Chainsaws have become indispensable tools for farmers, landscapers, and homeowners alike, making the chainsaw market poised to grow by more than 5% over the next five years. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior, maintaining your chainsaw with the right chain is essential. At some point, every chainsaw owner will need to replace their chain, but with countless options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
Selecting the perfect chainsaw chain can significantly impact both efficiency and safety. While the engine is the heart of your chainsaw, the chain plays an equally critical role in cutting wood effectively. When purchasing a new chainsaw chain, understanding the different types of chains available is key. This guide will walk you through the various chainsaw chain types so you can make an informed decision.
### Chainsaw Chains Basics
Before diving into the specifics, let’s review the fundamental components of a chainsaw chain. All chainsaw chains feature drive links on their underside that fit snugly into the guide bar’s groove to keep the chain secure. As the engine powers the sprocket, the drive links transmit this force to the chain, enabling it to rotate smoothly.
Above the drive links, you’ll find tie straps—rectangular sections of chain riveted to the drive links. These create gaps in the chain that allow for the removal of wood chips during cutting. On the upper side of the chain, you’ll notice a series of depth gauges and cutters. The depth gauges regulate the action of the cutters, which are responsible for slicing through wood. These cutters come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific tasks.
### Types of Chainsaw Chain Cutters
Each chainsaw chain falls into a category based on its cutter tooth design. Understanding these differences is crucial since each type is tailored for particular applications. The cutter type information is clearly indicated on the packaging.
#### 1. Low-Profile Cutters
Ideal for beginners or casual users, low-profile cutters are the safest and easiest to sharpen. Their design reduces the frequency of sharpening and makes them suitable for cutting both hardwood and softwood. Additionally, they’re compatible with any chainsaw model.
#### 2. Square (Full-Chisel) Cutters
With a square profile, these cutter teeth are commonly used by professionals. Designed for larger chainsaws with engines of at least 45cc, full-chisel chains excel at felling hardwood trees such as bluegum and jarrah. However, they wear down faster and require advanced sharpening skills.
#### 3. Round (Semi-Chisel) Cutters
Best suited for cutting softwood species like pine or fir, round cutter teeth chains are lighter and easier to handle on smaller chainsaws. These chains are straightforward to sharpen and work well for hardwoods, although regular maintenance is necessary. Compared to full-chisel chains, semi-chisel chains are slightly safer to operate.
### Chain Arrangement
The size of your chainsaw’s engine and the length of the guide bar determine the optimal chain arrangement. More cutter teeth generally mean smoother cuts but require more power to maintain speed. Conversely, reducing the number of cutter teeth decreases engine strain but results in a rougher cut.
#### 1. Full Complement/Standard Chain
This chain type features the highest number of cutter teeth, with only one tie strap between each cutter. Known for producing the smoothest cuts, it’s commonly used for milling timber. For optimal performance, use this chain on guide bars 24 inches or shorter.
#### 2. Full Skip/Skip Tooth Chain
Designed for longer bars (over 32 inches), full skip chains have two tie straps between each cutter. This reduces engine strain and ensures rapid cutting, but the trade-off is a rougher cut. These chains also provide ample space for wood shavings to exit the cut.
#### 3. Semi Skip Chain
Alternating between one and two tie straps between cutter teeth, semi skip chains strike a balance between smoothness and efficiency. Suitable for guide bars between 24 and 32 inches, they offer better chip clearance than standard chains without sacrificing too much smoothness.
### Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Chainsaw Chain
When shopping for a new chainsaw chain, several factors should guide your decision:
1. **Guide Bar Length**: Chainsaws come in various bar lengths, measured in inches. Always ensure the chain matches your guide bar’s specifications.
2. **Drive Link Count**: Knowing the number of drive links required for your bar is vital for selecting the correct chain length. This information is usually printed on the bar itself.
3. **Chain Pitch**: Match the chain pitch to your guide bar and drive sprocket. Measured by the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two, this detail can typically be found on your guide bar or user manual.
4. **Chain Gauge**: This refers to the thickness of the drive links and must align with the guide bar’s groove. Proper gauge selection minimizes vibrations and enhances performance.
### Get Your Chainsaw Chains from Jono & Johno!
Looking to upgrade your chainsaw chain? Visit Jono & Johno for a comprehensive selection of high-quality chains, including Stihl, Husqvarna, and more. Our extensive inventory ensures you’ll find the perfect chain for your equipment. Need assistance? Call us at 0353030263, and our team will help you choose the right chain to keep your chainsaw running smoothly.
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