The main part of a chainsaw is its chain. No matter how well-build a chainsaw is, its cutting capacity completely depends on the chain. In this review, we will discuss chainsaw chain types and their characteristics as well.
A quality chain of any chainsaw will take over hardwoods, fire-woods, and timber. It is impossible to do precise and accurate cutting without it. But there is a high possibility that the chain may get worn after a while.
If you are feeling that the cuts are not getting precision like before, you may have to change the chain. This replacement is not a bad thing as it is a must for any chainsaw to keep the accuracy in great order.
Different Types of Chainsaw Chains
Cutting teeth is the prime factor that makes a chain different from others. Another concern is the chain arrangement which is minor but plays a vital role in any big project.
Full-chisel, semi-chisel, and low-profile cutter – these are the three types of chainsaw chains. For any replacement, you have to pick one from these types based on your chainsaw. Let’s discuss the variations briefly.
Full-chisel Cutters
The cutting teeth corners of full-chisel cutters are square-shaped. This is the specialty that they have. Due to the cutting option, a faster and a higher cutting is a guarantee.
If your chainsaw has this chain, then it can easily take on firewood and any kind of hardwood. Moreover, it can take down medium-sized trees without much difficulty. If you are looking for the best chainsaw type, you can go with this one.
Every cutter holds some negative side and so it is. There is nothing to complain about the power and speed of it but if your concern is durability then there is something to be talked about.
Except for durability, you may find it tough to make clear and smooth cuts. So, it is better not to make small cuts with it. It is perfect for cutting hardwood and trees within a short time.
It is necessary to take care of the chain properly. This is why you should consider the wood type before start ripping.
Video Details of Different Types of Chainsaw Chains
Semi-chisel Cutters
You will get the best cutting result for dirty, dry, or frozen woods with a semi-chisel cutter. As its blade construction is rounded, the cutting capacity is a bit slow considering other types.
The main advantage that a user gets is the low kickback. Its rounded shape is the reason that works well to keep it in control. Therefore, semi-chisel cutters are great for personal and professional use.
Soft or wet woods are different from hard ones and smooth cutting is mandatory there. This kind of cutters does the job well and also provides greater stability than others. You can work on any wood type easily using semi-chisel cutters.
Low Profile Cutters
The workability of a low-profile cutter is similar to a semi-chisel. The main difference is the chain shape which is rounded for low-profile cutters. If you need one for home use, these cutters are the best for you.
If you ignore the cutting speed (slow) of this chain type, the cutting diversity will amaze you. Besides safe working, it can take on any type of wood and any project. Along with home use, this best chain type will serve well at your workplace.
Even with zero experience, you can easily handle a low-profile cutter.There is almost no risk to use it and therefore, it is the first choice of many.
Which Is the Most Straightforward Chainsaw Chain?
Who does not love a fast cutting tool? Quick and easy cutting is a common expectation of all. Only an aggressive or straightforward chain can do that for you. Amongst all, the Stihl has the most aggressive chainsaw chain in the market.
Quality blade, high cutting speed, and long-lasting construction are the aspect of a straightforward chain. After Stihl, Husqvarna is the most popular brand for producing the finest chainsaw chains.
If you need more brand options, then Oregon and Tallox 3 pack are there for you. Oregon has 18”, 20”, and few more types that are considered as aggressive chainsaw chains. These have reputation for providing quality performance with low vibration and noise.
The price of all the mentioned chains will be within your budget. As the options are many, you can easily choose one for you that can meet all the demands.
What Are Chain Configurations?
The chain configuration refers to the cutting ability of it. As it has different types, we need a discussion about it.
1. Standard Chain:
A standard chain has the maximum number of teeth. It is also known as a full house chain and cuts smoothly with precision. The maximum bar size of it is 24-inch and thus large chainsaws get a perfect fit in it.
This chainsaw chain type can take on metal or wood easily. It will go through anything and the result will be satisfying. Though it cut precisely, the cutting speed is not that fast considering other ones.
If you want to apply force while cutting, you are allowed to do so. It will not hamper the outcome at all. Any type of strong wood like timber or firewood, this chain configuration is perfect to cut all these.
2. Full-skip
High-speed cutting is the highlighted feature of a full-skip chain. Therefore, the cutting will be fast and the job will be done within a short time. The small number of teeth is the reason for such the cutting ability of a full-skip chain.
The con side of this chain configuration is its non-smooth operation. Though it can take on large trees or firewood, the finishing will not be as smooth as a standard chain. You can use it on 24” bar size or even more.
The use of this chain is not limited to home projects only. It can be used for professional purposes widely.
3. Semi-skip
At last it comes to the semi-skip chain which has a mixed feature. The positive side of this chainsaw chain type is its strength. It is not fast enough but the power it produces is great. Any type of wood will be ripped-off easily by it.
The professional cutters love the semi-skip chain type the most. By using it, the user gets a perfect balance and can be work on any project. No matter what you cut, make a slow start and speed it up gradually. Any sort of hurry can cause accidents or wood breakdown.
What Is the Significance of Chainsaw Chain Numbers?
There is a measurement stand for the gauge and pitch of every chainsaw. The chain number also indicates the same. It is given by the manufacturers that they use as a code ID. According to the measurement, you have to pick the chain.
The use of pitch is to measure the length of any straightway of the chain. If you want to know the common pitch then it is 0.325” that the manufacturers usually use.
To identify the bar hole of a chain, the gauge is the only way. It is important to make a proper fit. There are three fit types and they are – quarter fit (0.063), penny fit (0.058), and dime fit (0.050).
As we have understood the importance of gauge and pitch, the concept of chain number should also be clear to us. So, make a check before picking one from chainsaw chain types.
Verdict
A chainsaw is an excellent power tool. Its cutting capacity mainly depends on the chainsaw chain types and thus, we have described all the variations in detail. To get a quality outcome of every cutting, it is vital to pick the right chain for the right project.
Through this review, we have expressed all the cutting types, configurations, and almost everything regarding chainsaw chain types. Besides, safety features are also important and they differ from chain to chain.
Please let us know if we have missed anything that can be included to be the perfect explanation. Also, share with us which chain type you use and the outcomes as well.