Cut Faster and Safer by Choosing the Perfect Chainsaw Chain

Selecting the right chainsaw chain is crucial for achieving fast, efficient, and safe cuts when using your chainsaw. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which chain is optimal for your needs and your saw.

The first step to finding the best chainsaw chain is understanding that not all chains are created equal. The chain's pitch, gauge, chisel type, and length all impact how well it will perform with your specific chainsaw model and the types of cuts you need to make. Taking the time to evaluate these characteristics will ensure your new chain and saw work in harmony when it comes time to start cutting.

Chainsaw Chain Basics

Before we dive into the details, let's quickly overview what a chainsaw chain actually is and does. The chain is the cutting component of your chainsaw made up of a series of sawtooth drive links and rivets. It fits on the saw's guide bar and connects to the drive sprocket. When the motor spins the sprocket, it pulls the chain around the guide bar allowing the cutters to slice through wood. Chains come in different pitches, gauges, chisel styles, and lengths to suit various saws and cutting tasks.

The Importance of Pitch

Pitch refers to the spacing between the rivets that connect the drive links together to form the loop of the chain. It is typically measured in inches or millimeters. The chain's pitch must precisely match the pitch of the sprocket's teeth in order for the chain to mesh and rotate properly.

Using a chain with a different pitch than the sprocket will result in either the chain being too loose or too tight. This mismatch in pitch causes increased friction, premature wear and tear, reduced cutting efficiency, and potentially serious damage to the saw. It's absolutely critical to match the chain pitch to the sprocket when selecting a replacement chain.

How to Determine Pitch

Figuring out your saw's pitch is easy if you have the owner's manual, which should state the recommended chain pitch. You can also inspect the teeth on the sprocket itself with a ruler to measure the spacing. Then simply choose a chain with the matching pitch measurement.

If neither of those options are available, the best way to determine pitch is to remove the existing chain and bring it with you to the hardware store. A quick comparison will allow you to match the new chain's pitch to the old one and ensure compatibility with your sprocket.

Chain Gauge and Cutting Ability

The gauge of a chainsaw chain refers to the thickness of the drive links. This drive link gauge ranges from 0.043 inches up to 0.063 inches for most chainsaws. The gauge affects how aggressively the chain can cut and also impacts the overall durability of the chain.

A thicker gauge chain is able to handle the higher resistance that comes from cutting hardwoods versus softwoods. The additional strength also allows it to stay sharp for longer when subjected to the dense, tough wood. However, a thicker gauge does require more power from the saw to drive the chain efficiently.

A thinner gauge chain is sufficient for softer woods like pine that don't put up as much resistance. These lighter chains cut faster and are easier for the saw to drive. However, they tend to wear out and dull faster when used on harder woods.

Picking Gauge by Typical Use

When selecting gauge, consider what you typically cut with your chainsaw. If you mainly cut hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash, opt for a thicker .050 to .063 gauge chain that can handle the increased demands. For only cutting softwoods like pine, cedar, and spruce, a .043 to .050 gauge chain will be suitable and provide faster cutting.

For those tackling a mix of hardwoods and softwoods, a moderate gauge around .050 is usually optimal. It provides enough strength for occasional hardwood work while still allowing reasonable softwood cutting speed.

Full Chisel vs. Semi Chisel Cutters

In addition to pitch and gauge, choosing between a full chisel and semi chisel cutter shape on your chain is key. Full chisel chains have a square cutting angle that is very aggressive, allowing them to quickly slice through dense hardwoods. They leave a flat-bottomed kerf (cut) that requires less saw power to penetrate the wood.

Semi chisel chains have a more rounded cutting edge and safety bevel that makes them less prone to kickback on the chainsaw. This rounded profile leaves a U-shaped kerf that is a bit slower cutting, but allows the chain to cut both hardwoods and softwoods effectively.

Due to the square aggressive cutting angle, full chisel chains have a notably higher risk of dangerous kickback events. For novice chainsaw users, a low or moderate kickback semi chisel chain is the safer choice to avoid accidents.

Chain Length Considerations

Naturally, the length of your selected chain must match the length of the guide bar on your chainsaw. Chains are available in a variety of sizes from 10" all the way up to 60".

To determine what length you need, simply measure your existing bar from tip to tip. Then round up to the nearest even number of drive links available for chains. For example, if your bar measures 15 1/2", get a 16" chain to fit properly.

You can also reference your owner's manual, which typically provides a chart of recommended chain lengths for that saw model and the different bar size options. Following the manufacturer's suggested chain sizes is always a safe bet for proper fit.

Matching Chain to Chainsaw

With so many complex variables like pitch, gauge, chisel type, and length, it can seem overwhelming to select the optimal chainsaw chain for your saw and cutting needs. Luckily, there are a few simple ways to match a new chain to your specific chainsaw make and model.

Use the Manufacturer's Parts Lookup

Most major chainsaw manufacturers provide online lookup tools that allow you to enter your model number and see compatible replacement parts. This is the easiest way to determine exactly which chains will properly fit your saw based on the maker's recommendations.

Consult Your Owner's Manual

Your saw's owner manual will also typically provide guidance on selecting the proper chain replacements for that model. There are often charts that indicate the recommended pitches, gauges, and lengths to use based on the saw's sprocket and bar sizes.

Ask Your Retailer

Another option is to bring your saw into a retailer specializing in chainsaw parts and accessories. Provide them the make, model, and bar length and they can suggest appropriate chain types and sizes guaranteed to fit and function with your specific saw.

Equipping your saw with the ideal chainsaw chain has a major impact on your cutting experience. Keep these key points in mind as you evaluate and select replacement chains:

• Match the chain pitch precisely to your saw's sprocket spacing
• Consider gauge thickness based on cutting hardwoods, softwoods, or both
• Choose full chisel for aggressive cutting or semi chisel for reduced kickback
• Measure guide bar and follow manufacturer's length recommendations
• Use model-specific part lookups or ask retailers for saw-matching assistance

Taking the time to properly evaluate and choose the best chainsaw chain for your needs will reward you with much faster and smoother cutting. You'll also reduce the risk of dangerous chainsaw kickbacks to accomplish woodcutting tasks safely and efficiently.