How to Tell if a Chainsaw Blade is Worn Out?

We often focus on the more prominent aspects of these saws - like the chain or motor. We probably don't spend much time thinking about bars that combine them. A chainsaw blade in good working order will provide stability, guidance, and efficiency. But what about worn chainsaw blades? It can make your logging and production projects a real chore. Here's how to tell if a chainsaw blade is worn out and needs to be replaced.

As your chainsaw blade wears out, you lose cutting accuracy and it takes longer to cut. If the same type of cut your saw used to pass easily now takes twice as long - even with a sharp chain - you might be looking at how much your bar has worn down.

Thankfully, there are some easy ways to check chainsaw blade wear. With the chain tensioned, swing the chain back and forth laterally first. You shouldn't notice a lot of back-and-forth movement. Worn chainsaw blades allow for more side-to-side movement.

Your chainsaw chain fits your bar "tongue and groove" style. The groove on the new rod has a simple U shape. As it wears down, the top of the "U" wears down into a "V" shape. Obviously, this extra space allows the chain to move more.

While the new bars allow for a little lateral movement, you wonder when things will go wrong. There is an easy way to solve this problem. Pull the chain tight, then grab the straight edge. You can use a ruler, a speed ruler, a pencil—whatever. Press it against the side of the bar and the outer teeth on the chain. Is there any gap between the bar and the straight edge when pressed? If so, your chainsaw chain are still in good shape.

With a worn chainsaw blade, pressing the straight edge against the outer teeth will cause the teeth to shift. This lets your ruler lie flat on the bar with no gaps in between. If you can basically move the chain that far with your fingers, do you think it will be worse when you're pressing on a branch or log?

Of course, you can extend the life of your bar by taking some precautions. Adjust the chain tension before using the chainsaw. When you're done working, release some tension on the chain before installing the saw.

You also need to make sure that the chain stays oiled while in use. Double-check that your ports are free of any blockages. Every time you sharpen a chain, take the opportunity to turn the saw blade upside down.

Taking these steps for preventive maintenance should prevent premature wear on your chainsaw blade. A new chainsaw blade can run between $30 and $60. You'll appreciate it when you don't have to throw away worn chainsaw blades as often. If you want to buy chainsaw chains or other chainsaw accessories, please contact us.

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