Tips for Measuring Chainsaw Bars and Chains

If you need to buy a new chainsaw bar or chain, it's important to find the best fit. Here's how to measure your bars and chains.

Chainsaws are versatile tools that are great for light pruning, wood chopping, and more. With all of this, eventually, you will need to replace the chainsaw bar or chain. But before buying, please know the exact size of each. Using the wrong size bar or chain can damage the chainsaw and injure the chainsaw operator.

Read on to learn how to measure your chainsaw's blade and chain. It's not hard and saves time at the hardware store.

Chainsaws are sold in even lengths, based on the length of the chainsaw bar. Sometimes called a chainsaw chain, a chainsaw bar is the metal "arm" that holds and supports the chain during the cutting process. So when you buy a 16" chainsaw, you are buying a chainsaw with a 16" bar.

You can measure a chainsaw blade in two ways. The most common is the effective cut length. That's the distance from the tip of the rod to the front of the chainsaw body, where the rod disappears into the saw.

To measure the effective cutting length (or simply "length") of a chainsaw:

1. Place the tape measure on the very top of the rod.

2. Measure directly back to the point where the rebar enters the chainsaw body.

3. Round this measurement to the nearest even number.

Because chainsaws are only sold in even numbers, you'll need to round up odd and fractional numbers. A saw with an effective cutting length of 15 inches is a 16-inch chainsaw. If you measure 18-3/4", it's a 20" saw.

True bar length is the second, less common measurement. If you need it to perfectly fit your replacement rod, here's how:

1. Loosen the bolts securing the bar to the chainsaw body.

2. Remove the crossbar and place it on a flat surface.

3. Measure the rod from end to end.

The true length of a chainsaw is an exact measurement. Do not round this number.

If you're shopping for a new chainsaw bar, you may also need to know the specifications of the bar slot. Here's how to find it:

1. Collect pennies, dimes, and quarters.

2. Insert one coin into the bar slot at a time.

3. Determine which coin fits best into the groove.

For approximations, you can use quarters that are 0.063 inches, dimes that are 0.058 inches, and pennies that are 0.043 inches. Another option: Buy an inexpensive gauge that will also help you measure chain spacing, chain gauges, and file sizes.

What is the best option when shopping for a new chainsaw chain? Search for alternatives based on your chainsaw make and model.

It pays to be precise here. Most of the time, when customers walk into a store, they just want to buy a chain of the same length. But chains, even if they are the same length, vary from chainsaw manufacturer to chainsaw manufacturer. If you know the make and model, you can cross-reference it with the information listed on the chain saw chain packaging.

It also doesn't hurt to write or engrave numbers on the chainsaw blade near the body of the saw. They reflect the chain pitch, number of drive links, and link gauge. If you need the numbers and can't find them, or they are worn out, you can measure each number to determine its size.

Chain pitch is the distance between chain links. The following is the measurement method.

1. Use a ruler or tape measure to measure the distance between the three rivets on the chain.

2. Divide this measurement by two. The resulting number is your chain pitch.

Common chain pitches include 1/4", 0.325", 3/8". and .404 in.

Determining the number of drive links is as simple as counting the links on the chain.

1. Identify drive chain links. They are small bumps on the inside of the chain.

2. Calculate the number of links on the chain.

The link gauge is the thickness of the drive link. When your link gauge matches that of your chainsaw bar, the chain will fit snugly. You can use calipers or an inexpensive all-purpose gauge to measure.

1. Place a caliper or gauge along the groove of the chain loading rod.

2. Note the reading on the caliper or gauge.

Common drive link gauges are 0.043", 0.050", 0.058, and 0.063".

Having the right size chainsaw for the job can make cutting easier and safer.

Sizes generally vary according to the type of chainsaw, each suitable for different jobs. The most common chainsaw bar sizes are 12 to 20 inches, but they come in sizes up to 72 inches and are often used by professionals. The longer the pole, the heavier the chainsaw.

When choosing the right chainsaw size for the job, it's best to use a chainsaw blade that is at least two inches longer than the thickness of the item being cut. Certain chainsaw sizes are best for different types of activities:

- Air chainsaws start at 16 to 18 inches and go up to 72 inches. A 16- to 18-inch chainsaw is best for felling medium-sized trees, while a chainsaw with a 20-inch or larger shaft is good for larger trees or for chopping wood.

- Electric chainsaws tend to be smaller, usually 14 to 16 inches. Use the 14-inch saw for small trees and the 16-inch saw for medium-sized trees.

- The battery-powered saw is 16 to 18 inches and is good for felling medium-sized trees.

- Small battery-powered 6 to 9-inch chainsaws also exist. Use them to prune small branches.

The method of measuring the chainsaw guide bar and chain has been introduced in detail above. If you have any questions or you want to buy chainsaw spare parts, please contact us. Our garden tool experts will help you choose the most suitable spare parts for your garden tools.

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