Echo CS

The 50 cc chainsaw is highly competitive and extremely popular thanks to the balance of performance, size, and weight that characterizes it. We spotted the Echo CS-4920 at Equip Expo in 2022 and have now been able to use it out the in field. Should you grab one? It depends on what your needs are.

If you’re familiar with Echo’s CS-4910, a lot of what you’re about to read is going to sound familiar. That’s because the Echo CS-4920 is an upgrade to the chainsaw.

It sports a 50.2 cc stratified 2-stroke engine with a spring-based vibration reduction system that gives your arms a break compared to some competitors. It’s capable of using bars from 16 to 20 inches long.

When you crank the saw up, the low rumble of the engine hints at a beast that’s ready to break loose from its tether. And when you pull the throttle, its ability to make quick work of cuts is evident.

We unleashed it to clear out a section of a large oak that had come down in a storm. About half of the tree was still stable and growing, but we needed to remove the other half that had broken away. The larger branches were 16 – 18 inches, and the saw had no trouble chewing through them as we cut away 2-foot sections to collect and burn later.

One of Echo’s claims to fame with this saw is that it’s the lightest in its class. Dry, you’re looking at 11.1 pounds. That’s more than 1/2 a pound lighter than Husqvarna’s 550 XP and more than a pound lighter than Stihl’s MS 271 Farm Boss.

The big change between the CS-4910 and the CS-4920 is that the saw now has a momentary stop switch. Instead of having to remember to pull the switch back to the on position, it automatically returns to it, so it’s ready to go as soon as you pull the cord.

The air filter access is worth mentioning as well. It’s a completely tool-free system. Release the latch on the lower section and then pull the cover back toward the handle. That’s it. You now have access to the air filter and spark plug. If you need to change out either one, it’s a super-quick operation.

Even though this is an upgrade to the previous model, there’s no upcharge. You can get the saw with a 20-inch bar for $379.99. Echo warranties it for 5 years on the consumer side and 1 year for commercial use.

The Echo CS-4920 chainsaw is perfect for people looking for the mid-range performance of a legitimate farm and ranch class saw at the lightest possible weight. Its 16 – 20-inch bar range gives it a wide range of applications from regular tree care to storm cleanup. It’s not for everyone, though. Professional foresters and arborists who put higher hours on their chainsaws may want to consider stepping up to Echo’s X-Series CS-501P as a heavier-duty alternative.