Have you been hunting for the best top handle chainsaw to use when climbing trees to prune branches?
If yes, keep reading this piece to learn more about top handle chainsaws and what they are mostly used for. You can also read the reviews of different models I chose after researching the online market to help you find the one that best meets your needs.
Tips On Buying Top Handle Chainsaws
What Is A Top Handle Chainsaw?
Just like the name suggests, a top handle chainsaw features a top handle instead of a rear handle, and that is where all the controls are located for easy handling. That way, the chainsaw can be used even with one hand if necessary, although it is not recommended. That way a top handle chainsaw can be used in elevated positions, such as ladders or trees while providing the saw operator with comfort.
Why Buy A Top Handle Chainsaw?
If you need a lightweight and compact chainsaw for pruning hard-to-access branches of the tree, a top handle chainsaw could be the one for you. They are usually used in elevated locations where you might need to climb the tree up high to be able to cut the tree limbs effectively. This kind of chainsaw allows the saw operator to climb high while being able to balance the chainsaw and maneuver it comfortably to cut from different angles.
Choosing The Best Top Handle Chainsaw
To allow safe performance, a top handle chainsaw needs a chain brake that can stop the chain from spinning in case of kickbacks. Low kickback chain and bar also help to prevent the events of kickback. The lanyard with a ring also needs to be durable when it is fastened to the harness. To make sure the chainsaw is comfortable to use, it should also have an anti-vibration system and cushioned grip on the handle. Comfortable chainsaws are usually lightweight so that they can be used for long sawing sessions.
Size Of Top Handle Chainsaws
When looking for top handle chainsaws for sale, also consider the size of the chainsaw. The best top handle chainsaws usually have small-sized guide bars that are enough to cut branches. These chainsaws usually have guide bars under 16 inches long so they are suitable for pruning trees without being too long and getting in the way among a maze of tree branches.
Features To Have In Mind
You should also look for an automatic oiling system that keeps the bar and the chain lubricated when looking for top handle chainsaws for sale. That way it can stay safe and cut smoothly for an extended time. The spring-assisted starting system is also crucial to allow you to start the engine without having to pull the cord too many times when you are propped up in a tree.
Best 8 Top Handle Chainsaw Reviews
Best Battery Top Handle Chainsaw
Craftsman Top Handle Chainsaw
20v Battery & Charger Included
This battery top handle chainsaw comes with a 4-Ah battery and a 12-inch guide bar with a chain. The 20v battery is located under the top handle and has a high capacity for long runtime. The top handle chainsaw comes with both the battery and the battery charger included. The 12-inch chainsaw can be used for cutting in small spaces and even while climbing trees.
60 Cuts Per Charge
The battery top handle chainsaw can deliver up to 60 cuts per one charge and can be used on wood up to 10 inches thick. The lithium-ion battery allows you to use this cordless chainsaw without having to plug in any cords which is more convenient than corded chainsaws. The automatic oiling system keeps the chain greasy and it can also be easily tightened by using the chain tensioning mechanism.
Compact Size For Comfortable Control
The compact size and the bubble level help when cutting horizontally to deliver straight cuts. A battery chainsaw has zero emissions and is mostly preferred by homeowners who need a chainsaw for occasional cutting. If you are interested in battery models, read my article about the best battery-powered chainsaws.
- 12-inch chainsaw
- 4-Ah battery
- includes a battery and a charger
Best Cheap Top Handle Chainsaw
Jon Cutter Top Handle Chainsaw
Weighs 3 Kilograms Without Cutting Equipment
This top handle chainsaw features a 25.4cc gas engine and requires a separate purchase of a guide bar and a chain. Without the attached cutting equipment it weighs 3 kilograms. It can be used with 12 or 14-inch long guide bars. Once you attach a guide bar and a chain to it, it has a maximum cutting length between 30 and 35 centimeters.
Ideal For Arborists
This chainsaw with a top handle is powered by gas and delivers 1.2 horsepower. The gas engine can reach a maximum speed of 8500 revolutions per minute. It can be used by arborists who climb high trees with chainsaws and eliminate branches to keep the tree looking healthy.
Price Of The Chainsaw
This top handle chainsaw is listed for the price of around 150 dollars on Amazon. By adding a 12-inch long guide bar and a chain, you can purchase this top handle chainsaw for about 200 dollars on Amazon. If you want to check out other cheap models, read this article about the best cheap chainsaws.
- 25.4cc gas engine
- requires a bar and a chain
- suitable for 12 and 14-inch bars
- 8500 revolutions per minute
Best Top Handle Gas Chainsaw
Tanaka Top Handle Chainsaw
32cc Gas Engine
This top handle chainsaw is powered by a 32cc gas engine and features a 12-inch long guide bar and a chain. As it comes with a top handle, it can be used for precise downward cuts with easy control. A built-in lanyard ring allows arborists and other saw operators to easily hoist the chainsaw up into a tree.
Chain Maintenance Made Easy
The chain tensioning mechanism is mounted on the side of the chainsaw and lets you adjust the tightness of the chain quickly. The automatic oil pump provides the bar and the chain with an oil supply that keeps them lubricated for smooth and safe cuts.
Anti-Vibration Provides Comfort
In case you end up using this chainsaw for long sawing sessions, the anti-vibration system will decrease the feeling of fatigue by dampening the vibration on the handles. That way the operator can stay comfortable while cutting wood. If you’d like to check out other models of gas chainsaws, give this post about the best gas-powered chainsaws a read.
- 12-inch long guide bar
- 32cc gas engine
- built-in lanyard ring
- automatic oiler
- anti-vibration system
Best Professional Top Handle Chainsaw
Shindaiwa Top Handle Chainsaw
2-Stroke Professional-Grade Gas Engine
This professional top handle chainsaw features a 35.8cc gas engine and a 16-inch long guide bar with a chain. The professional-grade 2-stroke engine comes with a starting system that requires a reduced effort to start the engine. It can be used by arborists for climbing trees and cutting branches while keeping the chainsaw balanced thanks to the top handle.
Weighs 8 Pounds
This professional top handle chainsaw weighs 8 pounds without the cutting equipment attached. The automatic and adjustable oiling system delivers an oil supply for the chain so that it can cut safely and effectively. As the oiling system is driven by the clutch it reduces the consumption of oil.
Contoured Handle Fits The Hand
The shape of the handle is contoured for fitting the hand of the operator and the handle comes under an angle that provides the operator with a comfortable position while cutting. The overall design provides the operator with comfort. In case you are interested in buying a professional-grade chainsaw, read my article about the best industrial/commercial chainsaws.
- 16-inch chainsaw
- 35.8cc gas engine
- professional-grade chainsaw
Best Top-Handle Arborist Chainsaw
Husqvarna Top Handle Chainsaw
Rope Attachment For Hoisting Into The Tree
This top handle chainsaw features a gas engine with a 35.2cc cylinder displacement and a 12-inch long guide bar and a chain. It is suitable for arborists who take care of trees and need a tool for pruning branches in parks, residential areas, orchards, and vineyards. It is designed to reduce harmful emissions while lowering fuel consumption. A rope attachment is installed on the tool for easy hoisting up into the tree.
Maintenance Made Easy
The air filter can be easily accessed and quickly released for easier maintenance and replacement. The side-mounted chain tensioning gives you easy access to tightening and adjusting both the bar and the chain with the help of one tool. The oil pump is adjustable so that you can set the oil supply according to the weather and the application.
Designed For Comfortable Maneuverability
This top handle chainsaw for arborists weighs 7.5 pounds without the bar and the chain and can thus be easily handled and maneuvered. Thanks to the chain brake, you don’t have to worry about your safety when using this chainsaw. The vibration levels are reduced as this top handle chainsaw features an anti-vibration system that decreases the feeling of fatigue. Check out other types of arborist chainsaws in this article about the best arborist/top handle chainsaw models.
- 12-inch bar
- 35.2cc gas engine
- features a rope attachment
- designed for arborists
Best Chinese Top Handle Chainsaw
Holzfforma Top Handle Chainsaw
Requires A Guide Bar & Chain
This top handle chainsaw features a 35.2cc gas engine and comes with a powerhead only. It requires a separate purchase of a compatible guide bar and a chain. It can be used with a 14-inch and a 16-inch long guide bar. Once you attach the cutting equipment, this top handle chainsaw has a maximum cutting length of 35 or 40 centimeters.
Lubricates The Chain For Higher Performance
As it is powered by gas, it needs a fuel mix with a ratio of 25 to 1. The volume of the fuel tank is 22 fluid ounces. The oil tank has a capacity of 10.2 fluid ounces. The oil pump is fully automatic and provides the chain with enough lubrication for safe performance. The ide speed of this one-cylinder -stroke chainsaw is 2500 revolutions per minute, and it can reach a maximum speed of 11500 revolutions per minute.
For Cutting In Small Spaces
The chainsaw powerhead weighs 4.5 kilograms alone. Its top handle allows the saw operator to cut more efficiently in small spaces. If you want to check out other models of Chinese chainsaws, read this article where I have reviewed some of the best Chinese chainsaws on the market.
- 35.2cc engine
- can use a 14 or a 16-inch bar
- automatic oil pump
- 11500 revolutions per minute
- weighs 4.5 kilograms
Best Electric Top Handle Chainsaw
Makita Top Handle Chainsaw
14-Inch Sprocket Nose Guide Bar
This electric top handle chainsaw is powered by two 18v batteries and features a 14-inch long guide bar and a chain. The 36v electric chainsaw provides power such as a 30cc gas engine. The 14-inch guide bar is a sprocket noise type and comes with a 0.043-inch chain gauge with a 3/8-inch pitch.
For Cutting & Trimming Wood
The top handle chainsaw is perfect for taking care of the trees and can be used for different cutting and trimming jobs. For cutting dense material, the chainsaw has a torque boost mode that increases the speed of the chain. The chain gets automatically lubricated thanks to the adjustable automatic chain oiler. The batteries are fast-charging so you can spend more time cutting and less time waiting for them to charge.
Low Maintenace Chainsaw
Unlike gas engines, electric chainsaws require minimal maintenance and have zero harmful emissions. It can easily start by loading the batteries and also produces lower noise than gas chainsaws. If you wish to learn more about electric models of chainsaws, give this post about the best electric chainsaws a read.
- 14-inch chainsaw
- two 18v batteries and a charger included
- torque boost mode
Best & Lightest Top Handle Chainsaw
Echo Top Handle Chainsaw
Weighs Only 5.2 Pounds
This top handle chainsaw is one of the lightest chainsaws in North America. It weighs 5.2 pounds without the attached cutting equipment. It is powered by a 2-stroke 25cc gas engine and has a 12-inch long guide bar with a chain. The filter is designed for extended run time and the fine grid cover keeps debris particles away from the engine.
Automatic Oiler Works When The Chain Spins
The chain and the bar stay greasy as this top handle chainsaw features a clutch-driven automatic oiler that prevents overconsumption of oil. The chain can also be easily adjusted by using the side-mounted chain tensioning mechanism. This top handle chainsaw has a 4.7 fluid ounces oil capacity and a fuel capacity of 6.4 fluid ounces.
Textured Grip For Balance & Control
As it is designed for tree care professionals, it comes with a metal lanyard ring for easy detaching and attaching. It comes with a top handle and features a textured grip that allows the operator to control and balance it more easily. If you wish to learn more about lightweight models, you can do so by reading my post about the best lightweight chainsaws on the market.
- weighs 5.2 pounds
- 12-inch long guide bar
- 25cc gas engine
- clutch-driven automatic oiler
Conclusion: Which Top Handle Chainsaw To Get?
In conclusion to this article, I would like to recommend the following two best top handle chainsaws for sale. On one hand, the Echo top handle chainsaw is very lightweight and designed for tree care professionals. It has a 12-inch bar and a 25cc gas engine. On the other hand, the Husqvarna top handle chainsaw features a 12-inch long guide bar powered by a 35.2cc gas engine. It can be used by arborists thanks to the compact design with a top handle.
Read about different chainsaw models in my article about the best chainsaws. If you are interested in buying a rope chainsaw, check out my article about the best pocket chainsaws. If you wish to find out more about other kinds of small chainsaws, read this article with my selection of some of the best small and mini chainsaws.