If you have tree branches in your yard that are hard to reach and you’re tired of climbing up on a ladder with a chainsaw (this is dangerous), then you may want to consider investing in a pole saw. Since you are here today, reading a review on a special pole saw, it’s safe to assume that you have already considered purchasing one.
The question is – do you want to purchase a gas powered pole saw, or are you okay with a cordless one (one that is powered by a battery)? If you’re looking for something that is powerful, then you’re going to want to go for a gas powered saw. Mind you, this doesn’t mean that the cordless ones are no good, it just means that gas powered engines are more powerful, and if you have a whole lot of trees in your yard, you’re going to want something that is on the powerful side.
Let me cut to the chase here – the Maxtra Pole saw is an outstanding pole saw that I would recommend to those that are looking for power. Is it suitable for you? I cannot say yes or no to that question, because that is something you will have to figure out. What is suitable for you may not be suitable for me – make sense?
I recommend you reading this review to see if the Maxtra is a good saw for you. This review will help you understand the different features that the saw has.
Features
Engine – This pole saw has an engine that is 42.7cc. This is a powerful engine that isn’t going to let you down. I must also state that it passed the EPA certification, so you will be using a saw that isn’t going to cause a whole lot of pollution. With an engine like this, you shouldn’t have a problem cutting through limbs that are up to 9 inches.
Reach – This saw is capable of extending from 8.2 feet all the way up to 11.4 feet. Now, I’m not sure how tall you are, so I can’t tell you exactly how far you will be able to reach, but you shouldn’t have a problem cutting branches that are between 14-15 feet in the air. Regardless, you will no longer have to stand on a dangerous ladder with a chainsaw.
Other Attachments are Available – Something really cool about this is the fact that you can use other attachments with it. It can convert to other tools, like a hedge trimmer, brush cutter and a string trimmer.
Additional Features
Durability
I believe the Maxtra is super durable, and as long as you keep it maintained (before and after each use), I can see it lasting for many years to come.
The Pole
Let’s discuss the pole for a second. This pole is not telescopic (I know, that’s a bummer), but it is still extendable. The pole starts out at 8.2 feet and can extend up to 11.4 feet, which is a decent extension. With this, you will be able to easily trim those branches that have been aggravating you.
The Cutting Capacity
With the 42.7 cc 2-cycle gas engine, you can count on it being powerful. You will be able to prune through tree branches like never before. It has a 10-inch bar and chain, so you will be able to trim branches that are up to 8 inches thick.
The Bar and Chain
Like I previously said, the bar and chain is a total of 10-inches. Something like this should be able to cut through most of the tree branches in your hard (unless it’s an old thick oak tree). This means that the Maxtra is suitable for pruning a lot of tree branches you may have in your garden.
The Noise Level
If you have neighbors, I understand that you may be concerned with the noise level, With the Maxtra, since it is a gas powered engine, you can count on the noise level being a bit loud. For this reason, I recommend wearing ear protection to protect your ears while you’re using it. If you’re looking for something that is quiet, then gas pole saws aren’t for you – you would be looking for an electric or battery-powered saw then. Just remember, when you go for a battery or electric-powered saw, you’re not going to have the same amount of power that you would get from a gas powered engine. What I’m saying is that sometimes, having to deal with loud noise is worth it, especially if you require power.
The Design
The Grip – I believe the Maxtra has a decent design to it. I like the grip – you shouldn’t have a problem holding onto the handle, which is good because you don’t want a handle that is prone to having the saw slip from your hands. In return, this helps reduce the risk of injury.
The Pole – The actual pole is designed from steel, which is why it is so durable. However, remember, this is not a telescopic pole, it’s an extendable pole.
The Tensioning System – As far as the tensioning system goes, it is not easy to adjust. When it comes time to adjust the tensioning system, you will need a wrench so that you can manually adjust it.
Anti-Vibration – The anti-vibration system is a big hit. I don’t know about you, but when I use power tools, I can’t stand it when they vibrate. With this one, you won’t have to worry about getting fatigued by vibration if you were to use the saw for an extended period of time.
The Weight – It has a large gas engine, so the weight of this pole saw maybe a bit more than others. To give you an idea, this saw weighs 27 pounds, and when you use it for a long amount of time, 27 pounds may get a bit on the heavy side. A shoulder strap will make it more comfortable to use and will help reduce fatigue. However, the weight of the saw isn’t going to have a major impact on the use.
Automatic Oiling System – If you’re looking for a saw that has an auto-oiler system, then you’re in luck because the Maxtra has one. When I look for saws, I always try to find one that has an auto-oiler, because I don’t like having to stop and manually oil it. An auto oiler will ensure that the bar and chain stays well oiled while you’re using it. This will help improve the durability and performance of the saw. However, you will need to keep a watch on the oil reservoir and make sure it is filled up before you use it.
Are There any Safety Features?
Yes, the Maxtra pole saw has some safety features that are worth mentioning here. Starting out, it has an inertia-type safety chain brake. This comes in handy for when kickback occurs as it can prevent you from being injured.
If you’re a beginner, and you have not experienced kickback before, chances are, you will. Many beginners experience kickback after their first use. This particular model is designed to help reduce the chances of kickback.
The ergonomic design and comfortable grip will help you be able to use the pole saw for a long period of time, without risking injury or losing control.
Is There a Warranty on the Maxtra Pole Saw?
With this gas pole saw, there is a limited one-year warranty, which is decent. Yes, many of the other pole saws out there have a 2 year or more warranty, so a one year warranty may be a bit on the disappointing side, but at least it does come with some type of warranty.
Is the Maxtra Gas Pole Saw for You?
If you’re out there looking for a budget tool, then the Maxtra pole chainsaw is not a good saw for you, because a budget tool it is not. If you are, however, searching for a gas pole saw that has a whole lot of power, then the Maxtra gas pole saw is a great saw for you. It will come in handy for pruning those thicker branches you have in your yard that are up to 8 inches thick.
This is a well-balanced pole saw that has an amazing design and is durable.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A 10-inch bar
- A powerful 42. cc engine
- Anti-vibration system
- Automatic oiling system
- Inertia-type safety chain brake
Cons
- A limited one year warranty
- May be a bit on the heavy side (weighs 27 pounds)
- The tensioning is not easy to adjust
Also, the gas pole saw does not come with a detachable head. I understand that this is a feature that is useful for some, but when a saw has this feature, it can cause it to become imbalanced. You can, however, shorten the pole to 8.2 feet if you need a gas pole saw that is smaller.
Conclusion
For those of you that are searching for a pole saw that is packed with power, then this Maxtra gas-powered pole chainsaw would be suitable for you. This Maxtra gas pole saw is at the top of my list when a friend or family member is looking at pole saws.