Skil 8 IN. Pole Saw Kit

Experiencing the Skil 8 IN. Pole Saw Kit has been quite a journey. This cordless pole saw, powered by lithium battery technology, offers a combination of convenience, power, and versatility, making it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable tool for pruning and trimming tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was the build quality. The Skil 8 IN. Pole Saw feels robust and well-constructed. The 3.5-foot extendable aluminum shaft, which can be adjusted to reach a total length of 10 feet, is sturdy and lends a sense of confidence when handling the saw. The tool’s weight, at approximately 8.9 pounds, is manageable, though it can feel a bit heavy when fully extended. This weight, however, contributes to the saw’s stability and durability.

Pivoting Head and Adjustable Length

One of the standout features is the 135° pivoting head with eight position settings. This pivoting head is incredibly useful for getting the right angle on branches, especially those that are hard to reach or positioned awkwardly. The ability to adjust the head’s angle allows for more precise cuts and reduces the strain on your arms and back, which is a significant advantage during extended use.

The adjustable length, achieved by adding or removing the middle extension pole, is another commendable feature. It offers flexibility depending on the height of the branches you need to cut. However, I found it a bit cumbersome that you can only eliminate the middle piece, which limits the length adjustments to either fully extended or without the middle section.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Skil pole saw was straightforward. The tool-less chain tensioning system is a breeze to use, making adjustments quick and hassle-free. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who may not be as experienced with power tools. The auto-lubricating chain also adds to the ease of maintenance, ensuring the chain remains in good condition without constant manual intervention.

The saw’s motor, despite being brushed, offers good torque and performs well under various conditions. The chain speed of 8 m/s is adequate for most pruning tasks, and the saw can handle branches up to 4 inches in diameter with relative ease. For thicker branches, it requires a bit more patience, but it gets the job done.

Performance and Battery Life

In terms of performance, the Skil pole saw exceeded my expectations. It made quick work of trimming branches of various sizes, from small twigs to thicker limbs. The 8-inch bar and chain cut efficiently, and the saw’s power was sufficient for most tasks I threw at it. The battery life is another strong point; the 2.0Ah 20V battery provided ample run time for several pruning sessions before needing a recharge. The battery’s quick recharge time is a bonus, minimizing downtime.

However, it’s worth noting that under heavy load, the battery does drain quicker. This is something to keep in mind if you have extensive pruning tasks. Having an extra battery on hand could be a wise investment to ensure uninterrupted work.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Skil pole saw is relatively lightweight, which is a crucial factor when working with a tool that requires overhead use. The ergonomics are well thought out, with a comfortable grip and well-balanced design. However, when fully extended, the saw can feel a bit top-heavy, which might be challenging for some users, especially during prolonged use. A counterweight at the handle could have improved the balance, but this is a minor gripe in an otherwise well-designed tool.

Storage and Maintenance

Storage is made easy with the included storage bracket, which allows you to hang the power head and rear handle separately. This feature is particularly useful for those with limited storage space. Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the auto-lubricating chain and easy chain tensioning system. One minor inconvenience is that the oil cap tends to leak slightly, so it’s essential to wipe down the saw after each use to prevent oil buildup.

Areas for Improvement

While the Skil 8 IN. Pole Saw has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The chain adjuster knob can be difficult to tighten adequately, which may cause the chain to loosen during use. Ensuring the knob is securely fastened is crucial to prevent this issue. Additionally, the saw does not come with chain oil, which is necessary for operation. This means you’ll need to purchase chain oil separately before you can start using the saw.

Another point to consider is the lack of a detachable saw. The saw is permanently attached to the pole, which limits its versatility. It would have been beneficial to have the option to use the saw independently for ground-level tasks.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Skil 8 IN. Pole Saw Kit is a robust, reliable, and user-friendly tool that performs admirably for most pruning and trimming needs. Its combination of a pivoting head, adjustable length, and cordless convenience makes it a valuable addition to any gardener or homeowner’s toolkit. The few drawbacks, such as the weight when fully extended and the chain adjustment mechanism, are minor compared to the tool’s overall performance and ease of use.

Would I recommend the Skil 8 IN. Pole Saw Kit? Absolutely. It offers excellent value for its price, is easy to set up and use, and delivers reliable performance. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a homeowner looking to maintain your property, this pole saw is a solid choice that will make your pruning tasks more manageable and efficient.