Some users prefer smaller chainsaws like CS-310 for ease of use and portability. However, lighter saws are deemed less durable for demanding tasks, often breaking when used on thicker trees and logs.
If you want to know if this unit is a worthwhile investment or a waste of money, I’ll unpack its features and overall performance in this Echo CS-310 review.
What I Like
- An excellent choice for trimming small trees
- It offers more power than corded models
- Equipped with professional-grade motors
- Highly accessible controls and quick adjustments
- Lightweight construction and minimal bar length
- Tool-free air filter replacements
- Capable of clean cuts at high speeds
- It includes an automatic chain oiler
What I Don't Like
- Not for typical homeowners
- More suitable for small tasks than heavy-duty jobs
Design, Weight, and Build Quality
Although it’s undoubtedly a powerful chainsaw, Echo CS-310 only carries a mass of 8.8 pounds. Because of its lightness, this unit is easier to wield and move around than other gas-powered Echo chainsaws.
One feature that makes Echo CS-310 light is that it doesn’t need a longer bar. For long periods of cutting and trimming, its recommended using either a 14 or 16-inch bar.
Another design perk you should know when using this lightweight chainsaw is its side-access chain tensioner. Besides added convenience, the tensioner’s location eliminates the need to disassemble the saw from the belt.
It also features an automatic clutch-driven oiler, which only activates when the chain starts moving. Thanks to this attribute, this Echo chainsaw requires less fuel consumption, leading to longer machine life.
The unit’s durability becomes more evident because of its dual-post chain brake. It’s a critical chainsaw feature that automatically activates through inertia. Along with it, you’ll also spot a bar cover that adds to the unit’s safety.
Echo CS-310 Features
List of Specs
- Power source: Gasoline
- Engine power: 5.3 hp, 30.5 cc
- Bar length: 14 & 16 inches
- Chain size: 14 & 16 inches
- Cutting diameter: 25 inches (Max)
- Chain pitch: ⅜ inch
- Weight: 10.3 pounds
- Handle: Rear handle
- Noise levels: 90 dB (Max)
- Warranty: Up to 5 years
Gas Mixture
While Echo CS-310 is undoubtedly a great chainsaw, it requires proper fuel and oil ratios to operate to its full potential. Its two-stroke, air-cooled engines need a 50:1 ratioed mix of two-cycle motor oil and unleaded gasoline.
For every gallon of gasoline you need to power your Echo CS-310 chainsaw, consider adding at least 2.6 oz of oil.
To mix the correct fuel mixture for your Echo chainsaw, pour the two-cycle bar oil into a container with the clean gasoline. You can check the product manual for the amount suitable for your saw.
Don’t forget to close the lid firmly to avoid any leak as you mix the solution. After that, you must use the mixture within 30 days. If you plan to store it for future chainsaw operations, adding stabilizers should extend its shelf life.
Cutting Performance
From its power to the bar and chain length this chainsaw can offer, it’s a no-brainer that it’s a tool capable of cutting through thick fallen trees and wood branches.
While some corded chainsaws struggled to cut tough wood stumps from trees like cherry, this Echo saw managed to pull through and finish the job. You can also count on it to slice through materials around 10 to 12 inches thick without much resistance.
Since this saw is as light as some battery-powered tools in today’s market, extensive wood-cutting operations didn’t cause user fatigue during usage. Besides its lightweight attribute, the rubber grip integrated within this chainsaw makes it extra convenient.
It’s also crucial to note that this chainsaw model has a noise level of around 90 dB. So even if it offers massive power to handle heavy-duty jobs, wear hearing protection to prevent auditory damage.
Some may think this chainsaw suits tasks around the house or in small gardens because of its light construction, but its power can overwhelm an occasional user.
Extra Features
AlthoughEcho CS-310doesn’t come with accessories upon purchase, its package includes around 2.6 ounces of 2-cycle bar oil and fuel [1]. You’ll also find a bar scabbard along with the powerhead.
One of the reasons why Echo power equipment doesn’t include any chainsaw attachments upon purchase is its specialty service. This feature means you must visit their approved specialists to see which accessory your saw needs.
You can also consult the chainsaw manual for more info on the unit’s compatibilities and functions. If you lost it, you can search for the model’s link on the Echo website and find the recommended accessories for your saw.
Price and Warranty
It’s unusual for a gasoline-powered chainsaw with this much range to belong under lower-priced tools. Although it’s not the cheapest saw option, its all-around functions make it an economical and cost-efficient purchase.
The price range for this chainsaw will fluctuate when choosing between 14-inch and 16-inch bar options. Other accessories will also affect the overall cost of this tool. Ultimately, it all boils down to your chainsaw needs.
Customer Reviews and Experience
Like other chainsaw options, Echo CS-310 includes mixed positive and negative reviews. Many users are raving at how light and handy this Echo machine is, while others are claiming that it does not suit heavy-duty work.
Nevertheless, most feedback notes that this chainsaw works best in small to medium-scale cutting tasks.
Echo CS-310 Alternatives
1. Husqvarna 435
Although more expensive than Echo CS-310, Husqvarna 435 chainsaw can deliver more robust cutting action with its fuel efficiency and Smart Start technology. You can also count on this unit for quieter cutting operations with low vibrations.
If you want a clear comparison between the two brands, check out this post about Echo vs Husqvarna chainsaw next!
2. Oregon CS1500
If you’re looking for a chainsaw more suited for household tasks, a handy electric-powered model like Oregon CS1500 should fit your needs. Since it runs on electricity, it starts faster and produces less noise than Echo CS-310.
3. Greenworks Battery Chainsaw
Another eco-friendly option you can try Greenworks Battery Chainsaw. Like Echo CS-310, it also features an inertia-activated chain brake. However, it offers more portability and requires less maintenance.
4. Craftsman 42cc Gas Chainsaw
Craftsman 42cc chainsaw’s professional-grade chassis can withstand heavy-duty and demanding cutting conditions. You’ll also spot bucking spikes within its construction that allow better control than some gasoline-powered units.
See Also: Echo vs Stihl Chainsaw
FAQ
How big of a bar can you put on an ECHO CS-310?
You can put a bar as big as 16 inches on an Echo CS-310 chainsaw. The manufacturers also include the option for the user to choose a 14-inch guide bar. Ultimately, it depends on your trimming and limbing needs.
What are the common problems with the Echo CS-310?
Although Echo CS-310 is powerful enough to cut wood pieces around 10 to 12 inches thick, its design and specifications aren’t ideal for heavy-duty work. The purchase also doesn’t come with attachments, which adds to the cost in the long run. You can opt for Echo CS-590or Echo CS-490 chainsawfor heavy-duty tasks.
Review Conclusion: Echo CS-310
My series of Echo CS-310 reviews and tests reveal that this model is an economical and cost-effective option among the sea of new saws in today’s market.
Although it’s not the most powerful option you’ll encounter, I can guarantee that it serves its purpose and performs better than most selections within the same price range.
FAQs
Echo CS-310 Review [2023]? ›
The Final Thoughts
They are of good quality despite having pricing that is very reasonable. The following is a list of the leading and most highly recommended chainsaws produced by Echo. We have everything you need, from gas to power to battery power, from 14 to 20 inches, and from light to heavy duty!
Engine Displacement (cc) | 30.5 |
---|---|
Vibration Reduction System | Standard |
Available Bar Lengths (in) | 14, 16 |
Oil Capacity (fl. oz.) | 8.8 |
Dry Weight (lb) | 8.8 |
The Final Thoughts
They are of good quality despite having pricing that is very reasonable. The following is a list of the leading and most highly recommended chainsaws produced by Echo. We have everything you need, from gas to power to battery power, from 14 to 20 inches, and from light to heavy duty!
CA (CARB) Compliant | CARB Compliant | 3/8 in. |
---|---|---|
Gauge | .050 | Rear Handle Chainsaw |
Included | Chain, Scabbard, Scrench/Combination Wrench | Gas |
Product Weight (lb.) | 10.3 lb | No |
Returnable | 30-Day | 0 |
Typically a chainsaw with a shorter bar around 14” and smaller is enough for property maintenance, trimming, pruning, and cutting down broken tree limbs. On the other hand, cutting down small trees, thick branches, and cleaning up storm damage will need a longer bar around 16”-20” to make the job easier and safer.
Can you put a 16 bar on Echo CS-310? ›The professional-grade ECHO chainsaw CS-310 comes equipped with a 16 in. bar and chain. The rear handle chainsaw is both lightweight and delivers powerful performance.
How much horsepower is 59.8 cc? ›The Timber Wolf 59.8cc, 4 HP professional-grade saw is setting a new standard for toughness. More powerful than comparable competitive saws with optimum performance, easy starting, easy operation and quick maintenance.
Is ECHO as good as Stihl? ›Both Stihl and Echo chainsaw companies feature great design overall. Both use high-quality materials. Echo chainsaws are designed to be lighter in weight than Stihl. This is done by incorporating aluminum into the build of their saws making it a more comfortable chainsaw to operate.
Is Stihl better then ECHO? ›It's clear that the Stihl is the more powerful string trimmer when compared to the ECHO. At the end of the day, both are more than enough power for residential use. But if you have any brush in your backyard that you want to slice down, the Stihl FS 56 RC is going to get it done faster.
How long should a ECHO chainsaw last? ›There is no real set time or length on a chainsaw lifespan. It ultimately comes down to the factors listed above (especially maintenance). That being said, you can expect a quality chainsaw to last you at least 10 years or more.
What does CS stand for on ECHO chainsaws? ›
Echo chain saw model names start with “CS-” followed by a number indicating the approximate engine displacement. For example, a CS-450 has a 45cc engine, and a CS-800P has an 80.7 cc engine. All Echo chain saw motors are two strokes.
Can you put a Stihl bar on a ECHO chainsaw? ›These bar adapters allow you to run 12mm Stihl mount chainsaw bars the Echo 590-620 chainsaws. This is great for those operators who run both brands of saws, because you only need one type of bar now, one with a 12mm Stihl mount. Please check your saw before ordering.
What is the most recommended chainsaw? ›1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher with 24-inch bar – Best overall. Our top pick for long-bar chainsaws is the Husqvarna 460 Rancher with a 24-inch bar. However, if 24 inches is too long for you, you can also get the 460 Rancher with a 20-inch bar or purchase a separate chain bar as small as 13 inches.
What size chainsaw is best for yard work? ›The ideal chainsaw size for a homeowner of course depends on what that homeowner will be using the chainsaw for. Most homeowners would benefit from a chainsaw between 14" and 20", depending on the most common types of projects they have on their property.
What size chainsaw is best for cutting down trees? ›A gas-powered chainsaw with a bar length of 20 inches or more is most effective for felling large hardwood trees such as oak, spruce, birch, beech and hemlock, many of which can be 30 – 36 inches in diameter.
What is the fuel mixture for Echo CS 310? ›All 2-cycle chain saws use a proper mix of gas and oil – ECHO recommends a 50:1 mix which is equal to 2.6 fluid ounce of oil for each (1) gallon of gas.
Do Oregon bars fit Echo chainsaws? ›Chainsaw Bar & S62 Chain, Fits Echo, Craftsman, Poulan, Homelite, Makita, Ryobi, Husqvarna and more (39272)
Where is Echo chainsaws made? ›The majority of ECHO products are built in the United States from foreign and domestic parts and components.
What gas does an echo chainsaw use? ›A 50:1 ratio with mid-grade (89 octane) or premium (93 octane) fuel can be used in all ECHO 2-stroke equipment, provided the oil is ISO-L-EGD and JASO M345 FD certified.
Can I make payments on a chainsaw? ›Depending on the purchase value, you may choose financing terms to pay in fixed monthly installments: 3, 6, or 12 months for purchases less than $1,500. 12, 18, or 24 months for purchases $1,500 — $2,499. 12, 24, or 36 months for purchases $2,500 or more.
Which ECHO has the best sound system? ›
If you're looking for the best sound quality in the Echo lineup, the Echo Studio is absolutely the best pick. It's also a great choice for smart homes because, like the 4th-gen Echo, it has a built-in Zigbee hub.
Do ECHO chainsaws take 50 1? ›Your Echo chainsaw is a two-stroke engine that takes a mixture of unleaded gasoline and two-stroke motor oil at a ration of 50 to 1.
Is ECHO a shindaiwa? ›Shindaiwa products are essentially the red versions of Echo products. Offering a very similar lineup, this is Echo's professional sibling.
What brand is comparable to Stihl? ›STIHL competitors include Husqvarna and MTD Products.
What is comparable to Stihl? ›Two of the most popular chainsaw brands are Stihl and Husqvarna, so if you are looking for a new chainsaw to buy to help manage the yard or cut down trees, then it's likely that you will settle on one of these two brands. However, deciding between a Stihl vs.
Who competes with Stihl? ›STIHL's competitors and similar companies include MTD Products, DOLMAR, Schiller Grounds Care and WOLF-Garten.
How often should you sharpen a chainsaw? ›A chainsaw may only need to be sharpened once a year if it is rarely used, but a tool that is frequently used will need to be sharpened regularly to ensure that the blade doesn't get too dull. On average, a chainsaw blade will retain its sharpness for about 3 hours of actively cutting through wood.
Is ECHO the same as Husqvarna? ›As you can see, while they are pretty much similar in terms of the dry weight and the engine type, each model has its advantages. The Echo CS-400 chainsaw's engine speed is 3,000 more than that of the Husqvarna 435. Likewise, its fuel capacity is thrice the 2.88 fluid ounce capacity of the Husqvarna chainsaw.
How many cc should a good chainsaw have? ›1. Engine size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or cubic inches. In general, the bigger the number, the more powerful the engine. Most homeowners will do fine with a saw in the 32 cc to 45 cc range.
How many cc's do you need for a chainsaw mill? ›We recommend a chainsaw with at least a 70cc engine for use in a chainsaw mill.
What is the most powerful CC chainsaw? ›
The world's most powerful production chainsaw. A direct replacement of the MS 880, the MS 881 is the most powerful chainsaw in the market with the highest displacement (121.6 cc) and engine power (6.4 kW).
Do ECHO chainsaws need bar oil? ›A: Yes, the manual says to use a high quality chainsaw bar oil. It is the same as gas powered chainsaws.
What oil is compatible with ECHO chainsaw? ›ECHO's Bar and Chain Oil (6459012 and 6459006) is special blend of lubricants and detergents that help to maximize chainsaw lubricity while reducing heat caused from bar and chain friction.
Is 40 1 or 50 1 better for chainsaws? ›Most modern chainsaws, string trimmers, leaf blowers and other small-engine two-stroke equipment recommend a 50:1 oil mix ratio, but some recommend 40:1 and older two-stroke equipment might even call for 32:1.
What is the longest lasting chainsaw blade? ›Even more durable than standard chain is carbide-tip chainsaw chain. Carbide tips last longer than chrome and are not affected by heat. Because of these qualities, carbide chain is excellent for cutting objects that would dull standard chain quickly, such as railroad ties.
What chainsaw do professionals use? ›Best Professional Chainsaw with High Power to Weight Ratio—Makita 18" 56cc RIDGELINE Chainsaw. With a power-to-weight ratio of 0.32, the Makita Ridgeline chainsaw provides enough power for all types of professional tasks thanks to its 56cc engine and a speed of 13,800 RPM that allows for felling trees with more power.
What is the most versatile chainsaw bar length? ›If you're looking for a chainsaw to use out on the farm, then the 18-inch bar is recommended as the most versatile. It can be used to cut down trees up to 32 inches in diameter (cut through one side, and then the other) and will easily cut through branches for pruning.
What chainsaw cuts the fastest? ›A full chisel chain is a chain with square cornered teeth, and they're known for being the fastest cutting blade shape available. A full chisel chain also has a higher number of teeth than other chain options (full chisel is also known as a standard chisel chain).
How big of a tree can an 18 inch chainsaw cut? ›How Big of a Tree Can an 18 inch Chainsaw Cut? An 18 inch chainsaw can cut a 16 inch diameter tree in a single pass. This is because your chainsaw bar should be 2 inches longer than the tree's diameter if you are cutting it in a single pass. But if you cut from both sides, an 18″ chainsaw can cut a 32 inch tree.
What is the hardest wood to cut with chainsaw? ›- Schinopsis balansae – 4,570 IBF. ...
- Lignum vitae – 4,500 IBF. ...
- Piptadenia Macrocarpa – 3,840 IBF. ...
- Snakewood – 3,800 IBF. ...
- Brazilian Olivewood – 3,700 IBF. ...
- Brazilian Ebony – 3,692 IBF. ...
- Brazilian Walnut – 3,684 IBF. ...
- African Pearwood – 3,680 IBF.
Should you cut up or down with a chainsaw? ›
Make a cut directly down from the top and then finish by cutting up from the bottom. The problem is that sometimes the saw gets pinched in the down cut. Another way to handle this is to make an angled cut down to about a third of the log's diameter.
Is it easier to cut a tree with a chainsaw when its wet? ›In all honesty, no! The additional moisture found on wet wood will not make any difference to the cutting process. It doesn't place any additional resistance on the chainsaw, and no additional effort is required to cut through it.
Will a Stihl bar fit an Echo chainsaw? ›These bar adapters allow you to run 12mm Stihl mount chainsaw bars the Echo 590-620 chainsaws. This is great for those operators who run both brands of saws, because you only need one type of bar now, one with a 12mm Stihl mount. Please check your saw before ordering.
Will a Oregon bar fit a Echo chainsaw? ›Oregon 16 in. Chainsaw Bar & R56 Chain, Fits Echo, Craftsman, Poulan, Homlite, Husqvarna, Ryobi and more (623000) 16A041R56-21 - The Home Depot.
Will a Oregon bar fit a Echo? ›It fits multiple brands of chainsaws including Echo, Craftsman, Poulan, Homelite, Makita, Husqvarna, Ryobi and others. The Pitch is 3/8 inch low profile and the gauge is 0.050 inch.
Can you put a 16 bar on a 14 Echo chainsaw? ›Yes, you can use the 16” bar on the 14” chain saw, and visa-versa.
Is echo as good as Stihl? ›Both Stihl and Echo chainsaw companies feature great design overall. Both use high-quality materials. Echo chainsaws are designed to be lighter in weight than Stihl. This is done by incorporating aluminum into the build of their saws making it a more comfortable chainsaw to operate.
Is Stihl better then echo? ›It's clear that the Stihl is the more powerful string trimmer when compared to the ECHO. At the end of the day, both are more than enough power for residential use. But if you have any brush in your backyard that you want to slice down, the Stihl FS 56 RC is going to get it done faster.
Will a Husqvarna chainsaw bar fit an ECHO? ›A: Yes - it's a small mount bar & chain (K095). As long as your 445 is . 325 pitch, it will fit.
How do I know if my chainsaw will fit a bar? ›To find the called length of your chainsaw bar, measure it from its front tip all the way back to the cutter closest to the body of the saw. Round this measurement up to the nearest even number in inches. For example, a bar that measures 18 3/4" will actually have a called length of 20".
What size chain goes on a echo? ›
Thes 18", 3/8" Low-Profile chains fits saws from many manufacturers including Husqvarna, Jonsered, Makita, Echo and Ryobi.
Who makes Echo chains? ›ECHO is the largest subsidiary of the Yamabiko Corporation of Japan.
What is an echo bar used for? ›Similar to the Ohio Bar, the Echo 2.0 is also a multi-purpose barbell that you can use for your powerlifting, Olympic lifting, or CrossFit-style lifts. Plus, it's able to handle some pretty heavy weights.