Complete Guide to the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw: Manual, Price, Review, Parts, Oil, Battery & Chain
The Craftsman electric chainsaw is one of the most popular chainsaws for homeowners, DIY users, and yard-maintenance enthusiasts. Craftsman offers a full lineup of corded and cordless electric chainsaws designed to deliver reliable performance, low maintenance, and excellent value. Whether you are trimming branches, cutting firewood, or maintaining your backyard, a Craftsman saw is often considered an affordable and user-friendly option.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know, including the Craftsman electric chainsaw manual, Craftsman electric chainsaw price, Craftsman electric chainsaw review, the popular Craftsman Electric Chainsaw 16, Craftsman electric chainsaw parts, Craftsman electric chainsaw oil, Craftsman electric chainsaw battery, and Craftsman electric chainsaw chain.
Overview of the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw
Craftsman offers both corded and cordless electric chainsaws in bar lengths ranging from 12″ to 16″. They are known for:
- Low noise
- Easy start (push-button or trigger-activated)
- Lightweight design
- Minimal maintenance
- Affordable pricing
Unlike gas chainsaws, electric models produce no fumes and require no fuel mixing, making them ideal for beginners and homeowners. Chainsaw Carburetor Guide: Poulan, Craftsman, Stihl & Adjustment Tips
Craftsman Electric Chainsaw Review: Is It Worth It?
Most Craftsman electric chainsaw review discussions emphasize several strong advantages:
✔ 1. Excellent Value for the Price
Craftsman chainsaws are generally cheaper than premium brands, making them perfect for homeowners.
✔ 2. Lightweight & Easy to Use
Users appreciate that electric Craftsman saws are simple to start, easy to carry, and ideal for small-to-medium cutting tasks.
✔ 3. Low Maintenance
No carburetor tuning, no spark plug issues, and no fuel-related problems—just charge or plug in and go.
✔ 4. Strong Cutting Power for Yard Work
The saw handles tasks like:
- Pruning branches
- Cutting small logs
- Storm cleanup
- DIY wood projects
✔ 5. Safe & Quiet Operation
Electric models run much quieter than gas saws and have built-in safety switches.
Who Should Buy It?
- Homeowners
- DIY enthusiasts
- Light-duty cutting tasks
- Users who prefer convenience over high horsepower
Craftsman Electric Chainsaw Price
The Craftsman electric chainsaw price varies by model, battery size, and bar length. Here are typical price ranges:
🔌 Corded Electric Models
- $59 – $129 USD
Perfect for users who want unlimited runtime and maximum power for the price.
🔋 Battery-Powered Models
- $129 – $249 USD (chainsaw only)
- $169 – $299 USD (with battery & charger)
Battery-powered models are more expensive but offer portability and convenience.
Craftsman chainsaws are widely available at:
- Lowe’s
- Walmart
- Amazon
- Ace Hardware

Introducing the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw 16
One of the most popular models is the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw 16, referring to a 16-inch bar length option available in both:
- 16″ Corded Electric
- 16″ Cordless (40V or 60V MAX battery)
Key advantages of the 16-inch Craftsman model:
- Cuts logs up to 14″ comfortably
- Great balance between power and portability
- Ideal for storm cleanup and homeowner firewood prep
- Affordable replacement parts
This model is especially popular because it offers a good mix of cutting capacity and ease of use. Craftsman 16-Inch Chainsaw Review: Reliable Power for Homeowners
Understanding the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw Manual
The Craftsman electric chainsaw manual is included with every saw and provides important instructions on:
📘 Safety Guidelines
How to operate the saw safely and avoid kickback.
📘 Parts Identification
A diagram of all components, including chain brake, tensioner, oil tank, and motor housing.
📘 Assembly Instructions
How to attach the bar, chain, and chain cover correctly.
📘 Chain Tensioning
Proper adjustment ensures safe and efficient cutting.
📘 Maintenance
Includes oiling steps and storage tips.
📘 Troubleshooting
Helpful for diagnosing problems such as:
- Chain not moving
- Saw won’t start
- Oil not feeding
If you lose the manual, PDFs are available online via the Craftsman website or retailer listings.
Common Craftsman Electric Chainsaw Parts
Like any chainsaw, Craftsman models may need replacement parts over time. The most frequently purchased Craftsman electric chainsaw parts include:
🔧 1. Replacement Chains
Different bar lengths require specific chain sizes (3/8 LP most common).
🔧 2. Guide Bars
Available in 12″, 14″, and 16″ options.
🔧 3. Chain Cover / Sprocket Cover
Covers the clutch and chain drive mechanism.
🔧 4. Chain Tensioner Screw
A common replacement on heavily used saws.
🔧 5. Oil Pump or Oiler Components
Responsible for lubricating the chain.
🔧 6. Batteries (for cordless models)
40V and 60V MAX lithium-ion options.
🔧 7. Sprockets
These may need replacement after years of use.
Craftsman parts are widely available and usually inexpensive compared to premium brands.
Do You Need Craftsman Electric Chainsaw Oil?
Yes—while Craftsman electric chainsaws do not need fuel oil or 2-stroke mix, they do require bar and chain oil.
Why is Craftsman electric chainsaw oil important?
- Reduces friction
- Prevents chain wear
- Keeps bar cool
- Improves cutting efficiency
Any standard bar and chain oil works, but Craftsman-branded oil is optimized for their saws. Never use motor oil as a substitute—it can damage the oiler system.
Understanding the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw Battery
Cordless Craftsman chainsaws run on 40V or 60V MAX lithium-ion batteries. The Craftsman electric chainsaw battery determines how long the saw can run and how much power it delivers.
Battery performance depends on:
- Voltage (higher = more power)
- Amp-hours (2.5Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah)
- Age and charge cycles
Typical runtimes:
- 40V 2.5Ah: 20–35 minutes
- 60V 2.5Ah: 30–45 minutes
- 60V 5.0Ah: 60–75 minutes (light cutting)
To extend battery life:
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Store at 40–60% charge
- Use only the included charger
The battery is often the most expensive part of a cordless chainsaw, but Craftsman’s interchangeable platform allows use across many tools.
The Craftsman Electric Chainsaw Chain
The Craftsman electric chainsaw chain is a low-kickback chain designed for safety and clean cuts. Most models use:
- 3/8” low-profile (LP) pitch
- .050” gauge
- Drive link count depends on bar length:
- 12″ bar = ~45 links
- 14″ bar = ~52 links
- 16″ bar = ~56 links
Signs you need a new chain:
- Saw produces fine dust instead of chips
- Chain becomes hot or smokes
- Excessive vibration
- Chain slips frequently
Keeping the chain sharp dramatically improves cutting performance.
Pros & Cons of Craftsman Electric Chainsaws
✔ Pros
- Affordable
- Low maintenance
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- Easy to start
- Batteries work across Craftsman tools
✘ Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty logging
- Battery runtime is limited
- Some parts are plastic (less durable than pro saws)
Final Thoughts
The Craftsman electric chainsaw lineup is an excellent choice for homeowners, DIY users, and anyone who needs a simple, reliable saw for everyday yard work. With easy starting, low maintenance, and affordable pricing, Craftsman continues to be a top competitor in the electric chainsaw market.
Whether you’re researching the Craftsman electric chainsaw manual, comparing the Craftsman electric chainsaw price, shopping for the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw 16, or looking for Craftsman electric chainsaw parts, this guide covers everything you need for the best experience.
Top 5 FAQs About Craftsman Electric Chainsaws
1. Does a Craftsman electric chainsaw need chain oil?
Yes—all models require bar and chain oil to keep the chain lubricated.
2. How long does the Craftsman electric chainsaw battery last?
Depending on voltage and Ah rating, it can run 20 to 75 minutes per charge.
3. Can I use any chain with my Craftsman chainsaw?
You must use a chain that matches the bar length, gauge, and pitch (usually 3/8 LP).
4. Are Craftsman electric chainsaws good for cutting firewood?
They can handle small-to-medium logs but are not designed for commercial firewood cutting.
5. Where can I find replacement parts?
Craftsman parts are available at Lowe’s, Amazon, Walmart, and authorized repair centers.