Poulan Pro 50cc 20 Chainsaw Review (Pro Insights For Woodworkers)

The forest whispers secrets of power, efficiency, and sometimes, sheer frustration. I’ve spent years wrestling with logs, battling dull chains, and chasing the perfect split. The Poulan Pro 50cc 20-inch chainsaw? It’s been a frequent companion, a tool I’ve come to know intimately. This isn’t just another review; it’s a deep dive into how this chainsaw fits into the grand scheme of wood processing, logging, and firewood preparation. I’m going to share the pro insights I’ve gained, the tricks I’ve learned, and the harsh realities I’ve faced, all with the goal of helping you, the woodworker, logger, or firewood enthusiast, maximize your efficiency and minimize your headaches. Let’s get to it!

Poulan Pro 50cc 20″ Chainsaw: A Woodworker’s Perspective

The Poulan Pro 50cc 20″ chainsaw is a popular choice for homeowners and hobbyists looking for a reliable and affordable tool for cutting firewood, clearing brush, and felling small trees. While it may not be the top-of-the-line model for professional loggers, it offers a good balance of power, weight, and price for occasional use. In this review, I’ll share my experiences using the Poulan Pro 50cc 20″ chainsaw, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and providing tips on how to get the most out of it.

Unboxing and First Impressions

When I first unboxed the Poulan Pro 50cc 20″ chainsaw, I was immediately struck by its lightweight design. At just around 13 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver and handle, even for extended periods of time. The chainsaw comes partially assembled, requiring only the installation of the bar and chain. The included instructions are clear and easy to follow, making the setup process quick and straightforward.

Performance and Cutting Power

The Poulan Pro 50cc engine provides ample power for cutting through a variety of wood types, including softwoods like pine and fir, as well as hardwoods like oak and maple. The 20-inch bar length is ideal for felling trees up to 16 inches in diameter, as well as bucking logs into manageable lengths for firewood.

During my testing, I found that the Poulan Pro 50cc chainsaw cut through 12-inch diameter oak logs with relative ease. However, when cutting through larger diameter logs or tougher hardwoods, the chainsaw tended to bog down slightly, requiring a slower cutting speed.

Ease of Use and Handling

One of the standout features of the Poulan Pro 50cc chainsaw is its ease of use and handling. The chainsaw is equipped with an ergonomic handle and anti-vibration system, which reduces fatigue and provides a comfortable grip. The chain brake is responsive and easy to engage, providing an added layer of safety.

Starting the Poulan Pro 50cc chainsaw is generally straightforward, thanks to the effortless pull starting system and automatic oiler. However, I have occasionally experienced difficulty starting the chainsaw after it has been sitting idle for an extended period of time.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintaining the Poulan Pro 50cc chainsaw is relatively simple, requiring only regular cleaning, chain sharpening, and occasional lubrication. The chainsaw is constructed from durable materials, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of regular use.

However, I have noticed that the plastic components of the chainsaw, such as the chain brake handle and fuel cap, tend to be somewhat fragile and prone to cracking. Additionally, the chainsaw’s air filter requires frequent cleaning to prevent clogging and maintain optimal performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Lightweight and easy to handle
Powerful 50cc engine
20-inch bar length
Ergonomic handle and anti-vibration system
Affordable price

Cons:

Plastic components are somewhat fragile
Air filter requires frequent cleaning
May bog down when cutting through larger diameter logs or tougher hardwoods
Can be difficult to start after sitting idle for an extended period of time

Strategic Insights for Wood Processing

Let’s move beyond the chainsaw itself and delve into the broader picture of wood processing. This is where the real magic happens, where strategic planning can save you time, money, and a whole lot of backache.

Project Planning: From Forest to Firewood

Every successful wood processing project starts with a solid plan. I’ve seen too many folks jump in headfirst, only to realize they’ve bitten off more than they can chew.

Define Your Goals: What are you trying to achieve? Are you aiming to produce a specific amount of firewood, clear a plot of land, or create lumber for a woodworking project? Defining your goals will dictate the scope of your project and the resources you’ll need.
Assess Your Resources: What tools do you have available? What’s your budget? How much time can you realistically dedicate to the project? Be honest with yourself. Overestimating your capabilities is a recipe for disaster.
Scout Your Location: If you’re harvesting wood from your own property, take the time to assess the terrain, identify potential hazards (like poison ivy or unstable trees), and plan your access routes. A little reconnaissance can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
Develop a Timeline: Break down your project into smaller, manageable tasks and estimate how long each task will take. This will help you stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate protective gear (helmet, eye protection, ear protection, gloves, chaps), and never work alone. If you’re unsure about anything, consult with a professional.

Sustainable Timber Sourcing: A Responsibility We Share

As woodworkers and loggers, we have a responsibility to ensure that our practices are sustainable. This means choosing timber that is harvested responsibly and minimizing our impact on the environment.

Source Locally: Whenever possible, source your timber from local suppliers who practice sustainable forestry. This reduces transportation costs and supports your local economy.
Choose Certified Wood: Look for wood that is certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This ensures that the wood comes from forests that are managed in an environmentally responsible manner.
Salvage and Recycle: Consider using salvaged or recycled wood for your projects. This is a great way to reduce waste and give new life to old materials. I have built entire sheds from reclaimed lumber, and the character it adds is unmatched.
Minimize Waste: Plan your cuts carefully to minimize waste. Use smaller pieces of wood for smaller projects, and consider turning scraps into kindling or mulch.
Plant Trees: If you’re harvesting wood from your own property, make sure to replant trees to replace what you’ve taken. This will help ensure that your forest remains healthy and productive for years to come.

Workflow Optimization: The Key to Efficiency

Efficiency is the name of the game in wood processing. The more efficient you are, the more you can accomplish in less time and with less effort.

Log Handling Efficiency: Streamline your log handling process. Use tools like log tongs, cant hooks, and skidding winches to move logs safely and efficiently.
Chainsaw Maintenance Routines: Keep your chainsaw in top condition. Sharpen the chain regularly, clean the air filter, and check the fuel and oil levels before each use. A well-maintained chainsaw will cut faster, safer, and more efficiently.
Splitting Strategies: Choose the right splitting tool for the job. A maul is great for splitting small to medium-sized logs, while a hydraulic log splitter is more efficient for larger logs.
Stacking for Optimal Airflow: Stack your firewood in a way that promotes airflow. This will help it dry faster and reduce the risk of mold and rot. I prefer a simple crisscross pattern, but there are many variations.
Organization is Key: Keep your workspace organized. This will help you find the tools you need quickly and avoid wasting time searching for things.

Data-Backed Content: Numbers Don’t Lie

Let’s back up these insights with some data.

Harvest to Drying Timelines: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, firewood typically takes 6-12 months to dry properly. Factors like wood species, climate, and stacking method can affect drying time.
Cost Savings from Optimized Workflows: A study by the Forest Products Laboratory found that optimizing log handling and processing techniques can reduce labor costs by up to 20%.
Quality Metrics: The ideal moisture content for firewood is 15-20%. Using a moisture meter is the best way to ensure that your firewood is properly seasoned.

Case Studies: Real-World Success

Let me share a few examples of how these strategies have been applied successfully.

The Firewood Entrepreneur: A local firewood producer I know implemented a streamlined log handling system, using a combination of log tongs and a skid steer. This reduced his labor costs by 15% and increased his production capacity by 25%.
The Sustainable Woodworker: A furniture maker I admire sources all of his lumber from local, FSC-certified suppliers. He also uses salvaged wood whenever possible, reducing his environmental impact and creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
The Efficient Logger: A small-scale logger I’ve worked with implemented a rigorous chainsaw maintenance routine, sharpening his chain daily and cleaning his air filter weekly. This increased his cutting speed by 10% and reduced his fuel consumption by 5%.

Tactical Execution: Getting Your Hands Dirty

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of tactical execution. This is where your strategic planning comes to life.

Planning Harvest Schedules: Timing is Everything

Best Time to Harvest: The best time to harvest wood is during the late fall or winter, when the trees are dormant and the sap content is low. This will help the wood dry faster and reduce the risk of insect infestation.
Consider the Weather: Avoid harvesting wood during periods of heavy rain or snow. This can make the work more difficult and dangerous.
Plan Your Cuts: Before you start cutting, plan your cuts carefully to minimize waste and ensure that the logs are the right size for your needs.
Felling Techniques: Use proper felling techniques to ensure that the tree falls in the desired direction. This will help prevent damage to property and injuries to yourself or others.

Selecting Drying Methods: The Science of Seasoning

Air Drying: Air drying is the most common method of seasoning firewood. Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry for 6-12 months.
Kiln Drying: Kiln drying is a faster method of seasoning firewood. The wood is placed in a kiln and heated to a specific temperature, which speeds up the drying process.
Solar Drying: Solar drying is a natural and energy-efficient method of seasoning firewood. The wood is placed in a solar kiln, which uses the sun’s energy to heat the wood and dry it out.
Covering Firewood: Covering firewood can accelerate the drying process, especially if the stacks are exposed to rain. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the sides remain open for adequate ventilation to prevent mold and rot.

Tool Sharpening Techniques: A Sharp Edge is a Safe Edge

Chainsaw Chain Sharpening: Sharpen your chainsaw chain regularly to maintain optimal cutting performance. Use a chainsaw file or a chainsaw sharpener to sharpen the cutters. I prefer a file for field sharpening and an electric sharpener for more precise work in the shop.
Axe and Maul Sharpening: Keep your axe and maul sharp to make splitting logs easier and safer. Use a sharpening stone or a grinding wheel to sharpen the blade.
Knife Sharpening: A sharp knife is essential for many wood processing tasks, such as removing bark or trimming branches. Use a sharpening stone or a honing steel to keep your knife sharp.

Safe Handling of Equipment: No Shortcuts

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE when working with wood processing equipment. This includes a helmet, eye protection, ear protection, gloves, and chaps.
Chainsaw Safety: Follow all safety guidelines when operating a chainsaw. Never operate a chainsaw when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Log Splitter Safety: Use caution when operating a log splitter. Keep your hands and feet clear of the splitting wedge, and never operate the log splitter alone.
Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries. Lift with your legs, not your back, and never lift more than you can handle comfortably.

Measuring Log Dimensions Accurately: Precision Pays Off

Diameter Measurement: Use a diameter tape or a caliper to measure the diameter of logs accurately. This is important for calculating the volume of wood and for determining the appropriate cutting lengths.
Length Measurement: Use a measuring tape or a laser rangefinder to measure the length of logs accurately. This is important for cutting logs to the desired length for firewood or lumber.
Volume Calculation: Use a volume table or a calculator to calculate the volume of wood in a log. This is important for determining the value of the wood and for estimating the amount of firewood you can produce from a log.

Preparing Logs for Splitting: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Remove Branches: Remove any branches from the logs before splitting them. This will make splitting easier and safer.
Cut to Length: Cut the logs to the desired length for firewood or splitting. This will make them easier to handle and stack.
Inspect for Knots: Inspect the logs for knots before splitting them. Knots can make splitting more difficult and can cause the wood to split unevenly.
Positioning: Position the log on a stable surface before splitting it. This will help prevent the log from rolling or shifting during splitting.

Addressing Common Challenges

Wood processing is not without its challenges. Let’s address some of the most common ones.

Minimizing Wood Waste: Every Scrap Counts

Plan Your Cuts Carefully: Plan your cuts carefully to minimize waste. Use smaller pieces of wood for smaller projects, and consider turning scraps into kindling or mulch.
Use a Bandsaw: A bandsaw can be used to cut thin slices of wood, which can be used for veneer or other small projects.
Turn Scraps into Kindling: Use a hatchet or a kindling splitter to turn small scraps of wood into kindling.
Compost or Mulch: Compost or mulch wood scraps to enrich your soil.

Dealing with Difficult Wood: Knots and Grain

Sharp Tools: Use sharp tools to cut through difficult wood. A dull blade will only make the problem worse.
Slow and Steady: Cut slowly and steadily through difficult wood. Avoid forcing the blade, as this can cause it to bind or break.
Change Direction: Change the direction of your cut to avoid knots or grain.
Use a Wedge: Use a wedge to help split difficult wood.

Preventing Insect Infestation: Keep the Bugs Away

Season the Wood Properly: Season the wood properly to reduce the risk of insect infestation.
Store the Wood in a Dry Place: Store the wood in a dry place to prevent insect infestation.
Remove Bark: Remove the bark from the wood to reduce the risk of insect infestation.
Treat the Wood: Treat the wood with an insecticide to prevent insect infestation.

Managing Physical Strain: Listen to Your Body

Warm Up: Warm up before starting any wood processing tasks. This will help prevent injuries.
Take Breaks: Take breaks regularly to avoid fatigue.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries.
Listen to Your Body: Listen to your body and stop if you feel any pain.

Current Trends and Best Practices

The world of wood processing is constantly evolving. Let’s take a look at some current trends and best practices.

Automation: The Future of Wood Processing

Automated Log Handling Systems: Automated log handling systems can significantly increase efficiency and reduce labor costs.
CNC Machines: CNC machines can be used to cut wood with precision and accuracy.
Robotics: Robotics are being used increasingly in wood processing to automate tasks such as sorting, stacking, and packaging.

Sustainable Forestry Practices: Protecting Our Forests

Selective Harvesting: Selective harvesting is a sustainable forestry practice that involves harvesting only mature trees, leaving younger trees to grow and regenerate the forest.
Reduced Impact Logging: Reduced impact logging techniques minimize the impact on the environment by reducing soil erosion and protecting water quality.
Reforestation: Reforestation is the process of replanting trees in areas that have been harvested or damaged by fire or disease.

Value-Added Products: Maximizing Your Return

Kiln-Dried Lumber: Kiln-dried lumber is a value-added product that can be sold for a higher price than green lumber.
Custom Woodworking: Custom woodworking services can generate additional revenue by creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Firewood Bundles: Firewood bundles are a convenient and profitable way to sell firewood.

The Poulan Pro 50cc 20″ Chainsaw in the Grand Scheme

So, where does the Poulan Pro 50cc 20″ chainsaw fit into all of this? It’s a solid entry-level tool that can handle a variety of tasks, but it’s important to understand its limitations.

Ideal for Firewood Production: The Poulan Pro 50cc is well-suited for cutting firewood, especially for homeowners who only need to cut a few cords per year.
Good for Clearing Brush and Small Trees: The chainsaw is also effective for clearing brush and felling small trees.
Not Recommended for Heavy Logging: The Poulan Pro 50cc is not recommended for heavy logging or commercial use.
A Stepping Stone: For many, it’s a great stepping stone to learning chainsaw skills and eventually upgrading to a more powerful and durable model.

Personal Storytelling and Unique Insights

Let me share a quick story. I remember one winter, I was tasked with clearing a large area of downed trees after a storm. I was using a much larger, professional-grade chainsaw at the time, but it broke down halfway through the job. Desperate, I borrowed my neighbor’s Poulan Pro 50cc. While it wasn’t as powerful as my usual saw, it got the job done. It took longer, and I had to be more careful, but it proved that even a smaller chainsaw can be a valuable tool in the right hands. The key is understanding its limitations and using it strategically.

Idioms and Expressions

“Barking up the wrong tree”: This means pursuing the wrong course of action. Don’t bark up the wrong tree by trying to fell a massive oak with a small chainsaw.
“Chop chop”: This means to hurry up. “Chop chop, let’s get this firewood stacked before it rains!”
“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch”: This means don’t assume success before it actually happens. Don’t count your cords of firewood before you’ve actually split and stacked them.
“Out of the woods”: This means out of danger or difficulty. “We’re not out of the woods yet; we still have to dry the firewood.”
“A chip off the old block”: This refers to someone who resembles their parent in character or behavior. “He’s a chip off the old block; he’s just as good at splitting wood as his father.”

Takeaways and Next Steps

So, what are the key takeaways from this deep dive into the Poulan Pro 50cc 20″ chainsaw and the world of wood processing?

Strategic Planning is Essential: A well-thought-out plan is crucial for success.
Sustainability Matters: Choose sustainable timber sources and minimize waste.
Efficiency is Key: Optimize your workflow to save time and effort.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety and wear appropriate PPE.
The Poulan Pro 50cc is a Versatile Tool: It’s a great option for homeowners and hobbyists.

Next Steps:

Assess Your Needs: Determine what you need a chainsaw for.
Evaluate Your Budget: Set a budget for your chainsaw and other wood processing equipment.
Research Different Chainsaw Models: Compare the Poulan Pro 50cc to other models in its class.
Practice Safe Chainsaw Operation: Take a chainsaw safety course or watch online tutorials.
Start Cutting! Get out there and start processing wood safely and efficiently.

The forest is waiting. Go forth, be safe, and make some sawdust! Remember, the journey of a thousand cords begins with a single cut.