Have you ever felt the frustration of your chainsaw blade getting stuck mid-cut, or seen your wood splitting unevenly? A dull or damaged chainsaw bar is often the culprit! Choosing the right bar is super important for anyone who uses a chainsaw, whether you’re a professional logger or just trimming trees in your yard. But with so many sizes, materials, and features, it can be a real headache to pick the best one.
Picking the wrong chainsaw bar can slow you down, damage your saw, and even be dangerous. You might waste time, money, and energy. This guide will help you understand everything about chainsaw bars. We’ll break down the different types, sizes, and features so you can make a smart decision.
By the end of this post, you’ll know how to choose the perfect chainsaw bar for your needs. You’ll learn how to measure your current bar, what materials are best, and how to keep your bar in top shape. Get ready to say goodbye to frustrating cuts and hello to smoother, safer sawing! Let’s dive in and learn all about chainsaw bars!
Our Top 5 Chainsaw Bars Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Chainsaw Bars Detailed Reviews
1. Oregon 20-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and L81 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo
Rating: 8.6/10
Need a new chainsaw bar and chain? The Oregon 20-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and L81 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo is a great choice. This combo fits many Stihl chainsaw models. It is designed for 20″ bars. It also uses a .325″ pitch, .063″ gauge chain with 81 drive links. This combo offers low vibration and is made for safety.
What We Like:
- This combo works with many Stihl chainsaw models up to 62 cc.
- The L81 chain uses Oregon’s LubriTec system. This system keeps the chain oiled to last longer.
- The chain is designed for low kickback. It also has low vibration. This makes it safer to use.
- The AdvanceCut saw chain is great for yard work.
What Could Be Improved:
- This chain is not Guard Mate Compatible.
This Oregon bar and chain combo is a solid upgrade for your chainsaw. It provides safety and helps keep your saw running smoothly. It’s a good pick for both professionals and people working in their yards.
2. Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo
Rating: 8.5/10
Looking to make your chainsaw work better? The Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo is a great choice. This combo includes a 16-inch bar and a low-vibration chain. It is made to fit many chainsaw models. This includes brands like Craftsman, ECHO, and Ryobi. The chain has 56 drive links, a 3/8″ pitch, and a .050″ gauge. It also has the special LubriTec oiling system.
What We Like:
- It is a good upgrade for your chainsaw.
- The combo fits many different chainsaw models.
- The chain has the LubriTec oiling system for less friction.
- AdvanceCut chains are good for cutting wood in your yard.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to make sure it fits your chainsaw before you buy it.
This Oregon chainsaw bar and chain combo is a solid upgrade. If you need to replace your bar and chain, this is a good option.
3. Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S55 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo
Rating: 9.0/10
Need a new chainsaw bar and chain? The Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S55 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo is a good choice! This combo fits many Stihl chainsaw models. It includes a 16-inch bar and an S55 AdvanceCut chain. The chain has 55 drive links, a 3/8″ pitch, and a .050″ gauge. It is designed for safety and easy use.
What We Like:
- This combo works with many Stihl chainsaws, like the MS 170, MS 180, and MS 180 C.
- The S55 chain has a special oiling system called LubriTec. It keeps the chain oiled to reduce friction. This makes the chain last longer.
- The chain is made for low kickback and low vibration. This helps make it safe. It meets safety standards.
- AdvanceCut chains are great for landscaping and yard work.
What Could Be Improved:
- Make sure your chainsaw uses a 16″ bar with 3/8″ low profile, .050″ gauge saw chain with 55 drive links and A074 motor mount.
If you need a new bar and chain for your Stihl chainsaw, this Oregon combo is a good option. It offers safety and good performance for your yard work.
4. Oregon Chainsaw Guide Bar & Chain Combo
Rating: 8.8/10
Need a new chainsaw chain and bar? The Oregon Chainsaw Guide Bar & Chain Combo is a good choice. It’s a replacement set for your 18-inch chainsaw. This combo comes with a low kickback chain. It fits many chainsaw brands like Craftsman, Homelite, and Poulan. It’s built for saws up to 42cc and is a great fit for both pros and homeowners.
What We Like:
- Fits many chainsaw models.
- Has a low kickback design for safety.
- Features the LubriTec oiling system.
- The chain is easy to maintain.
- Made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Only works with saws up to 42cc.
This Oregon combo is a great upgrade for your chainsaw. It’s safe, durable, and easy to use. You can’t go wrong with this chain and bar combo!
5. 14 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar and Chain 52 Drive Links
Rating: 8.6/10
This 14 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar and Chain set is a great replacement for your 14-inch chainsaw. It comes with a guide bar and three chains. The chains fit many different chainsaw brands. This set is designed for easy installation and replacement. It’s a good choice for anyone needing to replace their chainsaw parts.
What We Like:
- Includes a guide bar and three chains.
- Fits a variety of chainsaw brands like Craftsman, Echo, and Ryobi.
- Meets safety standards.
- Easy to install and replace the chains.
- Strong chain links for better cutting.
What Could Be Improved:
- Make sure to double-check the size to ensure a good fit.
Overall, this chainsaw bar and chain set is a solid option for your 14-inch saw. It is a good value and works well for many different brands of chainsaws.
Chainsaw Bar Buying Guide: Cut Through the Confusion!
Choosing the right chainsaw bar can be tricky. This guide will help you pick the perfect bar for your needs. Let’s get started!
Q: What are the main Key Features?
A: The key features you need to know are: Length, pitch, gauge, and bar type. These features affect how well the bar works with your saw.
1. Key Features to Look For
Chainsaw bars aren’t all the same. They come in different sizes and shapes. You need to know these key features:
- Length: This is how long the cutting part of the bar is. Longer bars let you cut bigger logs. Shorter bars are easier to control.
- Pitch: This is the size of the chain’s links. It must match your chainsaw. The pitch is usually written on your chainsaw bar.
- Gauge: This is the thickness of the chain’s drive links. It fits into the bar’s groove. Like the pitch, the gauge must match your saw.
- Bar Type: There are different types. Some are solid, and some have replaceable tips. Choose the type that fits your work best.
2. Important Materials
Chainsaw bars are made from strong materials. These materials help the bar last longer.
- Steel: Most bars are made of steel. Good quality steel is strong and resists wear.
- Hardening: Bars are often hardened. This makes them tougher and more resistant to damage.
- Coatings: Some bars have coatings. These coatings help protect the bar from rust and wear.
Q: What materials are best for a chainsaw bar?
A: High-quality steel is the best material. Hardening the steel helps it last longer. Some bars have protective coatings.
3. Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all bars are created equal. Some things make a bar better, and some things make it worse.
- Quality of Steel: Better steel makes a better bar. Look for bars made from high-quality steel.
- Heat Treatment: Heat treatment hardens the steel. This makes the bar last longer.
- Manufacturing: How the bar is made matters. Look for bars made with care and precision.
- Price: Usually, a higher price means better quality. However, always check the specifications first.
Q: How can I tell if a chainsaw bar is good quality?
A: Check the steel quality, heat treatment, and manufacturing. A higher price often means better quality.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the bar matters. Different bars work best for different jobs.
- Small Jobs: Shorter bars are good for small trees and pruning. They are easier to handle.
- Large Jobs: Longer bars are good for cutting big trees. They let you cut through thicker wood.
- Professional Use: Professionals often use strong, durable bars. These bars can handle heavy use.
- Homeowner Use: Homeowners usually need a bar that is easy to use and maintain.
Q: What size bar should I choose?
A: Choose a bar length based on the size of the wood you want to cut. Shorter bars are easier to control.
Q: How do I know what size bar to buy for my chainsaw?
A: Check your chainsaw’s manual. It will tell you the correct bar length, pitch, and gauge.
Q: How do I maintain my chainsaw bar?
A: Keep the bar clean. Sharpen the chain regularly. Check the bar for wear and tear.
Q: What is a replaceable tip?
A: A replaceable tip is the end of the bar. It wears out over time. You can replace the tip instead of the whole bar.
Q: What is the difference between a solid and a laminated bar?
A: A solid bar is made from one piece of steel. A laminated bar has layers. Laminated bars are lighter.
Q: Where can I buy a chainsaw bar?
A: You can buy them at hardware stores, online retailers, and chainsaw shops.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!