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My Craftsman 18in Chainsaw Review

CRAFTSMAN 41BY4218791 S185 42cc 2-Cycle 18-Inch Lightweight Gas Powered Chainsaw and Automatic Chain Oiler, Liberty Red

Craftsman is a pretty reliable and decent brand that has produced excellent tools over the years, so here’s my review of the Craftsman 18in Chainsaw.

Craftsman has been around for quite a long time, serving both beginners & professionals alike. Their line of chainsaws is useful, reliable, and extremely durable for both frequent or occasional use.

And I recently got my hands on their 18-Inch 41BY4218791 S185 chainsaw model. My review today will be based on my first hands on experience using the tool for some occasional cutting tasks. I’ll provide a detailed impression of the tool along with some pros & cons.

With that said, there’s quite a bit to talk about so let’s get started right away.

 

CRAFTSMAN 18in Chainsaw

Our Review of the Craftsman 18In Chainsaw

Unboxing & First Impressions

The chainsaw arrived safe in a compact & secure box that was easy to open. In the box, I got the Craftsman 18In chainsaw with a plastic cover over the chainsaw. I expected to find an extra chain but unfortunately there wasn’t any in the box.

When I first lifted it out of the box, I realized it was pretty lightweight & portable. All I had to do was to remove the chain guard as it was already assembled. I didn’t notice anything out of order. Everything was intact.

The owner’s manual was great too. I’ve heard stories of buyers who didn’t get the correct user’s manual but mine was there. So how did she run? Let’s find out in the next section.

Testing the Chainsaw

Since this is a pull-start kind of chainsaw, I did have to give it a few pulls before she could start running. Cutting was wonderful as it ran very well. It has a decent power for the engine size & didn’t give me any trouble.

I started it off on some softwood and the chain went through like a hot knife through butter. I got the same results with hardwood. However, I did notice I had to apply a little bit of pressure on hardwood than on softwood. Additionally, the chainsaw would get hot quickly so I recommend that you oil yours first before any use.

Since this is a gas engine, you can imagine that it wasn’t as quiet as a battery chainsaw. Additionally, make sure you don’t run it into the dirt. Otherwise the chain is going to dull very quickly.

Craftsman 18In Chainsaw Specifications

  • Brand: Craftsman
  • Weight: 22 pounds
  • Bar Length: 18 Inches
  • Chain Brake: Yes
  • Engine Type: 2 Cycle
  • Model Number: 41BY4218791 S185
  • Start Type: Pull Start
  • Tension Adjustment Type: Manual
  • Power: Gas-powered

CRAFTSMAN 41BY4218791 S185 42cc 2-Cycle 18-Inch Lightweight Gas Powered Chainsaw and Automatic Chain Oiler, Liberty Red

 

Craftsman 18In Chainsaw Features

Some of the major features I noticed while reviewing this Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw include:

  • Lightweight durable poly chassis

The chainsaw features a polymer chassis that’s engineered to provide reliable performance and durability. This means that you get a chainsaw that’s lightweight and easy to handle with a lot of power.  

  • Adjustable auto chain oiler

This feature enables you to maintain the proper amount of lubricant on the chain. You can manually increase or decrease the oil flow thereby, ensuring a proper amount of oil on the chain.

  • Easy-start technology

Easy-start technology is designed to help you achieve quick, smooth, & easy pull starts. You can get to your projects as soon as possible.

  • Ergonomic Balanced Design

The chainsaw features a 3-point vibration system along with a comfortable handle that makes the chainsaw more balanced. Therefore, you can comfortably operate or maneuver the chainsaw which enables you to maintain command over the tool. You can expect optimal performance thanks to its design.

  • High-output 42cc 2-cycle engine

This 18-Inch chainsaw features a 42cc full crank craftsman two cycle engine that offers more power & less vibration. It also features a premium 18-Inch bar. The low-kickback chain also cuts through even the toughest of wood easily and quickly.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Easy to handle
  • Low vibration levels
  • Low kickback
  • Durable Chassis
  • Ergonomic balanced design
  • High power output
  • Economic engine
  • Requires minimal maintenance

Cons

  • The factory chain will most likely dull quickly