Who Makes Remington Chainsaws? (5 Expert Insights You Need)

Ah, Remington. Just the name conjures up memories of crisp autumn air, the scent of freshly cut wood, and the satisfying roar of a well-tuned engine. Growing up, my grandpa swore by his Remington chainsaw. I remember watching him effortlessly slice through thick oak logs, preparing for the long, cold winters. It was a workhorse, a reliable tool that helped keep our family warm. But times change, and the story of Remington chainsaws is a bit more complex than those simple memories.

Who Makes Remington Chainsaws? (5 Expert Insights You Need)

The question of who makes Remington chainsaws isn’t as straightforward as it once was. The brand has changed hands and manufacturing locations over the years, leading to some confusion. Let’s delve into the history and current state of Remington chainsaws, providing you with the insights you need.

1. A Look Back: The History of Remington Chainsaws

During their peak, Remington chainsaws were primarily manufactured in the United States. They offered a range of models, from small electric chainsaws for homeowners to more powerful gas-powered options for professionals. Their electric models were particularly popular for their convenience and low maintenance.

2. The Bankruptcy and Brand Acquisition: A Turning Point

In 2020, Remington Outdoor Company filed for bankruptcy. This event marked a significant turning point for the brand and its product lines, including chainsaws. The company’s assets were divided and sold off to various buyers.

The Remington brand name and licensing rights for outdoor power equipment were acquired by various companies. Specifically, the power tool division, including chainsaws, went to a new owner. This is where the story gets a little complicated.

3. Current Manufacturer: Who Holds the Reins Now?

As of today, the Remington chainsaw brand is owned and managed under license by Oregon Tool. Oregon Tool is a well-established company known for its chainsaw chains, bars, and other forestry equipment. They have a long history in the industry and a reputation for quality.

While Oregon Tool owns the brand, manufacturing is often outsourced to various facilities, primarily in China. This is a common practice in the power tool industry, allowing companies to reduce production costs and streamline operations.

4. Understanding the Product Line: What’s Available Today?

Under Oregon Tool’s management, the Remington chainsaw product line has been streamlined and refocused. The current lineup primarily consists of electric chainsaws, catering to homeowners and DIY enthusiasts.

You’ll find a range of electric models, from small pole saws for trimming high branches to larger chainsaws for felling small trees. These chainsaws are designed for ease of use, low maintenance, and quiet operation.

Example: Remington RM4620 Electric Chainsaw

Motor: 12 Amp Electric
Bar Length: 20 inches
Weight: Approximately 12 lbs
Features: Tool-less chain tensioning, automatic oiling system
Typical Use: Felling small trees, cutting firewood, storm cleanup

5. Expert Insights: What to Consider When Buying a Remington Chainsaw Today

Intended Use: Are you a homeowner looking for a chainsaw for occasional use, or a professional needing a heavy-duty tool? Remington chainsaws are best suited for light to medium-duty tasks.
Power Source: Electric chainsaws are convenient and low-maintenance, but they require a power outlet. Gas-powered chainsaws offer more power and portability but require more maintenance. Since current offerings are primarily electric, this is a key consideration.
Features: Look for features like tool-less chain tensioning, automatic oiling, and safety features like a chain brake. These features can make your job easier and safer.
Reviews and Ratings: Always read reviews from other users before making a purchase. This can give you valuable insights into the chainsaw’s performance and reliability.
Warranty: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can protect you from defects and ensure that you get a reliable product.

The Modern Electric Chainsaw: A Deeper Dive

The shift towards electric chainsaws represents a broader trend in the power tool industry. Electric chainsaws offer several advantages over their gas-powered counterparts, including:

Lower Noise Levels: Electric chainsaws are significantly quieter than gas-powered models, making them ideal for use in residential areas.
Reduced Emissions: Electric chainsaws produce zero emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
Ease of Use: Electric chainsaws are typically easier to start and operate than gas-powered models.
Lower Maintenance: Electric chainsaws require less maintenance than gas-powered models, as there are no spark plugs, air filters, or carburetors to worry about.

Understanding Chainsaw Safety: A Paramount Concern

No matter what brand of chainsaw you use, safety should always be your top priority. Chainsaws are powerful tools that can cause serious injury if not used properly. Here are some essential safety tips:

Wear appropriate safety gear: This includes safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
Read the owner’s manual: Familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s operation and safety features.
Inspect the chainsaw before each use: Check the chain tension, oil level, and all other components.
Use the chainsaw in a well-ventilated area: If using a gas-powered chainsaw, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling exhaust fumes.
Keep a firm grip on the chainsaw: Use both hands and maintain a balanced stance.
Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for obstacles and other people in your work area.
Never cut above shoulder height: This can increase the risk of losing control of the chainsaw.
Avoid kickback: Kickback occurs when the tip of the chainsaw bar comes into contact with an object, causing the chainsaw to suddenly jump back towards the operator. Be aware of the risk of kickback and take steps to avoid it.
Turn off the chainsaw when not in use: Always turn off the chainsaw and engage the chain brake when you are not actively cutting.
Store the chainsaw properly: Store the chainsaw in a safe place, out of reach of children.

Choosing the Right Chainsaw Chain: A Critical Component

The chainsaw chain is the heart of the cutting process. Choosing the right chain is essential for optimal performance and safety. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a chainsaw chain:

Chain Pitch: The chain pitch is the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain. Common chain pitches include 3/8″ and .325″. The chain pitch must match the sprocket on your chainsaw.
Chain Gauge: The chain gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar groove. Common chain gauges include .050″ and .058″. The chain gauge must match the guide bar on your chainsaw.
Number of Drive Links: The number of drive links is the number of links that fit into the guide bar groove. The correct number of drive links will be specified in your chainsaw’s owner’s manual.
Chain Type: There are several different types of chainsaw chains, each designed for specific applications. Common chain types include:
- Full Chisel: Full chisel chains have square-cornered cutters that are very aggressive and cut quickly. They are best suited for experienced users and clean wood.
- Semi-Chisel: Semi-chisel chains have rounded-corner cutters that are more forgiving and less prone to kickback. They are a good choice for general-purpose use and dirty wood.
- Low-Profile: Low-profile chains have a smaller cutter design that reduces kickback. They are a good choice for beginners and homeowners.

Maintaining Your Chainsaw: Ensuring Longevity and Performance

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw in good working order and extending its lifespan. Here are some key maintenance tasks:

Sharpen the chain: A sharp chain cuts faster and more efficiently. Sharpen the chain regularly using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder.
Check the chain tension: The chain should be snug on the guide bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.
Clean the air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance. Clean the air filter regularly with soap and water or compressed air.
Check the spark plug: A fouled spark plug can cause starting problems. Clean or replace the spark plug as needed.
Lubricate the chain: The chain needs to be lubricated with chainsaw oil to reduce friction and wear. Check the oil level regularly and refill as needed.
Clean the guide bar: The guide bar can accumulate sawdust and debris, which can reduce cutting performance. Clean the guide bar regularly with a wire brush.
Store the chainsaw properly: When not in use, store the chainsaw in a clean, dry place. Drain the fuel tank before storing the chainsaw for extended periods.

Firewood Preparation: From Log to Hearth

Once you’ve felled a tree, the next step is to prepare it for firewood. This involves bucking the tree into manageable lengths, splitting the logs, and drying the wood.

Bucking the Tree:

Bucking is the process of cutting the tree into shorter lengths. The ideal length for firewood depends on the size of your fireplace or wood stove. A common length is 16 inches, but you may need to adjust this based on your specific needs.

Safety First: Before bucking, make sure the tree is stable and will not roll or shift. Use wedges to support the tree if necessary.
Cutting Technique: Use a chainsaw to cut the tree into the desired lengths. Be careful to avoid pinching the chainsaw bar, which can cause kickback.
Log Handling: Use a log lifter or cant hook to move the logs safely and efficiently.

Splitting the Logs:

Splitting is the process of breaking the logs into smaller pieces. This makes the wood easier to handle and allows it to dry more quickly.

Manual Splitting: For smaller logs, you can use a splitting axe or maul. Position the log on a chopping block and strike it with the axe or maul.
Log Splitters: For larger logs, a log splitter is a more efficient option. Log splitters are available in both hydraulic and electric models.
Splitting Technique: When splitting logs, aim for the natural cracks and seams in the wood. This will make the splitting process easier.

Wood Drying (Seasoning): The Key to Efficient Burning

Drying, or seasoning, firewood is crucial for efficient burning. Green wood contains a high moisture content, which makes it difficult to ignite and produces a lot of smoke. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, burns hotter and cleaner.

Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is around 20%. You can measure the moisture content of wood using a moisture meter.
Drying Time: The drying time for firewood depends on the type of wood, the climate, and the storage conditions. A general rule of thumb is to dry firewood for at least six months.
Storage: Store firewood in a well-ventilated area, off the ground, and covered to protect it from rain and snow. This will help the wood dry more quickly and prevent it from rotting.

Wood Types and Their Burning Characteristics

Different types of wood have different burning characteristics. Some woods burn hotter and longer than others. Here’s a look at some common firewood species:

Hardwoods: Hardwoods are generally denser and burn hotter and longer than softwoods.
- Oak: Oak is a popular choice for firewood due to its high heat output and long burn time.
- Maple: Maple is another good choice for firewood, offering good heat output and a pleasant aroma.
- Ash: Ash is easy to split and burns well, producing little smoke.
- Beech: Beech is a dense hardwood that burns hot and long.
Softwoods: Softwoods are less dense than hardwoods and burn more quickly.
- Pine: Pine is easy to ignite and burns quickly, making it a good choice for kindling.
- Fir: Fir is similar to pine in its burning characteristics.
- Spruce: Spruce is another softwood that burns quickly and produces a lot of smoke.

Timber Grading: Understanding Wood Quality

Timber grading is the process of classifying wood based on its quality and characteristics. This is important for determining the value of the wood and its suitability for different applications.

Grading Factors: Timber grading takes into account factors such as the size and number of knots, the presence of decay, and the straightness of the grain.
Grading Standards: Different regions and countries have different timber grading standards. In the United States, the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) sets the standards for hardwood lumber grading.
Grade Levels: Timber is typically graded into several different levels, ranging from the highest quality (e.g., FAS – First and Seconds) to the lowest quality (e.g., Common).

Sawmill Operations: From Log to Lumber

Sawmills are facilities that process logs into lumber. The sawmill operation involves several steps, including:

Log Handling: Logs are delivered to the sawmill and sorted by size and species.
Debarking: The bark is removed from the logs using a debarker.
Sawing: The logs are sawn into lumber using a variety of saws, including band saws, circular saws, and gang saws.
Edging and Trimming: The lumber is edged and trimmed to remove imperfections and create standard dimensions.
Drying: The lumber is dried in a kiln to reduce its moisture content and improve its stability.
Grading: The lumber is graded based on its quality and characteristics.
Planing: The lumber is planed to create a smooth surface.
Shipping: The lumber is shipped to customers.

Advanced Splitting Techniques: Mastering the Art of Firewood Preparation

While basic splitting techniques are sufficient for most firewood preparation, there are some advanced techniques that can make the job easier and more efficient.

Using Wedges: Wedges can be used to split particularly tough or knotty logs. Drive the wedge into a crack in the log using a sledgehammer.
The Tire Method: Place the log inside an old tire. This will help to hold the log in place and prevent it from rolling. Then, split the log using an axe or maul.
The Swedish Torch: A Swedish torch is a log that has been partially split and burned from the inside. This creates a self-feeding fire that can last for several hours.

Challenges and Contexts for Small-Scale Loggers and Firewood Producers Globally

Small-scale loggers and firewood producers face a variety of challenges, particularly in developing countries. These challenges include:

Limited Access to Equipment: Many small-scale loggers lack access to modern equipment, such as chainsaws, log splitters, and tractors.
Lack of Training: Proper training in logging and firewood preparation techniques is essential for safety and efficiency.
Sustainable Forest Management: Sustainable forest management practices are crucial for ensuring the long-term health of forests.
Market Access: Small-scale loggers and firewood producers often struggle to access markets for their products.
Environmental Regulations: Environmental regulations can impact logging and firewood production activities.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Remington Chainsaws Continues

While the Remington chainsaw brand has undergone changes, it remains a recognizable name in the outdoor power equipment industry. Today, Remington chainsaws offer a range of electric models suitable for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. Remember to prioritize safety, choose the right tools, and maintain your equipment properly. Whether you’re felling trees, preparing firewood, or simply trimming branches, the satisfaction of working with wood is a timeless reward.

As I reflect on my grandpa’s trusty Remington, I realize it wasn’t just about the chainsaw itself. It was about the connection to nature, the satisfaction of hard work, and the warmth of a crackling fire on a cold winter night. And that, I believe, is a legacy worth preserving.