Husqvarna 455 Rancher Chainsaw Review
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a true heavy-duty chainsaw used by many land owners and professionals alike. The Husqvarna 405 rancher chainsaw builds upon the features of previous Husqvarna chainsaw models and has a lot of new features as well. Consequently, it is more powerful, versatile and user-friendly. But is this Husqvarna chainsaw really worth the purchase? After all, this is not a cheap chainsaw and in the Husqvarna line of chainsaws, there are much cheaper alternatives. However, let’s review this model in depth, paying attention to the details, and see if the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is worth the money, shall we?
If you want to buy Husqvarna chainsaws, here are some reviews that I recommend you to read such as Husqvarna 450, Husqvarna 435, Husqvarna 240.
Husqvarna 455 Rancher Review
#1. Technical Feature
Power
We cannot complain about power when it comes to the Husqvarna 455. After all, this is a premium and professional chainsaw with a beefy motor of 55.5 cc. The 455 Rancher has a maximum power output of 3.49 HP allowing it to cut right through any material, whether it is softwood or hardwood like butter. This is one of the main advantages of having a super-powered chainsaw. It makes the task of cutting through the material so much easier.
Of course, as with all Husqvarna chainsaws, the motor is equipped with X-Torq technology that makes it consume less fuel for a higher performance. Despite being a very powerful model, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher outputs fewer ad cleaner fumes. This is a rarity, especially considering that high-powered gas chainsaws usually emit a lot of fumes. We were glad to note that this chainsaw operates cleanly, even under heavy-duty usage.
Additionally, the air injection system helps prolong both the motor and the air filters by catching dust and debris before it hits the enough parts of the device which can eventually cause it to underperform. Under-performance will never be a problem with the Husqvarna 455.
Lastly, this model uses commonly available spark plugs like Champion RCJ7Y and NGK BPMR7A. This will further help boost the efficiency of the Husqvarna 455 since those spark plugs are exceptionally efficient at burning fuel.
Guide Bar
One of the main attractions of this model is the versatile guide bar. By default, it is a long 20-inch guide bar, but you can quickly and easily swap it for a more modest size. You can use any size you want; with the chain you like for up to a minimum of 13-inch.
Additionally, the chain bar is made from very tough and durable materials which mean that it will not bend under load. This provides an excellent platform for the high speed chain which can rotate to up to a maximum of 9000 RPM and idle at 2700 RPM. All in all, due to the ease of changing the guide bar, there is a lot of versatility in this model which will allow you to perform a wide range of cutting applications.
#2. User-friendly
Due to multiple technologies used in the Husqvarna 455 Rancher, it is extremely easy to start despite it being a gas powered chainsaw. Most gas powered chainsaws have terrible difficulties starting up, but this is not a problem with this model. Indeed, it makes full use of the X-Torq technology as well as a stop control that prevents the fuel from flooding the engine.
Moreover, there are almost no vibrations in this chainsaw due to a patented technology called LowVib. This technology guarantee that you get the least amount of vibrations when operating this chainsaw, even when it is under its maximum load.
The Husqvarna 455 also has a spacious and comfortable handlebar. It is coated with a soft rubber material with felling marks for maximum comfort and less user fatigue. Additionally, it has an adjustable oil pump that allows you to control the oil flow depending on the weather and material. Indeed, this model is fitted with an automatic lubricating system that will automatically lubricate the chain for you. Very practical, as this allows you to gain in productivity as lubrication is crucial for an efficient, and clean cut using a chainsaw.
#3. Safety
Like all products of this caliber, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw has security features like anti-kickback. Indeed, the chain bar is designed in a way to provide maximum safety to the user. The chain will never come loose, and when it closes in on a tough spot like a node or a knot, it will automatically brake the chain to provide a kickback.
#4. Other features
- Side Mounted Tensioners: the side mounted tensioners allows you to quickly and easily adjust the tensioning of the chain using basic tools like a screwdriver.
- LowVib: The motor and the spinning chain does not communicate directly with the handlebar. The result is more comfortable cutting experience with fewer overall vibrations.
#5. Price
As any high-end chainsaw, the Husqvarna 455 does not come cheap. Indeed, it is an expensive chainsaw that is intended mostly for professionals and semiprofessionals. However, when taking into account the ease-of-use, performance and the comfort that this chainsaw provides, its price is easily justifiable. Unless we forget, Husqvarna is a premium brand making premium chainsaws and most of their models are more expensive than that of other brands. This is not necessarily a bad thing since you get the best of the best quality when it comes to chainsaws.
#6. Expert Reviews
Many experts use the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw so if you of them took the time to make a review.Popular Woodworking YouTube channel “Tools in Action” made an excellent demonstration of this chainsaw a few years ago. In the video footage, you can see a man using the Husqvarna 455 rancher to cut medium-size two large trees in a matter of seconds. Indeed, the performance and ease-of-use of this chainsaw are truly legendary. Our jaw dropped throughout the demonstration video. We recommend you check it out to get a feel of the actual power behind this chainsaw.
#7. Pros/Cons
Pros
- Very powerful 55.5 cc motor. Will cut through anything with exceptional ease
- Adjustments can quickly and easily be made, including the chain tensioning system which is located to the side of the chainsaw
- No vibrations and exceptional handling. It is comfortable to hold and work with since the handle is separated from the motor and chain
- Air injection system extends the life of the filters and the whole chainsaw
- Long bar of 20-inch allows you to cut material of up to 40-inch in diameter. You can easily cut a medium to large size treat with this chainsaw
Cons
- The price. It is an expensive chainsaw
Who Should Buy?
Due to the expensive price of the Husqvarna 455 Rancher, we recommend this model only to professionals who make a living cutting trees. Additionally, if you work in a lumber yard you will find excellent use for this ultra-powerful chainsaw. It will cut medium-size to large trees in a matter of seconds with its 20-inch bar. Yes, seconds!
Last Updated on January 19, 2019 by Tom Bradly