Updated January, 2025
First on our list is the Makita XCU03PT1 cordless chain saw. What we are actually reviewing is a kit that you can buy which includes 4 batteries inside. Now that might seem like much but when you are out in the woods felling trees, this is one of the best things to have around you. It basically ensures that you will have enough battery power to cut through a few days of work without having to go back. Having the power equivalent of a 32cc gas chainsaw, this thing really is one of the best cordless electric alternatives out there right now.
If you want to learn more about electric chainsaws in general, head over to our Buyer’s Guide. There we have tons of useful information and have also reviewed some other models which can easily give the XCU03PT1 a run for its money. Now, let’s dive into the unique features of this tool.
Table of Contents
Features That Make It Stand Out
Right off the bat, the biggest advantage of this unit is its portability and the ability to stay on for hours at a single battery charge. This allows you to not only be comfortable white cutting wood but also to never worry about a battery depleting fast.
For indoor usage and people who practice carving and other indoor chainsaw tasks, this is one of the best models there is. Sure, if the 14 inches bar is too long, you can opt for a similar saw with a smaller bar, like the Oregon CS250-S6 Cordless Chain Saw Kit.
Product Rating:
- Best price-to-value ratio
- Ergonomic Handles
- Very powerful
- Comes with two extra batteries
- Easy to maintain
- Very easy to use
- Lightweight construction
- Quality materials
Power
The 36V brushless motor inside this thing can seriously cut through any type of wood you want it to. There are four 18v lxt lithium-ion batteries here and the chainsaw can operate with two at a time (18V x2 36V is the resulting power for the motor). It can also work with one battery at a time but at a slower power output and cutting speed. It won’t be ideal for felling simple because of the short bar but other than that, this is as powerful as a 32cc gas chainsaw, which in fact, are twice the price of this one. That brings us to our next point…
The high power efficiency of the brushless motor is the reason this saw lasts as much on its battery charges
The Value
This model has an incredible value, even more so with the package that it comes. Not only is this one of the most powerful battery chainsaws but it also is cheaper than some other alternatives with less power and shorter bar. The extra batteries you are getting here are the tip of the ice cream for most people and are a true godsend when it comes to continuous jobs that require non stop power.
Operation & Maintenance
In terms of operation such power tools are very easy to use, as the weight is at a little more than 11 pounds. The ergonomic handles and variable cutting speed trigger help with the job as well. There are three speed options going up to 940 fpm giving you the ultimate cutting performance out there.
The top handle is made from rubberized material which is specially made so that you can apply even cutting pressure even with the high chain speed this saw has. It also prevents your hands from a lot of the vibration coming from the tool.
The maintenance is typical, as it is with any other electric chain saw kit. You will need to lubricate the chain, especially if working in wet conditions. The screws and bolts should also be periodically checked if you want everything to stay in place.
The chain lubrication is actually both automatic and adjustable here. All you have to do is fill out the large oil reservoir and the chainsaw will do the rest itself. The oil bar level can easily be seen through the transparent material of the reservoir.
The automatic chain adjustment happens in a tool-less manner and the pitch is 3/8 inches.
Safety Features
The built in lock-off lever will help you by not allowing the chainsaw to accidentally engage the chain and cut through something that you want to stay whole.
The noise level coming from this chainsaw is significantly less than other similar models and there is a zero emission certificate on it, meaning you can safely use it in closed spaces.
Additional Features
There is a built-in LED switch which controls the power on/off functions. When you turn the chainsaw on but you don’t engage with it, the control module will turn it off after a short period of time to prevent energy consumption. That way the intelligent computer of the motor will save energy in the long run and extend the battery life.
Do you want to learn more about how to use a chainsaw? Click here to go to our special article on the topic! Now, let’s check out some of the advantages and disadvantages of this model.
Pros And Cons
Advantages
- Best price-to-value ratio
- Ergonomic Handles
- Very powerful
- Comes with two extra batteries
- Easy to maintain
- Very easy to use
- Lightweight construction
- Quality materials
Disadvantages
- The bar and chain aren’t long enough for felling
Cutting through wood with this chainsaw is very easy if you know what you are doing. This is why we have compiled this article on the topic where you will find all the necessary information on chainsaw wood cutting.
Conclusion & Rating
This Rating Was Updated January, 2025:
If you are looking for a really good, sturdy, and convenient electric chainsaw, then the Makita XCU03PT1 is just the right tool for your needs.
It comes with an extra two pack of batteries and will last you more than a day on a single charge.
The ergonomic handles, lightweight design, and powerful chain will allow you to work for hours a time without getting tired. As a whole, we gave this model a solid five out of five stars rating, thanks to its incredible price to value ratio and overall performance.
