Finding the Right Chainsaw for Our 10-Acre Property
When we moved to our 10-acre property near Lake Erie in late 2020, the only tool I had for cutting wood was my Greenworks electric chainsaw. It was small but reliable, perfect for light tasks like trimming branches and clearing small areas. For the first year or so, it did the job just fine as we settled in. Then, in early 2023, several severe storms hit the area, leaving a mess of fallen trees all over the backyard. Some of these trees were huge—way too big for my Greenworks chainsaw to handle. That’s when I realized I needed a more powerful yard work chainsaw to tackle the cleanup.
Upgrading to a More Powerful Chainsaw
With so many thick, heavy trees to cut through, I knew my little electric chainsaw wasn’t going to cut it—literally. In early spring 2023, I decided to invest in something bigger and stronger: the Black Max 20″ gas-powered chainsaw. This was a big step up from what I was used to, but it was exactly what I needed to clear the storm debris. Over the past few years, I’ve collected a few different chainsaws, but the Black Max quickly became my go-to for bigger jobs around the property.
Why the Black Max 20″ Was a Game Changer
The Black Max 20″ chainsaw made the tough work so much easier. It powered through thick white pines that had fallen during the storm, and I didn’t have to stop and recharge batteries anymore. Since it runs on gas and engine oil, I could just refuel and keep going. This saved a ton of time, which was especially helpful during the long, hot summer of 2023. The heat was brutal, so having a reliable chainsaw that could get the job done fast was a real lifesaver. Spending less time outside in the heat meant fewer sunburns and a lot more progress.
Getting Used to the New Chainsaw
Even though the Black Max was powerful, it wasn’t perfect. Compared to my Greenworks chainsaw, it was bulkier and harder to maneuver, and I had some trouble getting it started a few times. It also stalled occasionally, which I later found out might have been due to some built-in safety features. Those issues were frustrating at first, but once I got used to how the saw worked, I learned how to work around them. Overall, it was still a solid, reliable chainsaw that made a huge difference in getting our property back in shape.
Key Features of the Black Max 20″ Chainsaw
If you’re looking for a yard work chainsaw that’s easy to use but powerful enough for medium-duty tasks, the Black Max 20″ is a great option. It has a 50cc 2-cycle engine that gives it plenty of power to cut through firewood, fell medium-sized trees, and clear storm debris. It comes fully assembled, which means you can get started right away. Some of its best features include an anti-vibration system to reduce fatigue, an automatic oiler to keep the chain running smoothly, and a side-access chain tensioner that makes adjustments easy. Maintenance is simple too, thanks to a tool-less filter cover that lets you clean it without any hassle.
Handling and Accessories
Despite its power, the Black Max 20″ chainsaw is fairly easy to handle for its size, weighing about 11.3 pounds. It comes with everything you need, including a deluxe carry case, a combination wrench for quick fixes, a scabbard for safe storage, and a detailed manual to help you get familiar with the saw. It also comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which gives some peace of mind. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a reliable chainsaw for yard work without spending a fortune on a professional model.
Smaller Options from Black Max
If you don’t need something quite as big, Black Max also offers smaller models like the 16-inch and 18-inch chainsaws. These have 38cc engines and are much lighter, making them great for trimming branches or clearing brush around the backyard. The 16-inch model is pretty popular because it’s affordable—usually around $128—and it starts up reliably. It’s not meant for heavy-duty jobs, but it works well for smaller tasks and has a solid reputation for being dependable.
Customer Feedback on Black Max Chainsaws
Most people who buy Black Max chainsaws say they’re a good budget option for occasional use. They’re strong enough to handle yard work, storm cleanup, and regular maintenance without too many issues. That said, some users have mentioned minor problems, like having to adjust the chain tension more often than expected or dealing with small parts wearing out over time. Still, for the price, most agree that it’s a great deal if you don’t need something high-end.
Built-in Safety Features
One of the things I like most about the Black Max 20″ is the safety features. It has an anti-vibration system that helps reduce hand fatigue, which makes a big difference when you’re using it for a while. The built-in chain brake is another great feature—it stops the chain immediately if there’s any sudden kickback. There’s also a top guard that protects you from accidentally touching the moving chain, which adds an extra layer of safety when working in the yard.
Some Common Issues to Keep in Mind
No tool is perfect, and the Black Max 20″ chainsaw has a few quirks. Some users, including myself, have experienced overheating and stalling after long periods of use. This might be because the factory chain brake is set too tight, which can cause problems when the saw heats up. A simple fix is to adjust or replace the chain brake spring. There have also been a few reports of durability concerns, like internal parts breaking after heavy use. If you’re planning to use it for really tough jobs all the time, it might be worth looking at more durable brands like Husqvarna or Stihl.
Is the Black Max 20″ Chainsaw Worth It?
For the price, the Black Max 20″ chainsaw is a solid option if you need something dependable for occasional yard work. It’s not built for heavy-duty use day in and day out, but it’s a great fit for homeowners who need to clean up storm damage, cut firewood, or take care of routine maintenance. If you’re looking for something affordable and easy to use, it’s definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind that it might require a little extra care and adjustments to keep it running smoothly.