Product Reviews

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Review – Is It Worth All the Hype?

Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is the BEST homeowner saw by the brand.

This chainsaw has got a 20-inch bar on it and has a little decompression button that makes it really easy to start. Because of just the right size and since this saw has a lot of power, you won’t find it a problem to deal with tough trees.

If you’re somebody who’s cutting 5 to 10 cords of wood a year or even a bit more than that, this residential chainsaw works best for that. It weighs about 12.8 Pounds without bar and chain and has 3.49 horsepower. And with all that, it’s a slimmer and skinnier saw that just feels right comfortable in your hands when you grab it!

Coming towards the 455 Rancher bar and chain, 455 Rancher has a chain size of 3/8 inches with a bar length of 20 inches. The chainsaw has been designed for maximum comfort, performance, durability, and power.

This article further contains the important features of the Husqvarna 455 Rancher 2-stroke gas chainsaw and what alternate options to this chainsaw you may opt for if this one doesn’t sound perfect to you!

Are Husqvarna Chainsaws Good?

Husqvarna chainsaws are simply great! Throughout the world, Husqvarna chainsaws are considered the second BEST and most popular chainsaws.

The brand manufactures high-quality chainsaws for both homeowners and professional loggers. For the performance and durability, they can, by no chance, be a beat!

Why Buy the Husqvarna 455 Rancher?

For landowners and part-time users in search of a powerful, responsive workmate that will handle all cutting conditions, Husqvarna’s world-renowned 455 Rancher is an excellent choice. You won’t find a better chainsaw option for residential use.

Furthermore, its X-Torq engine is accompanied by new innovations, including the LowVib feature (vibration-reduction system) and Smart Start recoil system.

Here’s what you need to watch!

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Review

For residential properties where the nature of the sawing work is heavier, the 455 Rancher is an excellent choice. When moving from light to medium duty, you should consider the 455 Rancher if you want to upgrade to heavy-duty. Although this will cost you a bit more, the added versatility will be worth it.

Let’s see what the chainsaw has to offer you.

Specifications

Manufacturer Husqvarna
Dimensions 20 inches x 9.5 inches x 41 inches
Weight 12.8 Pounds
Overall Length 41 inches
Bar Length 20 inches
Engine 55.5 CC
Max Power Speed 9000 RMP
Power Output 3.49 Horsepower
Fuel Tank Volume (US Pint) 0.9
Chain Pitch 3/8 inches
Chain Speed at Maximum Power 20 m/s

Chain Tension System

It is possible for the chainsaw chain to get displaced once you start using it. Almost every chainsaw owner has encountered this problem.

But the good thing is – the tool-less chain tensioner is a great feature of the 455 Rancher. Therefore, you will not have to keep getting the screwdriver out every time the chain dislocates. Chain tension can be adjusted quickly with the side chain tensioner.

You should feel the chainsaw chain snug, but it should still be able to move freely. To ensure proper saw chain tension, perform a ‘snap’ test. You can release the chain just by pulling the chains on the underside of the guide bar down until one or two drive links are freed from the rails. Once this is done, the chain should snap into place.

Air Filter

Another great feature is the air filter. The chainsaw is equipped with an air intake system that blows away sawdust before it reaches the air filter. When the air filter is clean, the chainsaw will run smoothly. Therefore, a dust-free and clean air filter should be on your list of priorities.

The trouble of cleaning the chainsaw filer daily can become frustrating if the chainsaw you own collects tons of dust. And that’s exactly where Husqvarna 455 Rancher’s top-notch filtration system shines!

Husqvarna 455 Rancher - Air Filter

The filter prevents larger debris from entering the machine. In fact, it prevents them from reaching the filter at all. It is true that some dust and debris do escape the filtration fan’s gaze, but it is estimated that it forces 60-70% of it back.

So, you spend less time cleaning, and more time doing!

Automatic Oiler

Previously, it was necessary to properly lubricate the chain for the chain to function. In fact, lubrication used to require the user to exert a great deal of effort. Those days are over, though.

Automatic chain oilers have become more popular, and the Husqvarna Rancher 455 is also equipped with this handy feature. As long as the chain receives enough oil, you won’t need to be on your toes.

Another exceptional feature of the 455 is that the flow can be adjusted. For older models, such as the 445, there is an automatic chain oiler, but it has a fixed flow rate. But with the 455, you can change the flow according to the cutting task at hand without experiencing any issues!

Carburetor

Another amazing feature of this chainsaw is its carburetor. This 2-stroke rancher is equipped with an EPA-friendly carburetor, which helps to limit pollution generated by the engine. Along with being EPA-compliant, it is also a CARB-compliant chainsaw.

Furthermore, a high-performance engine is capable of mowing through thick timber in a reasonable time. However, it consumes almost 20% less fuel when compared to older chainsaws that are not compliant.

Choke Run

By preventing flooding of the engine, choke/stop controls enable the engine to respond more effectively. The result of this is an engine that starts up quickly without requiring a ton of pulls.

Furthermore, the starter handle has been improved to make it easier to handle. Hence, it is easier to pull with a comfortable grip, because it reduces muscle tension.

Detachable Engine Mount

The detachable engine mount – this is something that manages the tool as a whole. The engine determines how your experience with a chainsaw will turn out and is an important factor that shouldn’t be overlooked.

When it comes to this chainsaw, you’re in good hands with a good motor. It is powered by a 55.5 cc engine. This value indicates that the motor is incredibly powerful, so you’ll be able to cut your trees very quickly!

This motor has an HP of 3.49 and a power speed of 9000 RPM, and it’s the cherry on top! Instead of cutting down trees, you’ll be cutting butter!

Lightweight

Chainsaws that are heavy not only take longer to operate but are also more dangerous. It is harder to control a heavier chainsaw in an emergency situation, which is a significant disadvantage.

You can find a chainsaw that’s extremely, extremely light in weight here. It weighs just 12.8 pounds. That’s an incredible weight for a chainsaw!

LowVib System

LowVib, a vibration-reducing system, reduces fatigue by reducing vibratory noise during operation. Statistics back this up.

  • The vibration measured on the front handle is 3.4 m/s².
  • while the vibration on the rear handle is 4.5 m/s².

So, if you use the saw at 4.5 m/s2, you can safely use it for 2 hours within an 8-hour period.

However, despite these levels being considered low in comparison to other power tools, it is always advisable to wear anti-vibration gloves. Because protection is necessary!

Smart Start

Further, let’s talk about the Smart Start technology. Anyone who regularly uses a chainsaw knows how troublesome it can be to start a gas chainsaw.

It is not unusual for chainsaws to hit bumps as they start. You might tire yourself out just trying to get it started, which is a serious roadblock before you even begin working.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher - Smart Start

Therefore, Husqvarna designed its Smart Start technology to ensure that new users and even professionals can start working right away. With its smart start, you won’t have to deal with a loud, annoying, and highly vibrating start of the chainsaw!

User Experience

Rancher 455 consumers are generally satisfied with the product. In the hundreds of reviews online, 78% of consumers rate it as good or excellent, which is pretty good for a gas saw.

In addition to its ease of use, consumers enjoy the saw’s power and cutting ability. Furthermore, they appreciate its comprehensive feature set as well.

For the negative reviews it received, some users found that this saw was heavy, which is perhaps not surprising considering that it is a top-end homeowner’s saw. Some users reported experiencing engine failure, but this could have been caused by using fuel with high ethanol content.

Price

The Husqvarna 455 chainsaw costs somewhat around $400. However, the price may vary from region to region.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • It is super powerful in its working and functionality

  • Is eco-friendly and fuel-efficient

  • A low vibration system is one of the best things about this saw

  • Easily handles larger trees as well

Cons
  • The fuel tank is small

  • The brake system is a bit complicated

 

Alternate Options for Husqvarna 455 Rancher

If there’s something about Husqvarna that doesn’t really suit your type of needs, you might want to look for some alternate options to it. And here we are, with some similar options you might want to choose from.

  1. DeWalt 20V Chainsaw
  2. Poulan Pro PR5020
  3. Greenworks 40V Chainsaw
  4. Husqvarna 120 Mark ii

1. DeWalt 20V Chainsaw

It utilizes 20V MAX XR batteries and is compatible with your current 20V MAX batteries. With this gas-free chainsaw, there are no gas fumes, carburetor problems, or maintenance issues. You can totally depend on this chainsaw to do the job.

DEWALT 20V Chainsaw - Design

For tough construction and outdoor tasks such as cutting beams, demolishing buildings, and removing tree limbs, this tool is perfect. Additionally, its lightweight design allows for maximum control. Additionally, its brushless motor technology enables long motor runs with minimal maintenance.

2. Poulan Pro PR5020

This Poulan Pro PR5020 chainsaw has a 50 CC 2-cycle engine that makes it exceptionally powerful and easy to use. It is an all-around, robust model with low weight and an OxyPower engine that offers high power, low emissions, and lower fuel consumption.

Poulan Pro PR5020 Review

Furthermore, this engine offers easy handling and maintenance due to the convenient side adjustment of the chain tensioning and the cylinder cover clips that are easily accessed for easy filter and spark plug replacement. Hence, if you’re looking for an alternate option to Husqvarna 455, this Poulan chainsaw is an amazing option.

3. GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw

Powered by a 40V 4.0 Ah G-MAX battery, GreenWorks claims that all it takes is one charge to cut a cord of wood. This tool, without a doubt, has a good amount of run-time for practical purposes.

Greenworks 40v Chainsaw Review

Brushless motors are one of the biggest advantages of the GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw. Therefore, it is an electronically commutated system where no efficiencies are lost due to brushes contacting the motor’s commutator. Due to the brushless motor, it typically runs cooler, is quieter, and also produces fewer vibrations.

This is an amazing development and is a major leap forward in chainsaw technology we had yet to see until this model came our way.

4. Husqvarna 120 Mark ii

This one’s another masterpiece by Husqvarna. Our 120 Mark II is best suited for light-duty work because of its lightweight construction and power rating of 1.88 HP. The 120 Mark II can now run for much longer due to the increase in fuel capacity of nearly 321%.

Husqvarna 120 Mark II Review

In other words, if you need to gather firewood, you can use this chainsaw without needing to carry a lot of extra fuel. Alternatively, you can use it in conjunction with your large felling saw, which may have a 60cc engine and 30-inch bar.

Limbing and pruning fallen trees, it’s great for homeowners as well as professionals.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher – Most Common Uses

Husqvarna 455 Rancher is basically an all-rounder saw. Here are some uses of it.

  • It is perfect for processing wood
  • Clearing fallen trees
  • Cutting small to medium-sized trees
  • And various other jobs around the house and on the farm.
  • The bar has a length of 20 inches, so it can be used for a wide range of applications.

Husqvarna Chainsaw 455 Rancher Vs 460

In general, the major difference between the 455 Rancher and the 460 Rancher chainsaws comes down to the size and power of their engines.

In addition to having a greater power output, the 460 produces slightly more torque. It isn’t a great difference, but it allows you to use a 24-inch bar and chain, as opposed to the maximum 20-inch bar on the 455 models.

In spite of the larger engine, the 460 has a marginally better fuel efficiency than the 455. However, in terms of operation and handling, both of these saws are very similar.

Husqvarna Chainsaw 455 Rancher Problems

Even though the Husqvarna chainsaw 455 is one of the most powerful chainsaws, you may encounter some common problems while using it.

Here are some common complaints we’ve heard.

  • It won’t start sometimes
  • Oil adjustment might be an issue some days
  • Vibrations might be loud
  • The air filter sometimes gets clogged

How to Start a Husqvarna 455 Rancher Chainsaw

Here’s what you need to do to start a Husqvarna 455 rancher chainsaw.

  1. Pull out the starter cord slowly until you feel resistance when you pull the starter handle with your right hand. Make sure you pull it firmly. Don’t exceed 12″-14″ in pulling the starter cord.
  2. Pull the engine quickly until it starts.
  3. Listen for a sound like an engine partially starting or firing for a few rotations.
  4. It usually takes two to three pulls for this to Next, presses the choke valve as well as push in the decompression valve once more.
  5. Start the engine by repeatedly pulling the starter handle. The engine speed must be set to idle as soon as possible since the chain brake is still engaged.
  6. You do this by depressing the throttle lock, increasing engine RPMs quickly, and then releasing the throttle trigger.

How Many CC is Husqvarna 455 Rancher?

The Husqvarna 455 rancher has a 55.5 CC engine and chain speed at maximum power is 20 meters per second, with a power output of 2.6 KW.

What Size Chain Does a Husqvarna 455 Rancher Take?

Most Husqvarna 455 ranchers use two different chain lengths for their chainsaws, one being the the18-inches and the other one 20-inches.

An environment with high production demands can make good use of this chain size. Furthermore, this chain has a low vibration level. It, however, tends to loosen over time, so bar tension needs to be adjusted. Doing so will allow the chain to work smoothly and assist in tightening it.

Spark Plug for Husqvarna 455 Chainsaw

Husqvarna 455 uses NGK BPMR7A, Champion RCJ7Y spark plug. It has a 0.01 inches ignition module air gap, 0.02 inches electrode gap with an automatic oil pump type.

Husqvarna 455 Chainsaw Won’t Start. Why?

One of the common problems you might also experience is that the Husqvarna 455 chainsaw won’t start sometimes. This could be due to some troubleshooting of the chainsaw.

Here are some possibilities that may lead to this problem.

  • The air filter is dirty or clogged
  • The spark plug is either damaged or faulty
  • The compression is too high or too low
  • A cold climate and stubborn climate

The Air Filter is Dirty or Clogged

You need to check the airflow through your rancher if your chainsaw does not start. You probably have a dirty and clogged air filter to blame for this.

With less air, it pulls more gas. Therefore, not enough air gets into the rancher’s engine’s combustion chamber, resulting in the engine not starting. This causes it to not start when you turn it on.

The Spark Plug is Either Damaged or Faulty

This could be another common reason for the Husqvarna 455 chainsaw not being able to start. Spark plug response is important for igniting fuel. Having been corroded for a long period of time, the spark plug may become damaged and faulty.

Thus, you will not be able to run your chainsaw rancher because the fuel can’t be ignited. Therefore, if you are experiencing this problem, it’s a good idea to look for a spark.

The Compression is Too High or Too Low

Having compression issues can also cause your chainsaw to completely shut down. Consequently, a damaged piston ring can stop the chainsaw from starting.

Cycle pressure is maintained by these rings, thus ensuring the combustion chamber can generate enough power. However, problems can occur when crankcase pressure leaks cause the crankcase to leak. When this occurs, engine power is lost.

As a result, your chainsaw’s engine will cease to work.

A Cold Climate and Stubborn Starters

Cold weather makes it more likely to not cause a problem while starting. It will be more difficult to start a chainsaw when it is extremely cold.

Furthermore, Husqvarna chainsaw model 455 also has stubborn starters that cause starting issues. This is due to the high pulling force required by the starter cord.

Husqvarna 455 Chainsaw – FAQs

What is a Husqvarna 455 Rancher worth?
Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is worth $400. There is no better chainsaw in the $400 price range for the average homeowner than the 455 Rancher.
What is the difference between Husqvarna 450 and 455 Rancher?
Even though the 455 is a bit more powerful, its additional power is reflected in a higher sticker price. The 450 is simply more affordable than the 455. Powered by a 55.5 cc engine, the 455 produces 3.4 hp, while the 450 has a 50.2 cc engine that can produce 3.2 hp. Weight-wise, the powerhead on the 455 is about a pound-and-a-half heavier than that on the 450: 12.6 lbs to 11.24 lbs. Furthermore, the 450’s 0.75-pint US fuel tank is slightly larger than that of the 455’s 0.9 pints. But at the same time, they are both excellent chainsaws, and most people can find satisfaction with either. With both, you get Husqvarna’s standard suite of fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, safety, and comfort features.
Is the 455 Rancher a professional chainsaw?
455 Rancher, unfortunately, can’t be considered as the TOP-of-the-line professional chainsaw. However, it’s definitely the best option for the homeowners because it’s an excellent farm and rancher saw.
Where is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher made?
It’s mostly made in Sweden. Sweden manufactures the powerhead, which is then shipped to the US where they’re fitted with Oregon bars made locally.

 

Conclusion

The Husqvarna 455 saw has a solid construction. It has an extremely efficient motor that is highly powerful without consuming a huge amount of fuel. It comes with a 20-inch bar that can be used with a variety of different bars.

With this chainsaw, there aren’t many problems. But the company seems to have a problem with customer service. Because it has complained that the customer service is not particularly responsive, the warranty is difficult to use.

Overall, it is actually a top-notch chainsaw.

 

Join The Discussion