Hello All - Thinking of a possible purchase of a pole saw. This saw will be used on a limited basics. I can't decide on gas powered or battery powered. They both have pro's and cons. Would the gas powered would have more power than the battery powered. Would the battery powered have sufficient run time and power compared to the gas powered ? What say you that have these units and would you buy the same unit again.
I had rented a nicer stihl gas one and it worked good. But for the price, my limited use, and that I already have several dewalt 20v tools and batteries, I went with the dewalt 20v pole saw from HD and have gotten tons of use out of it. Keep it sharp and remember to fill the bar oil and it just cuts. not as much power as gas for sure, but for my use it’s been prefect.
Electric is lighter and easier on the shoulders if you’re going to be cutting much. The Stihl I use will cut longer than I will.
I've had a gas powered Stihl HT 101 pole saw for many years. I purchased it because well, it's a Stihl, and it's a saw. However, in the years I have had it the saw has seen limited use both on the property and clearing overhanging branches from the road. Looking back now, I would have been just as happy (if not more so) with an electric saw. Thus my advice is if the pole saw is only going to see limited use, go with an electric (preferable one that uses batteries you can swap out with other tools you already have).
I have a Husqvarna string trimmer that accepts different attachments for the power head (brush cutter, edger, etc). I use an Oregon pole saw attachment with it and it works great. Of course I already had the trimmer so it made sense economically. However, I do have a Green Works cordless chainsaw (not pole saw) that I absolutely love. I would assume the cordless pole saws could be pretty good too.
I have an ECHO PPT 2620 that stretches to 12’ & 16’ with an additional shaft, it is a 25cc powerhead. I am very happy with it.
I recently bought an gas powered echo PPT-2620-H. I have only used it for approximately 5 hours. After tax it was around 600. If you wait until spring dealers have echo dealer days and have 15% off. It is great! It extends to 12 feet, it weighs 17lb, 25cc powerhead. I went kinda nuts with it in the yard and next to the driveway. I would recommend it. It would have been more frugal renting one for the weekend but its still cheaper than a trip to the ER from using a chainsaw on a ladder.
I've got the Milwaukee fuel 18v. I've used it a fair amount & it does well. What I like is I can prop it against my thigh for leverage & not worry about burning myself. Not quite the power of gas, but just pull the trigger & go.