Using a chainsaw and a ladder is the most popular method for cutting wood from a considerable distance. However, it’s not only difficult but also not safe. The best pole saw can significantly ease this process. It’s a saw that is attached at the end of a pole to trim and cut branches from afar. Moreover, it is primarily intended for non-professional household use.
Even if there is only one tree in the vicinity of your house, you will eventually encounter the problem of branches drooping down into your yard. While pole saw can make pruning much easier, it’s also quite a multifunctional tool that can become a decent upgrade for your garden’s tools arsenal. Furthermore, you can utilize it to eliminate unwanted plants in difficult-to-access areas and even to fell some small trees.
Nevertheless, when it comes to purchasing this device for personal use, you may encounter some difficulties. It may require some time and effort to determine which model would be the most suitable for your needs. This way, we have made a list of seven top-rated pole saws so that you can find the one you need.
Since a pole saw is not as popular as regular chainsaws, it can be hard to find enough information on them to make a reasonable buying decision. Therefore, if you are unsure where to begin, we recommend reading our buyer’s guide, which aims to provide you with essential tips and guidance.
Pole Saw Reviews
Worx WG309 – best pole chain saw
This 40-link blade saw from WORX is supplied with an auto-tension chain system which significantly increases the operational lifespan of the tool. The robust 8-Amp motor guarantees reliable and steady performance. Featuring a capacious 120 ml oil tank, you won’t need to frequently monitor it.
The saw has 42 x 8 x 9 inches, with a pole that extends up to 8 feet. The unit weighs 10.2 pounds which is quite heavy. The pole also features a detaching mechanism.
This model is among the easiest ones that we feature in our pole chainsaws reviews. It does not entail any intricate assembly, and you won’t need any extra tools to configure and fine-tune the saw for optimal performance.
Thanks to the non-slip ergonomic grip, you won’t lose your hold on the tool’s shaft even in wet weather. The grip is also specifically designed to reduce the weight of the unit as much as possible, so one might find it the best corded pole saw.
Pros
- The availability of the auto-lubrication system.
- The design of the saw permits its usage at ground level as well.
Cons
- The knob is quite bulky.
- There is a possibility of occasional oil leakage.
- You have to constantly keep an eye on the chain as it may fall after some time of work.
Black & Decker LPP120B – best gas pole saw
Among the models available, this one from BLACK+DECKER boasts one of the longest overhead reaches at 14 feet. It is 8.25 x 8.13 x 44.5 inches in size with adjustable length so you won’t have problems with storing the saw. Weighing 6.3 pounds, it ensures convenient cutting even when extended to its maximum reach.
The 8-inch cutting bar and chain allow cutting branches up to 6 inches in diameter. The in-line power-head ensures good maneuverability and visibility between branches that you want to cut. That’s why it is worth considering this model while searching for the best battery powered pole saw. It also has the blade guards for safe handling.
This model can be the best cordless pole saw for you if you have a lot of trees around your house as it uses the 20V battery which ensures up to 100 cuts per charge. However, both the battery and charger aren’t included in the kit. While not a concern if you possess another BLACK+DECKER tool, as you can employ the battery from your lawn or power tool, which is manufactured by the same company.
Pros
- This tool comes with a storage bag and can be disassembled for easy transportation.
- The plastic cover sits tight.
- Can be disassembled into three pieces for easy storage.
Cons
- The tension is not adjustable.
- It doesn’t have an automatic oiler.
Sun Joe SWJ800E – best electric pole saw
This corded saw from Sun Joe has 68.5 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches of size dimensions and features a telescoping pole that extends up to 8.7 feet. Equipped with a 6.5-Amp motor, it provides sufficient power to manage branches of up to 7.5 inches in thickness. Weighing only 7 pounds, this is also a lightweight pole saw.
The Sun Joe SWJ800E is very simple to use and can be cosidered the best electric pole pruner. Switching it on can be accomplished in a matter of seconds. You only need to hold the safety lock button, press the trigger switch, and the saw will start instantaneously. During the working process, the saw remains quiet enough to provide hours of convenient work.
In addition to the safety lock button, this model incorporates several other safety features, such as a low kickback chain and bumper spikes, to enhance cutting stability.
The saw is supplied with a high-quality 8-inch Oregon cutting bar. It also has a chain with automatic lubrication. The chain tensioning is effortless and requires just a turn of a screw.
The non-slip foam grip absorbs shocks and vibrations while cutting. Moreover, the saw features a restraint hook that prevents drag on the extension cord.
Pros
- The pole is rigid and doesn’t wobble at a full-reach.
- It comes along with a screwdriver and a scabbard that provides blade protection.
Cons
- The chain tends to dull quite quickly.
Greenworks 20672 – best cordless pole saw
Among Greenworks pole saws, this model is one of the lightest, weighing only 8.36 pounds. It has a 3-piece shaft which can be extended to 8 feet. The overall dimensions of the saw are 107 x 7 x 7.5 inches.
The 8-inch bar allows cutting branches with a diameter of no more than 6 inches. Thanks to the cushioned grip, the tool remains stable during operation, and it also helps to minimize vibrations from the blade.
The unit goes with a 2Ah lithium battery which provides up to 65 cuts on one charge. The charger is also included in the kit. The built-in battery indicator will keep you informed about the remaining battery life, while the easily adjustable tensioning system allows for quick chain tightening.
The Greenworks 20672 has an automatic oiler that applies oil to both bar and chain when it’s needed so you don’t have to do it by yourself to ensure durability and optimal use of the tool.
Pros
- The pole of this pole saw is constructed from solid aluminum, making it highly durable.
- This pole saw operates at a low noise level.
- It starts working quickly thanks to instant electric start feature.
Cons
- It does not come with a shoulder strap or storage case.
WEN 4019
The telescopic electric corded Wen pole saw is designed to cut branches and trim trees to maintain various landscape projects. It can cut through 6-inch branches in a single pass and thicker branches with a couple of passes.
One of the remarkable features of this best power pole saw is its automatic oiling system with a 3-fluid-ounce tank, which ensures that the chain remains well-oiled throughout the working process without the need for interruptions. The telescopic pole can be extended from 5.3 to 7.3 feet, and then to 12 feet, if necessary.
The high-quality 8-inch Oregon saw chain ensures low vibrations, tough, and sharp cutters, resulting in a seamless performance. It’s possible to adjust the saw’s tension to make the saw stable, avoid its vibrations, and provide straight cutting. With a 6-amp motor, this pole saw can rotate the chain up to 36 feet per second, enabling fast cutting.
The saw is angled to facilitate cutting since the users can see the position they put it in to start working. This pole saw is easy to assemble; simply slide the blade end of the handle into the base and flip the latch to lock it into place.
Pros
- It has a loop that prevents it from sliding down while the user is holding it high up in the air.
- The electric engine runs quietly.
Cons
- The tensioner is made of plastic and can easily come off track.
- The cord is too short (1.5 feet) that requires a long extension cord to reach the outlet.
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S
The PS45010S from Scotts Outdoor is supplied with a powerful 8-Amp motor and 10-inch Oregon bar. The pole is made of fiberglass – a special material that minimizes vibrations. It has dimensions of 85 x 4 x 5 inches and features a fully adjustable pole that can extend up to 9.5 feet. The saw’s weight of 7 pounds makes it easy to maneuver.
This is one of the best pole saws in terms of adjustment possibilities: the chain has an adjustable 3-position cutting head which provides a fast and clean cut. Additionally, with the help of just two buttons, you can choose from five cutting angles. The bar and chain tension adjustments are automatic.
The saw goes with a protective blade cover which ensures effective protection and makes it easier to safely store the blade. In pole saws reviews, this model is highlighted for its automatic oiling system that keeps the bar and chain lubricated during cutting, providing added convenience. There is an oil level window so you could immediately see when the saw is running out of oil.
Pros
- It is equipped with a cord retention hook, which helps prevent tangling and slippage of the power cord during use.
- The rubber molded handle features a foam grip for more convenient use.
- The pole is easy to assemble.
Cons
- This model may have durability issues with its gears as they are prone to breaking easily.
Fiskars 394631-1001
The Fiskars pole saw is a long-lasting and robust tool based on chain-driven gear, that’s why we decided to include it to our the best pole chainsaw list. The unit has sharp clippers and a removable saw blade to provide easy and fast cutting. Both saw and clippers’ blades are made of hardened steel that is immune to sliding abrasion. The saw pole is easy to work due to a handle sliding up and down on the shaft. The tool comes with a sturdy cable that assists in maneuvering the clippers when the pole is fully extended, which is useful when the user cannot reach the handle.
This pruner is a lightweight tool (4.34 pounds) made of aluminum and plastic. It is easy to use thanks to a telescopic construction that allows expanding the pole from 7.9 up to 12 feet. This pole saw has a design that is well-suited for reaching high tree branches and maneuvering in difficult-to-access areas. It trims branches with a diameter of up to 1.25 inches that match even the professional gardeners’ tasks to maintain the numerous tall trees.
Pros
- You can adjust the angle of the clippers to ensure precise and clean cuts.
- It’s easy to attach a saw blade on and off with a clamp.
- The double locking system provides high security of using the tool.
Cons
- The Fiskars pole saw may have difficulty handling the thickest branches, requiring the user to use the end of the pole as leverage by placing it on the ground.
- The blade opens back up to cut the next limb too slowly.
Buyer’s Guide
What is a Pole Saw and Its Types
A pole saw is a tool for pruning high tree branches standing on the ground which makes the process faster, efficient, and safer. The tool is designed with a long pole that houses both the drive and cutting mechanism. This pole allows for reaching from 8 to 15 feet. As this tool is intended for use while attached to a pole, it is generally thinner and smaller in size compared to a standard chainsaw.
In terms of fuel, there are three types:
Gas-powered
The gas-powered pole saws use a 2-stroke engine that is fueled by gas. This is the most powerful type of these devices and is commonly used by professionals. It’s perfect for pruning thick branches. Due to its high cutting power, this tool tends to generate a higher level of noise. The weight of a gas-powered pole saw also significantly exceeds the weight of its electric analogs. Additionally, it requires regular maintenance, such as attention to spark plugs, filters, etc.
Electric
The electric pole saw is electrical powered which means that you will be limited in how far you can cut by the cord length. This tool operates quietly and doesn’t create a disturbance with its low noise level throughout the entire working process. It trims wood without leaving raggy areas on cuts. In addition, this electric tool is remarkably lightweight, typically tipping the scales at less than 15 pounds. However, it doesn’t allow cutting in hard-to-reach areas. It’s also not so powerful: its power is enough to work with branches that have 2-5 inches in diameter.
Battery-powered
The battery-powered pole saw combines the quiet operation of electric models and the power of gas-powered models. The tool is powered by rechargeable batteries, making it a great choice for those who prefer not to be restricted by a power cord. This is also a highly maneuverable device for cutting the hardest-to-reach areas. It’s also quite lightweight (7-13 pounds) and works with branches that are 3-8 inches in diameter. The battery-powered pole saws don’t work silently, but they are quieter than the gas-powered models. However, with all its advantages, it’s also the most expensive.
Instructions on How to Use it
The pole saws are simple enough to be perfectly suitable in the household. Initially, it may appear challenging, particularly for novice users, but you can easily manage it by following these steps:
Remember about safety
To use the tool safely, it’s important to hold it with both hands and avoid raising it too high. The angle of inclination must not be bigger than 60° so it is forbidden to saw branches that are located directly above your head because it can injure you. Regardless, it is essential to wear a helmet to prevent accidents and gloves to provide a better grip and protect your hands. The safety goggles are also highly recommended — they will protect your eyes from wood dust. In terms of clothes, it’s necessary to wear long pants that are able to protect you from the flaying derbies. You also should remember that you must never work near power lines.
Prepare the working area
Clean the area where you plan to work by removing any debris, obstacles, or potential hazards to ensure that you can move freely and safely. Make sure that you are standing on solid ground.
Also, ensure to keep people away from entering the working space.
Start cutting
Most people start cutting from the middle of the top branches, but that’s wrong: it’s right to start cutting from the bottom. Set the pole saw at its max speed and start cutting perpendicular to the branch so that your strokes bite in as much as possible. Cut each branch in three to four cuts. The tool cut on the pull stroke, so don’t pressure too much: the gravity will do its work. You should also avoid attempting to cut branches that are thicker than 8 inches, as the pole saw is not designed for such tasks. It’s also recommended using ropes to reduce the fallen speed of especially heavy branches.
Finish the work
Cut all the fallen branches into smaller cuts because this is the most convenient way to transport them.
How to Choose the Best Tool
Like all the power tools, the pole saw must fit your own needs and provide convenient work. Consider the following features before placing an order:
Weight
This is a crucial aspect to consider as you should be able to use the tool without exerting excessive pressure on your arms and shoulders. A good pole saw needs to be reasonably lightweight. If the saw is too heavy, it can be tiring to raise it above your head. If it’s heavier than 20 pounds, you will hardly be able to work with it for too long, regardless of your physical shape and age. It’s also important to ensure that the handgrip is comfortable to hold, and a model with rubberized inserts is preferable as they prevent the tool from slipping and provide a secure grip.
Working height
Don’t go for the saw with the highest working height — consider the length of your arm as well. The pole saw should have an easily adjustable length and a convenient system for adjusting the angle of inclination. This will allow you to comfortably work with branches that are located at different heights.
Cutting bar length
The maximum diameter of the branches that you will be able to cut with your tool depends on the cutting bar length. It varies from 2 to 8 inches. It’s better to choose the pole saw with cutting bar able to cut branches that are minimum two inches thicker than the branches you are going to cut. This will ensure the longevity of the tool and will make the cutting process easier.
Additional features
Many pole saws come with some additional features which make them easier to operate. For example, some of them come with an anti-vibration feature, with a self-oiling chain, or with blade guards that protect the user from sharp blades. Such features obviously make the tool more expensive in comparison with models that have simpler functionality. However, if you desire a pole saw that offers an enhanced level of convenience, you should take into account the following features.