Chainsaw chains or cutting chain is an essential part. This steel-link chain is riveted together and superficially resembles that of a bicycle roller chain, although it is more like that of a leaf chain. Chainsaws are outdoor mechanical tools suitable for cutting through the thick bark of trees or cutting trees. What enables a chainsaw to cut through is the chain that contains teeth to cut through the barks and trunks. You can look into BestViewsReviews featured section for the best Chainsaws options while intending to purchase.
What are the Different Parts of Chainsaw Chains?
Gauges
They are present in the chain to enable it to cut through the barks or trunk easily. The gauges exhibit adjustable height mechanisms to manage efficient cuts. If the gauges are too high the cuts will be shallow and small. And such cuts increase the chances of kickback.
Teeth Material
The teeth of a saw blade consist of chromium-plated steel alloy that allows the blade to have a quick grip and increased sharpness. In between the teeth, you will also find drive links that hold the teeth together along the blade.
Drive Links
These links are present between the teeth and deliver lubrication to the guide and manage the power between motor and chain.
Teeth Arrangement
Full chisel has square-cornered teeth and is suitable to cut softwood. Semi-chisel has more rounder teeth between the upper and the lower plates. It makes longer cuts and is popular with hardwood or dry wood. Low-profile chains come with low-height teeth and safety elements between them.
What are the Different Types of Chainsaw Chains?
Low Profile Chainsaw Chains
Low-profile chainsaw chains are a relatively new development in chainsaw chains. They have a smaller diameter or a shorter length than the standard chainsaw chain. Low-profile chainsaw chains come from a stronger, high-carbon steel alloy.
Narrow Kerf Chainsaw Chains
Kerf refers to the channels left by the chain as it cuts through the wood. You can determine the width by measuring the chainsaw bar and chain. Narrow kerf chainsaws are light-duty chainsaws with thin bars and chains. They are used primarily for trimming bushes and for light landscaping. For example, cutting an oak tree with a narrow kerf chain would not be possible because oak trees are hard on chains.
Ripping Chainsaw Chains
This type of chainsaw chain is expert in ripping the wood with the grain. A ripping chain always consists of a micro chisel or semi-chisel chain with a 10-degree cutting angle. Resetting the chainsaw is another way of maintaining the chain's sharpness. Read our dedicated blog on how to reset chainsaw chains for more clarity.
Best Chainsaw Chains to Buy
Oregon S40 10" Replacement Saw Chain
The review of Oregon's S40 10" Replacement suggests that its design gives you the best performance and longest life possible out of your saw chain. The Oregon S40 10" Replacement saw chain features a three-point anti-kickback pawl and a patented Down-cut style blade that helps to cut faster and easier.
Oregon R34 AdvanceCut 8-Inch Micro Lite Chainsaw Chain
The reviews of Oregon R34 AdvanceCut 8-Inch Micro Lite Chainsaw Chain Fits Poulan indicate that is a lightweight and ultra-compact chainsaw chain designed for use with the Poulan Pro brand of chainsaws. Featuring small micro-lite cutters and a low vibration level, it is ideal for cutting firewood and pruning.
Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain
The 18-inch Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain reviews verify that this model is all about a lightweight, durable and corrosion-resistant chain tool. It is constructed from a special alloy that's designed to resist rust and scaling. This chain comes with a link that plates with a non-slip coating, for a smooth and quiet operation. It reduces friction, increases the speed, efficiency, and reliability of your chainsaw.
BLACK+DECKER RC800 8-Inch Saw Chain
The RC800 saw chain reviews show that this is one of the best saws you can buy. This chain is specifically designed to work with the RC800 saw and offers an improved cutting performance over other similar saws. It's extra-long (11 inches) and also comes with two leads, making it easy to take on projects with the RC800's powerful motor.
Husqvarna 531300437 H-30 Chainsaw Chain
The reviews of Husqvarna 531300437 state that it is a 16-inch, .050-inch thick, .750-inch wide, .010-inch thick, galvanized-steel blade chain for heavy-duty applications such as building, demolition, and logging. The 531300437 H-30 chainsaw chain is recommended for saws with a maximum engine horsepower of 30.
Chainsaw Chains FAQ
How do You Measure the Pitch of a Chainsaw Chain?
You can determine the chain pitch (size) by measuring the distance between three consecutive rivets, then dividing the result by two. The rivets are round, with small pegs or studs that hold the chain segments together. You can calculate your chain pitch by dividing the number you measure from the first to the third by two.
How Do You Determine the Length of a Chainsaw Chain?
Your chainsaw bar's called length can be determined by measuring it from the front tip all the way back to the cutter closest to the saw's body. Round the measurement up to the nearest even number of inches. The actual length of a bar that measures 18 3/4" is actually 20".
How Often Should You Change the Chainsaw Chain?
There is no fixed lifespan for chainsaw chains; it depends on their usage and maintenance. The chain should last 5-6 years with good maintenance. If the chainsaw chain is used and cared for properly, it can last much longer.
What is the Correct Direction for a Chainsaw Chain?
In order for a blade to face correctly, it must have the tip of the teeth pointing towards the direction in which it rotates. The pointy edges of the blades should rotate on top of the chain bar, moving away from the body of the machine and toward the tip.
Conclusion
Knowing your outdoor tools like chainsaws and chainsaw accessories is essential. The chainsaw chain and the saw play a key role in making adequate tree cuts. Just owning a good chainsaw is not enough, ensuring that they work smoothly is also equally crucial. Read our dedicated blog on chainsaw maintenance to know more.
With a sufficient oil lubrication system in place, a good chainsaw won't be of any use. You can also read our blog on gas-powered vs. electric chainsaws for more insight. To know more about your buying choices, take a look at BestViewsReviews' featured section that has products recommended and reviewed as per their demand and performance.