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Pole saws or pruners are medium-sized saw blades attached to the end of a long, usually extendable pole. They are often used to cut back small to medium sized branches and bushes in yards or gardens.
These utility tools are ideal for lawn and yard maintenance and often feature multiple attachment options including blowers, trimmers, and edgers.
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This article will highlight our top picks for the best, yet affordable, gas pole saws available on the market today.
Additionally, we will offer some basic information on why you would use a gas saw over an electric one, as well as how you would use a pole saw in general.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Affordable Gas Pole Saws
- BEST UNDER $125: TrimmerPlus PS720
- BEST UNDER $250: Maxtra
- BEST UNDER $350: BLUE MAX 53542
Comparison of the Best Gas Pole Saws For The Money
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Why Use a Gas Saw Over an Electric Saw?
The primary advantages of gas pole saws are that they are portable, reliable, and versatile. They also tend to be more powerful than their electric counterparts and can be used without electricity.
Additionally, extra fuel can be kept on-hand in order to ensure that you always will be able to get the job done without having to charge or swap batteries.
While electric pole saws usually require a power outlet in order to work, gas pole saws have the advantage of being portable as they are ran using fuel, namely gasoline. This allows them to be much more versatile and suitable for use on large properties or for commercial landscaping.
These saws are generally more powerful than electric saws, and are much more portable. Gas saws normally end up being heavier, however most of that weight is due to the fuel tank.
Therefore, while they are heavier than electric saws, this weight is distributed towards the bottom of the pole, making them still very easy to use.
Review of the Best Gas Pole Saws for the Money
While there are numerous gas pole saws on the market, we have selected five of the best for review. These pole saws vary in price and power, so one is practically guaranteed to fit your needs and budget. Without further ado, these are our top gas pole saws for the money:
1. TrimmerPlus PS720
PROS
CONS
Our Review
The TrimmerPlus PS720 8-inch pole saw is a simple, cost effective pole saw that is best suited for users on a budget. Unfortunately, this is simply a saw and extension, and does not include the motor or gas tank.
It features an 8-inch bar and chain that will saw through most branches, with an automatic oiler system to prevent it from overheating or stopping from debris. Depending on operator height, it’s 2 extension sections allow for variable height to suit most situations relatively well.
It comes complete with a two-year limited warranty that covers defects in parts or craftsmanship and fits most attachment-capable trimmers from name brands such as Crafstman, Remington, and Troy-Bilt.
The downside is that this saw does require routine maintenance and adjustment, sometimes even out of the box. While this saw is easy to use, we suggest making sure the oil flow setting is set appropriately for the climate you are in: pay attention to both heat and humidity.
Also, be sure to test the chain tightness, it should not stick when powered on and when powered off it should have approximately a quarter inch of pull to it. Both these adjustments are easy, requiring either an included Allen wrench, or a common household flat head screwdriver.
This saw should fit most scenarios with branches seven inches or less in diameter and should work well with almost all name brand attachment-capable trimmers.
Bottom Line
This is one of the more affordable, budget saws on the market. While the blade and chain are of decent quality, the system does require adjustment and maintenance for proper use. All-in-all, its a decent saw, however it will require attachment to a proper motor and tank.
2. Maxtra Gas Pole Saw
PROS
CONS
Our Review
The Maxtra Gas Pole Saw features a 47.2 cubic centimeter, 2-cycle motor capable of 1100 watts of power, greatly exceeding the power of an electric saw.
It comes with an easy to carry bag and an extension pole, although may be heavier than other saws. The pole, when extended, can reach up to 11.4 feet. This premium quality saw has a large, 10-inch blade and chain which in combination with the powerful motor allows you to cut through even the largest of branches without too much hassle.
The Maxtra 42.7CC also features a powerful air filter and engine protection system, both hot and cold start settings, and a centrifugal clutch that allows for safe, easy starting.
It also has a muffler shield to prevent contact with a hot muffler, a throttle lock-out on the rear handle, and a diaphragm carburetor allowing for smooth and easy use with somewhat minimal noise.
This portable, although somewhat heavy, model of saw comes with a shoulder strap, a tool kit, and chain covers, as well as a one-year warranty through Mextra.
Bottom Line
The Maxtra 47.2 cubic centimeter pole saw is a fantastically powerful saw that boasts a respectable length of just over 11 feet. It is the ideal saw for those doing heavy duty work, although those doing minor pruning may find it too heavy for their uses.
3. BLUE MAX 53542
PROS
CONS
Our Review
The Blue Max 53542 32.6 cc gasoline pole saw features a large ten-inch bar and chain optimized for cutting large, thick branches, however it can also be used for standard trimming.
Although it boasts a powerful 32.6 cubic centimeter engine, it is still somewhat lightweight at only 21.9 pounds, allowing it to be used fairly portable. In addition to its lightweight design, the balanced design and anti-vibration system ensure that the saw can be used with maximum comfort without tiring you out.
It also features an automatic clutch with a built-in safety to allow for easy yet reliable starting, while the fuel primer and air removal system make sure the carburetor runs optimally and minimal air infiltrates the fuel system.
Like most other pole saws, it requires a pole extension to make it longer. This saw can reach about ten feet while still remaining solid and sturdy, allowing you to cut branches at most heights.
This saw is ideal for those who need enough power to cut through large, tough branches, but prefer lighter weight saws. While the quality is not as good as some of the other saws reviewed here, it is still a fairly decent saw.
Bottom Line
The Blue Max 53542 Gasoline Pole Saw is a middle of the line saw. It boasts a large bar and chain, and a powerful motor, yet is lightweight for what it is. The build quality is acceptable, but not quite as good as the other saws. Overall, this is the ideal saw for those on a budget who still require power for those tough jobs.
4. Poulan Pro 25cc Pole Saw/Trimmer Combo
PROS
CONS
Our Review
The Poulan Pro 25-cubic centimeter 2-stroke gas powered straight shaft pole saw and trimmer is a moderately powerful pole saw that comes with a detachable shaft and easy to detach coupler, allowing for simple transport or storage.
It is lightweight at about 14 pounds and comes with a shoulder strap as well as an extension insert that allows it to reach far away branches up to twelve feet.
The primary features of the Poulan Pro its auto return stop switch, a surefire fuel delivery system, a spring assisted starter, and a carburetor with built-in air purge technology. These features ensure an effortless yet reliable start without the pain of ripping a cord ten to fifteen times on a colder day.
The detachable shaft also allows for optional accessories (not included) to be connected instead of the saw including heads for standard trimming, hedge trimming, tilling, bush cutting, blowing, edging, and of course, tree pruning.
Bottom Line
The Poulan Pro is a decent quality version of the run-of-the-mill gas pole saw. It has a motor of average power, and the standard 8-inch bar and chain. It is made of quality, reliable parts, and will definitely get the job done. For the price, this is a good, solid saw.
5. RM2599 MaverickGas Pole Saw
PROS
CONS
Our Review
The Remington RM2599 Maverick is a 25cc 2-cycle pole saw with an 8-inch blade. Like most Remington products, it is designed with the user in mind and boasts their quality standards with regard to craftsmanship.
Being made of steel, the pole is unlikely to break and remains stiff and firm at all length, even when fully extended. The extension pole allows the pole to extend up to 12 feet, making most branches reachable with relative ease.
Since it is gas-powered, it uses a smaller blade and chain than many electric saws, however the 8-inch bar and chain are designed with a low kickback design, making it easy to use. Additionally, the bar and chain are fitted with an automatic oiler to make sure the chain doesn’t overheat and is properly lubricated.
The powerful, yet somewhat lightweight 25cc motor ensures that you can cut most branches, although thicker ones may take some time. While the motor must be pull started, Remington’s QuickStart technology makes most people able to start the saw without many problems.
Best of all, the Remington RM2599 is absolutely versatile, accepting most Remington attachments to allow the saw to turn into a blower, trimmer, or edger as well.
Bottom Line
With a standard price, but supreme quality and adjustability, the Remington RM2599 is a fantastic saw made even more fantastic by Remington’s standard 2-year warranty.
How to Use a Gas Pole Saw
Gas pole saws are easy to use. Make sure you oil your blade and fill the gas tank. Then clear the work area so nothing will get damaged or injured by falling debris.
Select closer branches for pruning first and be sure to attend to the limitations of your saw. Some saws are only meant for cutting small branches while others will have larger blades to accommodate larger branches.
Always begin by positioning the saw to make a starting groove, then slowly begin cutting into the groove.
Start your cut on the topside of the branch then bring the saw down as you cut. When you are midway through the branch, pause and ensure that there is nothing that will fall in an uncontrolled manner and re-position if necessary.
If your arms get tired, finish your cut and take a break. In general, longer poles and heavier saws will require more breaks in between cuts.
Safety should be the number one priority when using any saw. When used properly, gas pole saws will make maintaining your property a breeze.
Hold up, are you interested in other topics related to gas saws? If so, these might be something to check out:
Conclusion
While most of the saws we reviewed are similar in price, the ultimate decision of which saw is right for you comes down to power, portability, and comfort. Which will you choose?