Yeah, im trying to apply my knowledge of brushless motors/ batteries used on the ebikes I build, to these cordless chainsaws, but it may not apply . It seems the trend in cordless chainsaws, was to go higher in voltage, which seemed to result in better cutting { not longer cutting time} . These saw started at 12-18 volts, years ago, and then progressed to where the norm became 40 volts or higher, with some now reaching 120 DC volts. I just found it odd, that Millwauke just released a new chainsaw, and went back down to the 18 volt platform.
I guess my main inquiry would be , will a 18 volt cut as well/fast as a 40 volt chainsaw , if all other specs in the saw are the same { bar length, chain used , etc} . On a ebike, higher voltages usually results in faster RPMS of the brushless hub motor . Wonder how many RPMS the chain on the m18 rotates ? I think the Oregon cs300 is around 2800 rpm. Of course RPMS are just 1 of the important stats....torque is also very important . The key is finding that perfect match of torque/ rpms in the saw itself and then matching it with the perfect battery in regards to its weight, AH capacity, voltage . For cutting the hardest woods { hickory, eucalyptus ,etc} , I do not think the electric chainsaw market has gotten there yet....but its getting closer every year.