Homelite Ranger UT10532

Many experts say that chainsaws in the $100 to $150 range are adequate for most homeowner uses. The 16-inch Homelite Ranger UT10532 is a perfect example of a modestly priced yet powerful gas chainsaw. It cuts more slowly than the more expensive chainsaws, but owners give it high marks, saying it can cut all the firewood you need. You have to adjust the chain tension with a screwdriver, but oiling is automatic. Safety features include not only an inertia chain brake and anti-vibration handle, but an anti-kickback guard on the bar as well.

We found over a dozen owner-written reviews of the Homelite Ranger UT10532 gas chainsaw at HomeDepot.com, but since this chainsaw has been discontinued, Home Depot has removed the listing from its website. When it was still live, owners not only rated it on a five-point scale, but they provided detailed comments based on their experiences with it. These reviews gave a good sense of what you could expect from the chainsaw, with a few warnings about quality-control problems.