SKIL PWR CORE 40V Brushless Chainsaw Review

September 25, 2024
0 comment
Edward Smith

Maintaining a yard can be frustrating, especially when using gas-powered tools. Gas chainsaws are often bulky, difficult to start, and demand frequent maintenance. That’s why the SKIL PWR CORE 40V Brushless Chainsaw stands out as a game-changer. Offering the same power as a gas chainsaw, this lightweight, cordless option eliminates the hassle of gas tools.

The SKIL 40V Chainsaw is perfect for homeowners seeking a simpler way to handle yard work while achieving professional-quality results. Its 40V brushless motor ensures powerful and efficient cutting, while the advanced SKIL PWR CORE battery technology provides long-lasting performance. Whether trimming branches or cutting logs, the SKIL cordless chainsaw delivers reliable power and convenience without the upkeep of gas-powered models.

Overview

40v Brushless Chainsaw Powerful Performance

The SKIL PWR CORE 40V Brushless Chainsaw combines cutting-edge technology with raw power, delivering performance on par with a 40cc gas chainsaw. Thanks to its efficient 40V brushless motor, it offers robust cutting power while remaining lightweight and easy to use.

Equipped with an 18-inch bar and chain, this 40V brushless chainsaw provides a cutting capacity of up to 32 inches, making it ideal for tasks like limbing and felling. With the included PWR CORE 40™ 6.0Ah battery, users can achieve approximately 210 cuts in 4×4 pine wood on a single charge. This combination of power and endurance ensures that the SKIL cordless chainsaw meets the demands of even the toughest outdoor projects.

SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless

See it on Amazon

See it on SKIL

Specifications

Motor	40V Brushless
Battery	PWR CORE 40™ 6.0Ah Lithium-Ion
Charging Time	1 hour (0-100%)
Bar Length	18 inches
Cutting Capacity	32 inches
Chain Type	Auto-Lubricating
Water Resistance	IPX4
Weight (with chain and bar)	8.99 lbs

Features

Brushless Motor: The 40V brushless motor provides enhanced efficiency, longer runtime, and reduced maintenance compared to traditional motors, making it ideal for demanding outdoor tasks.
Battery Technology: Powered by the PWR CORE 40™ lithium battery, this SKIL cordless chainsaw delivers consistent performance and a longer battery lifespan. The battery’s advanced cooling technology ensures each cell stays at an optimal temperature for maximum durability.
Charging Speed: Thanks to the included 40V 320W charger, the battery recharges from 0% to 100% in just one hour, minimizing downtime and letting you get back to work quickly.
Auto-Lubricating Chain: The SKIL PWR CORE chainsaw features an auto-lubricating system that keeps the chain well-maintained, extending its life and reducing the need for manual upkeep.
Water Resistance: With an IPX4 rating, this SKIL electric chainsaw can handle light rain and splashes, making it reliable in various weather conditions.

Design Elements

The Skil chainsaw has several design features that enhance user experience:

Lightweight Construction: Weighing only 8.99 lbs (including the chain and bar), this SKIL cordless chainsaw is easy to handle, even during extended cutting sessions, helping reduce fatigue and improve maneuverability.
Tool-less Chain Tensioning: This SKIL battery chainsaw allows users to adjust chain tension quickly and effortlessly without the need for additional tools. This feature ensures optimal cutting performance with minimal hassle.
Ergonomic Handle: The chainsaw’s ergonomically designed handle provides superior comfort and control, enabling precise cuts and reducing strain on the hands and wrists during operation.

Cutting Power

The SKIL 40V Chainsaw is renowned for its impressive cutting power. Driven by a high-performance 40V brushless motor, it delivers strength equivalent to a 40cc gas chainsaw. This makes it capable of tackling tough cutting tasks effortlessly, whether you’re trimming branches or handling larger logs. The power and precision of this SKIL PWR CORE 40V Brushless Chainsaw ensure reliable performance for even the most demanding outdoor projects.

Cutting using SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless Review CS1800C-15

Performance Metrics

Chain Speed: The SKIL 40V Chainsaw delivers an impressive chain speed of 17 m/s, ensuring quick and efficient cuts through a wide range of wood types. This competitive speed places it among the top performers in its class.
Torque Management: While the chainsaw may not match the torque of some premium models, it excels in maintaining consistent speed when cutting dense materials. This balance of speed and torque makes the SKIL cordless chainsaw a reliable choice for various cutting tasks.

Performance

The SKIL PWR CORE 40V Brushless Chainsaw excelled across various cutting scenarios during testing, proving its reliability and power.

In one test, it effortlessly tackled small branches, cutting through them swiftly without bogging down. For larger logs up to 12 inches in diameter, the SKIL 40V Chainsaw maintained steady power, demonstrating its ability to handle tough jobs under pressure.

SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless Review CS1800C-15 2

The auto-lubricating chain system ensured smooth and uninterrupted operation, while the tool-less tensioning feature minimized downtime for adjustments or maintenance.

Powered by a PWR CORE 40™ 6.0Ah battery, the chainsaw provided extended runtime, allowing users to complete multiple cutting tasks without interruption. In real-world conditions, homeowners reported completing most yard work without needing a battery change, making this SKIL cordless chainsaw a dependable option for outdoor projects.

Starting the chainsaw is simple just insert the battery and press a button. This eliminates the frustrations of pull-starting gas-powered models, offering a hassle-free experience that appeals to both novice and experienced users.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Powerful brushless motor equivalent to a gas chainsaw.
Lightweight design enhances maneuverability.
Tool-less chain tensioning simplifies maintenance.
Quick charging time allows minimal downtime.
Auto-lubricating chain reduces maintenance needs.

Cons

Battery life may vary based on usage intensity.
Some users may prefer the feel of traditional gas models.
Initial cost may be higher than entry-level gas chainsaws.

How We Tested

To thoroughly evaluate the SKIL PWR CORE 40V Brushless Chainsaw, we conducted tests in a variety of environments and on multiple wood types, including soft pine and dense hardwoods.

We tested its cutting speed on logs of different sizes, up to 12 inches in diameter, to gauge its capability across various tasks. The chainsaw demonstrated consistent power and smooth operation, handling both smaller branches and larger logs with ease.

The included PWR CORE 40™ battery was monitored for runtime during extensive use. We also assessed how quickly it recharged using the 40V 320W charger, noting that it returned to full capacity in just one hour.

Performance indicators such as power output during cuts and ease of use were key focus areas. Features like the auto-lubricating chain and tool-less tensioning system were evaluated for convenience and reliability.

Final Verdict

The SKIL PWR CORE 40V Brushless Chainsaw CS1800C-15 is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a gas-powered chainsaw. Its lightweight construction, rapid charging capabilities, and robust cutting performance make it a top pick for both casual users and those tackling more demanding projects.

While battery life under heavy use could be a consideration, the advantages such as convenience, ease of use, and consistent power greatly outweigh any minor drawbacks. For homeowners seeking a reliable, efficient tool that simplifies yard work, the SKIL 40V Chainsaw is a highly recommended solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of battery does the SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless Chainsaw use?
The SKIL CS1800C-15 uses a PWR CORE 40™ 6.0Ah lithium-ion battery. This battery technology provides longer runtime and efficient performance, allowing users to complete various cutting tasks without frequent recharges.

2. How long does it take to charge the battery fully?
The included 40V 320W charger can fully charge the battery from 0% to 100% in just one hour, ensuring minimal downtime between uses.

3. What is the maximum cutting capacity of this chainsaw?
The SKIL CS1800C-15 features an 18-inch bar and chain, allowing it to handle cutting tasks with a capacity of up to 12 inches in diameter for logs and branches, making it suitable for a variety of yard maintenance tasks.

4. Is the chainsaw easy to maintain?
Yes, the SKIL CS1800C-15 is designed for ease of maintenance. It features tool-less chain tensioning, which allows users to easily adjust the chain tension without needing additional tools. Additionally, the auto-lubricating chain helps extend its lifespan and reduces maintenance needs.

5. Can I use this chainsaw in wet conditions?
The SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless Chainsaw is rated IPX4, meaning it is resistant to splashes from any direction. While it can withstand light rain, it is advisable to avoid using it during heavy rain or extreme weather conditions to ensure safety and optimal performance.

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.