Picking up a solid chainsaw utv mount will save you a ton of frustration the next time you're heading out to clear some brush or haul firewood. If you've ever just tossed your saw into the back of your Side-by-Side and hoped for the best, you already know why that's a bad idea. By the time you get to the job site, your saw has usually bounced into a corner, leaked bar oil all over your gear, and maybe even nicked the plastic on your bed. It's just a mess that nobody wants to deal with when there's actual work to do.
Installing a dedicated mount is one of those small upgrades that makes a massive difference in how you use your machine. It keeps the saw secure, protects the chain, and frees up that precious bed space for your coolers, toolboxes, or whatever else you're hauling. Plus, it just looks a whole lot cleaner. Let's dive into why these things are worth it and what you should look for before you bolt one onto your rig.
Why you shouldn't just toss your saw in the back
Let's be real for a second—chainsaws aren't exactly cheap. Whether you're running a small electric saw for light pruning or a heavy-duty gas beast for felling trees, you've put some money into that tool. Letting it bounce around in a metal or plastic UTV bed is a recipe for disaster.
The vibration alone can do a number on the casing and the handle. Then there's the issue of the chain. If it's rubbing against the side of the bed or clanking against other tools, it's going to get dull fast. A chainsaw utv mount solves this by keeping the power head steady and the bar protected inside a scabbard or a clamp.
Safety is another big one. If you're driving over rough terrain—which is kind of the whole point of having a UTV—anything loose in the bed becomes a projectile. You don't want a sharp, heavy piece of machinery flying around if you hit a surprise stump or a deep rut. Securing it to the frame or the bed wall is just the smart thing to do for your own peace of mind.
Breaking down the different types of mounts
Not all mounts are built the same, and where you put it depends on how you use your machine. You generally have two main styles: roll bar mounts and bed-mounted brackets.
Roll bar mounts for more bed space
If you're always running out of room in the cargo box, a roll bar mount is probably your best bet. These usually use heavy-duty clamps to attach the saw to the vertical or horizontal bars of your ROPS (Roll Over Protection System). It keeps the saw up and out of the way, which is great if you're hauling mulch, gravel, or a big load of wood.
The only thing to watch out for here is clearance. You don't want your saw sticking out so far that it gets snagged on a low-hanging branch or a tight gate. Most people like to mount them on the back of the cab, facing inward or tucked just behind the seat. It stays protected by the frame but is still easy to grab when you hop out.
Bed-side mounts for easy access
Then you have the mounts that bolt directly to the inside or outside of the bed walls. These are super popular because they're usually at a very comfortable height. You aren't reaching up high or leaning over the cab to grab the saw.
Many of these use a "press" or "clamp" design. You basically slide the bar into a slot and tighten a knob or a lever. It holds the saw vertically, so the engine sits on top and the bar points down. It's a very stable way to transport a saw, and it's arguably the quickest way to get the saw in and out when you're doing a lot of stop-and-go cutting.
Durability and materials: What actually lasts?
When you're shopping for a chainsaw utv mount, you'll see everything from plastic to heavy-duty steel. If you're just a casual user who goes out once a month, the lighter-duty stuff might be fine. But if you're a rancher or a serious trail rider, you want something that can take a beating.
Aluminum is a great middle ground. It's lightweight, so it won't add a bunch of unnecessary weight to your rig, and more importantly, it won't rust. If you live in a rainy climate or you're constantly hosing down your UTV after a muddy ride, rust-resistance is a huge plus.
Powder-coated steel is the heavy hitter. It's incredibly strong and can handle the weight of those massive 28-inch bar saws without flinching. The only downside is that if the powder coating gets chipped, you'll need to hit it with some touch-up paint to keep the rust away.
You'll also see some mounts made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This is basically the same tough plastic they use for bed liners and cutting boards. It's great because it won't dull your chain if it rubs against the mount, and it's completely immune to the weather.
Universal vs. brand-specific options
A common question is whether you need a mount made specifically for your UTV brand. Most of the time, the answer is no. A lot of companies make a "universal" chainsaw utv mount that uses adjustable clamps or standard bolt patterns. These are great because they're usually a bit cheaper and you can move them to a different machine if you ever trade in your rig.
However, some brands have proprietary mounting systems—like the "Lock & Ride" or "LinQ" systems. If your UTV has these built-in holes or tracks, it might be worth getting a mount designed specifically for them. It makes installation a five-second job with no drilling required. It's a bit more expensive, but the convenience factor is hard to beat.
Things to think about before you buy
Before you hit that checkout button, take a second to measure your saw. Most mounts are adjustable, but if you have an extra-long bar or a wrap-around handle, you want to make sure it's actually going to fit.
Also, think about your bar cover (the scabbard). Some mounts require you to take the cover off, while others are wide enough to hold the saw with the cover on. Personally, I prefer the ones that let you keep the cover on. It adds an extra layer of protection and keeps the inside of the mount cleaner.
Another thing to consider is vibration dampening. Some of the better mounts on the market include rubber pads or liners. This might seem like a small detail, but it prevents the mount from scratching up your saw's bar and stops that annoying metal-on-metal rattling sound while you're cruising down the trail.
Installation isn't as scary as it looks
Most people can get a chainsaw utv mount installed in about twenty minutes with basic hand tools. If it's a roll bar mount, it's usually just a couple of bolts and a bracket. If it's a bed mount, you might have to drill a couple of holes through the plastic or metal of your cargo box.
Don't be afraid to customize the placement. Just because the instructions show it in one spot doesn't mean you have to put it there. Sit in your driver's seat, walk around the back, and figure out where you naturally want to reach for the saw. There's nothing worse than mounting it and then realizing you have to walk all the way around a trailer every time you need to cut a limb.
Keeping it all maintained
Once you've got it installed, it's pretty low maintenance. Just give the bolts a quick check every now and then to make sure the vibrations haven't shaken anything loose. If you've got a mount with a locking knob, a little bit of lubricant on the threads once a season will keep it spinning smoothly.
Also, keep an eye on bar oil buildup. Saws leak—it's just what they do. Over time, oil and sawdust can gunk up the inside of the mount. A quick wipe-down with a rag every few weeks will keep everything working like it should and prevent that "clogged up" feeling when you're trying to slide the saw out in a hurry.
Wrapping things up
At the end of the day, adding a chainsaw utv mount to your setup is about making your life easier. It turns your UTV into a more capable workhorse and keeps your expensive tools safe from the elements and the rigors of the trail. Whether you're a professional woodsman or just someone who likes to keep the trails clear for the weekend ride, it's one of those investments that pays for itself in saved time and avoided headaches.
So, stop letting your saw bounce around in the back. Get it mounted, get it secured, and get back to the fun part—actually using your machine and getting the job done. You'll wonder how you ever managed without one.