Saw - These pole saws are powered by gasoline and are ideal for heavy-duty tasks. They are more powerful than electric pole saws but are heavier and require more maintenance.

3. Cordless Pole Saw - These pole saws are powered by rechargeable batteries and are ideal for light to medium-duty tasks. They are lightweight, easy to use, and require minimal maintenance.

4. Telescoping Pole Saw - These pole saws have an adjustable pole that can be extended or shortened to reach different heights. They are ideal for pruning tall trees and bushes.

Key Considerations

1. Blade Length - The blade length determines the cutting capacity of the pole saw. Longer blades are ideal for cutting thicker branches, while shorter blades are ideal for light pruning.

2. Weight - The weight of the pole saw determines how easy it is to maneuver. Lightweight pole saws are ideal for extended use, while heavier pole saws are ideal for heavy-duty tasks.

3. Maneuverability - The pole saw should be easy to maneuver and control, especially when pruning trees with dense foliage.

4. Safety Features - The pole saw should have safety features such as a safety switch, automatic chain brake, and a shoulder strap to prevent accidents.

Features

1. Cutting Capacity - The cutting capacity of the pole saw determines the maximum diameter of branches it can cut.

2. Adjustable Head - The adjustable head allows you to adjust the angle of the blade for different cutting positions.

3. Chain Tensioning System - The chain tensioning system allows you to adjust the tension of the chain for optimal cutting performance.

4. Automatic Oiling System - The automatic oiling system ensures that the chain is lubricated for optimal cutting performance.

Prices

Pole saws range in price from $50 to $500, depending on the type, features, and brand. Electric pole saws are the most affordable, while gas pole saws are the most expensive.

Tips

1. Always wear protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection when using a pole saw.

2. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and use.

3. Keep the blade sharp for optimal cutting performance.

4. Do not use the pole saw near power lines or in wet conditions.

FAQs

Q: How do I know which type of pole saw is best for me?

A: Consider the size of the trees you will be pruning, the frequency of use, and your budget when choosing a pole saw.

Q: How often should I sharpen the blade of my pole saw?

A: It depends on how frequently you use the pole saw. As a general rule, sharpen the blade after every 10 hours of use.

Q: Can I use a pole saw to cut down a tree?

A: No, pole saws are designed for pruning and trimming trees, not for cutting down trees.

Q: How do I maintain my pole saw?

A: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance, including cleaning, oiling, and sharpening the blade.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a pole saw is an essential gardening tool that can make pruning and trimming trees easier and safer. Consider the type, blade length, weight, maneuverability, safety features, cutting capacity, adjustable head, chain tensioning system, and automatic oiling system when choosing a pole saw. Always wear protective gear, follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and use, and keep the blade sharp for optimal cutting performance.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Cordless, no need to drag a cord behind.
  • Powerful saw with a great battery.
  • Light duty saw that can cut through 4 to 5 inch thick branches.
  • Battery lasts about 2 hours.
  • Good for pruning and felling small trees or shrubs.
Cons
  • Angle of saw blinds the user when cutting branches.
  • Poor quality control, bar delaminated and chain kept falling off.
Bottom Line
The Greenworks 8.5' 40V Cordless Pole Saw is a good option for light duty pruning and felling small trees or shrubs. It has a powerful saw with a great battery that lasts about 2 hours. However, it has some quality control issues and the angle of the saw can be problematic for some users.
Pros
  • Affordable alternative to professional tree trimming services.
  • Easy to assemble and use.
  • Can cut through thick branches without bogging down.
  • Lightweight and easy to handle.
  • Effective for cutting back large shrubs and overgrown trees.
Cons
  • Chain comes off frequently.
  • Chain adjustment pin is not in the correct place upon arrival.
Bottom Line
This electric pole saw is an affordable and effective tool for trimming trees and shrubs. While it has some minor issues, it offers good value for the price and is easy to use for beginners.
Pros
  • Good for trimming palm fronds.
  • Long reach.
  • Works great for trimming Italian cypress trees.
  • Battery life is excellent.
  • Able to cut medium branches quite well.
Cons
  • Not as powerful as expected.
  • Becomes unmanageable with all three sections screwed in.
Bottom Line
This pole saw is a good option for trimming palm fronds and medium branches, but it may not be as powerful as expected and has some issues with balance and parts failure. The battery life is excellent, but may not last as long as advertised.
Pros
  • Extends to a good length for reaching tall branches.
  • Lightweight and easy to adjust the height.
  • Powerful enough for most needs.
  • Cuts well and makes quick work of branches.
  • Oregon is a trusted brand for chainsaws.
Cons
  • Chain doesn't stay on and requires constant tension adjustment.
  • Could use an angled head for cutting larger limbs.
Bottom Line
The Oregon Corded Pole Saw is a lightweight and powerful tool that makes quick work of trimming trees and bushes. However, it may require constant chain tension adjustment and is not powerful enough for some users.
Pros
  • Strong and powerful
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Good for trimming trees
  • Cuts through branches easily
  • Durable and long-lasting
Cons
  • Chain comes off frequently
  • Chain oiler line is flimsy and can cause leakage
Bottom Line
This electric chainsaw is a powerful and lightweight option for trimming trees and cutting small branches. However, the chain can come off frequently and the plastic parts are cheaply made. It is durable and long-lasting, but may require some maintenance.
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