Cordless Pruning Chainsaw

Features

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Integrated tip guard for stability during cuts
  • Onboard wrench for tool-free tensioning

Specifications

Battery Included Yes
Battery Type 20V MAX Lithium Ion
Cordless Vs Corded Cordless
Product Application Cutting, Yard Work
Height 5.4 IN
Length 20.4 IN
Weight 7.8 LB
Width 10.8 IN
Voltage 20 V
Warranty 2 Year Limited Warranty
Cut Capacity Up to 4 IN
Bar Length 6 IN

This cordless pruning chainsaw is designed for daily pruning tasks with the capability of performing up to 55 cuts per charge. It features a compact design for ease of handling and access to tight spaces.

Model Number: BCCS320C1

Black & Decker Cordless Pruning Chainsaw Review

4.6 out of 5

Pruning and small-scale tree trimming have always been essential tasks for homeowners who want to maintain a neat yard. Over the years, I have tried various tools for this purpose, but the Black & Decker Cordless Pruning Chainsaw, model BCCS320C1, stands out for its combination of portability, ease of use, and performance.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this pruning chainsaw is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 7.8 pounds, it’s easy to handle, even for extended periods. This is crucial when working on overhead branches or in tight spaces. The saw’s 20.4-inch length and 10.8-inch width make it maneuverable without feeling flimsy.

The tool comes with several thoughtful features that enhance user experience. The integrated tip guard offers additional stability during cuts, reducing the risk of kickback—a common issue with chainsaws. There's also an onboard wrench for chain tension adjustments, although it’s stored inside the scabbard, which might not be the most convenient location for quick changes.

Performance

Performance-wise, this chainsaw excels in making clean, precise cuts. Powered by a 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery, it delivers enough power to handle limbs up to 4 inches in diameter without bogging down. In my experience, the saw made short work of both green and dead branches, maintaining a consistent performance throughout.

One of the more impressive features is the unit's ability to perform up to 55 cuts on a single charge. While I didn’t push it to that limit, I found the battery life to be more than sufficient for typical yard tasks. The charger is compact and features an LED status light that provides clear indications of battery status—blinking green while charging, solid green when fully charged, and red for any issues.

Ease of Use

One of the primary attractions of this chainsaw is how user-friendly it is. Starting the saw requires holding a safety lock release lever while squeezing the trigger, a feature that enhances safety without complicating operation. The rear handle is rubberized for a better grip, although the front handle is just smooth plastic, which could be improved for better comfort.

There’s no automatic oiling system, which is a slight drawback. The chain needs manual oiling with bar and chain oil or SAE30 motor oil before each use. This might be a minor inconvenience, but it's a critical maintenance step to ensure the tool’s longevity and performance. Notably, the product description suggests it doesn't need oil, which I found misleading. Plant-based bar oil is recommended, and it would have been nice if a small sample was included in the package.

Versatility and Applications

This tool shines in its versatility. It’s perfect not only for pruning and trimming but also for smaller tasks that would typically require a handsaw. From cutting up wooden pallets for firewood to clearing fence lines, this chainsaw handles various tasks effectively. It’s lightweight enough for overhead work and compact enough to get into tight spaces where larger chainsaws would be cumbersome.

The tool-free chain tensioning system, however, is not entirely as advertised. While the wrench is onboard, it isn’t quickly accessible because it's stored in the scabbard. Having a genuinely tool-free tensioning system would have been a significant improvement.

Comfort and Safety

Comfort and safety are paramount with any chainsaw, and this one does well in both areas. The tip guard and front hand guard provide safety during cutting operations, while the lightweight design reduces user fatigue. The saw is designed for right-handed use, with the safety button conveniently placed under the right thumb, though this may be awkward for left-handed users.

Noise levels are moderate, which is a plus if you’re working in residential areas where maintaining some level of quiet is appreciated. The chainsaw’s overall design minimizes vibration, making extended use more comfortable.

Battery Compatibility

Another significant advantage of this chainsaw is its compatibility with other Black & Decker 20V MAX products. If you already own tools from this line, you can interchange batteries, saving you the hassle and expense of maintaining multiple battery types. This is a thoughtful feature that adds to the tool’s overall value.

Final Thoughts

After using the Black & Decker Cordless Pruning Chainsaw for various tasks around my yard, I feel confident in recommending it to other homeowners. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to handle, and the performance is more than adequate for typical yard maintenance. The manual oiling requirement is a small drawback but manageable, and the battery life is impressive for a tool in this class.

If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use pruning chainsaw for light to medium yard work, this tool is a solid investment. Its compatibility with other Black & Decker 20V MAX tools is an added bonus, making it a versatile addition to any homeowner’s toolkit. While it’s not perfect, the pros significantly outweigh the cons, making it a worthwhile purchase for keeping your yard neat and well-maintained.


Project Ideas

Business

Tree Pruning Service

Start a tree pruning business, offering services to homeowners and businesses. The cordless chainsaw's ability to perform multiple cuts per charge makes it efficient for day-long tasks, and its lightweight design is ideal for extended use.


Custom Woodworking Shop

Open a woodworking shop specializing in custom garden decorations and furniture. The chainsaw's features allow for detailed and precise cuts, essential for high-quality craftsmanship.


Mobile Garden Maintenance

Offer a mobile garden maintenance service where you travel to clients' homes to prune trees, trim hedges, and perform other yard work. The compact and cordless nature of the chainsaw makes it easy to transport and use on-site.


DIY Workshop Classes

Host workshops teaching people how to create their own garden art, furniture, and other wooden items using the cordless pruning chainsaw. Provide hands-on training and tips for safe and effective use of the tool.


Seasonal Yard Cleanup

Provide seasonal yard cleanup services, including pruning, trimming, and clearing away dead branches. The cordless chainsaw is perfect for quick, efficient cuts, making seasonal maintenance faster and easier for clients.

Creative

DIY Garden Art

Use the cordless pruning chainsaw to create intricate wooden garden sculptures or decorative pieces from tree branches and logs. The compact design allows for precision cutting, making it easier to shape and detail your creations.


Custom Birdhouses

Craft unique birdhouses by cutting and shaping wood to create various designs. The tool-free tensioning makes it easy to adjust the chainsaw for different types of cuts, perfect for detailed work.


Wooden Planters

Design and build custom wooden planters for your garden. The cordless feature allows you to work directly in your garden without worrying about power outlets, making it more convenient to cut wood to size.


Outdoor Furniture

Construct rustic outdoor furniture such as benches, tables, or stools by cutting and assembling wooden logs and branches. The integrated tip guard ensures stability, enhancing safety during intricate cuts.


Tree Branch Shelves

Create unique shelves using thick branches or small logs. The chainsaw's compact design allows for precise cuts, enabling you to shape the wood to fit your design perfectly.