Chains for Saws: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Using the Right Chain

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can make quick work of cutting through wood. But in order for a chainsaw to perform at its best, it's essential to have the right chain. There are many different types of chains available, each with its own unique features and benefits.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at chains for saws, including the different types available, how to choose the right chain for your needs, and how to properly use and maintain a chainsaw chain.

Types of Chains

There are three main types of chainsaws chains:

• Pitch: The pitch of a chain refers to the distance between the drive links on the chain. The most common pitches are 0.325", 3/8" low profile, and 0.404".
• Gauge: The gauge of a chain refers to the thickness of the drive links. The most common gauges are 0.050", 0.058", and 0.063".
• Cutter: The cutter is the part of the chain that actually cuts through the wood. There are many different types of cutters available, each with its own unique design.

Choosing the Right Chain

The type of chain you choose for your chainsaw will depend on the type of cutting you'll be doing. For general-purpose cutting, a chain with a pitch of 0.325" or 3/8" low profile and a gauge of 0.050" or 0.058" is a good choice. For more demanding cutting tasks, such as cutting through hardwoods or frozen wood, a chain with a pitch of 0.404" and a gauge of 0.063" is a better option.

Using and Maintaining a Chainsaw Chain

Once you've chosen the right chain for your chainsaw, it's important to use and maintain it properly. Here are a few tips:

• Keep the chain sharp: A sharp chain will cut more efficiently and will be less likely to kickback.
• Oil the chain regularly: The chain should be oiled every time you use it. This will help to keep the chain from wearing out prematurely.
• Inspect the chain regularly: The chain should be inspected regularly for any signs of damage. If you find any damage, replace the chain immediately.

Safety First

Chainsaws are powerful tools, and it's important to use them safely. Here are a few safety tips:

• Always wear safety gear: When using a chainsaw, always wear safety gear, including eye protection, ear protection, and gloves.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Before starting to cut, make sure you are aware of your surroundings and that there are no people or animals in the area.
• Hold the saw firmly: When using a chainsaw, hold the saw firmly with both hands.
• Cut only what you can handle: Don't try to cut through wood that is too large or too thick.

Conclusion

Chainsaws are essential tools for anyone who needs to cut through wood quickly and efficiently. By choosing the right chain for your needs and using and maintaining it properly, you can ensure that your chainsaw will perform at its best for years to come.

Types of Chains

There are three main types of chainsaws chains: full chisel, semi-chisel, and skip chain. Each type has its own unique features and benefits.

• Full chisel chains are the most aggressive type of chain and are designed for cutting through hardwoods. They have a sharp, chisel-like edge that can quickly cut through wood.
• Semi-chisel chains are less aggressive than full chisel chains and are designed for general-purpose cutting. They have a semi-chisel edge that is less likely to kickback than a full chisel chain.
• Skip chains have fewer cutters than full chisel or semi-chisel chains. This makes them less aggressive, but also more durable. Skip chains are a good choice for cutting through softwoods or for cutting in dirty or sandy conditions.

Choosing the Right Chain

The type of chain you choose for your chainsaw will depend on the type of cutting you'll be doing. Here is a general guide:

• For general-purpose cutting: A semi-chisel chain with a pitch of 0.325" or 3/8" low profile and a gauge of 0.050" or 0.058" is a good choice.
• For cutting hardwoods: A full chisel chain with a pitch of 0.325" or 3/8" low profile and a gauge of 0.058" or 0.063" is a good choice.
• For cutting softwoods or in dirty or sandy conditions: A skip chain with a pitch of 0.325" or 3/8" low profile and a gauge of 0.050" or 0.058" is a good choice.

Using and Maintaining a Chainsaw Chain

Once you've chosen the right chain for your chainsaw, it's important to use and maintain it properly. Here are a few tips:

• Keep the chain sharp: A sharp chain will cut more efficiently and will be less likely to kickback.
• Oil the chain regularly: The chain should be oiled every time you use it. This will help to keep the chain from wearing out prematurely.
• Inspect the chain regularly: The chain should be inspected regularly for any signs