The Black & Decker PP610 is a solid quality electric pole chainsaw – lightweight, easy to operate, with decent reach and enough power. Only the saw is not detachable from the pole.
Pros:
- Lightweight, easy to use
- Solid quality, enough power
Cons:
- Saw not removable
Key specifications:
- Length: 9.5 ft
- Bar length: 10″
Handling and reach
The PP610 offers all the advantages and disadvantages of electric tools – it isn’t overly expensive or noisy, it’s very easy to use (push button start and only a little maintenance), you are not limited by battery running time and also don’t have to mix fuel. On the other hand, you have to drag a power cord to all places where you’d like to use it.
The assembly is quite easy, you just install the chain and tighten it which can be all done in 5 minutes. The oval shaped pole seems sturdy, is easy to grip and offers a standard length of 9.5′ when fully extended – that means the reach is about 14 feet, depending on your height of course.
It is fairly light and easy to maneuver – but as other pole saws, the more it is extended the heavier it feels and also becomes a bit unstable at full length (the motor being located at the top makes it even worse).
A small disadvantage is that the saw cannot be detached from the shaft and used separately (like the Remington RM1025) – but when used with the pole completely collapsed, it’s possible to cut branches even on the ground quite successfully.
Power
The 6.5 Amp motor offers enough power for all the light or medium pruning you may encounter – it cuts through 6″ limbs easily, without any trouble even at the full extension. And it’s able to deal with even 7″-9″ thick ones, it just takes more time – don’t press it too much, rather let its weight do the job.
The B&D PP610 features an automatic oiler which works well, users don’t report any problems. The chain tightening is also easy (the tool for that is included), just one user complained about breaking the screw mount and having to get a replacement.
Conclusion: If you need a solid quality and inexpensive pole saw and don’t mind using a power cord, Black & Decker PP610 will be a great candidate for you. Lightweight, easy to use and with enough power – we can definitely recommend it.
Its only disadvantage is the impossibility to use the saw separately – so if you would like to take advantage of this feature, take a look at the Remington RM1025 which offers it (but is also heavier).
Also, it is still intended mainly for occasional homeowner use – for heavy pruning, gas machines or Silky manual pole saws are the way to go.
>> Read more or buy the Black & Decker PP610 here
Specifications:
- Brand: Black & Decker
- Type: Electric, Corded
- Amp: 6.5 Amp
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Length: 9.5 ft
- Bar length: 10″
- Oiling: Automatic
- Cord lock:
- Warranty: 2-year limited
Frequently asked questions:
Are there any accessories I should buy?
If you don’t have a long extension cord yet, go with the Coleman 100 feet cable.
Also, you would need some oil for the chain (it’s not included), for example this one.
Is there any maintenance needed?
You’ll need adjust the chain tension if needed (easy to do) and also fill the oil reservoir when it becomes empty. The motor is an enclosed unit so no maintenance is required.