In some ways, it seems peculiar to call Husqvarna’s superb battery powered 436Li chainsaw ‘environmentally friendly’. It certainly has the inverse capacity to be ferocious towards specific parts of the environment in its ability to trim, cut and de-limb trees and woody shrubs. Yet in a more general sense it is very environmentally friendly, with Husqvarna’s cutting edge lithium-ion battery technology providing an exceptional emission-free alternative to a traditional petrol saw.

Driven by a potent and lightweight 36V BLDC electric motor, with power supplied via a quick charging BLi150 battery, the 436Li is remarkable for offering effective cutting power without pumping toxic exhaust out into the atmosphere. As well as being good for Mother Earth, however, the lack of fumes, quiet performance and reduced running costs of the 436Li also make it pleasingly user-friendly. What’s more, unlike many other electric chainsaws the 436Li has been specifically engineered to match petrol machines for performance, with a single charge offering the same run time as one tank of petrol. A power saving ‘savE’ mode, meanwhile, is included to reduce power consumption in less demanding conditions, thus ensuring an even longer battery life and greater efficiency.

Supplied as standard with a 30cm (12”) bar and a 3/8” pitch chain (also compatible with 25cm-35cm/10”-14” bars and 1/4” pitch chains), and capable of delivering a maximum chain speed of 15m/s, the 436Li is ideally suited to light pruning work, trimming unruly shrubs and trees, and various DIY applications. It is therefore perfect for hobbyists and semi-professionals alike, providing smooth, fast cutting performance whether you are pruning fruit trees in a small orchard or indulging in a spot of home improvement. With an adjustable oil pump controlling the flow of oil to the chain, meanwhile, you can also be sure of consistently excellent performance. Furthermore, with its compact, lightweight design (only 2.5kg without cutting gear and battery) and ergonomically designed handles, the 436Li offers enviable accuracy of cut and superb manoeuvrability.

A number of additional features help to make using the 436Li even more convenient. An easily accessible mechanism on the side of the machine casing, for example, provides quick, tool-free chain tensioning to save time, effort and hassle during operation, while the intuitive controls and flip-up oil tank cap further ensure ease of use. To help keep you safe while working, moreover, the 436Li is also fitted with an effective inertia-activated chain brake, offering vital protection against dangerous kickback events. Husqvarna’s 436Li is very much at the cutting edge of chainsaw technology then (please excuse the pun), and undoubtedly one of the best battery powered chainsaws designed for residential use currently available on the market.

*Make sure you are using your chainsaw safely and read our free advice article when you have a spare moment.