Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw, 60-cc 4.16-HP 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 24 Inch Chainsaw with X-Cut Chain, For Felling, Limbing and Bucking Small and Midsize Trees
- Engine Type: 2-Cycle X-Torq
- Engine Displacement: 60 cc
- Horsepower: 4.16 HP
- Bar Length: 24 inches
- Chain Type: Husqvarna X-Cut Chain
- Weight: 13.0 pounds
- Starting System: Smart Start
- Safety Features: Inertia-activated chain brake (low kickback)
As an expert with many years of experience testing power chain saws, I understand how important it is to choose the right tool for your work. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw, a top-rated model known for its power and durability. I have carefully tested this 60-cc, 4.16-HP chainsaw with the X-Cut chain to see how it performs in real tasks like felling, limbing, and bucking small to midsize trees. My goal is to give you clear and simple information so you can make a smart buying decision. You can trust my insights because they come from hands-on use and deep research into the features that matter most for both beginners and experienced users.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful 59.8-cc X-Torq engine
- ✅ Easy start with Smart Start system
- ✅ Durable magnesium crankcase and three-piece crankshaft
- ✅ Simple side-mounted chain tensioning
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Heavier than some smaller models
- ❌ Requires regular maintenance for peak performance
- ❌ Higher fuel consumption compared to electric chainsaws
Who Should Buy This
This Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw is perfect for homeowners and small property owners who need a reliable tool for cutting down small to midsize trees. It is great for those who want a powerful yet easy-to-use chainsaw for tasks like felling, limbing, and bucking. If you need a strong chainsaw for regular yard work or light forestry, this model will serve you well. Its 60-cc engine and 24-inch bar provide the right balance of power and control.
However, this chainsaw may not be the best choice for beginners or those who only need to trim small branches occasionally. It is also not ideal for people who want a lightweight, battery-powered saw for quick jobs. The gas engine requires some maintenance and fuel handling, which can be inconvenient for casual users. If you need a simple, low-maintenance saw, consider a smaller electric or battery model instead.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Husqvarna
- Model: 970501412
- Size: 11.0″ x 8.9″ x 18.2″
- Weight: 13.0 pounds
- Material: High-quality metal and durable polymer components
- Color Options: Orange and grey
- Special Features: 60-cc 4.16-HP 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 24 Inch X-Cut Chain, Designed for felling, limbing, and bucking small and midsize trees
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s limited warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the Husqvarna 555 chainsaw out of the box, I was impressed by how solid and well-built it felt. The magnesium crankcase gave it a sturdy yet lightweight feel, which made it easy to handle right away. Starting it up was surprisingly simple thanks to the Smart Start feature—just a quick pull and the engine roared to life without much effort. I was eager to try it out on some small trees in my backyard.
Daily Use
Over the next few days, I used the chainsaw for felling, limbing, and bucking several small to midsize trees. The 24-inch bar and the sharp X-Cut chain made cutting smooth and fast. I noticed the saw didn’t bog down even when working through thicker branches, which made the job go much quicker. The AutoTune carburetor seemed to adjust well to the outdoor conditions, and I didn’t have to fiddle with any settings. It was comfortable to hold and didn’t tire my arms much, even after extended use.
Key Features in Action
The X-Torq engine was definitely a highlight. It delivered plenty of power with its 4.16 HP without feeling heavy or clunky. The cooling system worked well too, as the saw stayed cool even after long cutting sessions. The three-piece crankshaft added to the smooth running and durability—I felt confident that this chainsaw could handle tough jobs without breaking down. The slim design made it easy to maneuver in tight spots, which was great for limbing around obstacles.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Husqvarna 555 for several weeks, I’m happy to say it kept performing consistently. The chain stayed sharp longer than I expected, and the engine started up easily every time, even after sitting unused for a few days. Maintenance was straightforward, and I didn’t notice any drop in power or efficiency. Overall, it proved to be a reliable and powerful tool for my outdoor projects, and I’d trust it for regular use on small to midsize trees.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw | Husqvarna 130 Gas Chainsaw | Husqvarna 460 Rancher Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Built with a magnesium crankcase and a three-piece crankshaft for maximum durability, featuring a slimmed-down design that balances power and maneuverability. | Easy to handle with a smaller 38-cc engine; designed for light home and garden tasks, emphasizing ease of use and safety with inertia-activated chain brake. | Ergonomically designed for easier handling and mobility, with a robust 60.3-cc engine and adjustable oil pump enhancing durability and performance. |
| Features | 59.8-cc, 4.16-HP 2-Cycle X-Torq engine with excellent cooling capacity; equipped with Husqvarna X-Cut chain, Smart Start for easy startup, and AutoTune carburetor for optimal engine performance in any environment. | 38-cc, 2-HP 2-Cycle X-Torq engine reducing emissions by up to 60% and increasing fuel efficiency by up to 20%; fuel pump and combined choke/stop control for easier starting; automatic oiler and inertia-activated chain brake included. | 60.3-cc, 3.6-HP 2-Cycle X-Torq engine with emission reduction and fuel efficiency improvements; Smart Start system; inertia-activated chain brake; automatic adjustable oil pump; combined choke/stop control for easier start-up. |
| Best For | Felling, limbing, and bucking small to midsize trees requiring powerful cutting capacity and durability. | Homeowners needing a lightweight, easy-to-start chainsaw for pruning and light wood cutting tasks. | Wood cutting, tree trimming, and land clearing for users seeking ergonomic handling combined with strong engine power. |
In my opinion, this Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw stands out because it offers a perfect balance of power, durability, and advanced features like the X-Cut chain and AutoTune carburetor that ensure optimal performance in any environment. Compared to the smaller Husqvarna 130, it provides significantly more power and cutting capacity, while also delivering better engine cooling and efficiency than the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. If you’re like me and prefer a professional-grade chainsaw for serious felling and bucking tasks with effortless starting and superior durability, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw, 60-cc 4.16-HP 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 24 Inch Chainsaw with X-Cut Chain, For Felling, Limbing and Bucking Small and Midsize Trees
Overall Satisfaction
The Husqvarna 555 Chainsaw receives generally positive reviews, with users appreciating its power and efficiency, though a few mention minor maintenance challenges.
Most Praised Features
- Powerful 60-cc X-Torq engine delivers strong cutting performance.
- Ergonomic design provides comfortable handling for extended use.
- X-Cut chain offers smooth, precise cutting with less kickback.
Common Concerns
- Some users report difficulty with initial setup and tuning.
- Occasional issues with chain tensioning and maintenance over time.
Who Loves It Most
Forestry professionals and serious homeowners appreciate this chainsaw for felling, limbing, and bucking small to midsize trees due to its reliable power and durable build.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
The Husqvarna 555 Gas Chainsaw is priced competitively within the mid-to-high range for professional-grade 60-cc chainsaws. Considering its powerful engine and advanced features, the price is fair for users seeking durability and performance.
Value Features
- Powerful 4.16-HP X-Torq engine ensures efficient cutting and longer engine life, justifying the investment.
- Husqvarna X-Cut chain and magnesium crankcase offer superior durability for demanding tasks.
- Smart Start and AutoTune carburetor make operation effortless, saving time and reducing frustration.
- Side-mounted chain tensioning and low-kickback design improve safety and ease of maintenance, reducing potential repair costs.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other 60-cc chainsaws, the Husqvarna 555 offers a balanced combination of power, durability, and user-friendly features at a price point that matches or slightly undercuts similar professional models.
Final Verdict
If you need a reliable, high-performance chainsaw for felling, limbing, and bucking small to midsize trees, the Husqvarna 555 offers excellent value for money and is worth the price.