How to choose a chain for a chainsaw: look, compare and select the best - Setafi

The question "how to choose a chain for a chainsaw" is asked not only by beginners, but also by professionals with experience and practice. This is because there are hundreds of models of chains in the store, but which one is exactly suitable for a chainsaw is not immediately disassembled. Especially for this, we decided to find out how to choose a chain for a chainsaw from the experts. We have posted the information in our article. Get comfortable, we're getting started!

How to determine the chain pitch - the most important criterion for determining the correct model

Marking a consumable by its step is the main parameter for understanding what and on which device to install. Chainsaw chain pitch is the closest distance between teeth or rivets. The parameter is measured in inches (1 inch - approximately 2.54 cm).

The most common pitch options are 0.325, 0.375 and 0.404. Each of the options is designed strictly for your needs. Read the instructions for the chainsaw to understand the structure of its chain.

Each model is developed for specific sizes, except for professional ones. The latter are paired immediately with all sizes.

The performance of a gasoline saw is directly dependent on the pitch. The smaller it is, the lower the performance of the device is to apply less effort to cut the part. The larger the step, the more productivity the chainsaw gives out per unit of time, but it also takes more physical effort to control it.

Consider the characteristics of each model separately:

• Chain 0.325 ″ - the minimum step for work in the home or workshop. Suitable for semi-professional chainsaw models. This step size is comparable to an engine power of 3.5 hp. For more powerful models, setting the minimum size is not recommended.

Consider also the place of work and the dimensions of the part being cut. For small wood, the use of "minimum" will provide a smooth and fast move, which cannot be said when working with thick branches.

• The 0.375″ chain is a popular choice among chainsaws. Engine power for such a step is up to 4 hp. A similar option is used for medium trees and is inserted into household and professional gasoline-powered saws.
• Chain 0.404″ - chain only for professional devices. An engine of at least 5.5 hp is required for operation. Only with this indicator will the tool be productive and more or less economical.

For low power saws, the widest pitch is not an option. In chainsaws for such a chain, the engine itself is sharpened for high torque. Without it, it is difficult to work not only for the saw, but also for the master.

Chain sizes are the main criterion when choosing a consumable for your tool. In the next section, no less important, but not so “authoritative” characteristics will go.

Types of chains by link thickness

The second most important characteristic of the saw part is its thickness. The fact is that the groove on the working tire of the tool has a different size, so each chain is sharpened for a specific tire. We present you the 5 most popular options: 0.043″, 0.05″, 0.058″, 0.063″ and 0.08″. Below are the characteristics of each:

1. 0.043″ - for low power saws. They are found for tires of the “household” category, so they are only suitable for small loads.
2. 0.05″ - the option is slightly larger than the first. Not much different from the starting version, although the size is the most popular among chainsaws. Such circuits are balanced and are inserted into household and semi-professional devices.
3. 0.058″ - for professional and medium power chainsaws. Second in popularity.
4. 0.063″ is a strong link for a professional tool.
5. 0.08″ - for continuous operation with heavy loads. For devices of a professional category.

Summary: choose a chain model according to the pitch length and thickness relative to the category of your tool. The characteristics of the chainsaw can be found in the instructions. And if it is not there, then the Internet is full of scanned for any model of a gasoline saw. Google and analyze information. Good luck!