Husqvarna 135 Mark II 16 in Gas Chainsaw - Reliable Home Cutting

In this review the Husqvarna 135 Mark II 16 in gas chainsaw is evaluated as a homeowner-focused tool that balances power, ease of use, and durability. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a 38-cc X-Torq engine and user-friendly features that make routine cutting and pruning tasks quicker and less tiring. For anyone who needs a dependable saw for limbs, small trees and firewood, this model delivers strong cutting performance with reduced emissions and simpler maintenance than many basic consumer saws.

Key Features

• 38-cc X-Torq Engine: Provides about 2.1 HP of cutting power while reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency, so typical yard work gets done faster with lower fuel use.
• Smart Start: The effortless start-up system and combined choke/stop control make cold starts and restart after stalling noticeably easier for casual users.
• Air Injection: Centrifugal air cleaning expels larger dust and debris before the filter, helping maintain engine life during dusty or dirty cutting conditions.
• LowVib and Handling: Vibration dampeners reduce operator fatigue and make longer sessions more comfortable for homeowners handling 14 to 16 in bars.
• Side-Mounted Tensioning: The easy-access chain tensioner allows quick slack adjustments on the fly without tools, saving time during jobs.
• Inertia Chain Brake: An inertia-activated brake reduces kickback risk, improving safety for less experienced operators.

Who It's For

The 135 Mark II is aimed at homeowners and light-property owners who need a reliable gas saw for tree pruning, storm cleanup, and cutting firewood. Its combination of a 16 in bar capacity, manageable weight and LowVib setup makes it a good fit for users who want professional-style features without pro-level complexity.

It is not aimed at full-time forestry workers or those who need larger bar lengths beyond 16 in; heavy commercial workloads will outpace this saw and demand higher-displacement models and longer bars.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Starts easily and reliably thanks to Smart Start and combined choke control.
• Good cutting power for its class, with efficient fuel use from the X-Torq engine.
• Comfortable to handle for extended chores due to LowVib technology and relatively light weight.
• Maintenance-friendly features like Air Injection and side-mounted tensioning simplify ownership.

Cons

• Some users report mixed chain life, so expect to monitor chain wear and replacement frequency.
• Bar length is limited to 14-16 in, which restricts larger cutting tasks.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Husqvarna 135 Mark II 16 in is a strong choice for homeowners who want a capable gas chainsaw with easy starting, sensible maintenance features, and comfortable handling. It offers good value for routine cutting and pruning work, though those who need longer bars or commercial durability should look at larger models. For typical yard and firewood tasks it is a practical, efficient pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What bar lengths can I use?
You can use bars between 14 in and 16 in; the model ships with a 16 in bar in most configurations.

Is it easy to start?
Yes, Smart Start and the combined choke/stop control make cold and restart procedures easier than many basic consumer saws.

How durable is the chain?
Cutting performance is strong but some owners report mixed chain life, so plan on regular chain inspection and possible replacement more often under heavy use.