Husqvarna 455 Rancher Chainsaw Review

If you’re searching for a durable, versatile chainsaw that balances household and commercial use, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is a fantastic choice.

From personal experience, after nearly three years of using the Husqvarna 455 Rancher, I can confidently say it’s perfect for tackling heavy-duty tasks like cutting large volumes of firewood or maintaining property. It offers the ideal blend of power and ease of use, making it a go-to tool for landowners and farmers alike.

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Husqvarna 455 Rancher Specs

• Cylinder Displacement: 3.4 cubic inches (55.5 cc)
• Power Output: 3.5 horsepower (2.6 kW)
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,000 rpm
• Idling Speed: 2,700 rpm
• Torque, Max: 3.2 Nm at 6,600 rpm
• Clutch Engagement Speed (±120): 3,900 rpm
• Ignition Module Air Gap: 0.01 in (0.3 mm)
• Spark Plug: NGK BPMR7A, Champion RCJ7Y
• Electrode Gap: 0.02 in (0.5 mm)

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Design and Features

The Husqvarna 455 Rancher sits at the entry level of commercial-grade chainsaws, offering enough power for demanding tasks while remaining manageable for regular use. One of its standout features is its thoughtful design. Despite its powerful performance, the Husqvarna 455 chainsaw is surprisingly lightweight a game-changer for anyone who knows how exhausting a heavy saw can be. Plus, it features small springs that absorb vibrations, reducing fatigue in your arms and hands during extended use.

Safety and convenience are also top priorities with this model. The interlocked throttle trigger ensures the chainsaw won’t accidentally start you need to hold down a safety bar to engage the throttle. Its simple on/off kill switch, choke for cold starts, and reliable pull-start mechanism make operation straightforward. For added protection, the chainsaw includes a chain brake that locks the chain when engaged, providing peace of mind while the saw is in use.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Performance

The Husqvarna 455 Rancher isn’t just impressive on paper—it truly shines in the field. Powered by a 3.5 hp engine with a cylinder displacement of 3.4 cubic inches, it boasts a maximum power speed of 9,000 rpm and a chain speed of 65.62 ft/s at peak performance. This ensures the chainsaw can efficiently cut through tough, dense woods without bogging down. Its X-Torq engine not only delivers high performance but also reduces fuel consumption and emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Equipped with a 20-inch bar, the Husqvarna Rancher 455 is versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks, from slicing through dense hardwoods to trimming smaller branches. For even greater flexibility, it supports bar sizes up to 24 inches, allowing you to take on larger projects with ease.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Ease of Use and Maintenance

Starting the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is effortless, even in colder weather a feature I’ve come to appreciate over years of use. The included 20-inch bar is ideal for cutting through substantial hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash, which are common in my area. If you frequently work with larger logs, you can opt for a bigger bar, as the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw supports various bar sizes. Personally, the 20-inch bar has been perfectly adequate for my needs.

Maintaining the Husqvarna Rancher 455 is refreshingly straightforward. It features a side-mounted chain tensioner that’s easily adjustable using the multi-purpose tool provided by Husqvarna. This tool also functions as a flathead screwdriver and nut driver, making it convenient for loosening the nuts on the cover when adjusting chain tension or cleaning the saw. I routinely remove the chain to thoroughly clean the interior, clearing out oil and wood chip buildup. Regular maintenance like this is key to keeping the chainsaw performing at its best.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Starting and Operation

Starting the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is hassle-free, thanks to its Smart Start Technology and air purge system. These features make cold starts and quick restarts seamless, requiring minimal effort. For added safety, the chainsaw includes an inertia-activated chain brake, which automatically stops the chain during kickbacks, helping to prevent accidents.

The Husqvarna Rancher 455 is designed with user-friendly controls. Its combined choke and stop switch simplifies the startup process, while a throttle interlock ensures the chainsaw doesn’t accidentally engage. To start, activate the chain brake, fire up the engine, and then disengage the brake to begin cutting. The side-mounted chain tensioner allows for quick and easy adjustments, minimizing downtime and ensuring efficient operation.

Safety and Additional Features

Safety is a top priority with the Husqvarna 455 Rancher, and it comes equipped with several features to protect users during operation. The inertia-activated chain brake is a standout feature, automatically stopping the chain to prevent accidents caused by kickbacks. Additionally, the quick-release air filter simplifies cleaning and ensures the engine remains free of debris, a common issue that can affect performance.

For added convenience, the Husqvarna 455 chainsaw comes with a durable hard plastic case. This sturdy case not only makes transportation safe and hassle-free but also includes storage space for tools and a bar cover to protect the chain when not in use.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher vs. Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss

Feature
Engine Displacement	55.5 cc	50.2 cc
Power Output	3.5 hp	3.49 hp
Weight (excl. equipment)	13.2 lbs	12.3 lbs
Fuel Tank Volume	0.44 liters	0.49 liters
Emission Reduction Tech	X-Torq® Engine	Advanced Combustion Technology
Vibration Damping System	LowVib® System	Anti-Vibration System
Recommended Bar Length	13 to 20 inches	16 to 20 inches
Air Filtration System	Air Injection™ System	Pre-separation Air Filtration System
Price	$549.99	$489.99

Summary

The Husqvarna 455 Rancher and the Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss are exceptional chainsaws built for heavy-duty tasks like firewood cutting and property maintenance. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw stands out with its slightly larger engine and wider range of bar length options, offering versatility for varied cutting needs. Meanwhile, the Stihl MS 271 is lighter and features a larger fuel capacity, making it a great choice for extended periods of use.

Both models integrate advanced technologies for fuel efficiency, ease of use, and reduced emissions, catering to modern environmental standards. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on your priorities, whether it’s handling, weight, or specific features.

Final Thoughts

After nearly three years of consistent use, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher has proven to be a reliable, powerful, and user-friendly chainsaw. Beyond basic maintenance like chain sharpening and regular cleaning it hasn’t required any major upkeep. It starts effortlessly every time and offers excellent comfort, even during extended use. At a price of $549.99, it delivers outstanding value for its performance and durability.

If you’re looking for a dependable, high-performing chainsaw that balances power and ease of use, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re clearing land, cutting firewood, or tackling other demanding tasks, this chainsaw won’t let you down.

FAQs

1. What’s the secret behind the Husqvarna 455 Rancher’s ability to combine home use comfort with commercial-grade power?
   Discover how the Husqvarna 455 Rancher masters the art of blending robust 3.5 hp engine performance with lightweight ease, making it the go-to chainsaw for diverse tasks, from backyard cleanups to rigorous forestry work.
2. How does Husqvarna’s LowVib technology transform your chainsaw experience?
   Find out how LowVib significantly cuts down harmful vibrations, allowing you to work longer without fatigue, enhancing both your comfort and productivity during extensive chainsaw operations.
3. Can the Husqvarna 455 Rancher efficiently tackle giant hardwood trees?
   Learn how the powerful engine and versatile bar options up to 24 inches equip the 455 Rancher for the toughest jobs, efficiently slicing through hardwoods like oak and ash with precision and ease.
4. What routine care does the Husqvarna 455 Rancher need to maintain peak condition?
   Uncover essential maintenance tips that keep the 455 Rancher at optimal performance, including routine cleaning, chain adjustments, and lubrication practices that extend the life of your chainsaw.
5. What environmental benefits does the X-Torq engine of the Husqvarna 455 Rancher offer?
   Explore the innovative X-Torq engine technology that reduces fuel consumption and emissions, providing an eco-friendly solution without sacrificing power, making the 455 Rancher a wise choice for the environmentally conscious user.
6. How does the Husqvarna 455 Rancher ensure user safety during operation?
   Dive into the safety mechanisms, including the inertia-activated chain brake and ergonomic design, that safeguard operators from common chainsaw hazards, making the 455 Rancher a leader in chainsaw safety.
7. When should I consider replacing the chain on my Husqvarna 455 Rancher?
   Get expert advice on monitoring and assessing chain wear, understanding the signs that indicate it’s time for a new chain to ensure your 455 Rancher continues to deliver powerful and safe performance.
8. Is starting the Husqvarna 455 Rancher in cold weather really hassle-free?
   Yes, with Smart Start and air purge systems, starting the 455 Rancher in chilly conditions is streamlined. Discover the innovative features that make cold starts as effortless as on a warm day.

We hope you found this review of the Husqvarna 455 Rancher helpful! Do you have any experiences or tips to share about using this chainsaw? Or perhaps you have questions about whether it’s the right tool for your needs? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you and discuss more! Feel free to share this review with others who might benefit from learning about this reliable chainsaw. Thanks for reading!

Edward Smith

Forestry Author

Woodworking is about more than crafting; it's a harmonious connection with nature, mastering tools, and preserving our environment. I'm here to share my knowledge and experiences with you, forging a future where we can embrace wood's beauty and utility while safeguarding our forests' health and diversity.