Husqvarna 455 Rancher Chainsaw Review: Worth It? (October 2026)
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher suits property owners who want a 20-inch gas saw with Smart Start, LowVib dampeners and an inertia-activated chain brake. Its 13.2 lb weight and gas engine make it a larger commitment than a battery saw.
On this page (7 sections)
- Husqvarna 455 Rancher review: who is it for?
- What do the 455 Rancher's specs tell you?
- How does the 455 compare with the 450 Rancher?
- Is the 460 Rancher a better fit for a longer bar?
- Should you choose gas or battery power?
- What should you consider before buying the 455?
- Is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher worth choosing?
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a 20-inch gas chainsaw for property owners who want a larger bar and features aimed at starting and handling. It weighs 13.2 lb and has Smart Start, LowVib dampeners, Air Injection and an inertia-activated chain brake.
Its fit depends on the work. The 455 is worth considering for regular firewood cutting and property cleanup, but its weight may be more than you need for occasional small branches.
Husqvarna 455 Rancher review: who is it for?
The 455 Rancher suits regular cutting jobs that benefit from a 20-inch bar and gas power. Husqvarna recommends bar lengths from 13 to 24 inches for this saw, so the 20-inch setup sits within that range.
Husqvarna says Smart Start helps with starting, LowVib dampeners reduce vibration, and Air Injection expels larger dust and debris before they reach the filter. Follow the manual for starting, fuel, chain care and safe operation.
Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-inch gas chainsaw: Best for heavier property work
- 20-inch bar
- 3.5-HP X-Torq engine
- Smart Start
- LowVib dampeners
- Inertia-activated chain brake
The 455 Rancher has a 20-inch bar, a 3.5-HP X-Torq engine, Smart Start, LowVib and Air Injection.
Pros
- 20-inch bar
- Smart Start feature
- LowVib dampeners
- Air Injection cleaning system
Cons
- 13.2 lb weight
- Gas engine needs fuel and upkeep
Consider the saw's weight as part of the choice. At 13.2 lb, it weighs more than the 450 Rancher and Power Axe 350i in this comparison, which can matter when carrying it or making repeated cuts.
When should you choose the 455 Rancher?
Choose it if you expect to cut firewood, clear storm debris or handle other property jobs where a 20-inch gas saw makes sense. Its stated 3.5 HP and 20-inch bar place it above a light pruning saw in size and intended scope.
Look at a smaller or lighter saw if most of your work is occasional trimming. A longer bar and gas engine bring more saw to manage and maintain.
Our gas chainsaw buying guide explains what to weigh when choosing a gas saw for home use.
What do the 455 Rancher's specs tell you?
The 455 Rancher combines a 20-inch bar, 3.5 HP and 13.2 lb weight. Those core details point to a substantial saw, so compare its size with the work you do and the time you expect to spend carrying it.
| Detail | Husqvarna 455 Rancher |
|---|---|
| Bar length | 20 in |
| Stated engine power | 3.5 HP |
| Engine displacement | 55 cc |
| Weight | 13.2 lb |
| Power source | Gas |
| Starting feature | Smart Start |
| Vibration feature | LowVib dampeners |
| Air cleaning | Air Injection |
| Chain brake | Inertia activated |
| Included components | Gas chainsaw, owner's manual |
The 455 Rancher has a 55 cc engine and 3.5 HP. Use the manual for service and operating instructions.
The listed weight is a useful comparison point, but it doesn't describe the balance of the saw in every cutting position. Handle and control comfort can vary by user, so consider how the saw's size fits your experience and the tasks you plan to take on.
How does the 455 compare with the 450 Rancher?
The 450 Rancher weighs less, while the 455 has more stated horsepower. Both have a 20-inch bar, Smart Start, LowVib technology and Air Injection, making their weight and engine figures central to the choice.
| Model | Bar | Stated engine | Weight | Main distinction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 455 Rancher | 20 in | 3.5 HP, 55 cc | 13.2 lb | More stated horsepower |
| 450 Rancher | 20 in | 3.2 HP, 50.2 cc | 11.3 lb | Lighter by 1.9 lb |
Pick the 450 if carrying less weight is more useful than the 455's higher stated horsepower. The 450's recommended bar range tops out at 20 inches, while the 455's extends to 24 inches.
Pick the 455 if you want the higher stated horsepower and the option to use a longer recommended bar. The best choice still depends on the wood, cutting conditions and your comfort with a saw of this size.
For a closer decision, see our Husqvarna 450 vs 455 Rancher comparison.
Is the 460 Rancher a better fit for a longer bar?
The 460 Rancher is the option to consider if you specifically want a 24-inch bar. It has a stated 3.6-HP, 60.3 cc engine, weighs 13.2 lb and has a recommended bar range of 13 to 24 inches.
Compared with the 455, its longer bar and higher stated engine output may suit work that calls for those features. For routine trimming and lighter yard jobs, the 24-inch setup may be more saw than necessary.
Bar length alone doesn't tell you what a saw can safely cut. Follow the manual, use approved bar and chain combinations, and keep both hands on the saw while cutting from the ground.
Should you choose gas or battery power?
Choose gas if your work and preferences justify the engine and fuel. Choose battery if you value a lighter saw and cordless operation for jobs within the battery's working range.
The Power Axe 350i weighs 7.7 lb, has an 18-inch bar and includes a battery and charger. Its brushless motor, tool-less tensioning and Boost Mode offer a different setup from the 455, with battery runtime to consider for longer work.
A battery saw isn't automatically the right fit for every task. Think about how long you need to cut, whether you have a charged spare battery and what bar length the work calls for.
If you are planning firewood cuts, our guide to chainsaws for cutting firewood can help you compare saw types and fit.
What should you consider before buying the 455?
Check weight, bar length, fuel handling and your experience before buying. A 20-inch gas saw deserves a clear use case and careful attention to its operating instructions.
- Weight: At 13.2 lb, the 455 is heavier than the 450 Rancher and Power Axe 350i in this comparison.
- Bar fit: The 20-inch bar suits work that calls for that length. Follow Husqvarna's approved bar and chain guidance.
- Fuel: Gas power requires fuel handling. Learn the correct fuel mix and storage steps before use.
- Safety: The inertia-activated chain brake reduces the likelihood of injury due to kickback, but it does not prevent every injury. Read the manual and wear suitable protective gear.
- Starting and handling: Smart Start and LowVib are useful features to consider, but safe control still depends on training, maintenance and sound cutting technique.
Read our guide to mixing gas for a chainsaw before preparing fuel. For protective clothing, see chainsaw safety gear for home use.
Is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher worth choosing?
The 455 Rancher makes sense if you want a 20-inch gas saw with more stated horsepower than the 450 Rancher and expect to put that size to use. Its 13.2 lb weight and fuel needs make it less appealing for occasional light jobs.
Choose the 450 if lower weight is the priority, or the 460 if you need a 24-inch bar. If you want to avoid gas, consider the Power Axe 350i and match its battery format and 18-inch bar to your work.
For more Husqvarna options, browse our Husqvarna chainsaw guide and compare models by the jobs you expect to do.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher a good chainsaw?
The 455 Rancher may fit if you want a 20-inch gas chainsaw with Smart Start, LowVib dampeners and an inertia-activated chain brake. Its 13.2 lb weight makes it a poor match if you prioritize a lighter saw.
How much does the Husqvarna 455 Rancher weigh?
The 455 Rancher weighs 13.2 lb. Compare it with the 11.3 lb 450 Rancher and 7.7 lb Power Axe 350i if saw weight is a concern.
What bar length does the Husqvarna 455 Rancher use?
The 455 Rancher has a 20-inch bar, and Husqvarna recommends bar lengths from 13 to 24 inches for it. Follow the manual and use a bar and chain combination approved for the saw.
Should I choose the Husqvarna 455 or 450 Rancher?
Choose the 455 if its 3.5 HP and 13.2 lb weight suit your work. Choose the 450 if you prefer a lighter saw: both have a 20-inch bar, while the 450 weighs 11.3 lb and has a 3.2-HP engine.
