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| Name | Ben Edwards |
| About Me | Top Handle vs Rear Handle Chainsaw: Complete Comparison Choosing between a top handle chainsaw vs rear handle chainsaw is one of the most important considerations you have to make when buying a new chainsaw. No matter if you need the best top handle chainsaw or a reliable rear handle model, you will be faced with a large variety of models to pick from. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the main differences in the two designs before committing to a purchase. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable differences between the two chainsaw types, and the implications each variant brings. General Difference As the name implies, the main difference between a top handle vs rear handle chainsaw is in the location of the main handles. With a top handle chainsaw, both handles are on top of the machine. As a result, when you’re holding it, both your hands will be above the chainsaw, with part of it sticking out behind you. On the other hand, rear handle chainsaws have one handle extending from the back of the machine. This makes the chainsaw stick out in front of the user and makes it easier to handle for prolonged periods of time. Top handle chainsaws are also known as climbing chainsaws, because their handle arrangement makes them more suitable for using in more difficult situations when you might not be able to use both hands freely, such as when climbing a tree. This design has become very popular on the market in recent years, and users looking for a good top handle chainsaw will typically have more options to pick from. Specific Features Handles aren’t the only design element that separates a top handle chainsaw from a rear handle chainsaw. Moving the handle has various implications on the overall design. Size Buyers looking for a smaller, more compact chainsaw will want to look for a top handle model. A good top handle arborist chainsaw is perfect for climbing up trees, as it’s usually made to be small, portable and easy to use even with one hand. This sometimes leads to a compromise in performance, but most high-end models should still be able to work through moderately sized trunks and branches without any issues.
Weight Top handle chainsaws are not only smaller, but also lighter than most of their rear handle counterparts. This further adds to their portability and makes them perfect for jobs like removing branches high up in a tree. There are some exceptions to this, especially in models with a more powerful motor. But for the most part, comparing models of similar performance, a top-handle chainsaw will almost always come out lighter. Many top handle chainsaw reviews specifically focus on the weight aspect, and there are some models that are specifically designed to be as light as possible. Don’t underestimate the impact of increased weight on your ability to work for prolonged periods. Rear handle chainsaws tend to be more exhausting to use, even for experienced professionals with years under their belt. Working with a rear handle model requires the user to ensure that they can take regular breaks. Wieldiness Combining the above factors with a design that makes the chainsaw easier to handle results in a device that’s significantly more convenient for maneuvering in tight spaces than a rear handle chainsaw. Top handle chainsaws are preferred by arborists concerned with minimizing their work’s footprint on the environment, as they can allow a user to easily move around a small area without accidentally damaging any of their surroundings. Top handle chainsaws can even be used with just one hand. Though of course it’s always recommended to use both hands for extra safety, that’s not always possible in some tricky situations. This type of chainsaw is perfect for removing small branches and other delicate work that requires as much portability and flexibility as possible. Power Use While many top handle chainsaw models feature excellent performance and can easily work through thicker wood, that comes at a price. Top handle models are typically associated with higher power consumption, which means refilling the chainsaw with fuel or recharging its batteries more often. This can add a layer of inconvenience to situations where the user needs to work in a difficult environment. Planning ahead to ensure that the chainsaw doesn’t run out of power is important. This isn’t such a problem with most rear handle chainsaw models on the market, which often last longer on a single charge. It’s easier to pack more power in a larger device without compromising its effectiveness, so that’s one area where rear handle models stand out more easily.
Cost Cordless top handle chainsaws tend to be more expensive, both in terms of their initial price as well as running costs. Between recharging the chainsaw more often, occasionally replacing its chain and other parts, and the cost of obtaining a license for a top handle chainsaw (more on that below), this is only a viable option for buyers who’re prepared to spend more on the long run. Running costs should not be underestimated, as they can add up quite fast for some models. That’s one of the reasons why top handle models are most popular among seasoned professionals and not so much with regular domestic users who just need something to trim the hedges every now and then. The market for top handle chainsaws is generally aimed at experienced users, and this quickly becomes obvious with one look through the product descriptions of some of the most popular brands. Experience Needed Rear handle chainsaws are easier to use and generally more familiar to people without much experience with chainsaws. Top handle models require some additional training to achieve proficiency. In some areas, it may even be necessary to take out a special license to use a top handle chainsaw professionally. Even if a license is not mandatory in your area, skipping the additional training is still not recommended in general. Using a top handle chainsaw with an incorrect technique can quickly lead to injury or damage to the machine. There are some specific differences that come with the different handling which are not immediately obvious. Safety That brings us to another important point. Since rear handle chainsaws are perfect for beginners, they are also generally safer for anyone, regardless of the level of experience. They are perfect for everyday gardening work and can be easily utilized by someone who’s never used a chainsaw before with minimal initial training. Some rear handle models on the market are specifically designed with safety in mind, introducing various features to prevent injury and incorrect use in general. Those who’re concerned with their safety should consider investing in a rear handle chainsaw. Experienced users who don’t mind going through some extra training and know how to handle a chainsaw safely, in general, should probably consider a top handle model instead. Choosing the Right Chainsaw for Your Needs As you can see, choosing the ideal chainsaw for your specific needs comes down to a balance between performance, compactness, safety, running costs, and your own experience. If you are a more experienced arborist that knows their tools, you will probably lean towards a top handle chainsaw. On the other hand, even the best top handle chainsaw will be worthless in the hands of someone without the right training. Many professionals invest in a mix of both. Both versions have their advantages and disadvantages in specific situations. While a top handle chainsaw is generally more flexible and can be used for a larger variety of jobs, it can’t hurt to have a rear handle model available as backup for simpler tasks. This can also help you preserve your more expensive top handle model in the long run. A good Stihl top handle chainsaw can last for many years with appropriate maintenance and without losing any of its performance. Many of the popular brands on the market have high-end models in the top handle sector that can fit the needs of most professionals in general. For general gardening work, a rear handle model will likely do just fine. These chainsaws are limited to working on the ground, so anyone planning to do more serious work on trees will have no option but to invest in a top handle model. Final Thoughts Don’t make the mistake of assuming that a top handle chainsaw is better simply because it offers better performance and a more compact design by default. As many top handle chainsaw reviews will point out, these models are more difficult to wield and can be dangerous in the hands of an inexperienced user. They are also generally more expensive and require more maintenance in the long run. Both designs have their pros and cons, and depending on your specific needs, it can be difficult to make the right decision. When in doubt, it can’t hurt to consult someone with more experience to guide you through the process, especially if you’re planning to spend more money on your purchase. |
