Toro Cordless Chainsaw Review (60V Brushless Power For Firewood)

Forget wrestling with gas-powered chainsaws – the Toro 60V Flex-Force Brushless Chainsaw is here to redefine your firewood game. I’ve spent years felling trees, bucking logs, and splitting wood the old-fashioned way. Believe me, I know the aches, the fumes, and the sheer frustration of unreliable equipment. So, when I got my hands on the Toro 60V cordless chainsaw, I was skeptical. Could a battery-powered saw really deliver the power I needed for serious firewood prep? The answer, as I discovered, was a resounding yes. This review is more than just specs and features; it’s my personal journey with this saw, packed with insights, tips, and real-world tests to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your wood-splitting ambitions.

Unboxing the Beast: First Impressions of the Toro 60V Chainsaw

The first thing that struck me was the weight – or rather, the lack thereof. Compared to my trusty (but heavy) gas-powered Stihl, the Toro 60V chainsaw felt like a featherweight. The tool came partially assembled, requiring only the bar and chain to be installed. The included instructions were clear and concise, and I had it ready to go in under 10 minutes. The build quality felt solid, with durable plastics and a reassuringly robust motor housing.

Key Features at a Glance

60V Brushless Motor: Promises gas-like power without the noise and fumes.
16-inch Bar and Chain: Suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
Automatic Chain Oiler: Ensures smooth cutting performance.
Chain Brake: Enhances safety during operation.
Tool-less Chain Tensioning: Makes adjustments quick and easy.
Battery Compatibility: Works with Toro’s 60V Flex-Force battery system.

My Initial Thoughts

The Toro 60V chainsaw impressed me right out of the box. The lightweight design, coupled with the promise of gas-like power, piqued my interest. I was particularly excited about the tool-less chain tensioning system, a feature I’ve always appreciated on other tools.

Takeaway: The Toro 60V chainsaw makes a strong first impression with its lightweight design, solid build quality, and user-friendly features. The tool-less chain tensioning is a great feature that I have used many times since I have owned the saw.

Power Play: Putting the 60V Motor to the Test

The real test of any chainsaw is its ability to cut through wood. I decided to put the Toro 60V chainsaw through its paces with a variety of wood types and sizes. I had a pile of seasoned oak, maple, and pine logs waiting to be transformed into firewood.

The Oak Challenge

Oak is notoriously tough. It’s dense, hard, and can bog down even the most powerful chainsaws. I started with a 12-inch diameter oak log. The Toro 60V chainsaw powered through it with surprising ease. The cut was clean and smooth, and the motor didn’t bog down at all. I was impressed.

My Observations: The saw maintained a consistent cutting speed, even under heavy load. The brushless motor delivered ample torque, allowing me to slice through the oak without any hesitation.

Maple Mayhem

Maple is another hardwood that can be challenging to cut, especially when it’s green. I tackled a 10-inch diameter green maple log. The Toro 60V chainsaw handled it well, although it did require a bit more effort than the oak.

My Observations: The saw performed admirably on green maple, but I noticed a slight decrease in cutting speed compared to the oak. This is to be expected, as green wood is denser and contains more moisture.

Pine Performance

Pine is a softwood, making it easier to cut than oak or maple. I used the Toro 60V chainsaw to buck several pine logs ranging from 6 to 14 inches in diameter. The saw zipped through the pine with ease.

My Observations: The Toro 60V chainsaw excelled at cutting pine. The cuts were fast, clean, and effortless. This saw is ideal for anyone who primarily cuts softwood.

Battery Life and Performance

I used the included 6.0Ah battery for my testing. On a full charge, I was able to cut for about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the wood type and cutting intensity. Recharging the battery took approximately 60 minutes with the included charger.

My Observations: The battery life was adequate for my needs. However, if you plan on doing a lot of cutting, I recommend investing in a second battery to avoid downtime.

Real-World Case Study: Clearing Storm Damage

After a recent storm, I had to clear several fallen tree limbs from my property. The Toro 60V chainsaw proved to be invaluable for this task. Its lightweight design made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and its powerful motor allowed me to quickly cut through branches of varying sizes.

My Observations: The Toro 60V chainsaw is a great tool for clearing storm damage. Its portability and ease of use make it ideal for tackling fallen limbs and branches.

Takeaway: The Toro 60V chainsaw delivers impressive cutting power for a cordless saw. It handled oak, maple, and pine with ease, and its battery life was sufficient for most tasks. The saw is well-suited for firewood preparation, storm damage cleanup, and general yard maintenance.

Ergonomics and Handling: A Comfortable Cut?

A chainsaw’s performance is only half the story. Ergonomics and handling are just as important, especially if you’re going to be using the saw for extended periods. I paid close attention to these aspects while testing the Toro 60V chainsaw.

Weight and Balance

As I mentioned earlier, the Toro 60V chainsaw is remarkably lightweight. This makes it easy to handle and maneuver, even for extended periods. The saw is also well-balanced, which helps to reduce fatigue.

My Observations: The lightweight design and balanced weight distribution of the Toro 60V chainsaw make it a pleasure to use. I was able to cut for longer periods without experiencing significant fatigue.

Grip and Controls

The Toro 60V chainsaw features a comfortable, ergonomic grip that provides a secure hold. The controls are easy to reach and operate, even with gloves on.

My Observations: The grip on the Toro 60V chainsaw is well-designed and provides a comfortable, secure hold. The controls are intuitive and easy to use, making the saw accessible to both experienced and novice users.

Noise and Vibration

One of the biggest advantages of a cordless chainsaw is its reduced noise and vibration compared to gas-powered models. The Toro 60V chainsaw is significantly quieter than my gas-powered Stihl, and it produces much less vibration.

My Observations: The reduced noise and vibration of the Toro 60V chainsaw make it a more pleasant tool to use. I didn’t have to wear earplugs, and my hands didn’t feel as numb after using the saw for an extended period.

Safety Features

The Toro 60V chainsaw is equipped with several safety features, including a chain brake, a trigger lockout, and a hand guard. These features help to prevent accidents and injuries.

My Observations: The safety features on the Toro 60V chainsaw are well-designed and provide an extra layer of protection. I particularly appreciate the chain brake, which stops the chain almost instantly in the event of a kickback.

Tool-less Chain Tensioning: A User-Friendly Feature

The tool-less chain tensioning system on the Toro 60V chainsaw is a standout feature. It allows you to quickly and easily adjust the chain tension without having to use any tools.

My Observations: The tool-less chain tensioning system is a game-changer. It makes it easy to keep the chain properly tensioned, which improves cutting performance and extends the life of the chain.

Takeaway: The Toro 60V chainsaw is ergonomically designed and easy to handle. Its lightweight design, comfortable grip, and reduced noise and vibration make it a pleasure to use. The safety features and tool-less chain tensioning system add to its user-friendliness.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Chainsaw Sharp

Like any power tool, the Toro 60V chainsaw requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Proper maintenance will extend the life of the saw and ensure optimal performance.

Chain Sharpening

A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting. I recommend sharpening the chain on the Toro 60V chainsaw after every few uses, or whenever you notice a decrease in cutting performance. You can sharpen the chain using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder.

My Tip: Invest in a good quality chainsaw file and learn how to sharpen the chain yourself. It’s a valuable skill that will save you time and money.

Chain Oiling

The Toro 60V chainsaw features an automatic chain oiler that keeps the chain lubricated during operation. It’s important to regularly check the oil level and refill the reservoir as needed. I recommend using a high-quality bar and chain oil.

My Tip: Use a bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws. These oils contain additives that help to reduce wear and tear on the chain and bar.

Cleaning and Storage

After each use, clean the Toro 60V chainsaw with a brush or cloth to remove sawdust and debris. Store the saw in a dry, protected location.

My Tip: Remove the battery before storing the chainsaw. This will prevent accidental activation and extend the life of the battery.

Bar Maintenance

The chainsaw bar also requires regular maintenance. Clean the bar grooves with a screwdriver or wire brush to remove debris. Check the bar for wear and damage, and replace it if necessary.

My Tip: Rotate the bar periodically to distribute wear evenly. This will extend the life of the bar.

Battery Care

To maximize the life of the battery, follow these tips:

Store the battery in a cool, dry place.
Do not expose the battery to extreme temperatures.
Charge the battery fully before storing it for extended periods.
Avoid completely discharging the battery.

My Observations: I have found that the batteries last longer and perform better when they are stored in a temperature-controlled environment. The heat from the summer and the cold from the winter can damage the batteries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common issues that you may encounter with the Toro 60V chainsaw, and how to troubleshoot them:

Chain not cutting properly: Sharpen the chain.
Chain slipping off the bar: Adjust the chain tension.
Saw not starting: Check the battery charge.
Saw overheating: Allow the saw to cool down.

Takeaway: Regular maintenance and care are essential for keeping the Toro 60V chainsaw running smoothly and efficiently. Sharpen the chain, oil the bar, clean the saw, and store it properly. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your chainsaw and ensure optimal performance.

Safety First: Chainsaw Safety Best Practices

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be dangerous if not used properly. It’s crucial to follow safety best practices when operating the Toro 60V chainsaw, or any chainsaw for that matter.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always wear the following PPE when operating a chainsaw:

Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield.
Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs.
Head Protection: A hard hat.
Hand Protection: Heavy-duty work gloves.
Leg Protection: Chainsaw chaps or pants.
Foot Protection: Steel-toed boots.

My Tip: Invest in high-quality PPE. It’s a small price to pay for your safety.

Safe Operating Procedures

Follow these safe operating procedures when using a chainsaw:

Read and understand the chainsaw’s instruction manual.
Inspect the chainsaw before each use.
Ensure that the chain is properly tensioned and sharpened.
Clear the work area of obstacles and bystanders.
Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands.
Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.
Avoid cutting above shoulder height.
Be aware of the potential for kickback.
Never operate a chainsaw when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

My Tip: Practice safe chainsaw techniques in a controlled environment before tackling more challenging tasks.

Kickback Prevention

Kickback is a sudden, uncontrolled movement of the chainsaw that can cause serious injury. To prevent kickback, follow these tips:

Hold the chainsaw firmly with both hands.
Avoid cutting with the tip of the bar.
Keep the chain properly sharpened.
Be aware of the wood’s grain and knots.
Avoid cutting overhead.

My Observation: Kickback is a serious hazard that can be avoided by following safety precautions and using proper cutting techniques. I have had a few close calls myself, so I know how quickly things can go wrong.

Safe Tree Felling Techniques

If you plan on felling trees with the Toro 60V chainsaw, it’s essential to learn safe tree felling techniques. This includes:

Assessing the tree for hazards.
Planning the felling direction.
Making a notch cut and a back cut.
Using wedges to control the fall of the tree.

My Tip: If you are not experienced in tree felling, hire a professional arborist to do the job.

First Aid and Emergency Procedures

Be prepared for accidents and injuries. Keep a first aid kit readily available and know how to use it. In the event of a serious injury, call for emergency medical assistance immediately.

My Tip: Take a first aid and CPR course. It could save a life.

Takeaway: Chainsaw safety is paramount. Always wear PPE, follow safe operating procedures, and be aware of the potential for kickback. If you are not experienced in tree felling, hire a professional. By following these safety best practices, you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Cordless vs. Gas: The Great Chainsaw Debate

The age-old question: Cordless or gas chainsaw? Each type has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Cordless Chainsaws: The Advantages

Lightweight: Cordless chainsaws are typically lighter than gas-powered models, making them easier to handle and maneuver.
Quiet: Cordless chainsaws are significantly quieter than gas-powered models, reducing noise pollution.
No Fumes: Cordless chainsaws produce no exhaust fumes, making them more environmentally friendly and healthier to use.
Easy to Start: Cordless chainsaws start instantly with the push of a button.
Low Maintenance: Cordless chainsaws require less maintenance than gas-powered models.

Cordless Chainsaws: The Disadvantages

Limited Power: Cordless chainsaws may not be as powerful as gas-powered models, especially for heavy-duty tasks.
Battery Life: Battery life can be a limiting factor, especially for extended use.
Cost: Cordless chainsaws can be more expensive than gas-powered models.

Gas Chainsaws: The Advantages

High Power: Gas chainsaws offer high power for demanding cutting tasks.
Long Run Time: Gas chainsaws can run for extended periods without needing to be refueled or recharged.
Versatility: Gas chainsaws are suitable for a wide range of applications, from light-duty tasks to heavy-duty tree felling.

Gas Chainsaws: The Disadvantages

Heavy: Gas chainsaws are typically heavier than cordless models, making them more difficult to handle and maneuver.
Noisy: Gas chainsaws are noisy, requiring the use of hearing protection.
Fumes: Gas chainsaws produce exhaust fumes, which can be harmful to your health and the environment.
Difficult to Start: Gas chainsaws can be difficult to start, especially in cold weather.
High Maintenance: Gas chainsaws require regular maintenance, including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and carburetor adjustments.

My Verdict: Cordless is Catching Up

In the past, I was a staunch advocate for gas-powered chainsaws. However, cordless technology has come a long way in recent years. The Toro 60V chainsaw has convinced me that cordless chainsaws are now a viable option for many users.

My Observations: For homeowners and small-scale firewood producers, cordless chainsaws offer a compelling combination of power, convenience, and environmental friendliness. While gas chainsaws still hold an edge in terms of raw power and run time, cordless models are closing the gap quickly.

Takeaway: The choice between cordless and gas chainsaw depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type before making a decision. For many users, a cordless chainsaw like the Toro 60V offers a compelling alternative to gas-powered models.

Beyond the Chainsaw: Essential Firewood Preparation Tools

While the Toro 60V chainsaw is a valuable tool for firewood preparation, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some other essential tools that you’ll need to transform logs into usable firewood:

Log Splitter

A log splitter is a hydraulic machine that splits logs into smaller pieces for firewood. Log splitters can be either gas-powered or electric.

My Recommendation: If you plan on splitting a lot of firewood, invest in a gas-powered log splitter. They are more powerful and efficient than electric models.

Splitting Axe

A splitting axe is a traditional tool for splitting logs by hand. It’s a good option for smaller jobs or for those who prefer a more physical approach.

My Recommendation: Choose a splitting axe with a heavy head and a long handle. This will give you more leverage and power.

Maul

A maul is a heavy, blunt tool used for splitting tough or knotty logs. It’s often used in conjunction with wedges.

My Recommendation: Choose a maul with a steel head and a fiberglass handle. This will provide durability and shock absorption.

Wedges

Wedges are used to split logs that are too tough to split with an axe or maul alone. They are driven into the log with a sledgehammer.

My Recommendation: Invest in a variety of wedges, including steel wedges and wooden wedges.

Sledgehammer

A sledgehammer is used to drive wedges into logs. Choose a sledgehammer with a heavy head and a long handle.

My Recommendation: Choose a sledgehammer with a steel head and a fiberglass handle. This will provide durability and shock absorption.

Measuring Tools

Measuring tools are essential for cutting firewood to the correct length. Use a tape measure or a firewood measuring stick to ensure consistent lengths.

My Recommendation: Create a firewood measuring stick by marking the desired length on a piece of wood. This will make it easy to cut firewood to the correct length quickly and accurately.

Safety Gear

Don’t forget to wear appropriate safety gear when using these tools, including safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots.

Takeaway: In addition to a chainsaw, you’ll need a variety of other tools to prepare firewood, including a log splitter, splitting axe, maul, wedges, sledgehammer, and measuring tools. Always wear appropriate safety gear when using these tools.

The Art of Seasoning: Drying Firewood for Optimal Burn

Seasoning firewood is the process of drying the wood to reduce its moisture content. Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently than green wood.

Why Season Firewood?

Green wood contains a high amount of moisture, which makes it difficult to burn. When green wood is burned, much of the energy is used to evaporate the moisture, resulting in a cooler, smokier fire. Seasoned firewood, on the other hand, contains less moisture, allowing it to burn hotter and cleaner.

How to Season Firewood

The best way to season firewood is to stack it in a sunny, well-ventilated location. Here are the steps involved:

Split the Wood: Splitting the wood increases its surface area, allowing it to dry more quickly.
Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in rows, leaving space between the rows for air circulation.
Elevate the Wood: Elevate the wood off the ground to prevent moisture from wicking up into the wood.
Cover the Wood: Cover the top of the wood pile with a tarp or sheet of metal to protect it from rain and snow.
Wait: Allow the wood to season for at least six months, or preferably a year or more.

Moisture Content Targets

The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%. You can measure the moisture content of firewood using a moisture meter.

My Recommendation: Invest in a moisture meter. It’s a valuable tool for determining when your firewood is properly seasoned.

Wood Species and Seasoning Time

Different wood species require different amounts of time to season. Softwoods, such as pine, dry more quickly than hardwoods, such as oak.

Here are some general guidelines for seasoning times:

Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Spruce): 6-12 months
Hardwoods (Maple, Ash, Birch): 12-18 months
Dense Hardwoods (Oak, Hickory): 18-24 months

Signs of Properly Seasoned Firewood

Here are some signs that your firewood is properly seasoned:

Cracks in the End Grain: Seasoned firewood will have cracks in the end grain.
Light Weight: Seasoned firewood will be lighter than green wood.
Dull Sound: When struck together, seasoned firewood will produce a dull, hollow sound.
Dark Color: Seasoned firewood will be darker in color than green wood.

Takeaway: Seasoning firewood is essential for optimal burning. Split the wood, stack it properly, elevate it off the ground, cover it, and allow it to season for at least six months. Use a moisture meter to ensure that the wood is properly seasoned before burning it.

The Toro 60V Chainsaw: A Final Verdict

After extensive testing and real-world use, I can confidently say that the Toro 60V Flex-Force Brushless Chainsaw is a worthy addition to any homeowner’s or small-scale firewood producer’s toolkit. It offers a compelling combination of power, convenience, and environmental friendliness.

Pros:

Lightweight and Easy to Handle: The Toro 60V chainsaw is remarkably lightweight, making it easy to maneuver and use for extended periods.
Impressive Cutting Power: The 60V brushless motor delivers ample power for cutting a variety of wood types and sizes.
Quiet Operation: The chainsaw operates much quieter than gas-powered models, reducing noise pollution.
No Fumes: The cordless design eliminates exhaust fumes, making it healthier to use.
Tool-less Chain Tensioning: The tool-less chain tensioning system makes chain adjustments quick and easy.
Battery Compatibility: The chainsaw is compatible with Toro’s 60V Flex-Force battery system, allowing you to use the same batteries with other Toro tools.

Cons:

Battery Life: Battery life may be a limiting factor for some users, especially for extended use.
Price: The Toro 60V chainsaw can be more expensive than some gas-powered models.

Who is This Chainsaw For?

The Toro 60V chainsaw is ideal for:

Homeowners who need a reliable chainsaw for occasional use.
Small-scale firewood producers who want a convenient and environmentally friendly option.
Anyone who appreciates lightweight design, quiet operation, and ease of use.

My Final Thoughts

The Toro 60V Flex-Force Brushless Chainsaw has exceeded my expectations. It’s a powerful, versatile, and user-friendly tool that has earned a permanent place in my wood-splitting arsenal. If you’re looking for a cordless chainsaw that can handle a wide range of tasks, I highly recommend giving the Toro 60V a try.

Takeaway: The Toro 60V Flex-Force Brushless Chainsaw is a great choice for homeowners and small-scale firewood producers who want a powerful, convenient, and environmentally friendly chainsaw. Its lightweight design, impressive cutting power, and user-friendly features make it a pleasure to use.