Have you ever felt the satisfying rumble of a chainsaw slicing through wood? That powerful cut is thanks to a tiny, but mighty part: the chain saw chain. But what happens when that chain gets dull, damaged, or just plain wrong for the job? Suddenly, your wood-cutting project becomes a frustrating chore, filled with slow cuts and potential danger.
Choosing the correct chain saw chain is more than just picking a random one off the shelf. The wrong chain can lead to poor performance, wasted time, and even accidents. There are different sizes, types, and features to understand. It is important to know which chain is best for your saw and the type of wood you’re cutting.
This blog post will be your guide to the world of chain saw chains. We will uncover the secrets to selecting the perfect chain. We will cover chain types, sizes, and features. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the right chain for any cutting task. Get ready to sharpen your skills and your saw!
Our Top 5 Chain Saw Chain Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Chain Saw Chain Detailed Reviews
1. Oregon S62T AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chains 2-Pack
Rating: 8.9/10
The Oregon S62T AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chains 2-Pack is a great choice for people who own chainsaws. This pack gives you two replacement chains. They are made for 18-inch bars. These chains fit many different chainsaw brands. They are perfect for homeowners and landscapers.
What We Like:
- You get two chains!
- These chains are made for many chainsaw models. They fit Atlas, Craftsman, ECHO, Ego, and more.
- The chains are strong and cut well.
- They have a special oiling system. This keeps the chains working well.
- These chains are built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may need help to install these chains.
These Oregon chainsaw chains are a good purchase. They are a reliable choice for anyone needing replacement chains for their 18-inch bar saw.
2. KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 56 Drive Links Fits Craftsman
Rating: 9.0/10
The KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain is a set of three saw chains. They are made for many chainsaw brands. These chains are designed for tough jobs. They are built to last and cut well. This is a great choice for people who need reliable chainsaw chains.
What We Like:
- The chains fit many different chainsaw brands.
- The chains are made of strong steel. They are tough and durable.
- The chains are designed to reduce kickback. This makes them safer to use.
- The chains are sharp and cut well.
- The set comes with three chains. This is a great value.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description doesn’t mention the specific types of wood the chains are best for.
Overall, the KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain is a good buy. It is a safe and reliable option for your chainsaw needs. You will be happy with this product.
3. FUNKYWOO 4 Pack 14 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 52 Drive Links fits Craftsman
Rating: 9.1/10
The FUNKYWOO 4 Pack 14 Inch Chainsaw Chain is a set of chainsaw chains. They are made for many different chainsaw brands. The chains are made to cut smoothly and last a long time. You get four chains in one pack! This is a great deal if you need to replace your chainsaw chain.
What We Like:
- The chains fit many different chainsaw brands.
- The chains cut smoothly.
- They are made to resist wear and tear.
- The pack comes with four chains, which is a good value.
- They are low-kickback and help reduce user fatigue.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to make sure the chain fits your chainsaw before you buy it.
If you need new chainsaw chains, these FUNKYWOO chains are a good choice. They are made to work well and last a while.
4. 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge
Rating: 9.4/10
Need a new chainsaw chain? This 5-pack of 18-inch chainsaw chains is ready to go! They fit many popular chainsaw brands. These chains have 62 drive links and a .050″ gauge. They are also 3/8″ pitch replacement chains. Get ready to cut wood with these reliable chains.
What We Like:
- This pack includes five chains!
- These chains are made with hard chrome. This helps them last longer.
- The chains cut smoothly and fast. They also have low kickback.
- They fit many chainsaw brands like Ryobi, Kobalt, and Craftsman.
- The chains are built to handle tough jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Make sure you check the size of your chain saw before buying.
These chainsaw chains are a great value. They are perfect for anyone who needs to replace their chainsaw chain. Buy this product to help you cut wood.
5. KAKEI Milwaukee Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 56 Drive Links Fits M18 Fuel
Rating: 8.6/10
Need a new chainsaw chain? The KAKEI Milwaukee Chainsaw Chain is a solid choice. This pack includes three 16-inch chains. They fit many popular chainsaw models. You can use it with your M18 Fuel, Ego CS1613, and Dewalt chainsaws. The chains have a 3/8″ LP pitch, a .043″ gauge, and 56 drive links. They are made with quality materials for great performance.
What We Like:
- The chains meet safety standards. They passed kickback tests.
- The chains are made with tough German steel. This makes them durable.
- Japanese chrome-plated technology makes the cutters sharp.
- The chains come with protective oil. This helps prevent rust.
- KAKEI offers customer support. They can help you find the right chain size.
What Could Be Improved:
- Make sure you check your chainsaw’s manual. You need to know the right chain size.
The KAKEI Chainsaw Chain is a good buy for your chainsaw. It is a safe and reliable option for cutting wood. If you need a new chain, this is a good option.
Chain Saw Chain: Your Cutting Edge Guide
Buying a new chain saw chain can feel tricky. This guide helps you pick the right one. We’ll cover what to look for and how to find the best chain for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
- Pitch: This is the size of the chain. It is the distance between the rivets. You need to match the chain’s pitch to your saw. Common pitches are 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, and .325 inch. Check your saw’s manual.
- Gauge: The gauge is the thickness of the drive link. Drive links sit in the bar groove. Again, match the gauge to your saw. Popular gauges are .043 inch, .050 inch, and .063 inch.
- Number of Drive Links: This tells you how many links go around your saw bar. Count the links on your old chain. Or, check your saw’s manual.
- Chain Type: Different chain types are for different jobs. Some are for general use. Others are for specific wood types. Some are for professional work.
Important Materials
- Steel: Chains are made of high-quality steel. This steel needs to be strong. It helps the chain resist wear and tear.
- Chromium: Chromium is added to the steel. This makes the chain harder. It also helps it stay sharp longer.
- Sharpening Angles: The angles of the cutting teeth matter. These angles affect how well the chain cuts. They also affect how easy it is to sharpen.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Heat Treatment: A good chain is heat-treated. This hardens the steel. It makes the chain more durable.
- Grinding: How the chain is ground affects sharpness. A well-ground chain cuts better.
- Tooth Design: The shape of the cutting teeth matters. Different designs work better for different jobs.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for quality. Research brands before you buy.
- Price: Usually, a more expensive chain is made better. But you can find good chains at fair prices.
User Experience and Use Cases
- Homeowners: If you only use your saw occasionally, a general-purpose chain is fine. You can use it for cutting firewood or trimming trees.
- Landscapers: Landscapers need durable chains. They cut wood often. They need chains that stay sharp.
- Loggers: Loggers need professional-grade chains. These chains are built for tough work. They cut quickly and efficiently.
- Sharpening: You’ll need to sharpen your chain. You can use a file or a sharpening tool. Learn how to sharpen your chain safely.
- Safety: Always wear safety gear when using a chainsaw. This includes safety glasses, gloves, and a helmet.
Chain Saw Chain FAQs
Q: How do I know my chain’s pitch and gauge?
A: Check your saw’s manual. You can also find the information stamped on your old chain.
Q: What is the difference between a full chisel and a semi-chisel chain?
A: Full chisel chains cut fast. They are for professionals. Semi-chisel chains are easier to sharpen. They are good for general use.
Q: How often should I sharpen my chain?
A: Sharpen your chain when it starts to cut poorly. This might be after every few uses, or sooner if you hit dirt or rocks.
Q: How do I measure the number of drive links?
A: Count the links on your old chain. Or, remove the chain and lay it flat. Then count the links.
Q: Can I use any chain on my chainsaw?
A: No. You must match the pitch, gauge, and number of drive links to your saw. Using the wrong chain is unsafe.
Q: What is kickback?
A: Kickback is when the saw jumps back towards you. It can be very dangerous. Use proper cutting techniques to avoid it.
Q: What kind of chain is best for cutting firewood?
A: A general-purpose chain is usually fine for cutting firewood.
Q: How do I store a chainsaw chain?
A: Clean the chain. Then, store it in a container. This protects it from dirt and damage.
Q: What is the difference between a “low-vibration” chain and a regular chain?
A: Low-vibration chains have features that reduce vibration. This makes them more comfortable to use.
Q: How long does a chainsaw chain last?
A: Chain life depends on use and care. A chain can last for several months or a few years. Sharpening helps extend its life.
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!