Have you ever felt the frustration of a dull or improperly sized chainsaw chain slowing down your work? That powerful machine sits idle, not because of a lack of muscle, but because of a tiny, crucial part: the chain. Choosing the right chainsaw chain is more than just matching a number; it’s the difference between smooth, efficient cutting and frustrating delays, dangerous kickback, or even costly damage to your saw.
The market bombards you with terms like pitch, gauge, and drive link count. Understanding these specifications can feel like learning a new language, leaving many users guessing or sticking to the same old chain even when it isn’t the best fit for the job. We know you want reliable performance whether you are clearing storm debris or carefully bucking firewood.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what each measurement means and show you how to confidently select the perfect chain for your saw and task. Get ready to stop guessing and start cutting smarter.
Top Chain Saw Chains Recommendations
- WHY CHOOSE THESE CHAINS:5-Pack Value- Multiple replacements for long-term use.Smooth, fast cutting with minimal kickback for safety.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY:Our chainsaw Chain Fits almost all 6-inch mini chainsaws (cordless/corded electric models).Seamless fit with 6-inch guide bars for smooth operation.Greenworks/RYOBI P25013BTL is not applicable.
- EASY INSTALLATION & ADJUSTMENT:Remove the side cover with a nut driver.Replace the old chain (ensure correct direction).Reattach the cover and adjust tension with a screwdriver.
- PREMIUM MATERIAL:Premium Manganese Steel Construction.Deeply quenched for extreme durability and high hardness.The service life of the saw chain is longer and smooth.
- SHARP TEETH:Perfect for garden pruning, firewood, bamboo, PVC pipes, and DIY projects. Sharp, wear-resistant teeth maintain efficiency over time.
- 【SPECIFICATIONS】 3 Pack 18 Inch, 3/8" LP Pitch, .050" Gauge, 62 Drive Links, semi-chisel. This saw chain met the kickback performance requirements of ANSl B175.1-2012 when tested according to the provisions of ANSl B175.1-2012. Low kickback saw chain meets the kickback performance requirements of CSA Standard Z62.3.
- 【FIND YOUR CHAIN】Check the owner's manual or the guide bar side stamp to find the PITCH, GAUGE, LENGTH and DRIVE LINK NUMBER and select the chain according to these parameters. You are also welcome to contact the KAKEI Customer Support with the chainsaw/bar part number, we are always ready to assist you. (Visit the KAKEI Store for all 60+ sizes)
- 【Features】 Germany steel with heating temperature control and punching system make better toughness, Flatness. All saw chain rivets hardened and quenched, resists wear and improves strength, reducing chain tension changes.
- 【Features】Japanese chrome-plated technology creates better durability for cutters, and each of them was grinded and cold-headed with Rotary machines, becomes sharper than ever.
- Saw chain comes with protective oil, resists corrosion.
- 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗙𝗬 𝗙𝗜𝗧: This saw chain is for chainsaw models that run 3/8" low-profile pitch, .050" (1.3 mm) gauge (guide bar slot), 62 drive links, 18" (45cm) bar and fits chainsaws up to 42cc - DOUBLE CHECK THE CHAINSAW MANUAL & VERIFY THE FIT
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Atlas 56937, Craftsman CMXGSAMCN4218, S185, ECHO CS310, Ego CS1800, CS1804, Greenworks GCS80420, Husqvarna 240, 120 Mark II
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Homelite ZR43100, Masterforce 2000094ME, Poulan PR4218, Remington RM1645, Ryobi RY3818, RY40580, RY40580, Sun Joe SWJ701E, and more
- 𝗟𝗢𝗪 𝗞𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗞: Bumper drive link paired with depth gauge design, offers reduced kickback with strong performance
- 𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗢𝗡 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: The original pioneer and inventor of modern saw chain since 1947. Designed and engineered in the USA.
- 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗙𝗬 𝗙𝗜𝗧: This saw chain is for chainsaw models that run 3/8" low-profile pitch, .043" (1.1 mm) gauge (guide bar slot), 56 drive links, 16" (40cm) bar and fits chainsaws up to 42cc - DOUBLE CHECK THE CHAINSAW MANUAL & VERIFY THE FIT
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Makita DUC400, EA3200S, EA3201S, EA3500S, XCU03, XCU04, XCU04CM, XCU09 / Ego CS1600 56V, CS1604 16" 56V Lithium-Ion, CS1610, CS1611
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Greenworks 20152 DigiPro 40V, 20312 Digipro G-Max 40V, 20322 / Harbor Freight Atlas 56938 / DeWalt DCC690M1, DCCS670, DCCS690 / Milwaukee M18 Fuel, 272720, 272721 / Toro 60V 16" 51850 and more
- 𝗟𝗢𝗪 𝗞𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗞: Bumper drive link paired with depth gauge design, offers reduced kickback with strong performance
- 𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗢𝗡 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: The original pioneer and inventor of modern saw chain since 1947. Designed and engineered in the USA.
- PRODUCT INCLUDE - 5pack 18 inch chainsaw chain 3/8" LP Pitch .050" Gauge 62 Drive Links, please check the length and drive links, to ensure this 18 inch chain works with your machine.
- MATERIALS - Premium industrial hard chrome outer layer helps reduce wear and chain adjustments for better durability. Hardened rivets provide a stronger connection between chain links, adding strength and withstanding loads.
- SMOOTH - The 18 inch replacement saw chain cuts smooth and fast with minimum kickback.Low-vibration chain helps reduce user fatigue and allows consistent cuts.
- FITS CHAINSAW BRANDS - 18 INCH CHAINSAW CHAINS Replace Craftsman/Sears、Echo、Homelite、Kobalt、McCulloch、Poulan、Remington、Greenworks、Ryobi
- DURABLE - Great Cutting Performance,low - kickback, low-vibration chain helps reduce user fatigue and allows consistent cuts.expedite the heat dissipation rate, for less friction and longer life.
- PRODUCT INCLUDE - 5pack 16 inch chainsaw chain 3/8" LP Pitch .050" Gauge 56 Drive Links, please check the length and drive links, to ensure this 16 inch chain works with your machine.
- MATERIALS - Premium industrial hard chrome outer layer helps reduce wear and chain adjustments for better durability. Hardened rivets provide a stronger connection between chain links, adding strength and withstanding loads.
- SMOOTH - The 16 inch replacement saw chain cuts smooth and fast with minimum kickback.Low-vibration chain helps reduce user fatigue and allows consistent cuts.
- FITS CHAINSAW BRANDS - 16 INCH CHAINSAW CHAINS Replace HUSQVARNA、GREENWORK、HOMELITE、McCulloch、Poulan、MAKITA、REMINGTON
- DURABLE - Great Cutting Performance,low - kickback, low-vibration chain helps reduce user fatigue and allows consistent cuts.expedite the heat dissipation rate, for less friction and longer life.
- 【SPECIFICATIONS】4 Pack 8 Inch, 3/8" LP Pitch, .043" Gauge, 33 Drive Links, semi-chisel.
- 【HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR CHAIN SIZE】Chainsaws can be equipped with different guide bars. When selecting a chain for your chainsaw. Check the owner's manual or the guide bar side stamp to find the PITCH, GAUGE, LENGTH and DRIVE LINK NUMBER and select the chain according to these parameters
- 【Features】 Germany steel with heating temperature control and punching system make better toughness, Flatness. All saw chain rivets hardened and quenched, resists wear and improves strength, reducing chain tension changes
- Fits Ryobi P4361, P5452, Greenworks 20142 3004, Poulan 810 EPT, Worx WG349 and More
- 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗙𝗬 𝗙𝗜𝗧: This saw chain is for chainsaw models that run 3/8" low-profile pitch, .050" (1.3 mm) gauge (guide bar slot), 72 drive links, 20" (50cm) bar and fits 50-100 cc chainsaws - DOUBLE CHECK THE CHAINSAW MANUAL & VERIFY THE FIT
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Stihl 024, 026, 026P, 028, 029, 030, 031, 032, 034, 036, MS 310, MS 311, MS 391, MSE 220, MSE 250 / Husqvarna 162, 181, 185, 2100, 254, 257, 285, 288, 357XP, 357XPG, 359, 360, 362 XP, 365, 371, 380, 385XP, 394, 395XP and more
- 𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗥: Stihl 33RS372E / Husqvarna 591119472, H46-72, H47-72
- 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗙𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗣𝗢𝗪𝗘𝗥𝗖𝗨𝗧: Ideal choice for professional woodcutters, this full chisel chain offers top performance and offset depth gauges prevent cutters from driving into the sidewall of the cut for a smoother cut
- 𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗢𝗡 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: The original pioneer and inventor of modern saw chain since 1947. Designed and engineered in the USA.
Your Guide to Choosing the Right Chainsaw Chain
A chainsaw is only as good as its chain. A dull or wrong-sized chain makes cutting hard work. This guide helps you pick the perfect replacement chain for your saw. It ensures smooth, safe cutting every time.
Key Features to Look For
Pitch
The pitch measures the distance between the drive links. This number is crucial. It must match your chainsaw’s sprocket and guide bar exactly. Common pitches are 3/8-inch, .325 inches, and low-profile (1/4 inch). Always check your saw’s manual for the correct pitch.
Gauge
The gauge is the thickness of the drive links. This must fit snugly into the groove of your guide bar. Standard gauges include .050 inches, .058 inches, and .063 inches. If the gauge is too thin, the chain wobbles. If it is too thick, it jams.
Chain Type (Cutter Style)
Chains have different cutter shapes. Full-chisel cutters cut very fast. They work best on clean wood and for professional use. Semi-chisel cutters are more durable. They handle dirt and debris better. Homeowners often prefer semi-chisel for general yard work.
Number of Drive Links
This is the total count of the links that fit into the bar groove. This number determines the chain’s overall length. You must count the drive links on your old chain or check your guide bar’s specific length requirement.
Important Materials for Durability
Chains need strong materials to handle tough cutting.
- Alloy Steel: Most good chains use high-quality alloy steel. This steel resists wear and holds a sharp edge longer.
- Chrome Plating: Many manufacturers chrome-plate the cutting edges. This hard coating significantly increases resistance to dulling and corrosion.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Chain Better?
A high-quality chain uses advanced manufacturing. Precision grinding ensures all cutters are identical. This balance leads to smoother cutting and less vibration. Chains with anti-kickback features are also safer and easier to use.
What Lowers Quality?
Cheap chains often use softer metals. These chains dull very quickly, forcing frequent sharpening. Poorly manufactured chains might have unevenly spaced rivets. This unevenness causes the chain to stretch sooner, requiring constant tension adjustment.
User Experience and Use Cases
The right chain changes how you use your saw.
- Felling Large Trees: Professionals use full-chisel, low-stretch chains. These are designed for maximum speed and deep cuts.
- Pruning and Light Work: Smaller saws benefit from lighter, lower-profile chains. These reduce fatigue during extended use.
- Cutting Dirty Wood: If you often cut wood near the ground, choose a robust semi-chisel chain. Its design resists damage from dirt better.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Chainsaw Chains
Q: How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain?
A: Sharpen your chain whenever it starts cutting slowly or pulls to one side. For heavy use, check it daily. For occasional use, check it every few hours of cutting time.
Q: Can I use a chain with the wrong pitch?
A: No. Using the wrong pitch damages your saw. The chain will either not fit the sprocket or it will fall off the guide bar.
Q: What is the difference between a ripping chain and a cross-cut chain?
A: Cross-cut chains cut across the wood grain efficiently. Ripping chains are angled differently to cut parallel to the wood grain, like when milling logs into lumber.
Q: How do I measure my chain’s gauge?
A: Use a specialized chain gauge tool or calipers. You measure the thickness of the drive links, not the depth cutters.
Q: Why does my new chain keep stretching?
A: All new chains stretch slightly as they break in. After installing a new chain, run the saw for a few minutes, then stop and retighten the tension. This is normal.
Q: Is a chrome-plated chain worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, generally. The plating keeps the cutters sharp much longer, especially if you cut hardwoods or deal with some dirt.
Q: What is “kickback,” and how does the chain affect it?
A: Kickback is when the saw suddenly jerks back toward the operator. Chains with specific safety features, like guard links, reduce the chance of dangerous kickback.
Q: How do I know the correct number of drive links for my saw?
A: The best way is to count the drive links on your old chain. Alternatively, your guide bar will list the required chain length.
Q: Can I mix and match brands of chains and bars?
A: You can mix brands, but the pitch, gauge, and drive link count must match perfectly between the chain and the bar/sprocket system.
Q: Does chain oil affect chain quality?
A: Yes. Using good quality bar and chain oil prevents excessive friction. Poor lubrication causes the chain to heat up, leading to premature wear and dulling.