Echo Cs 590 Reviews

The Echo CS-590, often hailed as the “Timber Wolf,” is widely regarded as a powerful, reliable, and exceptionally good value chainsaw, particularly for landowners and serious homeowners tackling significant woodcutting tasks. It consistently receives high marks for its robust engine, durable construction, and user-friendly features, making it a strong contender against professional-grade saws at a fraction of the cost. While it might be a bit hefty for some, its cutting prowess and longevity often outweigh this consideration for those needing serious timber-taming capability. This saw strikes a sweet spot between professional power and consumer affordability, proving that you don’t always need to break the bank for top-tier performance.

Here’s a quick look at some top-tier chainsaws across different categories that stand out in the market, each with its own set of strengths for various needs:

Product Name	Key Features	Price Average	Pros	Cons
Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf	59.8cc professional-grade engine, decompression valve for easy starting, heavy-duty air filter, 20-inch bar.	$400 – $450	Excellent power-to-weight ratio, durable construction, easy starting, good for larger jobs, strong value.	Can be heavy for prolonged use, requires precise chain tensioning.
Husqvarna 455 Rancher	55.5cc X-Torq engine, Air Injection, LowVib anti-vibration system, 18-20 inch bar.	$450 – $500	Fuel-efficient, excellent anti-vibration, good for extended use, strong brand reputation.	Slightly higher price point, some users report starting quirks in cold weather.
Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss	50.2cc engine, high power output, anti-vibration system, tool-less fuel and oil caps, 16-20 inch bar.	$500 – $550	Legendary durability and reliability, robust build, good for various tasks, excellent power.	Heavier than some competitors, premium price.
Greenworks 80V Cordless Chainsaw	80V brushless motor, 18-inch bar, instant start, low noise, no gas/oil required.	$300 – $350 tool only	Environmentally friendly, quiet operation, zero emissions, instant start, low maintenance.	Limited run-time, battery charging time, not ideal for very heavy, continuous cutting.
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Compact Chainsaw	20V MAX brushless motor, 12-inch bar, lightweight design, auto-oiling, tool-free chain tensioning.	$180 – $220 tool only	Extremely portable, great for small limbing and pruning, convenient for quick jobs, part of DeWalt 20V system.	Limited power for larger logs, short bar length, battery life can be a factor for bigger tasks.
Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chainsaw	15 Amp electric motor, 18-inch bar, PowerSharp self-sharpening system, instant start.	$120 – $150	Unique self-sharpening feature, quiet, no gas, consistent power, very easy to use.	Requires an electrical outlet/extension cord, less portable than gas or battery models, not for very heavy-duty use.
Poulan Pro PR5020	50cc 2-cycle engine, OxyPower engine technology, anti-vibration system, 20-inch bar.	$180 – $220	Very budget-friendly, decent power for the price, good for occasional use, lightweight.	Durability concerns compared to premium brands, less refined features, some users report starting issues over time.

Unpacking the Echo CS-590: Why the “Timber Wolf” Howls

When you’re looking at chainsaws, especially for serious work around the property, you quickly realize there’s a big difference between a weekend warrior and a true workhorse.

The Echo CS-590, affectionately known as the “Timber Wolf,” firmly plants itself in the latter category. It’s not just another saw.

It’s a statement piece for those who want professional-grade power without the professional-grade price tag.

Let’s peel back the layers and see why this machine consistently earns its stripes.

The Power Plant: A Deep Dive into its 59.8cc Engine

At the heart of the CS-590’s reputation is its formidable 59.8cc two-stroke engine.

This isn’t some watered-down, homeowner-grade motor.

It’s designed to deliver serious torque and consistent power for felling, bucking, and limbing even substantial timber.

• Professional-Grade Displacement: With nearly 60 cubic centimeters of displacement, this engine is on par with many professional saws that cost hundreds more. This translates directly into cutting force.
• High Power Output: The engine produces a significant amount of horsepower, allowing the chain to slice through dense wood with surprising speed and efficiency. This means less bogging down, even when tackling hardwoods like oak or maple.
• Fuel Efficiency: While powerful, Echo has designed the engine to be reasonably fuel-efficient for its class. This is critical for extended work sessions, reducing the frequency of refueling stops.
• Durability and Longevity: Echo has a reputation for building tough, long-lasting engines, and the CS-590 is no exception. The components are built to withstand the rigors of heavy use, ensuring many years of reliable service.

Ergonomics and User Experience: Comfort Meets Control

A powerful saw is only as good as its usability.

Echo has put considerable thought into making the CS-590 not just powerful, but also manageable and relatively comfortable for extended periods of use.

• Anti-Vibration System: Chainsaws vibrate. A lot. But the CS-590 incorporates a robust anti-vibration system that isolates the handles from the engine. This significantly reduces fatigue in your hands and arms, allowing you to work longer and with more precision. You’ll notice this difference after an hour or two of cutting.
• Ergonomic Handle Design: The handles are thoughtfully designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip, even with gloves on. The rear handle offers ample space, and the front handle is positioned for optimal balance and control.
• Easy Starting Mechanism: Nobody wants to wrestle with a cold saw. The CS-590 features a decompression valve that makes pull-starting much easier by reducing compression resistance. This, combined with a good primer bulb and choke system, generally means fewer pulls to get it roaring.
• Tool-Less Air Filter Access: Maintenance is key for longevity. The ability to access the air filter without tools is a small but significant convenience, making routine cleaning quick and hassle-free. A clean air filter ensures optimal engine performance.

Maintenance and Durability: Built to Last

Investing in a chainsaw is a long-term commitment. Long Massage Gun

The CS-590’s design emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance, crucial factors for extending its lifespan and ensuring consistent performance.

• Heavy-Duty Air Filtration: The saw comes equipped with a professional-grade air filtration system. This multi-stage filter traps more dust and debris, protecting the engine from premature wear. Regular cleaning is still vital, but the quality of the filter itself reduces the frequency of issues.
• Magnesium Crankcase: Unlike some lesser saws that use plastic components, the CS-590 features a magnesium crankcase. This provides superior strength, heat dissipation, and overall structural integrity, ensuring the engine can handle sustained heavy loads.
• Accessible Components for Service: While you might take it to a professional for major repairs, common wear parts like the chain, bar, and spark plug are easily accessible for user-level maintenance. This makes routine checks and replacements straightforward.
• Echo’s Warranty and Support: Echo stands behind its products. The CS-590 typically comes with a generous consumer warranty often 5 years, reflecting the company’s confidence in its build quality. Access to parts and service through a widespread dealer network is also a significant plus.

Performance in the Field: What It Can Really Do

Ultimately, what matters most is how a chainsaw performs when the rubber meets the road—or, in this case, when the chain meets the wood. The CS-590 consistently delivers.

• Felling Large Trees: Its power and torque make it capable of felling trees with considerable diameter, often up to the length of its 20-inch bar, and even larger with proper felling techniques.
• Bucking and Limbing: For cutting logs into manageable lengths bucking and removing branches limbing, the CS-590 excels. It powers through quickly, reducing the time and effort required for these tasks.
• Hardwood Prowess: While many saws struggle with hardwoods, the 59.8cc engine of the CS-590 takes them on with relative ease. This is a crucial advantage for anyone working with oak, maple, or other dense species.
• Consistent Power Delivery: Unlike some saws that might bog down under load, the CS-590 maintains consistent power throughout the cut, which contributes to cleaner cuts and less user fatigue.

Considerations Before Buying: Is It the Right Saw for You?

No tool is perfect for everyone, and the Echo CS-590 is no exception.

While its strengths are many, there are a few points to consider to ensure it aligns with your specific needs.

• Weight: At approximately 13.2 lbs powerhead only, the CS-590 is not a lightweight saw. While this weight contributes to its durability and power, it can lead to fatigue during prolonged use, especially for those less accustomed to handling heavier machinery. For quick limbing jobs or light pruning, a smaller, lighter saw might be more appropriate.
• Noise Level: Like most gas-powered chainsaws of this size, the CS-590 is loud. Hearing protection is absolutely essential when operating it. This isn’t a unique con to the CS-590, but a general consideration for all powerful gas saws.
• Fuel and Maintenance: It’s a gas saw, which means mixing fuel and oil, dealing with emissions, and performing regular maintenance like spark plug changes, air filter cleaning, and chain sharpening. If you’re looking for something with less upkeep, an electric or battery-powered saw might be a better fit, though they typically offer less raw power.
• Bar Length: While the 20-inch bar is versatile, some users might find it too long for very tight spaces or too short for exceptionally large timber though for the latter, you’d likely be looking at even larger professional saws. Ensure the bar length matches the typical diameter of wood you’ll be cutting.

Comparing the CS-590: Value in the Mid-Range Market

The Echo CS-590 truly shines when you compare its price point to its performance.

It sits comfortably in a “prosumer” sweet spot, offering features and power that often rival more expensive professional models from Stihl or Husqvarna, but at a significantly lower cost.

• Cost-Effectiveness: For its cutting capability, engine size, and build quality, the CS-590 offers an exceptional return on investment. It’s often hundreds of dollars less than comparable professional saws, making it accessible to serious homeowners and small landowners who need more than a basic consumer saw.
• Bridging the Gap: It effectively bridges the gap between lightweight homeowner saws which often lack the power for larger jobs and heavy-duty professional saws which can be overkill and overpriced for many non-commercial users.
• Longevity vs. Initial Cost: While budget saws might be tempting with their low upfront price, they often fall short in durability and power. The CS-590, with its robust construction, is designed to last, meaning fewer replacements and more reliable performance over its lifespan, ultimately saving money in the long run.
• Resale Value: Quality tools tend to hold their value better. An Echo CS-590, well-maintained, can fetch a decent price on the used market, further attesting to its perceived quality and reliability.

Essential Accessories and Safety for CS-590 Owners

Owning a powerful chainsaw like the Echo CS-590 isn’t just about the saw itself.

It’s about the ecosystem of safety gear and maintenance tools that ensure safe and efficient operation.

• Personal Protective Equipment PPE: This is non-negotiable.
  • Chainsaw Chaps/Pants: Made from ballistic nylon fibers, these can stop a chain in milliseconds. Absolute must-have.
  • Helmet with Face Shield and Hearing Protection: Protects your head from falling debris, your face from kickback or debris, and your ears from the intense noise.
  • Work Gloves: Provides grip and protects hands from cuts and abrasions.
  • Steel-Toed Boots: Protects feet from falling logs or dropped equipment.
• Fuel and Oil Management:
  • High-Quality 2-Stroke Oil: Use a premium synthetic or semi-synthetic oil designed for air-cooled 2-stroke engines, mixed precisely according to Echo’s recommendations usually 50:1.
  • Fresh Gasoline: Ethanol-free gasoline is preferred, or use a fuel stabilizer to prevent ethanol-related issues. Stale fuel can cause significant engine problems.
  • Bar & Chain Oil: Always keep the oil reservoir filled with good quality bar and chain oil to ensure proper lubrication and cooling of the chain and bar.
• Maintenance Tools:
  • Chain Sharpening Kit: Including a round file typically 7/32″ for the CS-590’s chain, a flat file, a depth gauge, and a filing guide. A sharp chain is crucial for safe and efficient cutting.
  • Scrench/Bar Wrench: For adjusting chain tension and removing bar nuts.
  • Air Filter Cleaner: To keep the engine breathing freely.
  • Spare Chains: Having a few sharpened spare chains ready to go minimizes downtime.
• First Aid Kit: Always have a well-stocked first aid kit nearby, especially when working in remote areas. Consider training in basic first aid and CPR.
• Wedge and Sledgehammer: For felling trees, wedges can help control the felling direction and prevent the saw from getting pinched.
• Felling Lever/Peculiar: Useful for small felling operations and rolling logs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Echo CS-590 best suited for?

The Echo CS-590 is best suited for heavy-duty homeowner use, landowners, and light professional work like felling medium to large trees, bucking logs, and extensive limbing. It’s powerful enough for challenging tasks but remains accessible for non-commercial users.

How much horsepower does an Echo CS-590 have?

The Echo CS-590 has a 59.8cc engine. While Echo doesn’t widely publish specific horsepower figures, based on its displacement, it’s generally estimated to produce around 3.8 to 4.0 horsepower, putting it in a strong class for its size. Online Marketing And Earn Money

Is the Echo CS-590 considered a professional saw?

No, the Echo CS-590 is generally classified as a “prosumer” or “heavy-duty homeowner” saw. While it has professional-grade features and power that rival some entry-level professional saws, it’s not typically marketed as a full-fledged commercial logger’s saw.

What size bar does the Echo CS-590 come with?

The Echo CS-590 typically comes standard with a 20-inch bar and chain. It can often accommodate bar lengths from 18 inches up to 24 inches, though 20 inches is the most common and versatile option for its power.

Is the Echo CS-590 easy to start?

Yes, the Echo CS-590 is generally considered easy to start due to its decompression valve, which reduces cylinder compression during startup, making pulls on the starter cord lighter.

How much does the Echo CS-590 weigh?

The Echo CS-590 powerhead without the bar and chain, and empty of fuel/oil weighs approximately 13.2 lbs 6.0 kg. This weight contributes to its robust build but can be a factor during prolonged use.

What kind of fuel does an Echo CS-590 use?

The Echo CS-590 uses a 50:1 mixture of unleaded gasoline and high-quality 2-stroke engine oil. It’s recommended to use fresh, ethanol-free gasoline to prevent potential fuel system issues.

What is the difference between Echo CS-590 and CS-620P?

The Echo CS-590 has a 59.8cc engine, while the CS-620P has a larger 62.0cc engine, offering slightly more power and torque, making the 620P a step up for even heavier professional use. The CS-620P also often comes with a more robust, professional-grade carburetor and air filtration system.

How often should I sharpen the chain on my Echo CS-590?

You should sharpen your chain as soon as you notice it’s cutting slowly, producing sawdust instead of chips, or pulling to one side. For heavy use, this might mean sharpening several times a day. For occasional use, it could be every few hours of cutting.

What is the best chain oil for Echo CS-590?

Any good quality bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws will work well. Brands like Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, or Echo’s own brand are reliable choices.

Can the Echo CS-590 handle hardwoods?

Yes, the Echo CS-590’s 59.8cc engine provides ample power and torque to cut through hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory with relative ease, especially with a sharp chain.

What is the warranty on the Echo CS-590?

Echo typically offers a 5-year consumer warranty on the CS-590, which is quite generous and speaks to their confidence in the product’s durability. Commercial warranties are usually shorter. Earn Money Through Internet

Is the Echo CS-590 a good value for the money?

Yes, the Echo CS-590 is widely considered an excellent value for the money. It offers power and durability comparable to higher-priced professional saws at a significantly more affordable price point.

What maintenance does an Echo CS-590 require?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the air filter, cleaning the spark plug, checking and cleaning the cooling fins, sharpening the chain, checking chain tension, lubricating the sprocket nose if applicable, and keeping the bar groove clean.

Where is the Echo CS-590 manufactured?

Echo chainsaws, including the CS-590, are primarily manufactured by the Yamabiko Corporation in Japan.

Can I put a 24-inch bar on an Echo CS-590?

While the 20-inch bar is standard, many users successfully run a 24-inch bar on the Echo CS-590, especially for felling larger timber. However, it will reduce the saw’s power-to-weight ratio and cutting speed somewhat.

Does the Echo CS-590 have a metal crankcase?

Yes, the Echo CS-590 features a magnesium crankcase, which is a durable and lightweight metal component that contributes to the saw’s robust construction and heat dissipation.

What safety gear do I need when using the Echo CS-590?

Essential safety gear includes chainsaw chaps or pants, a helmet with a face shield and hearing protection, heavy-duty work gloves, and steel-toed boots.

How do I adjust the chain tension on an Echo CS-590?

Chain tension on the Echo CS-590 is adjusted by loosening the two bar nuts, then using the chain tensioning screw usually located on the side of the saw near the bar to tighten or loosen the chain, then re-tightening the bar nuts.

Why is my Echo CS-590 losing power?

Loss of power can be due to a dull chain, dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, stale or improperly mixed fuel, a fouled spark plug, or a carburetor issue. Start by checking the easiest things first.

Is the Echo CS-590 good for clearing land?

Yes, the Echo CS-590 is very capable for land clearing tasks, including felling trees, bucking logs, and clearing brush, due to its powerful engine and durable build.

How does the Echo CS-590 compare to the Husqvarna 455 Rancher?

The Echo CS-590 often offers slightly more power 59.8cc vs. 55.5cc for a comparable or lower price than the Husqvarna 455 Rancher. Both are excellent prosumer saws, with the Rancher often favored for its anti-vibration system and balance, and the CS-590 for raw power. Bugs In Buckwheat Pillow

How does the Echo CS-590 compare to the Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss?

The Echo CS-590 59.8cc is often seen as a direct competitor in terms of power to the Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss 50.2cc, despite the Farm Boss having a smaller engine. Stihl has a reputation for extreme durability, while the CS-590 offers more displacement and is generally more budget-friendly.

What type of spark plug does the Echo CS-590 use?

The Echo CS-590 typically uses an NGK BPMR8Y or a similar equivalent spark plug. Always check your owner’s manual for the precise recommended type.

How often should I clean the air filter on my Echo CS-590?

You should clean the air filter on your Echo CS-590 frequently, ideally after every few hours of use, or more often in dusty conditions. A dirty air filter can significantly reduce performance.

Can I run premixed fuel in my Echo CS-590?

Yes, you can absolutely run high-quality, pre-mixed 50:1 chainsaw fuel like TruFuel or Husqvarna XP Power 2-Stroke Fuel in your Echo CS-590. This can extend engine life and prevent fuel-related issues, though it is more expensive.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the Echo CS-590?

The fuel tank capacity of the Echo CS-590 is approximately 21.8 fl. oz. 645 mL.

Is the Echo CS-590 good for carving?

While it has plenty of power, the Echo CS-590 is not typically recommended for detailed chainsaw carving due to its larger size and standard bar. Carving often requires smaller, lighter saws with specialized carving bars.

Does the Echo CS-590 have a primer bulb?

Yes, the Echo CS-590 is equipped with a primer bulb, which helps to draw fuel into the carburetor for easier starting.

How long does an Echo CS-590 engine last?

With proper maintenance, high-quality fuel, and appropriate use, an Echo CS-590 engine can last for many years, often a decade or more, providing excellent long-term reliability for most homeowners and landowners.

Home Gym Blog