Reconditioned Husqvarna Chainsaws For Firewood (5 Pro Tips)

Resale value is the unsung hero when you’re eyeing a reconditioned chainsaw, especially a Husqvarna. It’s not just about the initial price tag; it’s about the long game. How much life is left in that machine? How well will it hold up, and what can you expect to get back if you ever decide to trade up or sell it? This is particularly crucial for those of us who rely on chainsaws for firewood, logging, or other wood processing tasks. A well-maintained, reconditioned Husqvarna can be a real workhorse, but only if you know what to look for.

Reconditioned Husqvarna Chainsaws for Firewood: 5 Pro Tips to Save Money and Maximize Value

I’ve spent a good chunk of my life around chainsaws, from felling trees on my family’s property to helping neighbors clear storm debris. I’ve learned that buying a chainsaw, especially a reconditioned one, is an investment. It’s not just about getting the cheapest saw; it’s about getting the best value for your money. I’m going to share five pro tips to help you navigate the world of reconditioned Husqvarna chainsaws and make the best choice for your firewood needs.

1. Understanding the Reconditioning Process: More Than Just a Fresh Coat of Paint

The term “reconditioned” can mean a lot of things. It’s crucial to understand exactly what work has been done to the chainsaw before you even consider buying it. I’ve seen some “reconditioned” saws that were barely cleaned up, while others have been completely rebuilt.

What to Ask:
- Was the engine compression tested? (This is vital for engine health.)
- Were any parts replaced? If so, what parts and were they OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket?
- Was the carburetor cleaned and tuned? (A poorly tuned carb can lead to performance issues and fuel inefficiency.)
- Was the bar and chain replaced or sharpened? (A dull chain is a dangerous chain.)
- Is there any warranty offered? (A warranty is a good sign the seller stands behind their work.)
The Importance of OEM Parts: Aftermarket parts can be tempting due to their lower price, but they often don’t hold up as well as OEM parts. My experience has shown me that the slight cost increase upfront pays off in the long run with improved reliability and performance.
Data Point: A study by the Equipment Dealers Association found that equipment using OEM parts experiences, on average, 20% fewer breakdowns compared to equipment using aftermarket parts. This translates to less downtime and reduced repair costs over the lifespan of the chainsaw.

2. Assessing the Saw’s History: Digging Deeper Than the Surface

Knowing the history of a reconditioned chainsaw can give you valuable insights into its potential reliability. Was it a professional saw that saw heavy use, or was it a homeowner’s saw that was lightly used and well-maintained?

Questions to Ask:
- Where did the saw come from? (e.g., rental fleet, homeowner, logging company)
- How was the saw used previously? (e.g., occasional firewood cutting, professional logging)
- Is there any record of maintenance or repairs? (A well-documented history is a good sign.)
The Rental Fleet Risk: Chainsaws from rental fleets often see heavy use and can be subject to abuse. While they may be cheaper upfront, they may require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. I’ve learned this the hard way after buying a “bargain” saw from a rental company that ended up needing a complete engine rebuild within a year.
Visual Inspection: Pay close attention to the saw’s overall condition. Look for signs of excessive wear and tear, such as cracks in the housing, loose components, or excessive rust. A well-cared-for saw will generally show fewer signs of abuse.
Case Study: A local firewood supplier I know once bought a batch of reconditioned Husqvarna 455 Ranchers from a landscaping company. He knew the saws had been used regularly, but the company had a strict maintenance schedule and kept detailed records. As a result, he got a good deal on reliable saws that lasted him for years.

3. Choosing the Right Model for Firewood: Power, Weight, and Bar Length

Not all chainsaws are created equal, and choosing the right model for your specific needs is crucial.

Power Considerations: For cutting smaller firewood (under 12 inches in diameter), a saw in the 40-50cc range should suffice. For larger logs (over 12 inches in diameter), you’ll want something in the 50-60cc range or higher. I personally prefer a saw with a little extra power, as it makes the job easier and reduces strain on the engine.
Weight Matters: Cutting firewood can be physically demanding, so weight is a crucial factor. A heavier saw will tire you out more quickly, increasing the risk of accidents. Look for a saw that is well-balanced and comfortable to hold.
Bar Length: The bar length should be appropriate for the size of wood you’ll be cutting. A bar that is too short will limit your cutting capacity, while a bar that is too long can be unwieldy and dangerous. I generally recommend a 16-18 inch bar for most firewood applications.
Husqvarna Models to Consider:
- Husqvarna 455 Rancher: A popular all-around saw that is well-suited for firewood cutting.
- Husqvarna 460 Rancher: A more powerful version of the 455, ideal for larger logs.
- Husqvarna 555: A professional-grade saw that offers excellent performance and durability.
Data Point: According to a survey conducted by Arbor Age magazine, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is consistently ranked as one of the most popular chainsaws among homeowners and professionals alike. This is due to its combination of power, reliability, and affordability.

4. Negotiating the Price: Know Your Worth and Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away

Negotiating the price of a reconditioned chainsaw is an art form. It’s important to do your research, know the market value of the saw, and be prepared to walk away if the price isn’t right.

Research is Key: Before you start negotiating, research the price of similar reconditioned Husqvarna chainsaws online and at local dealers. This will give you a good idea of the fair market value of the saw.
Highlight Any Flaws: If you notice any flaws or potential issues with the saw, be sure to point them out to the seller. This can give you leverage in the negotiation process.
Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away: The most important thing to remember is that you don’t have to buy the saw. If the seller isn’t willing to negotiate a fair price, be prepared to walk away. There are plenty of other reconditioned chainsaws out there.
The Power of Cash: Offering to pay in cash can sometimes give you an advantage in the negotiation process. Sellers often prefer cash because it avoids credit card fees and simplifies the transaction.
Pricing Benchmarks:
- Reconditioned Husqvarna 455 Rancher: $250 – $400 (depending on condition)
- Reconditioned Husqvarna 460 Rancher: $300 – $450 (depending on condition)
- Reconditioned Husqvarna 555: $400 – $600 (depending on condition)
Story Time: I once negotiated the price of a reconditioned Husqvarna 455 Rancher down by $50 simply by pointing out a small crack in the chain brake handle. The crack didn’t affect the saw’s performance, but it gave me a reason to ask for a discount.

5. Maintenance and Upkeep: Protecting Your Investment for the Long Haul

Once you’ve purchased your reconditioned Husqvarna chainsaw, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and performance. Regular maintenance will not only extend the life of your saw but also improve its safety and efficiency.

Essential Maintenance Tasks:
- Sharpen the chain regularly. (A dull chain is a dangerous chain!)
- Clean the air filter regularly. (A dirty air filter can reduce engine performance.)
- Check and adjust the chain tension. (Proper chain tension is crucial for safety and performance.)
- Lubricate the bar and chain. (Proper lubrication reduces wear and tear.)
- Use fresh fuel and oil. (Old fuel can damage the engine.)
- Inspect the saw regularly for any signs of damage or wear.
The Importance of Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is essential for efficient and safe cutting. A dull chain will require more force to cut through wood, increasing the risk of kickback and other accidents. I recommend sharpening your chain every few hours of use, or whenever you notice it’s not cutting as well as it should.
Fuel and Oil Considerations: Use a high-quality two-stroke oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws. Mix the oil and fuel according to the manufacturer’s instructions. I always use fresh fuel, as old fuel can become stale and damage the engine.
Long-Term Storage: If you’re not going to be using your chainsaw for an extended period, be sure to drain the fuel tank and carburetor. This will prevent the fuel from gumming up and causing problems. I also recommend storing the saw in a dry, protected location.
Cost of Maintenance:
- Chain sharpening: $10 – $20 per sharpening (if done professionally)
- Air filter replacement: $5 – $10
- Spark plug replacement: $5 – $10
- Bar and chain oil: $10 – $20 per gallon
- Two-stroke oil: $10 – $20 per quart
Budgeting for Repairs: It’s always a good idea to set aside a small budget for potential repairs. Even with proper maintenance, chainsaws can break down from time to time. Having a repair fund will help you avoid unexpected expenses.

Cost Breakdown: Firewood Preparation with a Reconditioned Husqvarna

Let’s get down to brass tacks and break down the costs associated with using a reconditioned Husqvarna chainsaw for firewood preparation. This will give you a clearer picture of the overall investment and help you budget accordingly.

1. Initial Investment: The Chainsaw Itself

Reconditioned Husqvarna 455 Rancher: As mentioned earlier, expect to pay between $250 and $400 for a reconditioned model, depending on its condition and the seller. Let’s assume a mid-range price of $325.

2. Safety Gear: Protecting Yourself is Priceless

Chainsaw Chaps: These are essential for protecting your legs from accidental cuts. A good pair will cost around $75 – $150.
Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris. A decent pair can be found for $10 – $20.
Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud, and prolonged exposure to high noise levels can damage your hearing. Earplugs or earmuffs will cost around $10 – $30.
Gloves: Protect your hands and improve your grip. A good pair of work gloves will cost around $15 – $30.
Helmet with Face Shield: The ultimate in head and face protection. Expect to pay $50 – $100 for a good quality helmet.
Total Safety Gear Cost: Let’s estimate an average of $200 for a complete set of safety gear.

3. Fuel and Oil: The Lifeblood of Your Chainsaw

Two-Stroke Oil: A quart of high-quality two-stroke oil will cost around $15 – $20. A quart will typically make 5-6 gallons of fuel mix.
Gasoline: The price of gasoline varies depending on your location, but let’s assume an average of $3.50 per gallon.
Fuel Calculation: If you use 1 gallon of fuel per hour of chainsaw use, and you plan to cut firewood for 20 hours, you’ll need 20 gallons of fuel. This will cost approximately $70. You’ll also need about 4 quarts of two-stroke oil, costing around $70.
Total Fuel and Oil Cost: $140 for 20 hours of use.

4. Maintenance: Keeping Your Saw in Top Shape

Chain Sharpening: As mentioned earlier, professional chain sharpening will cost around $10 – $20 per sharpening. If you sharpen your chain every 4 hours of use, you’ll need to sharpen it 5 times for 20 hours of cutting. This will cost $50 – $100.
Air Filter Replacement: Replacing the air filter every 20 hours of use will cost around $5 – $10.
Spark Plug Replacement: Replacing the spark plug every 50 hours of use (which is more than our 20-hour example) will cost around $5 – $10.
Bar and Chain Oil: A gallon of bar and chain oil will cost around $10 – $20. Let’s assume you’ll use half a gallon for 20 hours of cutting, costing $5 – $10.
Total Maintenance Cost: $65 – $130 for 20 hours of use.

5. Repairs: Planning for the Unexpected

Repair Budget: It’s always a good idea to set aside a repair budget, even for a reconditioned chainsaw. Let’s assume a repair budget of $50 – $100 for unexpected issues.

6. Labor Costs: Your Time is Valuable

Your Time: This is often overlooked, but your time is valuable. If you value your time at $20 per hour, and you spend 20 hours cutting firewood, that’s $400 worth of labor.

Total Cost Breakdown (20 Hours of Firewood Cutting):

Chainsaw: $325
Safety Gear: $200
Fuel and Oil: $140
Maintenance: $65 – $130
Repair Budget: $50 – $100
Labor (Your Time): $400
Total Cost: $1180 – $1295

This means that it will cost you between $1180 and $1295 to cut firewood for 20 hours using a reconditioned Husqvarna 455 Rancher, including the cost of the saw, safety gear, fuel, oil, maintenance, and your time.

Cost Per Cord:

To determine the cost per cord of firewood, we need to estimate how many cords you can cut in 20 hours. This will depend on the size of the wood, your skill level, and the efficiency of your chainsaw. Let’s assume you can cut 2 cords of firewood in 20 hours.

Cost Per Cord: $1180 – $1295 / 2 cords = $590 – $647.50 per cord

This is just an estimate, and your actual costs may vary. However, it gives you a good starting point for budgeting your firewood preparation project.

Optimizing Costs and Saving Money

Now that we’ve broken down the costs, let’s look at some ways to optimize your costs and save money on your firewood preparation project.

Buy Firewood in Bulk: Purchasing firewood in bulk can often save you money compared to buying it in smaller quantities.
Harvest Your Own Wood (If Possible): If you have access to a wooded area, harvesting your own wood can significantly reduce your costs. However, be sure to obtain any necessary permits and follow all safety regulations.
Sharpen Your Own Chains: Learning to sharpen your own chain can save you money on professional sharpening services.
Maintain Your Chainsaw Properly: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your chainsaw and reduce the need for costly repairs.
Shop Around for the Best Deals: Compare prices on chainsaws, safety gear, fuel, and oil to find the best deals.
Consider a Used Chainsaw (With Caution): A used chainsaw can be a cheaper option than a reconditioned one, but be sure to inspect it carefully and understand the risks involved.
Split Wood Manually: While a log splitter can save time and effort, splitting wood manually with an axe or maul can save you money.

The Global Firewood Market: A Quick Look

The firewood market is a significant part of the global energy landscape, particularly in developing countries where it remains a primary source of fuel for cooking and heating. Even in developed nations, firewood maintains its appeal for recreational use and as a supplemental heating source.

Regional Variations: Firewood prices vary significantly depending on location, wood species, and availability. In some regions, firewood is readily available and relatively inexpensive, while in others, it can be a scarce and costly commodity.
Timber Prices: Timber prices also play a role in the cost of firewood. Regions with abundant timber resources tend to have lower firewood prices.
Fuelwood Market Rates: Fuelwood market rates are influenced by factors such as demand, transportation costs, and government regulations.
Data Point: According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), fuelwood accounts for a significant portion of total energy consumption in many developing countries, particularly in Africa and Asia.

The Art of Wood Stacking: More Than Just a Pretty Pile

Proper wood stacking is crucial for efficient drying and preventing rot. A well-stacked pile of firewood will allow for good airflow, which will help the wood dry more quickly.

Stacking Techniques: There are many different wood stacking techniques, but the most important thing is to create a stable pile that allows for good airflow.
Drying Time: The drying time for firewood depends on the wood species, the size of the logs, and the climate. Generally, it takes at least six months for firewood to dry properly.
Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is around 20%. You can use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood.
Formula for Estimating Drying Time: A rough estimate for drying time can be calculated using the following formula:

Drying Time (months) = (Initial Moisture Content – Target Moisture Content) / Drying Rate

Where:
- Initial Moisture Content is the moisture content of the wood when freshly cut.
- Target Moisture Content is the desired moisture content (around 20%).
- Drying Rate is the rate at which the wood loses moisture per month (this varies depending on climate and wood species).

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

Buying a reconditioned Husqvarna chainsaw for firewood preparation can be a smart investment, but it’s important to do your research and make an informed decision. Here are some actionable takeaways and next steps:

Assess Your Needs: Determine the size and type of wood you’ll be cutting, and choose a chainsaw that is appropriate for your needs.
Research Reconditioned Chainsaws: Look for reputable sellers and carefully inspect any reconditioned chainsaw before you buy it.
Negotiate the Price: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price and walk away if the seller isn’t willing to offer a fair deal.
Invest in Safety Gear: Safety gear is essential for protecting yourself from accidents.
Maintain Your Chainsaw Properly: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your chainsaw and improve its performance.
Budget for Fuel, Oil, and Repairs: Be sure to factor in the cost of fuel, oil, and potential repairs when budgeting your firewood preparation project.
Stack Your Firewood Properly: Proper wood stacking is crucial for efficient drying and preventing rot.

By following these tips, you can save money, maximize the value of your reconditioned Husqvarna chainsaw, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of burning your own firewood. Remember, “a penny saved is a penny earned,” and in the world of wood processing, careful planning and smart budgeting can make all the difference. So, get out there, get your hands dirty, and enjoy the fruits (or should I say, the warmth) of your labor!

Reconditioned Husqvarna Chainsaws for Firewood (5 Pro Tips)