Top-handle chainsaws are designed specifically for professionals who have to use a chainsaw when doing off-ground, in-tree cutting. Also called arborist saws, they are typically used for tree service and surgery, landscaping, and public maintenance projects. In-tree cutting is not recommended for homeowners, but if you have to cut limbs from in a tree, the top-handle saws are the best option.
Lightweight and well-balanced, top-handle chainsaws provide the compact size, and maneuverable cutting power needed when trimming limbs while up in a tree. To help you stay safe while cutting in trees, Richardson Saw also carries arborist gear from Samson Ropes and Buckingham Manufacturing. These support you in the tree so you can keep both hands on the chainsaw, which is essential for safety.
Stihl In-Tree Chainsaws
Stihl offers four models of chainsaws designed for in-tree, professional use. The MS 192 and MS 201 feature a retractable carry ring so they can be attached to ropes and harnesses when climbing.
- MS 150 T C-E: 23.6 cc engine, 5.7-pound cutting head, uses a 12-inch guide bar
- MS 192 T C-E: 30.1 cc engine, 7.0-pound cutting head, 12 to 16-inch guide bar
- MS 193 T: 30.1 cc engine, 7.3-pound cutting head, 12 to 16-inch guide bar
- MS 201 T: 35.2 cc engine, 8.2-pound cutting head, 12 to 16-inch guide bar
The MS 150 is the smallest and most basic model. It features Stihl’s Easy2Start engine, and a purge pump primer to help prevent flooding the engine. The MS 192 includes these features and adds a side-access chain tensioner as well as the IntelliCarb Compensating Carburetor to automatically adjust the air/fuel ratio.
Adding even more features, the MS 193 has a translucent fuel tank, Quick stop chain brake, and bumper spikes to prevent pull-in and provide more control. This saw also has low exhaust emissions, making it even cleaner than EPA and/or CARB exhaust emission standards. The MS 201 includes a Master Control Lever that puts the choke, starting throttle lock and on-off switch in the same place.
Echo In-Tree Chainsaws
Echo offers four top-handle arborist chainsaws for professional use. The CS-271 features a lanyard clip, and the CS-303, CS-330, and CS-355 models have a lanyard carry-ring for easy transportation.
- CS-271T: 26.9 cc engine, 6.6-pound cutting head, 12-inch guide bar
- CS-303T: 30.1 cc engine, 7.7-pound cutting head, 12 or 14-inch guide bar
- CS-330T: 32.6 cc engine, 8.1-pound cutting head, 12 to 16-inch guide bar
- CS-355T: 35.8 cc engine, 8.0-pound cutting head, 14 or 16-inch guide bar
The CS-271 and CS-355 both feature the i-30 reduced-effort starting system for easy use. All these Echo saws are built to meet the EPA’s highest emission compliance and durability standards, and they comply with all four NC safety recommendations.
All the chainsaws feature automatic, adjustable oiler systems and vibration reducing systems for easier use. The CS-355 also features a redesigned ergonomic handle that includes a palm rest, which can be removed or replaced with a smaller rest if you have large hands.
