If you want to make sure that the greenery around your home is well maintained, then you need a reliable way to prune back the branches of various trees and shrubs on your property. While you could try to do this by hand, it’s usually so much easier to use a pole saw instead.
While you could go with a battery-operated pole saw, it’s usually better to go with a gas-powered version instead. Not only do you get more power, but the best gas pole saws will often last longer and work more efficiently.
So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at the top gas pole saw models, and see why they might be the best fit for your lawn and garden needs.
How to Choose a Gas Pole Saw
Length
When looking at the length of a pole saw, there are two different aspects to pay attention to the most. First, you want to look at the overall length of the pole, which is usually about seven or eight feet. In many cases, you may even get some extension rods to make the saw even longer and improve your overall reach.
When looking at a longer pole, however, you want to make sure that you’re practicing safe cutting methods. Although the saw itself is relatively light, it can be substantial enough to cause problems, especially when you’ve extended the pole to more than 10 feet. We highly recommend practicing shorter lengths first before going to its full potential.
The second aspect of length is the saw blade itself. In most cases, the blade will be around seven inches, although longer varieties do exist. Thus, when you combine the pole and the saw, you can get a massive reach to get to the toughest, tallest branches on the tree without having to use a ladder.
As another point, while you can use a ladder while cutting with a pole saw, we don’t suggest doing so. It’s far easier to lose your balance that way, so only use a ladder if you’re sure that you can stay stable the entire time.
Lubrication
One thing that you have to do to maintain your saw keeps it lubricated. This feature is crucial regardless of the power source, as a non-lubricated saw can be much more dangerous and won’t work as efficiently.
Fortunately, newer models make this process a lot easier for you because they come with automatic oilers. This way, you don’t have to add oil to the saw in between uses – it will take care of that for you.
That being said, the oil inside the tank can run out, so it’s imperative that you check it before and after each use. Also, when adding or changing the oil, you need to make sure that the saw is cool before doing it. Thus, if you just finished cutting, wait until the machine is cool to the touch before adding any oil.
Engine Power
In almost every case, a gas-powered pole saw is going to provide much more cutting power than an electric or battery-operated version. Nonetheless, although they can outperform electric models, there is some variety among the different engines of these saws.
Thus, when comparing these models, make sure that you’re looking at the specs of the engine. More powerful engines will be able to handle things like higher cutting speeds and more resistance while cutting.
Overall, you should only get the most powerful engine if a) you use the pole saw on a regular basis, or b) you have to cut through some pretty large branches.
Weight and Balance
No matter how you’re going to use your pole saw, safety should always be the priority. Not only do you want to make sure that you don’t accidentally drop the saw while it’s running, but you want to protect yourself from falling branches and debris as well.
Another aspect of safety is paying attention to the weight and balance of the saw. As we went over, the saw itself is relatively light, but when it’s sitting 10 feet above your head, it can be difficult to wield effectively and safely.
Overall, if possible, you want to feel the weight of the saw before using it. This way you can be sure that it won’t be too cumbersome or difficult to move around. Remember that you have to be relatively precise when cutting, assuming that you only want to cut certain branches and avoid others. In that case, you need to be sure that the saw is balanced and won’t sway too much back and forth while in use.
Top 4 Best Gas Pole Saws – Reviews
1. Remington RM25PS Maverick 25cc 2-Cycle Gas Pole Saw
25cc Two-Cycle Engine
As we mentioned, the power and performance of a gas pole saw are going to make a substantial difference. Not only will more powerful saws weigh more and be more cumbersome (because of the larger engine), but they’ll be able to cut through thicker branches and help you work more efficiently.
In this case, a 25cc engine is sufficient for most small branches up to a few inches in diameter. While you can cut through thicker material, it will take longer and add wear and tear to the saw, so we don’t recommend it.
Because the engine is a two-cycle version, you can rely on it for years to come. It has a low-maintenance design that ensures that it will start on the first try, even in colder weather. Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and lightweight pole saw, this is an excellent choice.
Eight-Inch Bar, Seven-Foot Extension Pole
For the most part, pole saws are around eight inches long. Coupled with the extension pole, you should be able to reach up to 11 or 12 feet off the ground, depending on your height. In this case, you should have no problems getting up to 12 feet, meaning that hard to reach branches should pose no issue.
Also, because this is a more lightweight saw, you can maneuver more easily and precisely while cutting. Since you don’t want to accidentally cut the wrong branch, having this kind of control will make the job easier, as well as safer.
Quick Start Technology
One of the most significant issues with gas-powered machines (whether it’s a pole saw or something else) is the fact that you have to pull on a cord to get it started. This model alleviates that issue by having quick-start technology. This feature ensures that you don’t have to fumble with the cable and yank it multiple times to get rolling. Instead, you can work faster and more efficiently, especially if you have to turn the saw off while working.
- Rugged and reliable design
- Seven-foot extension rod
- Seven-foot extension rod
- Powerful engine cuts through most branches
- Automatic oiler for less maintenance
- Quick-start technology for cold starts
- Eight-inch chain for cutting through thick material
- Works with attachments for added versatility
- In rare cases, the chain may not stay tight on the saw
- May not be suitable for extra-thick branches
Final Verdict:
If you don’t have to power through massive branches, then this is a robust and reliable pole saw. We like that it comes with a quick-start option so that you can save time while working, as well as the fact that it’s lighter and easier to maneuver. Overall, this is a perfect accessory for most households that need to do light trimming and pruning.
2. Maxtra Gas Pole Saw
Powerful 42.7cc Engine
Even if you don’t know much about engines, one of the best ways to tell if a motor is more powerful is to pay attention to the cc rating. In this case, 42.7ccs means that this pole saw is built to cut through some pretty thick branches. According to the manufacturer, you should be able to make quick work of branches and logs up to 10 inches in diameter.
Overall, when comparing different gas pole saws, you want to look at the cc number to see if it will be sufficient for your needs. In this case, the saw is almost industrial-grade, meaning that it’s perfect for people who either want to cut down a whole tree (piece by piece) or those who have extra-thick branches to take on.
Two Extension Rods and 10-Inch Saw
In some cases, you only get one extension pole with your saw, which means that you can’t adjust your height very well. However, the Maxtra Pole Saw gives you two length options, thanks to the dual extension rods. Thus, if you need to reach up to 11.2 feet off the ground, you can add both of them together. If you’re cutting branches closer to you, then you can remove the second pole and work more efficiently.
The other great thing about two extension rods is that it’s much easier to store when not in use. Since you can bread the saw down into smaller components, it won’t take up as much room. Also, this model comes with a blade cover so that you don’t have to worry about lubrication drying out when the saw is sitting around for a long time.
Low-Maintenance Design
Because this saw is built to tackle bigger jobs, it comes with a few features that help the engine work more efficiently. First, it has cold-start technology so that you can get it up and running in colder temperatures. Second, it has an air filter that protects the engine and keeps debris from clogging it. Overall, you should be able to rely on this saw for a long time without having to bring it into the shop between uses.
- Rugged construction
- Two extension rods give you length options
- Two extension rods give you length options
- Powerful 42.7cc engine
- Cuts through larger branches and shrubs
- Cold-start technology
- Air filter keeps the engine working smoothly
- Reduced vibration for added safety
- Toolkit and saw cover provided
- 10-inch cutting length
- Shoulder strap for stability
- Anti-slip handle
- Instructions can be hard to follow for some users
- The cord may not start instantly all the time
Final Verdict:
If you have large trees on your property, then you need a saw that can handle thicker branches and more work. This model from Maxtra is up to the challenge and will make short work of anything you need to trim. With a massive engine, extra stability, and a low-maintenance design, we think that this is one of the best saws you can buy.
3. Poulan Pro 967089701 25cc 2 Stroke Gas Powered
Modest 25cc Two-Cycle Engine
As we’ve seen, most of the pole saws on the market are geared toward trimming and pruning, not cutting through massive branches and logs. This model from Poulan Pro is perfect for light cutting and shaping of your trees and other plants on your property, thanks to its 25cc engine.
As with other pole saws in its class, this motor is designed to work well with light cutting. Thus, if you’re trying to make it through extra thick branches (i.e., more than a couple of inches), you probably won’t be able to get very far.
Nonetheless, this engine is built solid and will work reliably for years to come.
Reliable Starting Power
When working with a gas-powered pole saw, you don’t want to have to work too hard just to get the thing started. This model comes with quick-start technology and an air filter so that dirt and debris won’t clog the motor and keep you from getting the job done.
What makes this type of technology ideal is the fact that you can shut the saw off while working and get it back up and running immediately. Reduce your overall downtime with this model.
Two Three-Foot Extension Rods, Eight-Inch Saw
As we mentioned, having multiple extension rods is an excellent choice for any pole saw because it means that you can adjust the length however you see fit. Both of these poles are three feet long, meaning that you can cut branches that are both near and far. Coupled with an eight-inch blade, you can reach up to 11 or 12 feet from the ground, depending on your height.
Breaking down and storing this saw is also much easier because you can separate each piece quickly and store them without any hassle.
- Compact and lightweight design
- Ideal for cutting through small branches
- Two extension poles for versatility
- Reliable starting power
- Eight-inch blade
- Doesn’t choke up
- Works with attachments for added versatility
- Not as rugged as other pole saws
- Not made for thicker branches
Final Verdict:
Because this saw is not built for heavy-duty cutting, we don’t recommend it for homes that have large trees and extra thick branches. That being said, if you’re just looking to do some light trimming and pruning, this saw is both cost-effective and reliable, especially when compared to other saws in its class.
4. ECHO Gas Powered Pole Saw
25.4cc Engine
As with the other saws on this list, this model is designed for light cutting and trimming. When comparing pole saws overall, most of them will be around 25ccs. Thus, if you need to cut through thicker branches with ease, look for a higher number.
In this case, the Echo Pole Saw is a decent offering, particularly if you don’t plan on using it all the time. It’s ideal for cutting and trimming your trees and shrubs on your property, and it’s super easy to use and master.
Automatic Chain Oiler
To help with the maintenance of this pole saw, it comes with an automatic oiling system. This system ensures that the blade is always sufficiently lubricated so that you don’t have to worry about breakage or damage to the machine. While you should always pay attention to the oil level, this saw can hold quite a bit, meaning that it will be a while before you have to replace any lubricant.
Low Maintenance Design
Overall, this saw is built to be simple and easy to use. It’s perfect for most users who don’t want to have to master a complicated machine. As long as you can pull the cord and wield the saw itself, you shouldn’t encounter any problems. This engine is designed to start in almost any conditions (including cold weather), so it will be a reliable addition to your tool shed.
- Compact and easy to use
- Expertly balanced saw
- Reach over 12 feet
- Quick-start motor
- Automatic saw lubrication
- Automatic saw lubrication
- Trigger handle for extra safety
- Breaks down quickly for storage
- Heavier than other saws in its class
- Not designed for thicker branches
Final Verdict:
Overall, if you’re looking for something easy to use, the Echo Pole Saw is the way to go. We like that it isn’t complicated and that it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance know-how to keep it in good working condition. As long as you’re not trying to cut through massive 8-10 inch branches, you shouldn’t have any issues.
Conclusion
Most of the gas pole saws we’ve seen have been designed for light cutting and pruning. However, we prefer something a little more robust, which means that we highly recommend the Maxtra Gas Pole Saw above the rest.
The reason we like that saw best is that you can adjust your cutting needs accordingly. It’s much easier to cut smaller branches with a high-powered saw than it is to go the other way around, so this model is perfect for jobs of all sizes.
That being said, if the weight and power are a little too much for you, then the Remington RM25PS is our top pick for lightweight pole saw. Both of these models are reliable and deliver the performance you need.
