ON TEST Mini chainsaws

Take the strain out of pruning trees and shrubs with a handy, battery-powered, mini chainsaw. Harry Duncton puts six products to the test to see if they make the cut

- Harry Duncton

If you're embarking on a big pruning job, a mini chainsaw might be just what you need. A small battery-powered saw, it will take the hard work out of cutting trees, shrubs and firewood, and is also ideal for gardeners with limited mobility or strength. Mini chainsaws bridge the gap between manual loppers and full-size chainsaws, and thanks to their lithium-ion batteries, there's no need to deal with the noise, weight or maintenance of a petrol engine. They're not designed for heavy-duty work because they are meant to be lightweight and easy to handle, but they will help you prune and chop firewood without breaking a sweat. Some can also be combined with long-reach extension poles to cut high branches with ease. While they won't take the place of a full-size chainsaw, they're handy pieces of kit if you want to keep your garden looking tidy.

How we tested

To see whether their performance is worth the expense, we put six mini chainsaws to the test. Each saw was fully charged and used in the garden to cut branches of different sizes on a range of trees and shrubs, and to cut up firewood. The results were assessed, and the following criteria was used to review the mini chainsaws, giving equal weight to each:

■ Design Observed overall features; how easy it was to use, tension the chain and insert batteries; plus the length of battery run and charge time.
■ Handling Evaluated the tool's weight and shape, the balance, the handle and grip; and the amount of noise and vibration created.
■ Performance Tested how well it cut into different types of wood and the finish; if there was enough power; and how well the chain stayed tensioned after use.
■ Value for money Considered all of above, plus if it came with a case, batteries and whether any accessories were available. All prices include a battery and charger.