The Husqvarna 440 will be ideal for some, but not right for others.
It’s a lower-powered homeowner-level 40.9-cc gas chainsaw. Husqvarna lists it as a light to medium-duty saw, which is primarily designed for pruning trees and cleaning up the yard.
It won’t make for the best firewood chainsaw unless you’re only doing a little bit of light work at a time. I only use my 40cc chainsaw for cutting up a small amount of wood for the fire pit or removing low branches from trees, but not for anything serious.
I’ll get into why that is and who this chainsaw is best for in this article.
Husqvarna 440 Chainsaw
 | Husqvarna 440 |
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 | Husqvarna 445 |
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 | Husqvarna 460 Rancher |
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Finding a chainsaw that checks all of the necessary boxes can take time but Husqvarna is known for its high-quality, durable chainsaws.
I regularly use my Husky 450 (a 50 cc saw) and can recommend the brand to anyone wanting a good homeowner-level chainsaw.
The 440 is sold at most major home improvement retail outlets so it can be picked up easily or even bought online for home delivery. It comes with all of the basic features for easy and comfortable use.
It has been reviewed and rated well by most who have bought it, but we’ll get into some of the problems as well. Let’s just say there are those who consider it to be “junk” or one of “the worst Husqvarna chainsaws.”
Most of the bad reviews boil down to it often having carburetor problems.
Husqvarna 440 Specs And Features
Compared to old saws, the 440 has a decent anti-vibration system, a good automatic oiler and chain brake, and it’s easy to tighten the chain.
Other specs include:
- 9.7 lbs, 4.4 kgs (bare weight)
- Use with a 14 – 18 inch bar
- 40.9 cc, 2.4 hp
- 50:1 fuel oil mix
- Nylon mesh air filter
This chainsaw is OK to use for cutting down small trees, but not ideal for anything considered mid-sized or large.
The anti-vibration feature lets you work more comfortably for longer periods of time. Additionally, the lightweight nature of the saw allows for versatile use and easy transport.
This saw is good for working with both small hard and softwood logs, though it will struggle with thicker hardwood logs. It’s great for those who have hobby farms or lifestyle properties, and for landscapers.
Again, it’s not a serious pro-level chainsaw, but when used as intended – for light tasks – it’s not bad.
The 440 Husqvarna can be used for:
- Light storm clean-up
- Tree trimming and pruning
- Light firewood cutting
- Yard work
- Trimming farm fence posts etc.
The 440 model has many new features not available on earlier models like the Husqvarna 50.
These Features Include:
- Smart Start allows users to start the saw quickly and with less pull
- Powerful X-Torq engine with lower fuel use and better emissions
- LowVib anti-vibration system that affords comfort during extended periods of use
- Air Injection reduces pollutants and particles that infiltrate the filter and machine
- Direction markers to help safely estimate the landing spots of trees
- Snap-lock cylinder cover gives easy access
- The side-mounted chain tensioner is easier than a front chain tensioner
- 2-Year limited warranty from most retailers
It’s a modern entry-level chainsaw that’s safe (when used correctly), lightweight, and should last for years.
Husqvarna 440 Versions
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As part of the Husqvarna chainsaws of the 400 series, the 440E chainsaw is an upgrade to the original 440 model.
Although many similarities remain, there are a few improvements that Husqvarna implemented into the 440E option, though at first glance, both chainsaw models look nearly identical.
The 440 is a bit heavier, coming in at around 11.5 pounds compared to the 9.5 pounds of the 440E.
Additionally, the bars they come with are different in length. The 440 is usually sold and run with an 18-inch bar while the 440E comes with a 16-inch bar.
Both chainsaws are gas-powered and have the same engine power. They each come equipped with the X-Torq engine that allows for similar, fast speeds. Both models also come with the Smart Start feature.
The main difference is in the chain tension adjustment.
With the original 440, a scrench has to be used to adjust the chainsaw tension. However, the 440E model requires no additional tools to change. It has toolless chain tensioning.
Some people love this feature and other people loathe it. Personally, I’m not a fan.
Another difference comes with the automatic oiler.
The original 440 model comes with an adjustable feature, whereas the 440E does not. This region is one area in which the newer model did not feature a more premium option, though most homeowners never used it anyway.
The additional benefits associated with the Husqvarna 440E come with a more significant price tag than the 440 option. Husqvarna has an entire 400 series of chainsaws, each subsequent chainsaw an upgrade from the last.
Although many customers appreciate the changes made, others feel the cost is too great and prefer the lower price tag and slightly reduced features of the 440.
The Husqvarna 440 II e is yet another more recent version of this model.
This version has an even easier starting mechanism, a slimmer body, and puts out fewer emissions.
If you see a Husqvarna 440 X-TORQ this means it’s a version that uses less fuel and puts out fewer emissions. They are also said to put out more power over a wider range of RPMs.
Husqvarna 440 Review
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Overall, for the money, the Husqvarna 440 is a decent chainsaw.
It’s an entry-level saw that can’t be expected to perform as a pro saw, and those who understand don’t usually have any complaints.
The main problems associated with the Husky 440 are related to the carburetor, an important component in how the chainsaw works.
Here’s what John said:
The 435 and 440 both are plagued with OEM carb issues.
If you prime them like a lunatic the pressure blows the welch plug out inside the carb or enough to cause it to leak. I’ve rebuilt 5 of those series saws now ALL with the same issue.
Swap with a new carb (I use aftermarket) and they all run fine.
Other bad experiences people have had:
- I have a 440 e and hate it ever since I bought it it chooses when it will even start and when it does it will die 5 min later
- I love my other Husqvarnas, just not this one lol.
- My 440 has been a nightmare from day one. It’s definitely a great saw if you can get it for free though.
- Just picked up this 440. It starts right up but leaks fuel around the stupid level gauge.
- I love Husqvarna but you couldn’t pay me to take a plastic clamshell homeowner saw. Absolute junk.
- Worst saw Husqvarna ever made. Good luck. My dad is on his 4th warranty and none of it has been user error.
Stew shared his advice:
Those models are problems. I agree my 440 isn’t very good and next time I’ll spend more money and buy a better quality saw.
And here’s a novel use for a Husky 440 from Barry:
My 435 is my “can I borrow a chainsaw” saw. It’s also my go to when my wife says “do you have a saw I can use.”
You have to have one to keep your real saws safe.
But not everyone hates the 440… in fact many absolutely love it.
Here are some comments that paint a different picture…
Grant said:
My first chainsaw purchase was a 440. Great saw for occasional cutting and trimming.
Found a 550 XPG Mark II to be much more capable for my needs, but still have and use the 440.
Went to start the 440 the other day after sitting for a few weeks. Primed three times, choke on, started with one pull, amazing.
Mark said:
I bought a new 440 a few months ago. It came with a 16″ bar and I cut firewood (hard dry Australian hardwoods) without a problem.
And Hunter shared:
I just bought a 440 a few months ago and have run the hell out of it cutting wood for a family friend who heats with wood.
I love the saw it’s very light and easy to run all day but it definitely isn’t meant to cut large diameter logs. We have an older 272xp ported that we use on big stuff cuts like its on steroids, but the 440 is definitely a nice trimmer or fire wood saw.
Let’s summarize the pros and cons.
Pros:
- It’s an affordable entry-level saw that’s suitable and good for light work
- Husqvarna brand means there’s plenty of support both from dealers and the community
- Higher quality components and better performance compared with the cheaper chainsaw brands
Cons:
- Many people are disappointed with the performance of the saw expecting more power
- Many people experience a range of faults and flaws with the 440
- In many cases, the lifespan of the saw is not what you’d expect or want
Husqvarna 440 Price
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The entire 400 series of chainsaws developed and sold by Husqvarna have been created with homeowners in mind.
It’s important to note, these saws are not produced for commercial or professional use.
Although they have created different series for those in commercial environments, the 400 range has the needs of the typical homeowner at the forefront.
With this particular target in mind, Husqvarna has made an affordable chainsaw line for their use, all with varying features.
As new models are released, the elements become upgraded, and a higher cost is often associated with the premium components.
Check the price and buy the Husqvarna 440:
- On Amazon here – usually has product in stock
- Here at Acme Tools – a great range of Husky chainsaws
- Tractor Supply Co here – may not be available for delivery
With the status of the 440 being an older model, the purchase price can be lower than the newer available options.
Replacement parts for all 440 versions are easy to find. At the end of the day, it’s still a modern saw rather than a vintage saw (which are hard to find parts for). There are many OEM and aftermarket parts available.
If you are considering purchasing the 440 model, it is worthwhile comparing it with other saws in the series.
Currently, Husqvarna sells the following chainsaws within their 400 series. They are all homeowner level but some are a higher power than others.
They are the:
- 435 – a 35cc saw
- 439 – a 39cc saw
- 445 – a 45cc saw
- 450 Rancher – a 50cc saw
- 455 Rancher – a 55cc saw
- 460 Rancher – a 60cc saw
All of the 400-level saws can be bought online, while the pro-level saws can only be bought new from Husqvarna dealers.
Alternatives
There are many other chainsaws for home use in the Husqvarna 400 series.
The aforementioned 450, 455, and 460 are all better, in my opinion. They cost a bit more, but you get a more useful piece of equipment.
Here are some other, better alternatives to the 440.
1. Husqvarna 372
In contrast to the 440, the Husqvarna 372 XP is considered by many to be the best Husky saw.
It’s a 70cc pro-level saw that’s great for farmers and others with a bit of land. It’s an excellent firewood chainsaw, especially if you’re cutting a bit of it each year.
2. Stihl MS 261
Although it comes at a higher cost, the Stihl MS 261 is also on another level from the 440.
It’s a 50cc pro-level saw that will perform well all day. It’s unlikely to bog down or get tired, and it’s going to be a lot more comfortable to use.
3. EGO Chainsaws
Alternatively, if all you need is a pruning or light firewood chainsaw, an EGO battery saw could get the job done.
They have a saw that’s an equivalent power to the 440 that comes with an 18″ bar and goes at the pull of a trigger.
Husqvarna 440 Chainsaw
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Finding a chainsaw that works best for your needs can be time-consuming and complex and can lead to frustration.
In addition to looking for an option that is well-priced, fuel-efficient, powerful, and lightweight, it is also beneficial to have one that isn’t detrimental to the environment.
Having all of those boxes to check can be an arduous task to complete and may seem impossible at times. But as you have learned through this product review, the Husqvarna 440 Chainsaw accomplishes ticks a lot of boxes.
Not only is it lightweight and fuel-efficient, but it is better for the environment than other options. Additionally, it is competitively priced and easy to handle both in weight and anti-vibration.
All of these combined make it an excellent option for many households.
For even more power, check out the Husqvarna 585 Chainsaw.
