If you’re thinking about buying a chainsaw, or you’ve just purchased one and need to know how to use it, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll look at chainsaw chains – what they are, how they work, and whether they are universal. We’ll also provide tips on choosing the proper chain for your saw and how to fit it properly.
When it comes to chainsaw chains, there seems to be a lot of confusion about whether or not they are universal. Well, the simple answer is “not all chainsaw chains are universal”. Chainsaw chains are not universal. They must be matched to the saw they will be used on. If you try to use a chainsaw chain that is not designed for your saw, it can cause damage. Be sure to get the right size and type of chain for your chainsaw.
So don’t fret we will explore the topic in detail and try to answer the question once and for all. So, read on to learn more!
What are chainsaw chains and what do they do?
Chainsaw chains are made up of a series of metal links that are connected together. These links have sharp teeth on them which are used to cut through wood. The chain is attached to the bar of the saw and runs around it as the saw is used.
How do chainsaw chains work?
When you pull the trigger on a chainsaw, the motor starts up and rotates the chain around the bar. The teeth on the chain then dig into the wood and start cutting through it. As you continue to move the saw, more and more wood will be cut until eventually, you’ve cut all the way through it.
Are chainsaw chains universal? Can I use any chain on any saw?
No, not all chainsaw chains are universal. Different chainsaws have different size and shape requirements for their respective chains. In addition, certain types of wood require different types of saw blades and teeth configurations to provide the cleanest and most efficient cut. As a result, you must always consult your saw’s user manual to ensure that you are using the correct type of chain.
Failing to do so can lead to dangerous kickback situations, damage to your saw, and even personal injury. So while it may be tempting to try and save money by using a “universal” chain, it’s simply not worth the risk. Play it safe and always use the type of chain specified by the manufacturer.
The different types of chainsaw chains
There are three main types of chainsaw chains: standard, low-kickback, and full chisel.
Standard
A standard chainsaw chain is the most common type of chain and will work with most types of saws. It’s a good all-purpose option for general use.
Standard chainsaw chains have teeth that are curved inwards, which helps them to cut through wood more easily. However, this also means that they are more likely to kick back if the saw hits a knot or other obstacle in the wood.
If you’re going to be using your chainsaw for general-purpose cutting, then a standard chain is a good option. However, if you’re going to be cutting through tough wood or working in difficult conditions, then you may want to choose a different type of chain.
Low-Kickback
A low-kickback chainsaw chain is designed to reduce the risk of kickback when the saw hits an obstacle. The teeth on these chains are not as deeply curved as standard chains, which makes them less likely to catch on knots or other obstacles.
If you’re going to be working in tough conditions or cutting through particularly hardwood, then a low-kickback chain is a good choice. These chains are less likely to cause kickback, which can be dangerous, and they will still provide a good, clean cut.
However, one downside of low-kickback chains is that they may not cut as quickly as standard chains.
Full Chisel
A full chisel chainsaw chain has teeth that are shaped like a chisel. These teeth are very sharp and they cut through wood very quickly. However, they are also more likely to kick back than standard or low-kickback chains.
If you need to make quick work of cutting through wood, then a full chisel chain is a good option. These chains cut very quickly, but you need to be careful to avoid kickbacks.
When choosing a chainsaw chain, always consult your saw’s user manual to make sure that you’re using the correct type of chain. Failing to do so could result in damage to your saw or personal injury.
How do I choose the right chain for my saw – Chainsaw chain guide
When choosing a chainsaw chain, you need to take into account the type of wood you’ll be cutting, the size of your saw’s bar, and the type of teeth on the chain.
1. The type of wood you’ll be cutting
Different types of wood require different types of chains. For example, softwoods like pine can be cut with a standard chain, but hardwoods like oak will require a full chisel or low-kickback chain.
Failing to do so can lead to dangerous kickback situations, damage to your saw, and even personal injury. So while it may be tempting to try and save money by using a “universal” chain, it’s simply not worth the risk. Play it safe and always use the type of chain specified by the manufacturer.
2. The size of your saw’s bar
The size of your chainsaw’s bar will determine the pitch and gauge of the chain you need. The pitch is the distance between three rivets divided by two, and the gauge is the width of the drive link.
You can usually find this information in your saw’s user manual or on the saw itself. If you’re unsure, take your saw to a local hardware store or Chainsaw Dealer and they will be able to help you choose the right chain.
Choosing the wrong pitch or gauge can damage your saw and make it unsafe to use. So again, it’s important to make sure that you’re using the correct chain.
3. The type of teeth on the chain
There are two main types of teeth on chainsaw chains: standard and chisel. Standard teeth are curved inwards and designed for general-purpose cutting, while chisel teeth are straight and designed for rapid cutting.
Most saws will come with a standard chain, but you can usually purchase a chisel chain as an upgrade. Chisel chains cut faster but they are also more likely to kickback, so make sure you know what you’re doing before you switch to one.
As always, consult your saw’s user manual before making any changes to the type of chain you’re using.
Are replacement chainsaw chains universal?
There are some chainsaw chains that are considered to be “universal”, in that they can be used on a number of different saws. However, it’s important to note that not all chainsaw chains are universal. In fact, most chainsaw chains are designed specifically for use with a particular saw make and model.
That being said, most replacement chainsaw chains will come with a guide that shows which saw models they are compatible with. If you’re not sure whether or not a particular chain is compatible with your saw, it’s best to consult the manufacturer before making a purchase.
One thing to keep in mind when replacing a chainsaw chain is that there is usually more than one size available. It’s important to choose a chain that is the same size as the one being replaced. If you’re unsure of what size to get, again, it’s best to consult the manufacturer or a local chainsaw dealer.
In short, while there are some “universal” chainsaw chains available, it’s always best to use a chain that is specifically designed for your saw. This will help to ensure that your saw is running safely and efficiently.
How do I know what chain fits my chainsaw?
The first thing you need to do is inspect your chainsaw chain. Look at the width of the chain and the pitch (distance between the drive links). Most chainsaws will have either a 3/8″ or .404″ pitch, with 3/8″ being the most common. Once you know the size of your saw and the pitch, you can purchase the correct replacement chain.
If you’re unsure of what size or pitch your chainsaw has, consult your saw’s manual or look for markings on the bar or chain itself. Once you’ve determined which size you need, match that up with the corresponding gauge; for example, a 3/8″ pitch will take an 0.050″ (or 50 drive) gauge chain.
You can also take your saw to a local chainsaw dealer or hardware store and they will be able to help you determine which chain you need.
Installing a chainsaw chain – a Step By Step Guide
- Decide which chainsaw chain you need. There are many different chainsaw chain sizes and types, so it’s important to select the correct one for your chainsaw and the type of cutting you’ll be doing. Consult your owner’s manual if necessary.
- Prepare the saw chain for installation. This means loosening the screws that hold the chain guide in place and removing the old chain from the guide.
- Install the new chainsaw chain onto the guide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure that each tooth on the new chain is lined up with a corresponding tooth on the old chain before tightening down the screws on the guide.
- Finally, adjust the tension on the new chainsaw chain as directed in your owner’s manual. This is important in order to keep the chain from coming off while you’re using the saw.
With these steps, you should be able to install a new chainsaw chain with ease. Remember to always consult your owner’s manual before making any changes to your chainsaw.
Are chainsaw chains universal – FAQs
Our verdict
The chainsaw chain is one of the most important and often overlooked, parts of a chainsaw. While it may seem that all chainsaw chains are created equal, this isn’t always the case. In order to ensure you have a safe and effective cutting experience, it’s important to know which type of chain your saw requires and to use only that type of chain. If you don’t know what type of chain your saw uses, or if you need help finding the right replacement chain for your saw, our team can help.