Choosing the best saws for cutting trees can feel overwhelming. With so many options—chainsaws, bow saws, pruning saws—where do you begin? The truth is, each type of saw serves a unique purpose. If you’ve ever researched the best saws for cutting wood, you’ll know that durability, blade size, and efficiency matter. But here’s the catch—when it comes to yard work, you also need control and precision. That’s why some people even explore specialized tools like the best saw to cut PVC pipe for their home projects, showing how versatile saws can be. Still unsure which to pick? Let’s dive into the world of the best saws and see which one truly fits your tree-cutting needs.

Top Picks

Best Lightweight Saw: JORGENSEN 15” Hand Saw, Black Coated Coarse Handsaw

The Jorgensen hand saw features a 15 inch steel blade designed for clean and controlled cuts. With a rectangular blade shape and 90 degree cutting angle, it is well suited for woodworking and light plastic projects. The aluminum handle provides both strength and comfort, while the lightweight build makes it easy to maneuver.

Customers often value this saw for its balance between durability and ease of handling. Experts note that while the blade length and weight make it ideal for home use and small projects, its 8 tooth count limits speed on thicker materials. It is appreciated for its precision and portability rather than raw cutting power.

The Jorgensen hand saw delivers reliable performance for light to medium cutting tasks. It is a solid option for homeowners and hobbyists seeking control and comfort at an affordable value, though professionals handling heavy duty jobs may find it less capable.

Folding Hand Saw for Tree Pruning, Camping, Gardening, Hunting. Cutting Wood, PVC, Bone with Ergonomic Handle Design

Best Multi Blade Design: MOSSY OAK 3 in 1 Folding Saw, Pruning Hand Saw

The Mossy Oak folding saw comes with a 3 in 1 design, offering interchangeable blades to handle wood, plastic, and even light metal. Each 7.5 inch blade is crafted from CRV metal for durability, while the rectangular shape and 11 teeth design provide controlled cuts. Its folding structure makes it compact and safe to carry, and the thermoplastic elastomer handle ensures a secure, comfortable grip.

Users value the versatility of having multiple blades in one compact tool. Many note its usefulness for camping, gardening, and small household projects where different cutting needs arise. However, experts point out that the short blade length limits its performance on larger branches or heavy duty cutting tasks.

The Mossy Oak folding saw is a practical, portable option for outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners who need a lightweight, multi purpose cutting tool. It offers excellent convenience and versatility at a fair value, though it is best suited for small to medium tasks rather than demanding projects.

Rope Saw for Tree Limbs, 55 Inch Chain Saw with 70 Sharp Teeth & 46 Feet Ropes Kit, High Limb Pocket Chainsaw

Best Compact Chainsaw: Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless

The Seesii chainsaw is a compact, battery powered tool designed for quick and easy cutting. It weighs only 2.2 pounds, making it comfortable to handle for extended use. With a 6 inch chain length and a speed of 16.4 feet per second, it is capable of tackling small branches and light wood cutting efficiently. Its portable size makes it well suited for home gardens, camping, or quick outdoor tasks.

Customers appreciate its lightweight build and ease of operation, especially for pruning and small tree maintenance. Experts note that while it offers impressive speed for its size, the 6 inch chain limits its ability to handle larger logs or heavy duty cutting. Its battery powered operation is valued for convenience and mobility, though runtime may depend on battery capacity.

The Seesii chainsaw is a solid choice for users seeking a portable and efficient cutting tool for light duty tasks. It combines speed, comfort, and mobility, making it a practical option for yard work and casual outdoor use, though not a replacement for larger, professional grade chainsaws.

Pole Saws for Tree Trimming, 7.3-27 ft Extendable Tree Trimmers Long Handle Pruner, Sharp Steel Blade and Scissors High Branches Trimming, Tree Pruner, Tree Saw

FAQs

What is the best size chainsaw for cutting trees?

The best size chainsaw for cutting trees depends on the type of trees you’re handling. For small trees and light pruning, a 14- to 16-inch chainsaw is usually sufficient. Medium-sized trees often require a 16- to 20-inch bar for efficient cutting. If you’re dealing with large hardwoods, a professional-grade chainsaw with a 20- to 24-inch bar or longer is recommended. Keep in mind that larger chainsaws are heavier, so balance cutting capacity with ease of handling.

What type of saw is best for cutting trees?

For most tree-cutting tasks, a chainsaw is considered the most effective tool. Gas-powered chainsaws provide high power for heavy-duty cutting, while electric and battery-operated models are better suited for lighter work and ease of use. However, manual saws like bow saws and pruning saws are ideal for small branches and when precision is required. The best choice ultimately depends on the size of the trees and how frequently you’ll use the saw.

What is the best tool for cutting down trees?

The best tool for cutting down trees is typically a chainsaw, thanks to its speed and cutting power. A gas-powered chainsaw is preferred for larger trees because it can handle thick trunks without slowing down. For smaller trees or backyard projects, a cordless electric chainsaw is a convenient, low-maintenance alternative. Safety gear such as gloves, goggles, and chainsaw chaps should always be used to minimize risks during felling.

What is the best tool to cut branches off a tree?

The best tool for cutting branches off a tree depends on the branch size. For thin or medium branches, a pruning saw is lightweight and precise. Loppers are another excellent choice for smaller limbs under two inches in diameter. For thicker branches, a pole saw or small chainsaw works well, especially when you need extended reach. Always consider branch height and your comfort level with handling different saw types.

Conclusion

Finding the best saws for cutting trees starts with understanding your specific needs. Whether it’s pruning small branches, felling medium trees, or handling large hardwoods, there’s a tool designed for the job. Chainsaws remain the most versatile choice, while manual saws excel in precision and control. By choosing the right size and type, you’ll save time, reduce effort, and ensure safer results in your yard projects.