How to choose a chain for a chainsaw

When operating a chainsaw, the main load falls on its chain, so the element must be of high quality and durable. It is better to purchase a spare one immediately in order to replace it in time. It is necessary to take into account several important nuances in order to choose the right chain.

What types of chainsaws are there?

There are several main types of parts. They have different individual characteristics and tooth shapes. The first ones - chipper. They are considered universal. Can be used not only for household models, but also professional ones. Suitable for cutting along the grain. The main thing is to maintain the required sharpening angle. This type is able to maintain a good level of performance for a long time. Suitable for self-sharpening. A file is used for this. A sharpening machine will also work.

Chisel are used when making transverse cuts, which they do better and faster than the previous type. They have aggressive angles of attack, thanks to which the tool easily cuts into the blade and cuts it quickly. However, it acts across the fibers. But even if sharpening is done correctly, cutting lengthwise is slower with this type.

There are also special chains, allocated to a separate category. This is a carbide element suitable for cutting concrete and aerated concrete. This model uses a special design that allows it to cope with difficult materials.Such parts are highly expensive and are used by professionals. It is not worth purchasing this item for household purposes.

Saw chain parameters

There are several characteristics by which chains are classified. Among them:

1. Step. Determined by the distance between two rivets.
2. Number of links.
3. Type of cutting teeth.
4. Landing link width.

These parameters are presented in various combinations, which affects the quality of execution and speed.

For household tools, it is recommended to use more universal types of parts. For example, the pitch could be 3/8 - suitable for low to medium power. This is the most common meaning, found in many forms.

The shape of the teeth is also important. It was noted that there are chipper and chisel varieties. The first type is distinguished by a wide working edge, which allows the equipment not to cut the fibers of the fabric, but to cut them. The chisel type has greater speed when slicing crosswise. They should not make a longitudinal cut. The edges are thin and sharp.

Links with a length of 52 are installed on a tire with dimensions of 14 inches. Suitable for household tools.

Chains with minimal groove width dimensions are characterized by low speed of operation and return. They are installed on models with low power. For household types, it is better to choose parts with a groove width of 1.3 mm. There are also elements whose width is 1.5 mm. Previously, they were installed only on professional chainsaws. But manufacturers are producing more and more household models with high power levels, so parts with a groove width of 1.5 mm can also be used not only in industrial environments.

Which chain is better

Determining which chain is better is quite difficult. It's all about individual needs.Some people need a powerful, fast, productive model, while others need a more secure one. To understand the choice, you must first determine for what work the tool will be used and which of its characteristics are a priority.

Each model has advantages and disadvantages. Thus, the chisel type, which has a pitch of 0.404 inches and a landing parameter of 1.5 mm, is among the most dangerous. This is due to high recoil, making it difficult to control the equipment. But the speed and performance of this model are better than the others - this option is not suitable for a beginner. But if the user is confident that he can control the unit, then he can purchase it. The choice depends on the buyer's preferences and experience.

How to choose

As a rule, users with little experience face the problem of choice. Professionals or those who have been working with chainsaws for many years know what they need and what specific indicators influence.

When choosing, the features of the instrument itself are taken into account. It is important to know the appropriate pitch and bar length for your chainsaw. The type of work and its volume are also determined in advance. The chisel type is suitable for cross cutting, and the chipper type for lengthwise cutting.

For a longitudinal cut, you will have to sharpen it yourself or by contacting specialists. A set with sharpening for longitudinal cutting is rare.

The chain experiences a lot of stress when using a chainsaw, so when purchasing a tool, it is better to immediately buy a spare part. But if this was not possible or the spare parts have run out, then you need to select a new suitable type. To do this, it is enough to take into account several characteristics of the part and the parameters of the chainsaw itself.