Pro-level power and control; Husqvarna 555 Gas chainsaw cuts fast, starts easy, lasts.
A blown-down oak after a storm. A long line of firewood to buck before dark. This is when your old homeowner saw bogs down and tests your patience. The Husqvarna 555 steps in with real muscle and clean cuts. It keeps chain speed up under load and saves your back with smart ergonomics. If you need more than a weekend toy, this 60cc workhorse can turn tough jobs into simple tasks.
Is Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw Good?
Yes—if you want pro-grade power without jumping to a full-on logging saw. The Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw hits a sweet spot for ranch work, firewood, and storm cleanup. It has strong torque, a fast throttle, and a comfortable feel for long days. If you only prune branches, it may be more saw than you need.
On my first day, I dropped and bucked a 22-inch red oak. The Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw held chain speed and did not bog. The 24-inch bar was right at home. A week later, I cleared a dense pile of maple rounds. Warm starts were quick, and the LowVib system kept my hands fresh. This saw feels built for real work.
My First Impression for Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw
It arrived well-protected, with clear manuals and a clean bar/chain pack. The finish looked pro from the start. The magnesium crankcase felt solid, and the controls had a tight, precise click. The felling marks were easy to see, which I appreciate.
Setup was simple. Mount the bar, tension the X‑Cut chain, add 50:1 mix and bar oil, and prime. Cold start took a few pulls, then it settled into a steady idle. My first cuts through seasoned ash felt fast and smooth. I expected power; I did not expect it to feel this balanced. I was excited to keep cutting, which says a lot.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- 60cc, 4.16 HP X‑Torq engine for strong torque and better fuel use
- 24-inch bar with sharp, fast-cutting X‑Cut chain out of the box
- LowVib anti‑vibration system for less fatigue on long jobs
- Air Injection pre‑cleaning helps keep the air filter cleaner longer
- Magnesium crankcase and pro‑grade build for durability
- Side‑mounted chain tensioner for quick, easy adjustments
- Adjustable oil pump to set flow for wood type and bar length
- Inertia‑activated chain brake for safety
- Clear felling marks for more accurate cuts
What I Like
- Serious cutting speed in hardwoods without bogging
- Comfortable balance and low vibration for long sessions
- Starts reliably hot or cold with simple controls
- Strong torque holds chain speed in big cuts
- Durable build that feels shop‑ready, not a toy
- X‑Cut chain arrives sharp and stays sharp longer
What Could Be Better
- A bit heavy for light pruning or ladder work
- Loud, so good ear protection is a must
- Price may be high for casual users
My Recommendation
If you cut hardwood often, the Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw is a smart buy. It shines for ranch work, storm cleanup, and steady firewood use. It is best for users who outgrew homeowner saws and want pro power with sane weight. If you only prune once a month, pick a smaller saw. For real wood flow, this model delivers value.
Quick Start Checklist I Use
- New saw: fit the bar and chain and set the tension.
- Mix 50:1 fuel with quality two‑stroke oil.
- Fill bar oil and set the adjustable oil pump for your bar length.
- Prime per manual and pull the starter. Expect 1–4 pulls cold.
- Check chain brake, choke, and idle before cutting.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Firewood cutters | Fast cuts, holds speed in hardwood, low vibration |
| Ranch and farm owners | Durable build, easy starting, reliable in all seasons |
| Storm cleanup crews | Strong torque with 24-inch reach for large limbs |
Chainsaw Maintenance and Care (What I Do)
Keeping a 60cc saw happy is simple if you follow a routine. Do these tasks after every job or at least weekly during a cut season.
- Clean the bar groove and oil holes. Good lubrication cuts wear.
- Check chain tension often. A loose chain wears the sprocket and bar.
- Sharpen the X‑Cut chain with a proper file or a pro sharpener. A sharp chain cuts safer and uses less fuel.
- Clean or replace the air filter. Air Injection helps, but dust still gets in.
- Change spark plug and inspect the ignition system seasonally.
- Use fresh fuel and rotate mixed gas every 30 days. Ethanol-free is better when available.
- Inspect the chain brake and sprocket cover for damage after heavy use.
Safety Gear and Best Practices
Chainsaws are powerful tools. Use safety gear every time. I always wear:
- ANSI-rated chainsaw chaps or cut-resistant pants.
- Full-face helmet with visor and hearing protection.
- Gloves with good grip and some cut resistance.
- Steel-toe boots or logger boots with traction.
- Eye protection even under the visor for small debris.
Use the inertia‑activated chain brake and hold the saw firmly. Let the saw do the work. Never cut above shoulder height. Be mindful of kickback zones and always check the chain depth gauge and sharpness.
How to Choose Bar Length for Your Work
The 555 handles 18 to 24 inch bars well. I prefer 20 inches for firewood. It balances reach, control, and fuel use. Use a 24-inch bar for large trunks and storm cleanup. Match the chain pitch and gauge to the bar. If you cut small limbs and prunes, choose an 18-inch or a lighter saw.
Why This Saw Works Well for Hardwoods
Hardwoods demand torque and steady chain speed. The 4.16 HP X‑Torq engine delivers strong torque. That helps the chain stay moving in deep cuts. The X‑Cut chain design is an efficient cutter. It has long tooth life in clean wood. Together, they reduce the number of stops to sharpen and refuel. That lowers your total job time.
Alternative Products You Can Consider
Stihl MS 362 C‑M — A 59cc pro saw with M‑Tronic auto carb tuning. It is smooth, strong, and very refined. It matches the 555 in power and edges it on fuel management tech. Best for users with a local Stihl dealer and who value easy tuning. It can cost a bit more.
Echo CS‑590 Timber Wolf — A 59.8cc value powerhouse. It is simple, tough, and budget‑friendly. It cuts hard, but vibration control and finish are a notch below the 555. Best for cost‑conscious users who still want a legit 60cc class saw.
Husqvarna 460 Rancher — A 60cc landowner saw with less pro trim. It is lighter on the wallet and fine for seasonal work. It cannot match the Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw in torque, anti‑vibe, or long‑day comfort. Best for casual property owners who cut a few cords a year.
| Product | Best For | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw | Ranch, firewood, storm work | Pro build, strong torque, low vibration |
| Stihl MS 362 C‑M | Pro users wanting auto carb tuning | M‑Tronic tuning and refined manners |
| Echo CS‑590 Timber Wolf | Budget buyers needing 60cc power | Lower price, simpler design |
| Husqvarna 460 Rancher | Casual landowners | Less expensive, lighter-duty feel |
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Pick the Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw if you want a tough, fast 60cc saw for real work. It brings pro power, comfort, and smart features that help you cut more with less fatigue. It fits ranchers, firewood sellers, and anyone who needs steady performance.
Choose the Stihl MS 362 C‑M if you want auto carb tuning and a refined feel. Go Echo CS‑590 if price matters most but you still want big power. Select the Husqvarna 460 Rancher for lighter, seasonal use on a budget. For most serious users, the 555 is the best balance of speed, build, and comfort.
FAQs Of Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw Review
What bar lengths work well on the 555?
The 555 handles 18 to 24 inches well. I like 20 inches for firewood. Use 24 inches for bigger trunk cuts. Match chain and bar specs for safety.
What fuel mix should I use?
Use 50:1 with high‑quality two‑stroke oil. Run fresh, ethanol‑free fuel when you can. Do not store fuel mix long. Rotate it often.
Is it hard to start?
Cold starts are simple with the choke and primer. Warm starts usually take one to two pulls. Follow the manual steps and it fires up fast.
How is the vibration and fatigue?
LowVib works well. My hands feel better after long cuts. The saw has weight, but balance is good. Good gloves help even more.
Is the chain any good out of the box?
Yes, the X‑Cut chain is sharp and fast. It holds an edge well in clean wood. Touch it up often for the best results.
How often should I sharpen the chain?
Sharpen after every few cords or when you feel the saw slow down. A dull chain needs more throttle and burns fuel. Use a round file sized to the chain pitch. If unsure, take it to a pro sharpener.
Can I use ethanol-blended gas?
You can, but limit ethanol use and avoid storing mixed fuel long. Ethanol attracts water and can cause carburetor issues. When possible, use ethanol‑free gas for best results.
How does it handle aftermarket parts and service?
Parts are common for Husqvarna. Dealers and many online stores stock bars, chains, filters, and carb parts. The magnesium crankcase and standard mounting make it easy to service in a small shop.
Overall, the Husqvarna 555 is a solid choice for anyone who needs consistent 60cc performance. It blends power, reliability, and serviceability in a package meant for real work.