Husqvarna 135 Mark II Review: The Light Gas Saw for Occasional Work

Small Gas Saw, Big Brand

Not everyone needs a 55cc saw. The Husqvarna 135 Mark II is built for the homeowner with a few trees, a storm branch now and then and no interest in wrestling a heavy machine. It uses a 38cc X-Torq engine, a 16 inch bar and the same Smart Start, inertia chain brake, Air Injection and LowVib features found on Husqvarna’s larger saws, at an entry price.

This review is based on Husqvarna’s specifications and on owner feedback rather than on our own research.

Cutting Performance

At 38cc the 135 Mark II is a pruning and limbing saw that can also buck small logs. Owners report it clearing storm branches, taking down small trees and cutting softwood rounds without complaint. On large hardwood it is slow, and Husqvarna limits it to 14 and 16 inch bars for that reason. The X-Torq engine gives decent torque at low rpm, which helps it feel stronger than its displacement suggests.

Starting

Smart Start reduces pull resistance and the combined choke and stop control prevents the flooding that plagues separate-lever saws. Owners describe it as one of the easier gas saws to start cold, and the normal rule applies: fresh 50:1 fuel solves most problems before they begin.

Handling

This is the saw’s strength. It is light for a gas saw, well balanced with a 16 inch bar and comfortable for extended limbing thanks to LowVib dampening. Owners who found larger saws tiring single it out.

Maintenance

Air Injection pre-cleans intake air to extend filter intervals, and the side-mounted tensioner is easy to reach. Standard two-stroke care applies: filter and plug checks, a sharp chain and stabilised fuel or a dry tank in storage.

Common Owner Complaints

Buyers who expected a firewood saw are disappointed by its pace on hardwood; buyers who understood its purpose are happy. The plastic tensioner draws occasional criticism.

Noise, Fuel and Storage

At 38cc the 135 Mark II is quieter than the big saws but still loud enough that hearing protection is essential. The fuel tank is small, which keeps weight down but means refuelling more often on a long job. Use a 50:1 mix with fresh gasoline, and for storage either run the tank dry or add stabiliser, since ethanol left in a small carburettor over winter is the single most common cause of spring starting trouble. A quick wipe of the bar groove and a sharp chain before each session keep it cutting as designed.

Alternatives to Consider

A 40V battery saw such as the Worx WG384 does similar work more quietly for smaller lots. Husqvarna’s 440 and 445 are the step up for firewood. The Echo CS-4510 is a comparable gas rival.

Verdict

For light to moderate work the 135 Mark II is an easy, affordable gas saw from a brand with a dealer on most main streets. Match it to the job and it will last for years; ask it to be a firewood saw and you will wish you had bought the Rancher.