BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw with Extra Battery - Controlled

In this review of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw with Extra Lithium Battery, the bottom line is simple: this is a compact, safer option for homeowners who need a reliable tool for small to medium yard work. It stands out because its innovative clamping jaws both grab and cut in one motion, making controlled cuts easier for less experienced users. The included 20-volt MAX lithium-ion battery and a spare 2.0 amp hour pack mean longer runtime for typical pruning and light limb removal, but users should be aware that battery longevity reports are mixed.

Key Features

• Clamping jaws: The innovative clamping jaws grab and cut in one motion to help keep branches steady and reduce kickback risk.
• 20-volt MAX power: The chainsaw is powered by a 20-volt MAX lithium-ion battery that delivers improved performance over older NiCad designs.
• Extra battery included: A second 2.0 amp hour lithium battery extends usable runtime for multi-task sessions without waiting to recharge.
• Compatibility: The battery platform is compatible with other Black & Decker 20 Volt Max lithium-ion cordless tools, simplifying battery management.
• Improved runtime: The lithium-ion pack offers longer runtime and better charge retention compared with NiCad batteries for typical homeowner tasks.

Who It's For

This chainsaw is best suited for homeowners, gardeners, and anyone who needs a lightweight saw for pruning, trimming, and cutting small to medium branches around the yard. Its clamping jaw design makes it attractive to users who prioritize controlled, safer cutting and an easier learning curve than a full-size chainsaw.

It is not aimed at professionals or heavy-duty users who need sustained high power for large logs or long continuous runs; those users should look for full-size gas or high-capacity battery chainsaws. Also, buyers who need long-term, heavy use should consider the mixed reports on battery charge retention before relying on this as their primary heavy-duty tool.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clamping jaws provide safer, more controlled cuts for pruning and small limb removal.
• Includes a spare 2.0 amp hour lithium battery for extended runtime during yard work.
• 20-volt MAX lithium-ion platform offers improved runtime and works with other 20V Max tools.

Cons

• Battery life and long-term charge retention are mixed in user reports, so some buyers may experience shorter-than-expected runtimes.

Specifications

Brand	BLACK+DECKER
Power source	20-volt MAX lithium-ion battery
Included battery	Extra 2.0 amp hour lithium battery
Key feature	Innovative clamping jaws for grab-and-cut operation
Compatibility	Compatible with Black & Decker 20 Volt Max lithium-ion tools
Intended use	Small to medium branch cutting and general yard trimming

Our Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw with an extra 2.0 amp hour battery is a smart buy for homeowners who want a safer, easy-to-use tool for pruning and light yard work. Its clamping jaws and the 20-volt MAX platform deliver convenient, controlled cutting and reasonable runtime, making it good value for occasional to moderate use; those needing heavy continuous power should opt for a larger system.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the battery last on a single charge?
Runtime varies with cut size and frequency, but the included 2.0 amp hour batteries extend usable time for typical small to medium jobs; some users report shorter life over long-term use.

Is this chainsaw compatible with other batteries?
Yes, it uses the Black & Decker 20 Volt Max lithium-ion battery platform and is compatible with other tools that use the same batteries.

Is it safe for inexperienced users?
The clamping jaw design helps provide controlled cuts and reduces kickback, making it a safer option than many standard chainsaws for casual users.