In 1976, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence, Poulan released a limited edition chainsaw known as the Poulan 76 Bicentennial Edition.
The saw pictured in this article is for sale on eBay from seller BoneheadinBahamas.
Poulan 76
This model wasn’t just a workhorse—it was a piece of history wrapped in red, white, and blue.
It stood out with its patriotic color scheme, special commemorative decals, and compact design, making it a unique collectible for chainsaw enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The Poulan 76 Bicentennial Edition was based on the Poulan XXV, a top-handle, lightweight chainsaw that was popular in the 1970s for its maneuverability and reliability.
The XXV series featured a compact 2.0 cubic inch (32cc) engine and a short 10-inch bar, making it especially useful for arborists, homeowners, and professionals who needed a nimble saw for pruning and climbing work.
While mechanically identical to the standard XXV, what set the Bicentennial model apart was its striking exterior.
Dressed in bold red, white, and blue with a clear “1776–1976” Bicentennial emblem, it was Poulan’s tribute to American craftsmanship and independence.
It represented the spirit of the era, when companies across the U.S. were producing commemorative products to honor the nation’s 200-year milestone.
The next image is a vintage Poulan advert for the model.
Today, the Poulan 76 Bicentennial Edition is considered a rare collector’s item.
These saws often turn up in online forums and vintage tool groups, where enthusiasts share photos, restoration tips, and stories of how they came across this piece of chainsaw history.
For collectors, finding one in good cosmetic condition, with the original decals intact, is a true prize.
The listing description for this saw states:
COLLECTOR GRADE Vtg Poulan 76 Bicentennial Chainsaw Case/Papers NEVER FUELED
Please see photos for details of this rare saw that has never been used or even fueled. Shipping is $22.
Located in: Saint Louis, Missouri, United States
It’s hard to find vintage chainsaws like this that have never even been used.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Poulan (Beaird Poulan), Shreveport, Louisiana, USA |
| Model Year | 1976 (limited edition) |
| Engine Displacement | 1.86 cu. in. (30.5 cc) |
| Cylinder Bore | 1.375 in. (34.92 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 1.250 in. (31.75 mm) |
| Cylinder Type | Aluminum with chrome-plated bore |
| Intake Method | Piston ported |
| Ignition System | Phelon magneto |
| Breaker Point Setting | 0.020–0.022 in. (0.51–0.55 mm) |
| Flywheel/Coil Air Gap | 0.010 in. (0.25 mm) |
| Spark Plug Type | Champion CJ8 |
| Spark Plug Gap | 0.025 in. (0.63 mm) |
| Carburetor | Tillotson HU series |
| Crankshaft Bearings | Caged needle roller |
| Clutch | Centrifugal |
| Drive Type | Direct drive |
| Starter Type | Automatic rewind (behind flywheel) |
| Oil Pump | Automatic |
| Fuel/Oil Mix Ratio | 32:1 (Poulan mix oil recommended) |
| Recommended Fuel Octane | Regular grade |
| Chain Pitch | 3/8 in. low profile |
| Chain Type | Poulan P100 |
| Shortest Guide Bar Supplied | 10 in. (25 cm) |
| Handlebar System | Rigid |
| Operator Configuration | One-man operation |
| Construction | Die-cast magnesium |
| Air Filter System | Flocked wire screen |
| Color Scheme | White with red and blue stars (Bicentennial theme) |
The Poulan 76 Bicentennial Edition is more than just a chainsaw; it’s a piece of Americana.
Its limited production run, distinctive design, and connection to a significant historical event make it a prized possession for collectors and a testament to Poulan’s legacy in the power equipment industry.
Check out eBay seller BoneheadinBahamas if you’re interested in purchasing.
