Chainsaws

Test Report

The newest of Echo's chainsaws, we reckon the CS-600 sets new boundaries in terms of design, technology and power from this US manufacturer. This machine is intended for professional use, and it shows.

For starters, this chainsaw moves away from the single support for the chain brake to a dual pivot, or double-supported chain brake. It looks much more solid and, with less flex, it is also much more responsive. Ekin gives it a nudge. Thud. The brake is on. He clicks it off and nudges again. Thud. It's immediate and inspires confidence.

For a big saw - this one has a 59.8cc two-stroke engine - it is easy to handle. Ekin uses it to slice a round off the end of a fallen trunk. "This is good," he enthuses. "It looks bulky, but it is not weighty. It's really well balanced and has loads of power."

With its brand-new hi-torque engine, the CS-600 gives a memorable performance. Starting is easy, thanks to a decompression valve on the top. The saw weighs in at 5.9kg and Ekin finds it willing, hard-working and easy to handle and control. And it has the drive and power to take the blade through tough timber. Chip control is also good.

Lowering emissions still further, Echo has given this saw a clutch-related oil pump, so that oil is only pumped when the throttle is opened.

A close-up inspection reveals the features that put this firmly in the commercial class, such as the inboard-style powertrain and metal-reinforced guide bar mount. The carefully isolated carburettor ensures steady and accurate carburetion while reducing vibration to the operator. Double guide bar cover-fastening nuts give secured fixing. Then there's the large-surfaced cassette-type air filter sitting right on the carburettor to ensure steady and sufficient clean air flies into the cylinder for a clean burn. In addition, an optional second spike bumper is available for tough cutting.

Just when we think we've see it all, we find something else. This chainsaw has a remarkably easy adjustment for winter/summer settings. The switch can be reached without having to remove covers or dismantle the saw in any way. A screwdriver or penknife inserted down between the covers is all that is needed.

Ekin brings the saw to a halt and we take a look at the on/off switch. In the past, we have noted it can be small and difficult to find and operate when wearing chainsaw gloves. But Ekin doesn't have an issue with it. "It's where you would expect it to be and is very strong. It's made of metal, not plastic, and there is less risk of it breaking. Some plastic ones are much more fiddly," he says.

All in all, we reckon this is a serious chainsaw for those looking to get the job done fast. It should be equally at home on estates, in parks or in forests.

SPECIFICATIONS
Engine 59.8cc two-stroke
Maximum power rating 3kW
Bar length: 45cm
Saw chain pitch 0.325"
Guide bar gauge 0.058"
Fuel tank capacity 0.57 litres
Oil tank capacity 0.3 litres
Weight (dry) 5.9kg
Sound pressure level (ISO22868) 102.3dB(A)
Sound power level (ISO22868) 111.5dB(A)
Vibration (factory ISO6535) Front handle 4.3m/s2; rear 6.1m/s2
(to be confirmed by independent test centre)
List price ex VAT £649
Contact Echo on 0870 405 5574

The reviewer Mark Ekin, programme area manager, College of West Anglia, Milton Campus, Cambridge

The review was carried out at the College of West Anglia's Milton Campus, where the chainsaws were used for maintenance in nearby woodland. Conditions on the day were hot, dry and very sunny.