Black+Decker 40V MAX 12 in LCS1240
#14 in BatteryFull review
A basic 12 in saw for occasional pruning. Brushless rivals cut faster for similar money.
Amazon $199$199
The Black+Decker 40V MAX 12 in LCS1240 is the better chainsaw overall, rated 3.2 to 3.0. The Black+Decker 40V MAX 12 in LCS1240 leads on value and weight. The Black+Decker 40V MAX 12 in LCS1240 costs $30 less ($199 vs $229).
Craftsman V20 RP 12 in Chainsaw
#16 in BatteryFull review
For Craftsman V20 owners who want a compact saw for limbs and brush.
Amazon $229$229
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Black+Decker 40V MAX 12 in LCS1240 for value ($16.58 per inch of bar ($199 with battery and charger, 12 in bar) vs $19.08 per inch of bar ($229 with battery and charger, 12 in bar)) and weight (11.1 lb vs 12.3 lb).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every battery chainsaw; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Black+Decker 40V MAX 12 in LCS1240 | Craftsman V20 RP 12 in Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 54 $16.58 per inch of bar ($199 with battery and charger, 12 in bar) | 41 $19.08 per inch of bar ($229 with battery and charger, 12 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 50 chain speed not published (neutral score used) | 50 chain speed not published (neutral score used) |
| Weight 15% | 61 11.1 lb | 47 12.3 lb |
| Bar 10% | 0 12 in bar | 0 12 in bar |
| Warranty 20% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 50 3-year warranty |
Specifications
| Black+Decker 40V MAX 12 in LCS1240 | Craftsman V20 RP 12 in Chainsaw | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Bar length | 12 in | 12 in |
| Automatic oiler | Yes | Yes |
| Tool-free chain tension | Yes | - |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 40 V, 2 Ah battery | 20 V, 5 Ah battery |
| Battery energy | 40 Wh | 100 Wh |
| Battery included | Yes | Yes |
| Brushless motor | - | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 11.1 lb | 12.3 lb |
| Warranty | - | 3 years |