How to Choose a Chainsaw Chain?

In this article, we focus on the chainsaw chain, which is actually the tip of the chainsaw. In addition to the power rating of the chainsaw, you can also get a general idea of what a chainsaw can do. But the actual performance of the machine essentially depends on the type of chain and its efficiency. So, let's see how to choose the right chainsaw chain.

A chainsaw chain consists of three types of links, each with a different shape and function:

Drive link: Pulled by the clutch bell, the drive link fits into the rod slot and guides the chain movement.

Teeth: Also called cutters, these work like planers to scrape chips from wood.

Connecting links (laces) with or without integrated rivets: These connect the drive links to the teeth.

To reduce the risk of springing back, the chain may have links and teeth with specially shaped safety profiles to ensure that the chain penetrates the wood well while reducing bounce and vibration.

The teeth have an L-shaped cutting edge that acts like a plane to remove wood from chips, and a depth gauge (rake) to limit the depth of cut. There are different types of teeth; the most common are:

Chisel: Has an L-shaped cutting edge with a square top corner

Half-chisel ("plane"): With rounded top corners

What is the best chain for a chainsaw? Chains with chisel teeth attack the wood with more force, so they cut faster, but are harder to sharpen. Chainsaw chains with half-chisel teeth are less likely to spring back, dull faster, and are easier to sharpen, so they are the best choice if you don't have much experience with chainsaws.

According to the order and number of knives (teeth), chainsaw chains can be divided into the following categories:

Standard: This is the best type because it has as many teeth as possible (one tooth behind each connecting link, the teeth are alternately connected on the right or left side of the chain).

Skip: The teeth are separated by 2 connecting links, which are alternately connected on the right and left side of the chain.

Half-skip: Alternate between 1 and 2 connecting links separating each tooth.

But which of these types of chains works best? Compared to semi-jump and jump chains, standard chains guarantee excellent cutting performance because they have the highest possible number of teeth. However, skip and half skip chains are suitable for underpowered chainsaws or very long guide bars, as there is less resistance when cutting and less sharpening time.

Did you notice the numbers printed on the links? They indicate the pitch and thickness (gauge) of the chain. For example, the number "21" on the chain means the pitch is 0.325" and the gauge is 0.050" (1.5mm). When buying a new chain for your chainsaw, you need to know its basic specifications:

Chain type: Tooth shape (chisel, half-chisel, etc.), safety features, sequence (standard, half-jump, or jumper).

Spacing (inches): The distance between any three consecutive rivets, divided by two.

Gauge (in inches or millimeters): The thickness of the drive link.

The number of drive links that make up the chain.

Where can I find this information? Some chainsaw guide bars have it printed on the tail end (closer to the body). Otherwise, refer to your chainsaw's user and maintenance manual. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations, and so is the chain. Install only guide bars and chains approved for your model of chainsaw. Otherwise, you will void the chainsaw's warranty and the manufacturer will release any liability.

The above briefly introduces some basic information about chainsaw chains. If you want to buy spare parts for chainsaws, please contact us.

HUSTIL is a professional custom garden tool spare parts manufacturer. We provide a full range of accessories search queries, garden tool accessories replacement, and after-sales service for our VIP users. After more than 10 years of strict screening, we now have more than 300 mature supply chain factories for production; at the same time, we are a 19-year experienced accessories manufacturer.