Jonsered CS 2255 Review

Introduction: Why I Picked Up the Jonsered CS 2255

I have been running chainsaws for over a decade, mostly on firewood crews and storm cleanup. When I saw the Jonsered CS 2255 sitting on the shelf, I have to admit I was skeptical. The price tag was significantly lower than what I am used to paying for a pro grade saw from Husqvarna or Stihl. But I know Jonsered has a solid reputation, especially among loggers who value Swedish engineering. So I decided to buy one with my own money and run it through my normal work cycle. No loaner, no sponsorship, just a straight up test to see if this saw can hang with the big dogs without breaking the bank.

Right out of the box, the CS 2255 feels like a serious tool. It has that familiar orange and silver color scheme, and the build quality looks solid. But specs are one thing. I wanted to know how it performs when the chips are flying and the bar is buried in hardwood. So I put it to work.

How I Tested It

I did not baby this saw. My testing grounds were a mix of seasoned oak, maple, and some nasty black locust that I had stacked up from a previous job. I also took it to a buddy’s property where we were clearing storm damaged pines. Over the course of three weekends, I ran about 15 tanks of fuel through the CS 2255. I did everything from noodling big rounds for firewood to bucking 20 inch logs and limbing brush. I also let two other experienced saw users run it to get their impressions.

I paid close attention to starting ease, throttle response, cutting speed, vibration levels, and how comfortable it felt over a full day of work. I did not use any special measuring tools, just my hands, ears, and the stopwatch on my phone for timed cuts. I also made a point to check the air filter after every few tanks because I have seen complaints about that online.

Performance: Torque and Cutting Power

Engine and Torque

The first thing I noticed when I pulled the trigger was the torque. This 55cc engine pulls hard. It does not rev to the moon like some high strung pro saws, but it has a deep, grunty powerband that just keeps pulling through the cut. I buried a 20 inch bar in a 22 inch oak round, and the saw did not bog down. It just chugged through like a diesel engine. That low end torque is exactly what you want for bucking and noodling. You can lean on it without the chain stalling.

For a saw in this displacement class, the CS 2255 feels stronger than some 60cc models I have used. The power to weight ratio is not class leading, but the torque curve is very usable. It cuts fast enough for production work, though it is not the absolute fastest saw I have ever run. It is more about steady, reliable power than screaming speed.

Smart Start and Starting Ease

One of the biggest selling points for Jonsered is the Smart Start system. I was curious if it actually makes a difference. After a dozen cold starts, I can say it works. The decompression valve and the spring assisted starter reduce the pull force noticeably. I am a fairly strong guy, but after a long day, that easier pull makes a difference. My buddy who is smaller framed had no trouble starting it cold either. The choke and stop switch are well placed, and the saw fires up within three pulls every time when cold. Hot starts are almost always on the first pull.

Chain Speed and Cutting Feel

Once the chain is moving, the CS 2255 feels smooth and aggressive. The chain brake is responsive and easy to engage. The automatic oiler works well, keeping the bar and chain lubed even during heavy cuts. I did have to adjust the oil flow to a higher setting for the hard, dry oak, but that is normal for any saw. The chain tensioning system is the standard side access type, which I prefer. It is quick and simple to adjust with the bar nut wrench.

Cutting speed is good for a 55cc saw. In 12 inch pine, it rips through like butter. In 18 inch oak, it takes a steady hand and a bit of patience, but it never feels underpowered. The saw does not vibrate excessively, which is impressive for a budget oriented pro saw. The anti vibration system is effective. My hands did not go numb even after a few hours of continuous cutting.

Build Quality and Value

Construction and Materials

The Jonsered CS 2255 feels well built. The crankcase is magnesium, the handle is sturdy, and the plastic covers fit tight. The bar is a decent quality Oregon bar, and the chain is a standard 3/8 pitch. Nothing fancy, but it works. I dropped the saw once from waist height onto packed dirt, and it did not crack anything. The metal spikes are aggressive and help with control during limbing.

However, I have to be honest about the weight. This saw is heavier than some competitors like the Husqvarna 550 XP or the Stihl MS 261. You feel it after a full day of cutting. The extra weight is partly due to the robust construction and the larger muffler, but it is a trade off. If you are cutting all day every day, you might prefer a lighter saw. For weekend warriors or part time users, the weight is manageable.

Air Filter Access: The Biggest Weak Point

This is where the CS 2255 loses points. The air filter is located under a plastic cover that requires removing two screws. This is not a tool less system like on many modern pro saws. In dusty conditions, you will be cleaning that filter often. I found myself taking off the cover every two tanks to blow out the filter with compressed air. It is not a deal breaker, but it is annoying. If you cut in dirty conditions, plan on carrying a screwdriver. The filter itself is a good quality felt type, but the access is behind the times.

Value Proposition

Here is where the CS 2255 shines. The price is significantly lower than comparable pro grade saws from Husqvarna or Stihl. You are getting a Swedish designed, well built saw with a powerful engine and good torque for hundreds less. That is hard to ignore. The cost savings come from the simpler air filter system, the heavier construction, and the lack of some premium features like an adjustable oiler that you can turn with a screwdriver. But the core engine and cutting performance are genuinely pro level.

I have seen these saws on sale for under $400 at times. For that money, you are getting a saw that can handle firewood cutting, storm cleanup, and even light professional use. The value is outstanding if you can live with the weight and the air filter hassle.

Who Should Buy the Jonsered CS 2255

This saw is not for everyone. Let me break it down.

Ideal for:

• Firewood cutters: If you cut a few cords per year and want a saw that will last, the CS 2255 is a great choice. The torque makes noodling big rounds easy.
• Farm and ranch users: For clearing fence lines, cutting posts, and general property maintenance, this saw is tough and reliable.
• Budget minded professionals: If you are a tree service or a logger on a tight budget, this saw can handle daily use. Just be prepared to clean the air filter often.
• Users who prioritize torque over weight: If you need a saw that pulls hard and does not stall, this is it.

Not ideal for:

• Arborists who climb: The weight is too much for all day climbing. You want a lighter top handle saw.
• Users who demand tool less maintenance: If you hate unscrewing things to clean a filter, look elsewhere.
• Pure speed demons: If you want the fastest cutting saw in its class, the Husqvarna 550 XP is faster.

My Verdict

After three weekends of hard use, I have a clear opinion on the Jonsered CS 2255. It is a genuinely good pro grade saw that cuts corners in the right places to hit a lower price point. The engine is strong, the torque is excellent, and the Smart Start system really works. The build quality is solid, and I have no doubt it will last for years with proper maintenance.

But it is not perfect. The weight is a real issue for all day use, and the air filter access is a pain. If you are a professional who cuts every day, you might be better off spending more on a lighter, more refined saw. But if you are a serious firewood cutter or a part time pro who wants a saw that punches above its weight class, the CS 2255 is a fantastic value. It does exactly what it promises: gives you pro level cutting power without the pro level price tag.

I would buy it again. In fact, I might buy a second one as a backup. It is that good for the money. Just keep a screwdriver in your pocket and be ready for a bit of extra weight. If you can live with those two compromises, you will be very happy with this saw.