The Homeowner Workhorse: A Deep Dive into the Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw
The Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw occupies a crucial place in the market: the reliable, affordable tool designed specifically for the frequent homeowner or property owner. Offering a versatile bar length that is equally suited for felling small-to-medium trees, cutting firewood, and general storm cleanup, the Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw has been a staple in garages for decades.
Since the brand’s resurgence, the focus has shifted to modern, well-specced saws that continue to deliver the classic “ready-to-work” utility Craftsman is known for. This guide will explore the popular gas and electric models, analyze the key specs that define its performance, address the crucial Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw vs stihl comparison, and help you find the current Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw for sale.
⚙️ Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw Specs and Models
Craftsman offers several 16 inch chainsaw variants, with the S160 (or similar versions) being the most representative gas model for the typical homeowner’s needs.
Gas-Powered Workhorse: The S160 (42cc Model)
Modern Craftsman gas saws in this class offer a significant step up from older, less powerful versions.
| Specification | Typical Gas Model (e.g., S160) |
|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 42cc (Cubic Centimeters) |
| Bar Length | 16 inch (Low-Kickback Bar and Chain) |
| Engine Type | 2-cycle full-crank high-output engine |
| Starting Feature | Easy Start Technology |
| Safety Features | Inertia-Activated Chain Brake, Low-Kickback Bar/Chain |
| Tensioning | Quick-adjust or Tool-less Tensioning System |
| Weight | Approximately 12 to 18 pounds (depending on exact model) |
Older versions, such as the Craftsman 16” Chainsaw 36cc (Model 35170, etc.), were also widely popular and known for their affordability and medium-duty utility. The increase to 42cc in modern versions reflects the demand for more cutting power.
Key Specs Analysis
- 42cc Engine: This engine size provides ample power for bucking logs up to 14-16 inches in diameter and is well-suited for the medium-duty review category. It’s a good balance between weight and power for general property maintenance.
- Low-Kickback Bar and Chain: This is standard for homeowner-grade saws and maximizes safety, especially for less experienced users.
- Tool-Free Tensioning: A highly valued feature that allows for quick adjustments of the chain tension without needing a screwdriver, simplifying maintenance in the field.
🆚 Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw Stihl: Defining the Difference
The comparison between Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw Stihl is unavoidable, as they represent two distinct market philosophies: value vs. professional performance.
| Feature | Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw (Homeowner Grade) | Stihl (e.g., MS 170/180 – Entry-Level) |
|---|---|---|
| Target User | Occasional to regular homeowner use, property maintenance. | Frequent homeowner use, light firewood cutting, built for longevity. |
| Engine Quality | Generally good full-crank engine, but less robust internal parts over time. | Higher quality components, better vibration control, and designed for easier long-term parts support. |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | Good. A 42cc Craftsman may feel more powerful than a 30cc Stihl MS 170, though the Stihl is lighter. | Excellent. Stihl prioritizes superior engineering and low weight for easier handling. |
| Dealer Support | Purchased at big-box retailers (Lowe’s, etc.). Parts and service handled through authorized repair centers. | Purchased and serviced at dedicated Stihl dealers, providing expert setup and instant parts availability. |
| Price | Significantly lower. Often found on deep discount (see Dewalt black friday deals Miter Saw section below). | Higher initial price, but higher resale value and perceived longevity. |
The Verdict: The Craftsman is the superior choice for the budget-conscious homeowner who cuts firewood 1-2 times a year and needs storm cleanup capability. If the saw will see consistent, heavy-duty work (multiple cords of firewood annually), the investment in a Stihl or similar professional-grade saw is generally recommended for its long-term durability and specialized parts support.
💲 Finding the Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw Price and Deals
The Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw price is one of its major selling points, frequently positioning it in the $150 to $200 range, especially when on for sale promotions.
Current Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw for Sale Strategy
- Retailer Focus: The primary authorized retailers (Lowe’s and Home Depot) are the best place to find current models and deals.
- Seasonal Discounts: Look for the most aggressive price drops during major holidays and sale events. The Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw is often a popular target for heavy discounts alongside major tool sales (much like the deep discounts seen on Dewalt black friday deals Miter Saw).
- Electric/Battery Alternatives: Craftsman also offers 16-inch battery-powered saws (20V and 40V lines). These tend to have a higher initial price due to the cost of the battery system but eliminate the long-term cost of gas/oil and the hassles of carburetor maintenance.
🔧 Maintenance and Longevity: Parts and Manual
The longevity of a homeowner-grade saw often comes down to proper maintenance and the availability of parts.
Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw Parts
Finding Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw parts is generally straightforward:
- Model Number: The first step is always locating the full model number (often near the recoil starter).
- Consumables: Consumable parts like air filters, spark plugs, and replacement chains are widely available online and through authorized service centers. Many modern Craftsman chainsaws share components with other MTD-produced brands (Poulan, Troy-Bilt), simplifying the parts supply chain for basic maintenance items.
- Major Components: Clutch drums, ignition coils, and carburetor assemblies are also available, ensuring that the saw can be maintained and repaired affordably, extending its life well past the warranty period.
Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw Manual
Always refer to the Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw manual for exact specifications, maintenance schedules, and safe starting procedures. The manual for most current and historical models is available for free download as a PDF from the official Craftsman website or parts suppliers by searching the model number. Reading the manual is critical for proper two-stroke fuel mixing and chain tensioning—two common points of failure for homeowners.
📰 The Final Craftsman 16 Inch Chainsaw Review
In a final review, the Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw (particularly the 42cc model) earns high marks as an excellent medium-duty saw for the average property owner. It offers easy starting, sufficient power for tackling storm damage and typical firewood, and the peace of mind that comes with the Craftsman brand name. While it may not offer the all-day comfort or professional-grade durability of a Stihl, it delivers unbeatable value at its price point, making it a smart investment for the typical suburban or rural homeowner.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the key specs (pitch and gauge) for a Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw chain replacement?
Most Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw models, especially the 36cc and 42cc versions, use a 3/8″ Low Profile (LP) pitch and a 0.050″ (or sometimes 0.043″) gauge. The drive link count is typically 56 or 57 links. Always consult your specific saw’s manual before buying a parts replacement chain, as model numbers vary.
2. What is a reasonable Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw price to look for during a sale?
The typical retail price for a new Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw (42cc gas model) is around $190 to $220. A good sale price that makes it a smart buy is often in the $140 to $170 range. Look for these discounts around major holidays, similar to the major deals offered on products like a Dewalt black friday deals Miter Saw.
3. How does the current Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw compare to the older Craftsman 16” Chainsaw 36cc models?
Modern Craftsman 16-inch saws typically feature larger displacement engines (42cc vs. 36cc), providing increased power. They also often incorporate user-friendly modern features like inertia chain brakes, full-crank engines for better durability, and tool-less chain tensioning, making them generally superior to their older counterparts.
4. Where can I find the Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw manual and parts list for my specific model?
The official Craftsman website and major authorized parts retailers (like Sears PartsDirect or MTD Parts) maintain extensive libraries of manuals and detailed parts diagrams. You only need the full model number (usually found on a tag near the handle or starter housing) to search for and download the Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw manual in PDF format.
5. Is a Craftsman 16 inch chainsaw for sale a good choice for felling trees?
Yes, for small-to-medium-sized trees (typically those up to 14 inches in diameter). The 16 inch chainsaw bar is versatile. However, for continuous felling or very large diameter trees, a more powerful, professional-grade saw (like a mid-range Stihl) is better equipped to handle the sustained load and is designed with more robust anti-vibration features.
