Husqvarna 135 Mark II Review: Engineering Excellence for the Residential User
When it comes to residential property maintenance, the balance between weight and raw power is the most critical metric for any chainsaw. The Husqvarna 135 Mark II is positioned as a robust, entry-level gas saw designed for homeowners who require more than a plastic hobbyist tool but don’t need the industrial bulk of a professional felling saw. In this technical breakdown, we evaluate whether the 135 Mark II lives up to the Swedish manufacturer’s reputation for reliability and ergonomic precision.
Quick Comparison: Homeowner Series Benchmarks
Before diving into the technical specifics, see how the Husqvarna 135 Mark II compares to its siblings and primary competitors in the light-duty category.
| Model | Displacement | Power Output | Weight (Excl. Gear) | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna 135 Mark II | 38.0 cc | 1.6 kW | 10.3 lbs | 🛒 View on Amazon |
| Husqvarna 120 Mark II | 38.2 cc | 1.4 kW | 10.7 lbs | 🛒 View on Amazon |
| Husqvarna 435 e-series | 40.9 cc | 1.6 kW | 9.2 lbs | 🛒 View on Amazon |
Engine Performance and X-Torq Technology
At the heart of the Husqvarna 135 is the X-Torq® engine. Unlike traditional two-stroke engines, the X-Torq system utilizes a pure air charge to flush out exhaust gases before the fresh fuel-air mixture enters the cylinder. This results in a significant reduction in emissions—up to 75%—and increases fuel efficiency by approximately 20%.
During our field testing, the 135 demonstrated a remarkably flat torque curve. While it may struggle with hardwood trunks exceeding 14 inches in diameter, it excels at limbing and light felling. If your tasks consistently involve larger timber, you might find the power-to-weight ratio of the Stihl MS 271 more suited to your workload.
🛒 Check Current Price on AmazonErgonomics and Handling: The LowVib Advantage
One of the standout features of the Husqvarna 135 is the LowVib® anti-vibration system. By using steel springs to isolate the engine from the handles, Husqvarna has reduced the vibration levels to 3.7 m/s² at the front handle. This is statistically superior to many entry-level competitors, allowing for longer work sessions with significantly less operator fatigue.
The saw also features a combined choke/stop control. This integrated design minimizes the risk of engine flooding—a common frustration for occasional users. The teardrop shape and slim body make it highly maneuverable in tight brush.
Hardware Specs & Technical Breakdown
The Husqvarna 135 is engineered with several “pro-sumer” features that are often omitted in budget-tier saws:
- Cylinder Displacement: 38.0 cm³
- Power Output: 1.6 kW (approx 2.1 HP)
- Maximum Power Speed: 9000 rpm
- Idling Speed: 3000 rpm
- Air Injection™: Centrifugal air cleaning system that removes larger dust and debris particles before reaching the air filter.
- Side-Mounted Chain Tensioner: Allows for quick and easy chain adjustments without awkward positioning.
- Felling Marks: Distinct, colored marks on the chassis for better felling precision.
- Inertia-Activated Chain Brake: A critical safety feature that reduces the risk of injury during a kickback event.
For users who feel they might outgrow a 38cc saw quickly, it is worth comparing these specs against mid-range alternatives like the Stihl MS 291, which offers more displacement for intensive farm and ranch applications.
🛒 Buy Husqvarna 135 NowMaintenance and Longevity
The Air Injection™ system is the unsung hero of this model. By utilizing centrifugal force, the saw filters out the majority of wood dust before it ever hits the pleated paper filter. In our testing, this resulted in significantly longer intervals between filter cleanings compared to the previous 135 generation.
Accessing the internals is straightforward, though the 135 uses a snap-lock cylinder cover which can be a bit stiff when the plastic is cold. However, the overall build quality suggests a lifespan of 10+ years for the average homeowner if the fuel is treated with a stabilizer or if pre-mixed alkylate fuel is used.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- X-Torq Engine: Excellent fuel economy and lower emissions.
- Lightweight: At just 10.3 lbs, it is easy to handle for overhead limbing.
- Air Filtration: The Air Injection system significantly reduces maintenance frequency.
- Safety: Highly responsive inertia-activated chain brake.
Cons
- Cold Starts: While improved, it may still require 4-5 pulls on a very cold morning.
- Bar Length Limits: Effectively limited to a 16-inch bar; anything larger bogs down the 38cc engine.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth It?
The Husqvarna 135 Mark II is a precision instrument designed for a specific niche: the homeowner who values engine longevity and ergonomic comfort over raw, high-displacement power. It is not a professional forest saw, but it doesn’t pretend to be. For pruning, cutting firewood, and cleaning up storm damage, it is arguably the most refined 38cc saw on the market today.
SAWOFF Rating: 4.6/5
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum bar length for the Husqvarna 135?
While it can technically fit an 18-inch bar, we recommend sticking to the 14 or 16-inch bar for optimal engine performance and chain speed.
2. Does the Husqvarna 135 require special fuel?
It runs on a 50:1 gas/oil mix. For the best longevity, we highly recommend using ethanol-free fuel or Husqvarna’s pre-mixed XP fuel to prevent carburetor gumming.
3. How does it compare to the Husqvarna 120?
The 135 Mark II offers a slightly more powerful engine (1.6 kW vs 1.4 kW) and a more robust build quality, including better air filtration and vibration dampening than the entry-level 120.
4. Is the chain tensioning tool-less?
The standard 135 Mark II features a side-mounted tensioner that requires a scrench (included). Some regional variants may offer a tool-less version, but the manual side-tensioner is generally preferred by enthusiasts for its durability.
🛒 Shop Husqvarna 135 on Amazon