Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Review

A world-renowned brand in the world of chainsaws, Husqvarna has outdone themselves with the Power Axe 350i. So as not to fall behind in the cordless electric tool revolution, this model is designed to perform on-par with, or better than gas-powered consumer models with similar power outputs but without the fumes and idling noise. Its tool-free chain tensioning system is simplistic and intuitive and it has many thoughtful features such as metal bucking spikes and a see-through oil tank. Where this model really stands apart from the rest is its “boost mode.” With the touch of a button, the motor draws substantially more power from the battery for those extra stubborn cuts.

Performance Comparison

Saw Performance

To kick our review process off, we tested how well each model performs its sole purpose — cutting wood. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i immediately proved itself to be a top-tier model when it comes to consumer-level chainsaws.

To gain some objective data, we constructed a “fake log” by strapping four Douglas Fir 4"x4"s to a sawbuck in order to create a controlled and repeatable dimension of wood. We then timed five cuts per saw and averaged the three fastest times. The Power Axe 350i put up an impressive average cut time of 7.07 seconds. While this isn't the fastest average time we've seen out of a battery-powered chainsaw, when we enabled “boost mode,” the quickest we were able to slice through the lumber dropped to an incredible 5 seconds. We also timed how long it takes each chainsaw to wind up to full speed when the trigger is pulled. The Power Axe's wind-up time was nearly instantaneous .25 seconds — the fastest time we've ever seen out of a battery-powered model.

For the second part of this metric, we factored in the ergonomics of the saw by subjectively judging the balance and feel of each model. We then went to work on some sorely needed fire suppression on a large parcel covered in Pinyon Pines to see how they performed in a real-world situation when the position of the saws isn't as straightforward as when cutting on a sawbuck. Our team agreed that the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is one of the most well-balanced and comfortable models that we've tested. The handles are in just the right location in regard to the overall weight and the slender design of the motor housing allows you to squeeze the saw into some tight places under and in between branches.

Ease of Use

Next, we examined the various buttons, switches, dials, and controls to determine if any features made the saws easier or more difficult to use than the competition. The Power Axe 350i, again, did very well in this portion of our review.

The controls on the 350i are very intuitive to operate. With the chain brake disengaged, the only thing you have to do to get the saw ready to cut is push the power button, move the grip safety forward with the palm of your hand, and then pull the trigger.

When it comes to chain tensioning systems, the Husqvarna 350i is one of our favorites. A lever that is integrated into the saw case folds out with the push of a button that helps turn the dial that clamps the bar and chain in place. With the dial loosened, a small wheel to the left allows you to tighten the bar and chain to the exact tension you want, then you simply crank the dial back down and fold the lever back into its place.

The bar and chain oil tank on the Power Axe is located on the lower left of the front of the saw. With the saw laid on its side, a lever folds out of the cap to give you some extra twisting power. We found this cap to be one of the easiest to use that we've ever tested, and we were even able to refill oil with leather gloves on. The tank also has a see-through section so that you can check your saw's oil levels without having to remove the cap.

Battery

For the next portion of our overall score, we ran each model at full speed in its standard setting with a full charge until they ran out of juice and timed the process. We then timed how long each fully drained battery takes to charge to 100%. When it comes to runtime, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is one of the longest-lasting battery-powered models in our review at an incredible 51 minutes. However, it should be noted that if you decide to use “boost mode”, this time will be reduced depending on how much you use this feature because it the motor draws more power from the battery.

Where the Power Axe 350i lost points for this metric is when it comes to its charge time. With a charge time of two hours and forty-five minutes, you'd better get your task done on a single charge or have an additional battery, otherwise, you're going to be taking a pretty long lunch break.

Noise

Finally, we measured noise. Using a sound pressure level meter, we read decibel levels from a distance of 48 inches while each saw was running at full speed. We also used a panel of judges to note whether the saws created a sound that was unusually annoying or harsh on the ears.

The Husqvarna emitted 82.1 decibels during our test. While this is still incredibly loud, and you should always certainly wear ear protection while operating this tool, this is drastically quieter than the majority of chainsaws of any type that we've ever tested. If you have some residential projects that require a lot of power and you're hoping to disturb your neighbors or family as little as possible, the Power Axe 350i is the way to go.

Should You Buy The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i?

If you want a battery-powered high-performance chainsaw, we highly recommend the Power Axe 350i. It offers phenomenal cutting power that is amplified when using “boost mode.” It's incredibly easy to operate, the bar and chain are tightened sans tools with one of our favorite systems, and the oil can be filled with gloves on. The battery is long-lasting, and you'll always know the current levels with the easy-to-read indicator light. One of our favorite elements of the Power Axe is that it's quieter than models that have a fraction of the power.

What Other Chainsaw Should You Consider?

If you want battery performance above all else, the EGO Power+ CS2005 is our top recommendation. It is only a little more expensive and cuts much faster; however, it is also about 25% heavier. If the price of this model is out of your range, the EGO Power+ CS1800 is an affordable model that displayed fantastic overall performance during our assessment. There are also a lot more Ego battery tools than Husky tools. For those who don't want to wait around for hours for their battery to charge before getting back to work, the Greenworks Pro 80V performs well and has a faster-charging battery than any other model that we've tested. If you have some lighter-duty jobs to get done and you just want something better than a human-powered hand saw, the 20-volt Worx WG322 is the way to go.