Features
- Includes a 2.5Ah lithium battery and charger
- Digital brushless motor for efficient power
- Longer run time and battery life with cooling material
- Charges from 0-30% in 15 minutes
- Tool-less chain tensioning
- Auto-lubricating mechanism
- Anti-kickback brake for safety
- Weather-resistant construction
Specifications
| Bar Length | 14 inch |
| Chain Gauge | 0.043 inch |
| Chain Pitch | 3/8 inch |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Oil Feeding Type | Automatic, Worm Type Pump |
| Oil Tank Volume | 5.0 fl.oz (150ml) |
| Tool Height | 10-1/4 inch |
| Tool Length | 31 inch |
| Tool Weight | 7.83 pounds |
| Tool Width | 9 inch |
| Voltage | 40V |
Related Tools
Related Articles
This cordless chainsaw operates on a 40V lithium battery and features tool-less chain tensioning and auto-lubrication for ease of use.
Model Number: CS4555-10
Skil Brushless 40V 14 IN. Chainsaw Kit Review
When you need a reliable and efficient chainsaw for yard work or storm cleanup, the Skil Brushless 40V 14 IN. Chainsaw Kit stands out as a compelling option. As someone who has spent considerable time with this battery-powered chainsaw, I found it to be a valuable addition to my collection of tools. Here’s a detailed look at my experience with this tool.
Design and Build Quality
The Skil chainsaw is thoughtfully designed with user convenience in mind. The 14-inch bar is perfect for trimming branches and handling small to medium-sized trees. One of the standout features is the tool-less chain tensioning system, which allows for quick and easy adjustments without the need for additional tools. This is a huge time-saver and makes the chainsaw more user-friendly, especially for those who may not be as experienced with chainsaw maintenance.
The build quality of the chainsaw is robust. It feels solid in your hands, and the weather-resistant construction adds an extra layer of durability. At 7.83 pounds, it's relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle for extended periods. The chainsaw also includes an anti-kickback brake for added safety, a feature that provides peace of mind during use.
Performance
Performance-wise, the Skil chainsaw does not disappoint. The digital brushless motor is both efficient and powerful, delivering impressive cutting performance. I used the chainsaw to cut through various types of wood, including oak and pine, and it handled them with ease. The auto-lubricating mechanism ensures that the chain remains well-oiled, reducing friction and prolonging the life of the chain.
One of the most significant advantages of this chainsaw is its battery life. The 40V lithium battery provides ample power for most tasks and charges remarkably quickly. It can go from 0 to 30% in just 15 minutes, which is incredibly convenient when you're in the middle of a project. During heavy use, the battery lasted about an hour, and having a spare battery on hand allowed me to continue working without much downtime.
Ease of Use
Getting started with the Skil chainsaw is straightforward. The tool comes with a 2.5Ah lithium battery and charger, so you have everything you need right out of the box. The initial setup involves charging the battery and adding bar and chain oil, which is a simple process. I appreciated the clear instructions provided, making it easy for even a novice user to get started.
The chainsaw's ergonomic design adds to its ease of use. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the overall balance of the tool makes it less fatiguing to use for extended periods. The chainsaw also features a variable speed trigger, allowing for better control during cutting.
Drawbacks
Despite its many strengths, the Skil chainsaw does have a few drawbacks. The most notable issue I encountered was the inconsistency in the product packaging. On one occasion, the chainsaw was missing its battery, which required an inconvenient trip back to the store. This seems to be a problem with quality control at the factory level.
Another minor issue is the plastic bumper spikes, which don't provide as much grip as metal ones. While this didn't significantly impact my cutting experience, it’s something to keep in mind if you plan on tackling more demanding tasks.
Battery and Charging
The battery and charging system are both strengths and weaknesses of this chainsaw. On the positive side, the battery life is impressive, and the fast charging capability is a huge plus. However, the standard charger included in the kit is relatively slow, taking about three hours to fully charge an empty battery. For those who plan on using the chainsaw for extensive projects, investing in a faster charger might be worthwhile.
Safety Features
Safety is always a concern when working with power tools, and the Skil chainsaw includes several features to enhance user safety. The anti-kickback brake is effective and provides an extra layer of protection. Additionally, the chainsaw's design minimizes vibration, reducing the risk of hand fatigue and improving overall control during use.
Versatility
One of the standout features of this chainsaw is its versatility. Whether you’re trimming branches, cutting firewood, or handling storm cleanup, the Skil chainsaw is up to the task. Its lightweight design and ease of use make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from home use to more demanding tasks.
Conclusion
In summary, the Skil Brushless 40V 14 IN. Chainsaw Kit is an excellent tool that combines power, efficiency, and user-friendly features. Its robust build quality and impressive battery life make it a reliable choice for various cutting tasks. While there are minor issues with quality control and the standard charger speed, these are relatively small drawbacks compared to the overall performance and convenience this chainsaw offers.
I would highly recommend the Skil chainsaw to anyone in need of a versatile and efficient cutting tool. Its ease of use, combined with its powerful performance, makes it a valuable addition to any tool collection. Whether you’re an experienced user or a novice, this chainsaw is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Project Ideas
Business
Tree Trimming Service
Start a tree trimming and maintenance service for homeowners. The lightweight and cordless design makes it easy to transport and use in various locations.
Custom Wood Signage
Create custom wooden signs for businesses, homes, and events. The precision of the brushless motor allows for detailed and clean cuts.
Mobile Lumber Milling
Offer a mobile lumber milling service where you cut downed trees into usable lumber on-site for clients. The quick charging feature ensures minimal downtime.
Firewood Sales
Cut and sell firewood to local markets, camping sites, and homeowners. The auto-lubrication feature ensures the chainsaw remains in good condition for heavy-duty use.
Wooden Art Workshops
Organize workshops teaching participants how to create wooden art pieces using chainsaws. The safety features such as the anti-kickback brake will enhance participant confidence.
Creative
DIY Garden Furniture
Use the chainsaw to create rustic garden furniture like benches, tables, and stools from logs and reclaimed wood. The tool-less chain tensioning and auto-lubrication features make it easy to handle frequent use.
Wooden Sculptures
Craft intricate wooden sculptures by carving logs and tree stumps. The 14-inch bar length and digital brushless motor provide precision and power for detailed work.
Treehouse Construction
Build a treehouse using the chainsaw to cut lumber and branches to size. The weather-resistant construction ensures the tool can handle outdoor conditions.
Firewood Preparation
Cut logs into firewood for personal use or for local sale. The anti-kickback brake ensures safety while operating the chainsaw.
Log Cabin Model
Create a detailed model of a log cabin as a decorative piece or educational project. The battery life and tool-less tensioning make it convenient for extended projects.