Chainsaw Repair

Comparing the two saws side-by-side (photos above), the noticeable differences (aside from the color scheme) include the addition of a small, metal, bucking dog to the front of the plastic case, and the tool-less chain tensioner knob (which most people thought that the earlier version had: that knob secures clutch cover and bar - still need a screwdriver to tension chain).  I am not a big fan of tool-less chain tensioners, but the large mounting knob, and outside tensioning ring are pretty easy to operate: a small turn of the ring makes a big difference in the chain tension.

The brushless motor on the CS300 has a soft start - almost feels like a delay at first.  Also has a 'softer' sound.  Once started, the difference in power in the cut is immediately noticeable.  I found that the newer model cut approximately 25 to 33% off of the time to make cookies in 3 to 6 inch diameter wood, and up to 50% off in larger (8 inch diameter) wood!  I was surprised at the magnitude of this difference, and will do some more comparisons to make sure that these were not a fluke.

Both saws come with a conventional, manually operated chain brake, but do not have an electric 'instant stop' chain brake. The newer model does have an interesting feature: it emits a tone if you pull the trigger with the chain brake engaged.  I assume that this will reduce the number of nuisance service calls, and admit that I have checked the battery charge level on more than one occasion, only to find the saw not working because the chain brake was 'on'.

Both saws come equipped with the PowerSharp chain and have a built-in chain sharpener, operated by the red levers in the photos above. They can also use conventional 3/8 low profile chain, if preferred, or if a replacement PowerSharp chain is not readily available.

Philbert