Best Saw for Cutting Ice: Cut Ice Like Butter

How did you think people preserved food before refrigerators came? Until the early 20th century, farmers and icemen used to cut large chunks of ice from lakes and rivers and carry them into cold storages to preserve food.

Though mechanical refrigeration replaced this ice trade, ice is still being cut for different purposes with modern saws. We’ll take a thorough look at some popular saws to find out the best saw for cutting ice.

The pile of reviews will be followed by a comprehensive buying guide that is effective for everyone, even for absolute beginners. Let’s cut deep into the ice.

Hand Saw Vs. Chain Saw for Cutting Ice

The major difference between hand saw vs. chain saw for cutting ice is in the purpose of cutting. Ice chain saw is mainly used to cut dense layers of ice either to cut the layer into big blocks or to make holes into the ice for fishing.

Hand ice saw, on the other hand, is used for more intricate works like making sculptures or cutting shapes into ice. This type of saw is commonly used to carve ice cubes with unique designs.

Ice sculptors use both saws to create art. Large blocks of ice are cut with a chain saw, and then they use a hand saw to craft all the details.

Though a chain saw is used to cut or pierce large ice layers, a hand saw might be necessary to cut the required opening for the chain saw to work.

Reviews of the Best Saw for Cutting Ice

Here comes the stars of today’s show. From an array of hundreds of saws of different types, we have chosen these few items for your attention. Here you go.

1. Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Key Features

• Power Output: 3.62 HP
• Engine Displacement: 60.3 cc
• Max Speed: 9,000 RPM
• Max Torque: 3.4 Nm
• Bar Length: 24 inches
• Chain Pitch: .325 and .375 inches
• Chain Gauge: .050 inches
• Weight: 13.2 lbs

460 Rancher is arguably the best chainsaw for cutting ice. Though it is a general-purpose saw, you can use it to cut thick layers of ice. Different sized bars can fit this chainsaw, but this model has a bar length of 24 inches.

With this long bar, you can cut ice from a good distance that will save you from splashes of ice or water while cutting. Often the biggest problem with gas-powered chain saws is the difficulty to start them.

 

At Husqvarna, they use the SmartStart feature that includes several aids to start the engine faster, even in cold weather. Choke, air purge, compression release buttons work together to give the engine a quick start.

Due to the centrifugal motion in the air filtration system of this machine, you need to replace the air filter less frequently. The anti-vibration system of this chainsaw will reduce fatigue during work.

The chain tensioner is mounted on the side of the device. And talking about the ergonomic, the front handle is positioned at a 7-degree offset to give you the most comfortable holding posture.

Husqvarna has given its best to fine-tune this cutting machine.

2. OJENAS 070 2-Stroke Chain Saw

Key Features

• Power Output: 6.5 HP
• Engine Displacement: 105.7 cc
• Max Speed: 8,000 RPM
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.2 liters
• Bar Length: 36 inches
• Chain Pitch: .404 inches
• Chain Gauge: .063 inches
• Weight: 23.1 lbs

This mammoth is up for handling heavy-duty cutting jobs. A 105.7 cc engine powers this giant for cutting ice, wood, trees, etc.

The powerful engine keeps the machine constantly running for a longer period to finish your cutting jobs faster. As the fuel consumption is lower compared to other big chainsaws, it won’t be heavy on your pocket.

It has a 36-inch guide bar, but you can use anything between 30 to 42 inches. The chain gauge and pitch are also a bit larger than traditional ice-cutting saws. So, handling the machine can be a bit difficult for newbies.

But thanks to the easy start and low kickback features of the saw, that will allow you to use the saw with the least hassle. The chain blades don’t get dull easily if you use the machine only for cutting ice.

O-Jenas has direct competition to brands like Husqvarna and Makita where this behemoth clearly wins. But keep in mind, this heavy saw might not always be the most suitable one if your workload is too low.

For larger workloads, this is just perfect.

3. HUYOSEN 5520E Cordless Chain Saw

Key Features

• Power Output: 3.4 HP
• Engine Displacement: 54.6 cc
• Max Speed: 8,500 RPM
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 550 ml
• Bar Length: 18 inches
• Chain Pitch: .325 inches
• Chain Gauge: .058 inches
• Weight: 15.6 lbs

The 5520E from HUYOSEN is one of the most commonly used ice-cutting saws. Due to its power to weight ratio, it is widely accepted among workers and sculptors.

It gives you the ability to cut through dense layers of ice with the least effort as the engine displacement is in the perfect range for a saw of this weight. The chances of kickback are very low on this ice fishing saw, or ice block cutting saw.

Special features of this machine include a chain brake and buck teeth. A modern air filtration system is also incorporated in this saw to make the air filter last longer and give optimum performance.

It increases fuel economy and the working life of the machine at the same time. The design of this saw emphasizes the ergonomic benefits of the worker. The front handle is cushioned for better grip and comfort.

This cushioning will absorb a great amount of vibration while running the machine and give you less fatigue. It also includes a safety stop switch for preventing mishaps.

From a cold start to roaring through the highest power, 5520E does incredibly well.

4. Makita UC4051A Chain Saw

Key features

• Power Type: Corded Electric
• Input Voltage: 110 V
• Amperage: 14.5 amp
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: .375 inches
• Chain Gauge: .050 inches
• Chain Speed: 2,900 FPM
• Weight: 12.3 lbs

Makita is known for developing and manufacturing outstanding power tools. This ice chainsaw endorses the credibility of the brand with its sheer power and performance.

All of the saws you have seen till now were gas-powered, but this tool is an electric one. So, you can easily use this in your home for personal use. The dimensions are smaller, and the weight is low, so you can use it for a longer period.

It incorporates what they call a tool-less adjustment system. So, even if you have forgotten to bring the right tools for adjustment, you can do that by just twisting a simple knob.

Low kickback makes this saw very suitable for cutting thick ice. Besides, you don’t even need to worry about the runtime of the saw. The device itself will control the input current to prevent the saw from overheating.

Where many other chain saws have a gross start-up system, this one starts up smoothly regardless of the weather conditions. But remember, if you are going to cut a huge block of ice, that might be an issue with this saw.

On top of that, this isn’t too affordable either. So, be sure about your purpose and budget before investing in this.

5. Worx WG303.1 Electric Chainsaw

Key Features

• Power Type: Corded Electric
• Input Voltage: 120V
• Amperage: 14.5 amp
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: .375 inches
• Chain Gauge: .050 inches
• Chain Speed: 2,362 FPM
• Weight: 11 lbs

The WG303.1 has almost the same specifications as the previous electric saw from Makita. But it is notably lighter and has a lower chain speed compared to that product. So, it will be a good solution for simpler tasks.

The saw doesn’t look bulky at all. Rather it is very slim and aggressive. This saw is extremely popular because of its lightweight handling, comfortable grip, and smooth performance.

A chain brake is incorporated into the machine to prevent unwanted damages. In the event of a kickback, the machine will shut off on its own to protect you from danger. Having this feature in such a small chainsaw is really bliss.

Auto chain tensioner also makes it easier for the newbies as they often don’t know the right amount of tension to put in. In this saw, you don’t need to worry about that at all. You don’t need to worry about lubricating the chain either.

With a max power output of 3.5 HP, The WG303.1 will handle most of your ice cutting jobs. Besides, you can cut a lot of other things with this budget saw.

6. SURSUN Hand Ice Saw

Key Features

• Material: Heat-treated Steel
• Blade Length: 42 inches
• Overall Length: 82 inches
• Weight: 7 lbs

This is quite different from the saws you have seen till now. It’s not for heavy-duty ice cutting jobs. Rather, it is a hand saw to be used for ice fishing.

If you are fishing in frozen lakes or rivers and want to do angling or spearing, this can be the best hand saw for cutting ice. You can create holes of any shape with the 42-inch blade.

Though it has a length of 44 inches when folded so that you can carry it easily, it will have a length of 82 inches when unfolded. So, you can easily make holes in the ice while standing upright.

Using a chain saw for ice fishing can be dangerous sometimes. As the vibration and noise are much greater on chain saws, you can endanger the lives of yours and others.

But there is no such risk with this hand saw. Other than fishing, it is also used by sculptors for making rough cuts on the ice blocks to bring them in the desired size. Smaller saws are then used to carve intricate designs.

If you are planning to roughly cut moderately thick ice, then this can be a good solution.

7. Lakco Folding Ice Saw

Key Features

• Material: Anti-rust Steel
• Blade Length: 42 inches
• Overall Length: 84 inches
• Weight: 5.6 lbs

Though Lakco folding ice saw doesn’t look like the previous saw for SURSUN, it performs almost the same. But you will see some major differences in their characteristics.

It has a fiberglass handle with EVA grips. So, you can easily hold the saw for a longer period and have a comfortable grip. While cutting thick ice, this comfortable grip will save your palms. Besides, the sturdy build quality of the saw ensures you can cut through any thickness of the ice.

Ripping teeth of the saw cuts through ice quite easily, and the chiseling point at the top of the blade helps you cut shapes. When not in use, you can fold this 82-inch saw into a 44-inch one.

Cutting large holes, carrying the blade, or holding it in hands, everything is easier with this ice saw for spearing. And by far, it is the best ice cutting handsaw you will find out there at this price range.

A great buy for your ice fishing needs.

8. Nils Master ICESAW84 Ice Saw

Key Features

• Material: Chrome-plated Steel
• Blade Length: 42 inches
• Overall Length: 84 inches
• Weight: 5 lbs

Nils hand saw is probably the lightest in its class. With a weight of just 5 lbs, you can use it for longer than other saws without any fatigue.

Those ripping teeth of the steel blade are made to cut smoothly through dense ice sheets. So, once a pilot hole is drilled, you can use this hand saw to cut through the ice and make spearing holes of any size and shape of your preference.

Due to the offset teeth of this saw blade, cutting through thick ice layers will be easier. This saw now comes with a wooden handle for a comfortable grip. Besides, you can easily fold the blade into the handle for safe and easy transportation.

The total length of the blade and handle is suitable for ice fishing as you might often keep standing while spearing holes. As the blade is made of high-grade steel, it won’t get dull too easily.

As this doesn’t use any mechanical energy, you won’t have to care about fuel, oil, or maintenance. It is not harmful to the environment at all. You also create almost zero noise while using this saw.

This saw is on the pricier side, but If you are more into being environment-friendly and don’t want to take the hassle of managing mechanical saws, then this can be a good choice.

Best Saw for Cutting Ice Buying Guide

We are dividing the buying guide into two distinct sections so that you can get to know the factors for different types of saws separately. Please have a look.

Chain Saw Buying Guide

Make sure you are checking these factors for buying the best cutting chain saw.

Engine Displacement and Power Output

Pretty much everyone knows that bigger engines will generate more power. But at the same time, they weigh more and consume more fuel. So, finding the right balance is the key here.

For light to medium cutting jobs, chain saws with a 40-60 cc engine will be good enough.

Guide Bar Length

The guide bar is the extended part of the saw, which works as a rail for the chain. Most budget chain saws have a bar length of 14 to 16 inches. This type of saw is perfect for light cutting jobs.

But saws with a long guide bar will help you cut from a distance, so almost nothing will splash back towards you.

Chain Pitch and Gauge

You have most probably seen chains in bikes or motorcycles. The chain in a chainsaw is made in the same manner with several drive links. The average distance between these drives links is known as the pitch of the chain of a chainsaw.

And the thickness of these drive links is known as the chain gauge. Now, one thing is similar for both these terms. The bigger the chain pitch and gauge number are, the bigger and the heavier the chain will be.

But if the chain is heavier than required, it will reduce the cutting speed and increase fuel expense. Chains with a pitch of .375 inches and a gauge of .050 inches are mostly used for cutting ice.

Chain Brake and Auto Tensioner

The chain brake is a safety feature that your chain saw must-have. It will stop the chain immediately after a kickback happens. So, you can keep from hazards.

And as the chain tends to lose tension after running for a while, it will jump off the rail if you don’t re-tighten the chain. Doing this manually is time-consuming. So, your chain saw should have an auto chain tensioner.

Ergonomics

If the saw you are buying isn’t ergonomic, you won’t be able to work for long with it. Choose something that has a bit of offset handle with good cushioning for a comfortable grip.

Hand Saw Buying Guide

In the case of hand saws, you need to give attention to fewer things. But still, you need them to be in an acceptable range.

Blade Size

Larger hand saws are mostly used for cutting spearing holes in the ice. If you are looking for such a saw, that should have a blade over 40 inches in length. The handle should also be similar in length so that the whole thing can be used standing upright.

Teeth Type

Hand saw blades should have ripping teeth that will easily cut through dense ice layers. There should also be a chisel point on the top of the blade so that shaping or carving becomes easier.

Blade Material

These saw blades are mostly made of high-grade steel. Sometimes the blade teeth can be carbide coated or diamond-tipped for better cutting performance and longer working life.

Portability

Carrying such a long saw is a big headache. So, the saw you are buying should be foldable. It will make transportation or storage easier when the saw isn’t in use.

Handles work like a sheathing for the blade in these saws. So, the risk of cutting something accidentally gets reduced.

FAQ

Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about ice cutting saws. Please have a look.

How to sharpen a chainsaw chain for cutting ice?

Simply clamp the guide bar of your chain saw on a work table. Mark the first tooth from where you wanna start with a permanent marker. Take a file and sharpen the chain. Remember, never pull the file backward.

How tight should a chainsaw chain be for cutting ice?

To determine the right amount of chain tension, pull the chain downwards until a few drive links are out of the rails. If the chain gets back into the position after releasing, the chain tension is at the right level.

Does a chainsaw chain get damaged after cutting ice?

If the ice you are cutting is dirty or muddy, it will dull the chain quickly. If the ice is clean, it won’t.

How long should the guide bar be for cutting ice?

To cut ice safely, the guide bar should be at least 2-3 inches longer than the depth of the ice block.

What is the best bar length for cutting ice?

There is no definite answer to this question. Chain saws with 18-24 inches bar length are more popular, but you can still use a 36-inch bar.

Final Thoughts

On the ending note, let’s put everything together. Whether you are cutting larger blocks of ice into smaller pieces or spearing holes into ice for fishing, only the best saw for cutting ice should be your choice.

Do keep your eyes on other factors but never get overwhelmed by them. Put quality, performance, and safety on top of the list to make sure you are investing in a saw that will be powerful and pocket-friendly at the same time.