Power & Hand Tools

Husqvarna 450 vs 455 vs 460 vs 450e vs 450 Rancher vs 465

Husqvarna ChainsawHusqvarna is a great brand to buy. But then, you don’t know what to buy because there are several Husqvarna models on the market. That said, settling for a particular model can be quite a hassle especially for first-time buyers.

Today, we want to compare the popular Husqvarna models that should be on your wishlist.

So, without further ado, here is a Husqvarna 450 vs 450e vs. 450 Rancher vs. 460 Rancher vs 465 Rancher comparison review.
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Why this comparison review?

Husqvarna LogoTo be honest, the Husqvarna website is like an ocean, very hard to navigate. It has the best product images but the worst product descriptions lay out. It is even hard for a lumberjack to buy a Husqvarna chainsaw because the information regarding their range of chainsaws is scarce.

Unlike Stihl or Makita, you can end up with the wrong Husqvarna chainsaw if you don’t take great caution when choosing between the different models. For that reason, we really feel Husqvarna should do a little better as far as their content marketing is concerned.

But fortunately, we have got your back covered so you can take advantage of the research we did to help you choose the best Husqvarna chainsaw.

Husqvarna Brand Overview

Even though their history with chainsaws can be traced to 1959, Husqvarna had already been in business for over 50 years. They have carved a reputation for excellence, and that’s why today, it is the best chainsaw brand.

One of their major strengths is the innovation. If you are scouting for the best chainsaws, built with the latest cutting-edge technologies, Husqvarna is what you are looking for. Today, it boasts some industry-leading technology. For example, X-Torq, LowVib, SmartStart, among many others.

Apart from chainsaws, Husqvarna has a range of tools including lawnmowers, garden tractors, brush cutters, among other landscaping equipment.

If you are not sure of a brand to choose when purchasing a chainsaw, Husqvarna will suit all your needs. With this brand, you get a wide range of chainsaws to choose from depending on your cutting needs and most importantly, your expertise.

Regarding the budget, I’m afraid Husqvarna isn’t your ordinary cheap model. But there’s one thing that has always reigned, especially with power tools, cheap is expensive. That said, you don’t want to buy a cheap brand that will not give you long-lasting use.

From the few models we have compared, you should be able to get a chainsaw that will solve all your cutting needs regardless of whether you are an amateur, or a seasonal lumberjack.

If you look at our selection of the best Husqvarna chainsaws, you realize that we sampled the medium to heavy-duty chainsaws. These are ideal for the average home where most of the tasks are around cutting firewood, felling trees among many medium-duty to heavy-duty cutting tasks.

Comparison Table

1. Husqvarna 450 Best Affordable Chainsaw

Husqvarna 450

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If you want the best affordable chainsaw for cutting firewood, Husqvarna 450 is the best choice for you.

It packs enough power to do the medium-duty seasonal cutting jobs courtesy of a 3.2hp engine and an 18-inch cutting bar.

The Husqvarna 450 is not for the daily lumberjack, but if you are looking for a seasonal chainsaw, it is a great deal.

It is more potent than the heavy duty electric chainsaws and is quite easy to handle. It weighs 10.8lbs and is available in two variations; the 1st Gen model and the 2nd Generation.

So, what’s the difference?

Well, before we look at the difference, it’s essential to note that both variations of the Husqvarna 450 have the standard features. These include an 18-inch bar, a 50.2cc engine, LowVib, SmartStart, AirPurge, Felling Marks and a 3-piece crankshaft among others.

But here are a few things I didn’t like about the Husqvarna 450.

  • First, the build is not as robust as you’d expect and in fact, if you intend to use it in a very rugged environment, you should think twice.
  • There are several complaints regarding broken and leaking parts.
  • Basically, it is not a tough lad. The other thing is, it’s not as fuel efficient as some websites suppose.
  • The larger engines have better consumption than it has.

2. Husqvarna 450e Bears a Few Differences

Husqvarna 450e

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This is a close sibling of the Husqvarna 450 original, but it bears a few differences.

It also has two variations with the new model adding a few robust features.

Regarding power and performance, the Husqvarna 450e is your average chainsaw for the light to medium duty cutting tasks.

I like the fact that the newer model has a tool-less chain tensioner that makes chain tension adjustment a buzz.

Another of the Husqvarna 450’s features is the flip-up tank cap which makes refueling much easier. If you often misplace the tank cap, it’s also a great feature because you don’t have to remove the cap wholly.

Regarding performance, this is a 3.2hp chainsaw with an 18-in chain bar. It is perfect for light to medium cutting needs, for example, firewood cutting.

But then, there is a lot to be desired from the Husqvarna 450e.

  • It is not as fuel efficient as the bigger engines. This is the common feature for both Husqvarna 450e and 450.
But its comfortable to use and will still handle all your domestic cutting tasks from periodic felling of small trees to logging.

3. Husqvarna 450 Rancher Better Choice

Husqvarna 450 Rancher

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The 450 Rancher is an upgrade of the 450 model, and one of the things it brings on board is a larger bar. So, if you are comfortable with the power performance of the Husqvarna 450 but you want a larger bar, get the 450 Rancher.

The price is also amazing, and actually, it is a better choice than Husqvarna 450 regarding value for money. The advantage is that you have a larger bar, and just like most Husqvarna chainsaws, you can always choose a smaller bar.

What I like most about the Husqvarna Rancher is its usability.

It still maintains the weight of the original 450 but has a longer bar meaning the ergonomics are not the same.

This time, the weight shifts to the bar side, and that’s the reason it comes with an ergonomic front handle while the other higher Rancher models shift to an ergonomic rear handle.

Even with the larger bar, vibrations are minimal and has been rated 3.1, and 4.9m/s2 for the front and rear handles which is just the same as the 450 which has a smaller bar.

But there are a few flaws I want to point out.

  • I expected the 450 Rancher to have the new maintenance features; tool-less chain tensioning or at least a side-mounted chain tensioner. Unfortunately, it lacks both, so you need to carry your toolbox when going out to the woods.
  • The fuel consumption is also a little bit higher compared to the bigger models.

4. Husqvarna 455 Rancher Budget Choice

Husqvarna 455 Rancher

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I find the Husqvarna 455 Rancher a saturated model with just the kind of features you’d expect.

I recommend the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is you are on a really tight budget, and you wouldn’t consider the cheaper 450 Rancher.

This is because it has the usual features, so there is no need to spend so much on it when you can have the 450 Rancher instead. So, in terms of price, the first model is the winner of the Husqvarna 450 vs 455 comparison. Personally, I feel that the 455 product it denies us a lot of the premium features for its price.

To some extent, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a worthy chainsaw after all because it is more powerful than the 450 Rancher. But they have the same bar length even though the 455 Rancher can extend to a 24-inch bar.

  • What I really feel Husqvarna missed out on is the side-mounted chain tensioner.

I would rather sacrifice a few more bucks and get the 460 Rancher that has a side-mounted chain tensioner. This is especially if you are the daily cutter because chain tension adjustments are very frequent.

Personally, I won’t buy the Husqvarna 455 Rancher because I find it stale, with the features we have seen before. It is expensive and doesn’t bring a taste of some of the latest features, especially regarding maintenance.
But if you are majorly concerned with raw power, you can go ahead and snap it up!

5. Husqvarna 460 Rancher Power and Affordability

Husqvarna 460 Rancher

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This is the perfect balance between power and affordability. Though the model requires a greater budget, it’s one of the best options to choose and definitely beats the previous chainsaw in the Husqvarna 455 vs 460 battle. The 460 Rancher is for any lumberjack who wants a high-performance chainsaw, but definitely not the super-powerful Husqvarna 465.

But the best thing I liked about the 460 Rancher is the fuel efficiency. It comes with the same X-Torq engine but consumes the lowest fuel of all the Husqvarna models in this review.

Isn’t this just amazing?

To put it into perspective, the Husqvarna 460 is a 3.62hp chainsaw with a consumption of 437 g/kWh whereas a chainsaw with a smaller engine, like the 3.2hp Husqvarna 450 consumes 504 g/kWh.

This chainsaw can handle most of the heavy duty cutting needs that the bigger 465 Rancher handles.

That said, you shouldn’t strain your wallet much for the 465 Rancher, the 460 Rancher is just as powerful, but definitely, you have the edge when using the 465 Rancher. This chainsaw comes with a 20-inch bar but can work with anything from 13-inches to 24-inches.

  • But on the downside, this top of the range model doesn’t have tool-less chain tensioning.

However, there is a side-mounted chain tensioner, so adjusting is still easy even though there’s the hassle of carrying a toolbox everywhere.

6. Husqvarna 465 Rancher the Ultimate Beast

Husqvarna 465 Rancher

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While the 455 Rancher and 460 Rancher may be very powerful, Husqvarna 455 and 450 are affordable, the 465 Rancher is the ultimate beast.

This is a heavy duty chainsaw that will fit the needs of a seasonal lumberjack. It packs more power and requires more muscle to handle. Regarding price, you will have to feel the pinch, but then, it’s worth every penny.

The 465 Rancher packs quite some excellent power, a 4.29hp X-Torq engine that has been built with new technology, AuToTune.

That’s why the Husqvarna 465 Rancher is recommended for the seasonal cutter.

This technology helps to balance the inflow of fuel to the combustion chamber and is the equivalent of intelligent automotive systems like EFI and vvti.

The oil pump is also adjustable enabling you to control oil flow depending on the conditions. It also comes with a bigger bar, in fact, a 28-inch meaning it can comfortably handle the heavy-duty cutting tasks.

If you want efficiency, I recommend the Husqvarna 465 because it has lower consumption yet the output is very powerful.

  • On the downside, the Husqvarna 465 Rancher is a little bit heavier than the other models. That means it’s not suitable for amateurs. If you are a starter in wood cutting, I suggest you buy a lighter chainsaw then you will advance as time goes by. But if you have the strength, you may as well go with the 465 Rancher.
  • Another thing, it is noisier than the rest, but this is excusable considering it has a bigger engine.

Husqvarna 450 vs 450e vs 450 vs 455 vs 460 vs 465 Rancher Features Comparison

Features Comparison

Now, we have come to the most important segment of today’s article. We want to put the Husqvarna chainsaw models in our discussion today to a contest.

Our basis will be the top Husqvarna technologies so we will be looking at what Husqvarna models have what features.

But then, we don’t want to get as boring as Husqvarna’s website. We are out here to help you buy the best Husqvarna chainsaw without beating around the bush. Our approach is to look at how these chainsaws compare in light of the crucial factors you will consider when buying a chainsaw, let alone Husqvarna power saws.

We are going to evaluate how the Husqvarna 450, 450 Rancher, 450e, 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher and 465 Rancher compare when it comes to significant aspects; engine performance, application, usability, maintenance, safety and value for money.

Engine

Features Comparison

Perhaps the most critical aspect to consider when buying a chainsaw is the engine as it significantly determines the performance.

That is to say, the engine determines whether you will use the chainsaw for light pruning or felling large oak trees. Though other factors determine the selection of a chainsaw, the engine is primary because it gives the machine power.

Husqvarna, being among the top chainsaw brands, is known for its innovative engines. This is from their lawnmowers and tractors to gas chainsaws. The brand has an enviable reputation of excellence because of the durability and efficiency of their engines.

One of their breakthroughs is designing the engines with 3-piece crankshafts for enhanced performance.

When it comes to Husqvarna gas saws, there are a variety of engine types classified based on their power.

For light cutting needs, the small chainsaws are the best for the job, but when it comes to large tree felling, you need the more powerful models.

Besides the power of the engine, there are several other aspects to be considered, including the efficiency features that come with each model. With the global warming debate heating up, brands like Husqvarna have geared up to innovate eco-friendly engines.

Let us see how Husqvarna chainsaws compare as far as the engine performance is concerned.

Model
Engine
X-Torq
AutoTune
Consumption
Idling speed
Check
Price
Husqvarna 45050.22cc / 3.2hp
504 g/kWh2700rpmCheck Price
Husqvarna 450e50.22cc / 3.2hp
504 g/kWh2700rpmCheck Price
Husqvarna 450 Rancher50.22cc / 3.2hp

504 g/kWh2700rpmCheck Price
Husqvarna 455 Rancher55.5cc / 3.49hp
470 g/kWh2700rpmCheck Price
Husqvarna 460 Rancher60.3cc / 3.62hp
437 g/kWh2700rpmCheck Price
Husqvarna 465 Rancher64.1cc/4.29hp
440 g/kWh2700rpmCheck Price

1. Engine power

Engine power HusqvarnaYou will choose your Husqvarna chainsaw depending on its power with the high power machines reserved for the tough cutting jobs.

The Husqvarna 450, 450 Rancher and 450e come with 50.2cc engines that deliver 3.2hp. The 455 Rancher has a more powerful engine with 55.5cc and 3.49hp whereas the 460 Rancher has a 60.3cc engine and 3.62hp.

If you want the best power performance, grab the Rancher 465 as it comes with a 64.1cc and 4.29hp.
X-Torq – This a revolutionary technology that ensures all Husqvarna’s engines are efficient and adhere to the stringent conditions set by world standards. This is because chainsaws emit a lot of waste to the environment in the form of burnt gases. If you are keen on environmental conservation, Husqvarna has got you covered. All the models in our discussion have this feature.

2. AutoTune

If you are a seasonal lumberjack, you understand the problem of fuel imbalance and carburetor adjustments. If the maintenance takes much of your time, here’s an excellent technology that is intelligent enough to balance all the dynamics automatically.

AutoTune is a feature that regulates the flow of fuel to the carburetor, the equivalent of EFI in cars. Regardless of whether you are in high altitude areas or when the filter is clogged, the engine can regulate itself.
Unfortunately, this is a feature reserved for the high-end models. Only the Husqvarna 465 Rancher comes with AutoTune as it is a heavy duty model for seasonal lumberjacks.

3. Consumption

What’s the best Husqvarna chainsaw as far as fuel consumption is concerned? Well, Husqvarna has very efficient engines and strange enough, the bigger engines have lower consumption compared to the older smaller engines.

While the Husqvarna 450, 450 Rancher and 450e have a 504 g/kWh, the newer models have lower consumption and bigger engines.

Unfortunately, there is nothing much you can do to reduce the consumption but remember, with proper maintenance, productivity won’t be compromised.

Equipment

Equipment HusqvarnaThe chainsaw is basically the main component of the power tool that houses the engine. It is then attached to a piece of equipment that is the bar. I say this because a chainsaw can be used with a 14-inch bar and also a 24-inch bar. That tells you that the blade is just a piece of equipment.

But hey, the bar is an integral part of the chainsaw. In fact, the size of the blade significantly determines the application of the chainsaw.

Here, we are going to see how the Husqvarna chainsaws compare. I really emphasize that you pay attention here but still, there is a chainsaw bar buying guide ahead. There are also several other aspects that we are going to look at regarding the chainsaw equipment.

Model
Bar length
Min bar length
Max bar length
Chain speed
Check
Price
Husqvarna 45018-inch13-inch20-inch56.76ftsCheck Price
Husqvarna 450e18-inch13-inch20-inch56.76ftsCheck Price
Husqvarna 450 Rancher18-inch13-inch20-inch56.76ftsCheck Price
Husqvarna 455 Rancher20-inch13-inch24-inch65.6ftsCheck Price
Husqvarna 460 Rancher20-inch13-inch24-inch65.6ftsCheck Price
Husqvarna 465 Rancher20-inch15-inch28-inch70.2ftsCheck Price

1. Bar length

Bar length Husqvarna
The length of the bar is the first important aspect to look at here. I’m sure you understand that a chainsaw’s use depends on the bar size.

Well, most chainsaws range between 18-inches and 24 inches.
important

But the most critical aspect to look out for is the versatility. A good chainsaw should be compatible with a range of bar sizes.

So, what does Husqvarna offer regarding bar lengths and how do their models compare?

The Husqvarna 450, and 450e come with an 18-inch bar but can work with bars from 13-inch to 20-inches. The 450 Rancher, 455 Rancher, and 460 Rancher, on the other hand, come with a 20-inch bar and can work with bars from 13-inches to 24-inches.

Lastly, the 465 Rancher is the best, with a 24-inch bar and is capable of working with a 28-inch bar for heavy cutting needs.

2. Speed

This refers to the speed at which the chain is moving at and as you understand, the faster the chain, the quicker the cut. So, if your work involves felling large oak trees, then you need to be very vigilant here.

So, what Husqvarna model has the best cutting speed?

Well, you don’t have so many options here because the motor revolutions are almost the same across all the board.

important

Remember, the rpm determines the speed of the chain, and typically, The 465 Rancher leads the pack with 70.2fts followed by 455 Rancher and 460 Rancher with 65.6fts. The rest of the chainsaws have a maximum chain speed of 56.76fts.

Usability

Usability HusqvarnaWhile the performance of a chainsaw is the most critical factor when buying a chainsaw, usability should also be considered. This is in relation to whether you can handle the chainsaw or not. When it comes to usability, there are a lot of factors that you need to consider.

First, you will need to bring into consideration the design, weight and ergonomics aspects. You will realize that chainsaws have different weight and while you may be comfortable with a small chainsaw, handling a larger chainsaw is a different experience. It’s essential to buy a chainsaw that you can handle.

In this section, we now want to see how easy or hard it is to operate Husqvarna chainsaws.

Here is a table that summarizes the essential features we are going to discuss.

Model
Weight
Ergonomic front handle
Ergonomic rear handle
LowVib
Felling marks
Vibration front / rear
SmartStart
Choke control
Husqvarna 45010.8lbs.
3.1/4.9m/s2
Husqvarna 450e11.2lbs.
3.1/4.9m/s2
Husqvarna 450 Rancher11.2lbs.
3.1/4.9m/s2
Husqvarna 455 Rancher12.8lbs.
3.8/6.8m/s2
Husqvarna 460 Rancher12.8lbs.
3.8/6.8m/s2
Husqvarna 465 Rancher12.8lbs.
4.7/8.5m/s2

1. Weight

You have to choose a chainsaw that will be comfortable to use when it comes to the weight. These chainsaws in our comparison review are almost similar, so this shouldn’t be a concern.

But always remember that a light chainsaw is the best.

However, you will find that the light models have smaller engines and that means lesser power output.

Husqvarna 450 is the lightest at 10.8 lbs. followed by 450e and 450 Rancher at 11.2lbs. The other three models, 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher and 465 Rancher are 12.8lbs.

2. LowVib

If you have held any power tool, you understand how intense the vibrations are. For power saws, the vibrations are much more powerful and may leave the operator with conditions like Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome, a neurological disorder.

Fortunately, chainsaw brands, including Husqvarna have technologies to reduce these vibrations. For Husqvarna, it is called LowVib, and the good thing is that all the Husqvarna chainsaws come with LowVib.

3. Vibration

Tough gear
Though Husqvarna chainsaws have LowVib, it doesn’t mean that vibrations are 100% eliminated, they are just reduced for lesser arm fatigue.

That said, it’s still important to compare the vibrations of each model. The Husqvarna 450 and 450 Rancher have been rated 3.1m/s2 for the front handle and 4.9m/s2 for the rear. The 455 Rancher and 460 Rancher have been rated 3.8m/s2 and 6.8m/s2.

The worst chainsaw you can pick as far as vibration is concerned is the Husqvarna 450e series that has been rated 6.1m/s2 and 5.5m/s2 while the 465 Rancher has more vibrations at 4.7m/s2 and 4.5m/s2 but then, this is a bigger saw.

4. Ergonomics

Here, Husqvarna has two distinctive features; an ergonomic rear handle and also an ergonomic front handle.

For the light models, the rear handle helps balance the chainsaw while in heavy models, the front handle helps to hold the saw in a more comfortable posture as it’s much heavier at the front. But then, a few models come with this features.

For the ergonomic front handle, only the Husqvarna 450, 450 Rancher and 450e have an ergonomic rear handle. On the other hand, the 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher, and 465 Rancher

5. Felling marks

There is nothing critical in felling trees like accurate felling cuts. For amateurs, I recommend you get a Husqvarna chainsaw as they all come with felling marks for easy cutting down of trees.
Operation noise – You will agree with me that power saws, especially the gas-powered saws, are very noisy. But then, the operation noise varies from model to model. While it may not be a good idea to choose your chainsaw primarily because of the sound they produce, it doesn’t hurt to know which of the above models is loudest.

The Husqvarna 450, and 450 Rancher produce an average of 115dB. The 455 Rancher and 460 Rancher are a little bit quieter at 112dB while the 460 Rancher is quite noisy at 115dB.

6. SmartStart

Smart Start HusqvarnaYou understand that starting a gas chainsaw can sometimes be a headache.

That’s the reason Husqvarna designed SmartStart; a feature that works to make starting easy with minimal effort. There is an extra spring fixed between the starter cored and crankshaft to reduce the amount of effort you require to start the chainsaw. SmartStart also allows you to pull the starter cord slower and still start the machine.
attention

All the models in our discussion have been built with SmartStart, and that’s why Husqvarna is voted an operator-friendly chainsaw brand!

7. Choke control

Many are times your chainsaw will have a slow start. The problem with slow starts is that fuel is pumped into the carburetor with every kick. In the long run, you end up choking your carburetor with flooded fuel.

If you use your chainsaw in the cold weather, you understand what I’m saying.

But here’s the catch, all Husqvarna chainsaws come with choke control which prevents the carburetor from taking in more fuel if what it already has is unburnt.

Maintenance

When choosing a chainsaw, one of the essential things you should note is the maintenance requirements. It is always desirable to buy a maintenance-free chainsaw but when it comes to gas engines that is a far-fetched dream. The truth of the matter is that gas engines are maintenance-intensive.
So, whether you like it or not, you must find time and resources to maintain your Husqvarna gas chainsaw.

So, what’s the point of discussing maintenance when all gas chainsaws require intensive maintenance?

Here’s the catch, Husqvarna has designed their chainsaws with a range of features that will make maintenance easier. What they do is simplify the maintenance chain by adding some really cool features to help you out.

So, when buying a Husqvarna chainsaw, it’s essential you understand what features come with what models.

That said, let’s see which Husqvarna is easier to maintain.

Model
Side mounted chain tensioner
Tool less chain tensioning
Flip up tank cap
Quick release air filter
Check
Price
Husqvarna 450
Check Price
Husqvarna 450e
/
Check Price
Husqvarna 450 Rancher
Check Price
Husqvarna 455 Rancher
Check Price
Husqvarna 460 Rancher
Check Price
Husqvarna 465 Rancher
Check Price

1. Side mounted chain tensioner

chain tensioner HusqvarnaAmong the daily maintenance you will be required to perform is adjusting the chain tension. This refers to how tight or loose the chain is.

For many chain tools, you have to remove the cover to adjust the chain tension, but fortunately, for Husqvarna, there is a side-mounted chain tensioner for easy chain tension adjustment.

important

Unfortunately, not all Husqvarna chainsaws have this feature. You will find it in the 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher, and 465 Rancher.

2. Tool-less chain tensioning

Still on chain tension, Husqvarna offers tool-less chain tensioning in some models.

This is a chainsaw technology used to adjust the chain tension without tools so if you want to go tree harvesting without your toolbox, get a Husqvarna chainsaw with tool-less chain tensioning.
That means the new generation Husqvarna 450e is what you are looking for. It’s the only Husqvarna model in our list with tool-less chain tensioning mechanism.

3. Quick release air filter

Quick release air filterAs with all other gas engines, a chainsaw has an air filter that requires frequent maintenance. You should be replacing the filter from time to time, and that’s where the headache is.

Fortunately, some Husqvarna chainsaws come with a quick release air filter that makes maintenance a buzz.

This is a standard feature that you will find in the 450, 450e, 450 Rancher, 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher and 465 Rancher.

4. Air injection

This is another feature that works to lower the wear of the air filter meaning it will give your filter and chainsaw longer life.

Air Injection is a technology that uses centrifugal force to blow away the large debris and dirt that may be getting inside the filter. Remember, it is this large dirt debris that clogs your air filter, and the result is a choking chainsaw. Worse enough is when the dirt gets inside the main components; that will surely kill your chainsaw faster.

So, what models come with Air Injection?

verdict

Air Injection is a standard feature in Husqvarna chainsaws, and you will find it in all the models in our comparison review.

5. Flip up tank cap

You will be refueling your chainsaw frequently, and Husqvarna has made it easy by designing a very convenient flip-up tank cap that makes opening and closing an easy task.

If you want a flip-up tank cap, get the Husqvarna 450 Rancher or the old generation Husqvarna 450 e series.

Safety

important

If you do your research, you will agree with me that chainsaw safety is a serious concern for lumberjacks, leave alone amateurs. That is why we really insist on wearing appropriate PPE when using a chainsaw. Also, it is essential to use the chainsaw safely.

For now, I want us to talk about Husqvarna and how they have made sure that their chainsaws are safe. Chainsaw injuries can be very tragic; I don’t need to reiterate.

That said, you need to buy a chainsaw with the best safety feature because prevention is the best!

So, how does Husqvarna 450, 450e, 450 Rancher, 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher and 465 Rancher compare as far as chainsaw safety is concerned?

Model
Easy stop control
Chain brake
Chain catcher
Right hand guard
Check
Price
Husqvarna 450
Check Price
Husqvarna 450e
Check Price
Husqvarna 450 Rancher
Check Price
Husqvarna 455 Rancher
Check Price
Husqvarna 460 Rancher
Check Price
Husqvarna 465 Rancher
Check Price

1. Inertia activated chain brake

You understand how severe chainsaw cuts can be and that’s why Husqvarna has designed their chainsaws with the inertia activated chain brake.

All Husqvarna chainsaws in our comparison review come with the inertia activated chain brake.

2. Easy stop control

In case of an emergency, you want to stop the chainsaw immediately, and that’s why Husqvarna has fitted an easy stop control to enable you to stop the chainsaw as fast as possible.

The Husqvarna 450, 450e, 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher, and 465 Rancher have this feature.

3. Chain catcher

This is another safety feature that springs into action when the chain breaks. It breaks with a tremendous force that can end up injuring the operation or those nearby. This feature will catch the chain in case it breaks preventing any possibility of injury.

All Husqvarna chainsaws in this review have a chain catcher.

4. Right-hand guard

This feature protects your right hand from injuries when the chain breaks. It is also a standard feature that cuts across all boards.

There you have it ladies and gentlemen, a comparison review of the popular Husqvarna chainsaws for home use.

Now, it’s time we tell you what the best Husqvarna chainsaw is from the models we are dealing with.

Husqvarna gas vs. corded vs. battery-powered chainsaws

For those who are keen, you realize that the Husqvarna 450 450e, and the Rancher Series are all gas powered chainsaws. We have also said that they can handle almost all the domestic cutting needs as well as a seasonal cutters light duties.

But why have we zoned out Husqvarna gas chainsaws whereas there are electric/corded chainsaws as well as the battery powered?

How do these gas chainsaws compare to the corded and battery-powered chainsaws?

Gas chainsaws

You will agree with me that most of the chainsaws you see around are gas powered. These are chainsaws that have engines that run on gasoline. The advantage of gas-powered chainsaws is that they have a lot of power. Most of the heavy duty chainsaws from Husqvarna, as well as Stihl and Makita, are gas powered.

But on the downside, gas chainsaws are not eco-friendly.

  • First, the emissions leave the atmosphere polluted because of the burnt gas waste that’s released. The impact is just the same as that of vehicles.
  • Second, they are very loud, and even though the operator may be ion the right PPE, the noise is totally disturbing even from a few hundred yards away.

Corded chainsaws

Also known as electric chainsaws, these run on a motor that is powered from a direct electricity source and hence the name, corded.

These saws are very light and suitable for starters, as well as those light-duty cutting needs. But the main point is buying a lightweight chainsaw that you can use in those tight spots.
The major undoing of corded chainsaws is that you are limited to workplaces near electricity sources. That means you can’t go with it out to the woods. Corded chainsaws are not as powerful as gas chainsaws, so you also compromise on power. But I really like the zero maintenance requirements.

Battery-powered chainsaws

The battery-powered chainsaw fixes the problem of corded chainsaws in that you are not limited to electricity sources.

These chainsaws come with rechargeable batteries meaning you can use them without necessarily having a nearby electricity source. The maintenance is also hassle-free, save for battery replacement costs.

Unfortunately for battery chainsaws, the power is drastically cut. Another thing, the battery will require frequent charging, and that can be strenuous if you have to go far to recharge.
verdict

Husqvarna, being a top brand with a vast product portfolio, you will find a dozen models of each chainsaw category. But from a power output perspective, you understand why we settled on the gas-powered Husqvarna chainsaws.

Where to buy Husqvarna Chainsaws

Husqvarna is a popular model that you will find almost worldwide. You can purchase your Husqvarna chainsaw from the brick-and-mortar landscaping retailers around you. The advantage is that you get to feel the physical product, but unfortunately, there is no variety. Another thing, the offline retailers can be very rigid with their prices, and that’s why we recommend buying online.

The advantage of online shopping is that you get to choose from a variety of models. The prices are very competitive now that there are many sellers and each wants to close a deal. The convenience of delivery and also cash on delivery payment options is the icing on the cake.

Husqvarna 450 vs. 450e vs. 450 Rancher vs. 455 Rancher vs. 460 Rancher vs. 465 Rancher

You might have read through the entire article, but you still don’t know what model to choose. So here, we want to give our recommendations for the best Husqvarna chainsaw.

  • If you are on a really tight budget and you want a simple but powerful Husqvarna chainsaw for the light to medium duty cutting needs, get the Husqvarna 450, preferably the newer model.
  • You can also opt for the 450e or 450 Rancher if you want a more extensive bar.
  • In the same token, if you want a chainsaw with a more extensive bar for massive tree felling and other heavy-duty tasks, I recommend the 455 Rancher, 460 Rancher or 465 Rancher. These three come with bigger engines and higher output to enable you effortlessly complete all cutting tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Husqvarna chainsaw?

Those who are looking for the ultimate performance, should pay attention to Husqvarna 460 and 465 models. They offer the most powerful engines, the quickest chain speed, as well as many other excellent additions.

faq

Do Husqvarna chainsaws suit beginning users?

Not all Husqvarna chainsaws will suit a beginning user, but there are lots of models that will meet your requirements. On average, chainsaws feature adequate weight, many boast ergonomic front and rear handles for more convenient holding. We also note rather simple maintenance and an excellent safety system, including easy stop control, chain brake and catcher, right hand guard.

How should I maintain my chainsaw?

If you want your chainsaws to be efficient and safe, you must perform regular chain tensioning, check chain oil, sharpen the saw, Users should also check the chainsaw state before work and clean it after every use.

Wrapping Up

There you have it folks, a detailed Husqvarna 450 vs. 450 Rancher vs. 460 Rancher vs. 450e vs. 455 comparison review. I’m pretty sure you now have a picture of what each Husqvarna model offers.

So, if you were planning to buy a Husqvarna chainsaw but you just couldn’t figure out what’s best, you can now make a choice that will give you value for money.

important

Remember, while the price is a significant factor, your cutting needs and skills are also paramount. Make sure you buy a chainsaw that you are comfortable with and above all, use it for the right job and stay safe!

Further reading and references:

3 thoughts on “Husqvarna 450 vs 455 vs 460 vs 450e vs 450 Rancher vs 465

  • How long do Husqvarna saws last? The cost impresses, so I hope you pay for years ahead at least.

    Reply
    • Ryan Morrison

      Hello, Peter! Thank you very much for your question! Indeed, with Husqvarna, you pay for power, quality, and durability. According to the real users’ reviews, their saws can last for over six-seven years.

      Reply
  • Roy Volman

    I need a saw to clean the backyard of my new house. It was abandoned for almost seven years, so I’d like to remove some branches and dead trees – fruit trees mostly. Which model will you recommend? Thanks a lot.

    Reply

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