Chainsaws and Their Chains

Chainsaws and Their Chains

Chainsaw Chains

Not all chainsaw chains are created equal. In this blog, we'll discuss the different types of chainsaw chains and their uses, so you can choose the right one for your specific needs.

  1. Standard Chainsaw Chain: Standard chainsaw chains are the most common type of chainsaw chains. They are made up of a series of cutting teeth that are separated by spaces called drive links. The drive links attach to the chainsaw's guide bar and are responsible for driving the chain around the bar. Standard chainsaw chains are versatile and are suitable for most cutting tasks, including cutting through softwood and hardwood trees.
  2. Low Profile Chainsaw Chain: Low profile chainsaw chains have shorter teeth and are thinner than standard chainsaw chains. They are designed to cut smaller-diameter wood and are ideal for pruning trees and cutting shrubs. Low profile chainsaw chains are also less aggressive, making them easier to control, especially when cutting close to the ground.
  3. Full Skip Chainsaw Chain: Full skip chainsaw chains have larger gaps between the teeth than standard chainsaw chains. They are designed to cut through larger diameter trees quickly and are used primarily for bucking or cutting logs. Full skip chainsaw chains are less precise than other chainsaw chains but are ideal for cutting large quantities of wood in a short amount of time.
  4. Semi-Skip Chainsaw Chain: Semi-skip chainsaw chains have fewer teeth than standard chainsaw chains but more than full skip chainsaw chains. They are designed for cutting through larger diameter trees and are a good compromise between the speed of a full skip chain and the precision of a standard chain.
  5. Ripping Chainsaw Chain: Ripping chainsaw chains are designed specifically for cutting with the grain of the wood. They have fewer teeth than other chainsaw chains and are sharpened at a different angle, allowing them to cut through wood fibers more efficiently. Ripping chainsaw chains are commonly used for milling lumber or creating flat surfaces on logs.
  6. Square Ground Chainsaw Chain: Square ground chainsaw chains are sharpened at a 90-degree angle, giving them a square edge. They are ideal for cutting hardwoods, frozen wood, or dirty wood, as they are less likely to become dull quickly. Square ground chainsaw chains are also less likely to snag or kickback than other chainsaw chains.

There are many different types of chainsaw chains available, each with its own unique characteristics and intended use. Choosing the right chainsaw chain for your specific needs can make a significant difference in the speed, precision, and safety of your cutting tasks. By understanding the different types of chainsaw chains and their uses, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right one for your next project.

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