The most powerful chainsaw currently produced by Husqvarna is the 3120 XP.
It’s designed for extreme logging, portable sawmills, and large stump work, and is engineered to handle the most demanding tasks.
The model first came out in 2003 and is still being made, though there is talk of its demise.
Check Husqvarna 3120 XP prices on eBay here.
Husqvarna 3120 XP versions
There have been minor variations of the Husqvarna 3120 XP over the years, but there has never been a major redesign or officially separate “version” (like a “3120 XP Mark II”). It’s one of those “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” tools in Husqvarna’s lineup.
Here’s what’s known about how it’s changed (or hasn’t) over the past ~25 years:
What’s Stayed the Same
- Displacement: ~119cc from the beginning.
- Power Output: ~8.3 hp across all years.
- Purpose: Logging, milling, and oversized cutting—unchanged.
- Overall Design: The saw has retained its core look and rugged build since its debut in the 1990s.
Subtle Changes Over Time
- Carburetor Updates: Small changes in carburetor models for emissions and performance tuning.
- Ignition System: Some units have had updated ignition modules or flywheel timing.
- Muffler Tweaks: Minor muffler changes for emissions and noise regulation compliance (especially in the EU).
- Visual Differences: Slight cosmetic differences (e.g., sticker/badge style, air filter covers, or handle colors) depending on production year or country.
- Emission Labels: Modern versions come with EPA and CARB compliance labeling, which older ones do not.
Production & Part Compatibility
- Parts: Most parts are interchangeable across all production years, which is a big reason why it’s still so popular with chainsaw mills.
- Region-Based Variations: Some differences may exist between saws sold in North America vs. Europe or Australia due to regional safety or emissions requirements.
- Country of production: Some 3120s have been made in Sweden, and others in Brazil.
Husqvarna 3120 reviews
Here are reviews of the Husqvarna 3120 XP from the Husqvarna Saws FB group:
- Jake said, “Great saw, especially if it’s pre EPA coil and carb.”
- Glen said, “It’s a great saw. I used to fall timber with mine when I had big timber in my strip.”
- Kevin said, “Eventually they’ll release a 5120XP.”
- Micha said, “Mean saw I’ve had 2.”
- Carl said, “The 3120 is 10x better than the MS 880.”
Bill said:
They are a strong strong saw. We cut slabs with an 880 STIHL.
Our buddy bought 3120 we tried it. It was more saw than the 880, absolutely no comparison. And used less fuel.
John said:
3120’s a superior saw 🪚. Any doubters have not been to many saw races . 😄
Comparing it with the 592 XP, Harley said:
Ok…. lemme tell ya I have ran the 3120 and it’s a monster… but when it comes to capabilities… the 592xp is unmatched…
Toss a 36 inch bar on that baby and letter eat… sure the 3120 will pull a 6 foot bar but you will never use the saw enough to justify having it…
Tom said:
A 3120 for milling but that’s about it for me. 68 years old and would not lug that monster around for anything I cut.
Used to be a fan of big saws but I have outgrown that I guess.
Brian said:
What is unusual about the 3120 is, while it may not have huge demand, it seems to at least have enough guys/girls that like it to justify making it, basically unchanged for more than 30 years.
One dealer in Vermont ordered 30, finally got them in after two years, and now he needs 90!
On the 3120 XP being discontinued, he shared:
I think the 3120 is still on several markets worldwide. For how long, I dunno.
Husqvarna has made a huge mistake by completely dropping the 395. Especially since they still have the 272/281/288.
On pricing, Wolf Creek Live Edge shared:
The last three used 3120s I bought, I paid $1000-$1100. That was just for powerhead, no bar or chain.
All three were in the 8-10 year old range but had not been run too hard.
I did also buy two much older… primer bulb not choke 3120s that were “well used” and obviously paid much less.
Specs and features
| Engine displacement | 119 cc (7.2 cu. in.) |
|---|---|
| Number of cylinders | 1 |
| Cylinder bore | 60 mm (2.36 in.) |
| Piston stroke | 42 mm (1.65 in.) |
| Piston ring thickness | 1.5 mm, 2 rings used |
| Cylinder type | Aluminum with chrome-plated bore |
| Intake method | Piston ported |
| Power output | 9.2 hp (6.8 kW) |
| Weight | 10.4 kg (22.9 lbs), powerhead only |
| Operator configuration | Single-operator |
| Handlebar system | Anti-vibration |
| Chain brake | Inertia-activated |
| Clutch | Centrifugal |
| Drive type | Direct |
| Construction | Die-cast magnesium and injection-molded polymer |
| Magneto type | Electronic SEM AM37 |
| Carburetor | Walbro WG-2A (4, 6, 8 series) |
| Major repair kit | K12-WG |
| Minor repair kit | D12-WG |
| Air filter system | Cellulose fiber cartridge |
| Starter type | Husqvarna automatic rewind |
| Oil pump | Automatic, adjustable |
| Maximum engine RPM | 11,000 (free) / 9,000 (under load) |
| Idle RPM | 2,500 |
| Ignition timing | Fixed |
| Breaker point setting | None |
| Flywheel/coil air gap | 0.30 mm (0.012 in.) |
| Spark plug type | Champion RCJ7Y, Bosch WSR7F / WS7F, NGK BPMR7A |
| Spark plug gap | 0.50 mm (0.020 in.) |
| Crankshaft main bearings | Ball |
| Fuel tank capacity | 1.25 litres (42 oz.) |
| Fuel oil ratio | 50:1 |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 in. or .404 in. |
Husqvarna 3120 XP
The Husqvarna 3120 XP has earned legendary status among chainsaw enthusiasts and professionals alike. Praised for its raw power and durability, many users consider it superior even to heavyweight competitors like the STIHL MS 880.
Some point out that more modern saws like the 592 XP offer better versatility for typical use, the 3120 XP shines in specialized tasks like milling and oversized timber felling.
Its sheer size and strength mean it’s not for everyone—older users or those cutting smaller wood may find it excessive. Yet, its long production run and strong resale value show there’s still a loyal base that appreciates what this saw delivers.
Despite minimal changes over three decades, demand remains high, and for many, the 3120 XP is still the ultimate big saw.