Product test
Kärcher weed remover review – feels almost as good as brushing your teeth
by Martin Jungfer
Rattle-free chainsaw: Makita DUC353Z review
9.6.2024
Translation: Patrik Stainbrook
A chainsaw is indispensable for rough sawing work in the garden and chopping up wood. Most of the time, this involves a gasoline engine. I tested a Makita device with a rechargeable battery and hardly had to accept any compromises.
Only then did I realise the actual chain wasn’t attached and only the engine was howling. As a result, I still treat chainsaws with the greatest respect, even after thirty years. No more. I want to face up to this fear.
Dissecting smaller wood
My test lab couldn’t be more idyllic. A stone cottage in the alps of lower Leventina. My samples are mostly fir wood, which should prove ideal. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The first step is to charge the batteries with two chargers (not included) and insert the chain.
Not an easy undertaking for a layman like me. Although the process is illustrated, phrases such as «Turn the lever fully clockwise and then back a quarter turn to get some slack to adjust the chain tension» leave me a little perplexed. After two attempts where I first mounted the bar upside down and then the chain in the wrong direction, everything fits perfectly. I can adjust the tension of the chain with a small wheel and get started.
Safety is key!
After two hours of use, it’s all over. Out of juice. Both me and the Makita. Two charged spare batteries are essential for continuous use. Still, I’ve definitely reconciled with the idea of a chain saw. Despite sore muscles in my hands and forearm, I was finally able to overcome my post-traumatic stress.
In a nutshell
A lot of power over a short time
The Makita DUC353Z battery-powered chainsaw is a workhorse: easy to operate, efficient to use. If you mainly cut soft wood, this mobile saw that doesn’t require gasoline is perfect, ideal for smaller jobs around the house. Full spare batteries are mandatory, one charge lasts for about an hour when working intensively. And as extra batteries aren’t included, this is an additional investment you need to factor in. With a double charger and four batteries, nothing will stand between you and full logging freedom.
Pro
- easy to operate
- large enough to saw small to medium-sized logs
- environmentally friendly if you use renewable electricity
- quieter than petrol-powered alternatives
Contra
- only runs for about one to two hours on a single charge
- no batteries and no charger included in the scope of delivery
Simon Balissat
Teamleader Editorial
Simon.Balissat@digitecgalaxus.chWhen I flew the family nest over 15 years ago, I suddenly had to cook for myself. But it wasn’t long until this necessity became a virtue. Today, rattling those pots and pans is a fundamental part of my life. I’m a true foodie and devour everything from junk food to star-awarded cuisine. Literally. I eat way too fast.
Garden
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