The performance of a chainsaw can decrease over time as the chain becomes damaged or worn out after extensive use.
However, replacing the saw chain is not the only option. You can also remove or repair damaged links in the chainsaw chain. That’s where the chainsaw chain breaker comes in.
With the best chainsaw chain breaker, you can get your tool back in top shape conveniently. To help you out, I have gone out and tested some of the top-rated breakers available in the market.
After thorough testing and analysis, I was able to handpick the 10 best chainsaw chain breakers in 2024, which are ideal for the proper maintenance and adjustment of saw chains.
With my expert picks, you can keep your tool running for a longer time, and replace the chain only when it’s unavoidable
Let’s dive into the top 10 picks for chainsaw chain breakers and discover their amazing features that can help you break chains with ease.
Top 10 Best Chainsaw Chain Breakers in 2024 Tested
1. Oregon Chainsaw Chain Breaker—Best Chainsaw Chain Breaker in 2024
Type: Chain Breaker| Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: 1/4″, 3/8″ Low Profile, .325″, 3/8″ and .404″ | Weight: 7.34 Pounds | Dimensions: 11.9 x 6.6 x 4.4 inches
The Oregon Chainsaw chain breaker is one of the best and ideal tools for maintaining a chainsaw. Whether you are a professional or a homeowner, this tool will assist you in making quick adjustments to your chain.
Oregon is a name for quality. It is renowned as the No. 1 Chainsaw brand in the world and nothing I have witnessed has given me any doubts about it. Their products maintain the highest quality standards.
So, if you are serious about maintaining your chainsaw, you should definitely give Oregon tools some thought. With this chain breaker, you will experience that punching out chains and repairing them has never been easier.
One of the most prominent features of this tool is its versatility. The tool comes with a standard punch, a separate punch for the 9-series chain, and an anvil with wide compatibility.
So, you can use this versatile tool to repair a wide range of chains. The durability and stability of the parts are beyond impressive. Adding this tool to your arsenal will keep you worry-free for a long time.
Adding to this, another standout feature of this tool is the ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable grip. Trust me, the lever handle makes it much easier to use even for a prolonged time, allowing you to repair chains much more conveniently.
Not to mention the amazing offer by Oregon for replacement parts. There is no doubt about the durability of the tool or the parts, but if by some misfortune, you lose the punch or anvil, you don’t need to purchase the whole tool again.
You can just buy the replacement parts and attach them to the tool. Since the replacement parts are also made in Oregon, they will fit perfectly inside the tool.
On the downside, the tool doesn’t come as a kit with a rivet spinner. So, to make your set complete, you will have to get the Oregon Rivet spinner which is going to cost a bit extra.
What We Like
- Ideal for Repairing Chains
- Sturdy and Durable Build
- Ergonomic Handle
- Versatile Design
- High-Quality Punches and Anvils
- Comfortable Handling
- Replacement Parts Available
What We Don't Like
- May not be suitable for larger chains
- Rivet Spinner not included
Why Consider Oregon Chainsaw Chain Breaker?
In short, the Oregon chain breaker is a must-have tool for anyone who wants top-notch maintenance of their chainsaw. With this tool, you can significantly increase the service life of your chain and repair it numerous times.
2. Oregon 24549B Bench Rivet Spinner—Best Chainsaw Chain Rivet Spinner in 2024
Type: Rivet Spinner | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: up to .404″ | Weight: 4.71 Pounds | Dimensions: 11.95 x 6.75 x 4.7 inches
The Oregon 24549B bench rivet spinner is a must-have tool for those who are purchasing our top pick. Combined with the Oregon chain breaker, the rivet spinner makes a complete set for proper maintenance of your chainsaw.
Hence, you will be able to keep your chainsaw chain in top working condition. An ideal and must-have kit for professional arborists and loggers.
One of the most premium features of this tool is the ability to produce consistent rivet spins. The consistent spins minimize the risk of chain breakage, ensuring reliable repair.
Just like the previous pick, this tool also comes with wide compatibility. It can be used to adjust and repair all chain rivets up to 0.404”. Hence, it is a valuable asset in your toolset.
Adding to this, every part of this tool is made from high-quality materials and is kept to the highest standards including anvils and take-up handles. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.
Moreover, the rivet spinner also comes with an ergonomic handle design that ensures a comfortable grip. Whether you are working in a workshop or outdoors, the tool can be used effectively because of its perfect construction and comfortable grip.
On the downside, purchasing the chain breaker and rivet spinner separately might seem a bit costly. But trust me, it is the best investment you can make and that will make your life easier when it comes to repairing a chainsaw chain.
What We Like
- Consistent rivet spins
- Minimizes risk of chain breakage
- Versatile design
- High-quality materials
- Ergonomic handle design
- Comfortable grip
- Ideal for Professional and DIY use.
What We Don't Like
- Limited compatibility with specific chain sizes
- Replacement Parts not included
Why Consider Oregon 24549B Bench Rivet Spinner?
Overall, the Oregon Bench Rivet Spinner is the ideal choice to go with the chain breaker we have mentioned above. These two tools are must-haves for anyone who is serious about maintaining and repairing their chainsaw chain regularly.
3. Felled Pocket Chainsaw Chain Breaker—Most Affordable Chainsaw Chain Breaker of 2024
Type: Pocket Chain Breaker | Bench Mountable: No | Pitch Compatibility: 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch low profile, 3/8-inch, and 0.404-inch| Weight: 11.3 Ounces | Dimensions: 6.4 x 3.8 x 0.5 inches
While Oregon tools mentioned above are definitely the best and most suited for the job, they do come with one unavoidable limitation. They require mounting onto the workbench, which means they are not portable.
So, if you need a chain breaker that you can use on the go, Felled Pocket Chainsaw Chain Breaker is the ideal choice for you.
This 3-piece pocket chain breaker kit makes removing chainsaw rivets quick and easy. Hence, you can make adjustments to your saw chain anywhere you want.
One of the standout features is the compactness and portability of the tool. It is extremely lightweight, which allows you to carry it anywhere you want inside your pocket.
Adding to this, the versatile tool is easy to use. It comes with a slide breaker anvil and two punch breakers that have wide compatibility.
All you have to do is align one of the punch tips with the exact center of the rivet. Then, pound with a hammer, and the rivet will be removed.
What makes this tool really special and unique as compared to other products on the list is not just the portability but also the amazing affordability. Compared to conventional chain breakers, this one is extremely budget-friendly.
However, on the downside, the hammer is not included in the tool. So, you will have to purchase it separately.
What We Like
- Easy Chain Removal
- Portable and Convenient Size
- Versatile Anvil
- Durable Construction
- Fits Multiple Chain Sizes
- Easy to Use
- Affordable
What We Don't Like
- No Hammer Included
- Only for Rivet Removal
Why Consider a Felled Pocket Chainsaw Chain Breaker?
A portable, affordable, and efficient tool ideal for repairing chainsaw chains and making quick adjustments. Perfect for those who need chainsaw adjustments on the go.
4. Timber Tuff CS-CBRSC—Best Chainsaw Chain Breaker and Spinner Combo in 2024
Type: Chain Breaker & Rivet Spinner | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: up to .404″ | Weight: 11.71 Pounds | Dimensions: 11.93 x 7.44 x 7.2 inches
Looking for the best 2-in-1 chain breaker and rivet spinner? You won’t find a better option than Timber Tuff CS-CBRSC. With this tool kit, you get both spinner and breaker in the same tool.
Hence, you have more versatility and higher compatibility that allows you to perfectly maintain and efficiently repair your saw chain with just one tool.
It is easier to mount one tool on the bench than it is to mount two separate tools. As a single tool, it might be considered a bit expensive, but considering that two separate ones cost more, the Timber Tuff is actually quite cost-efficient.
With this tool, you can break chains and spin rivets easily and efficiently. It is compatible with all rivets up to 0.404 inches.
Adding to this, the long lever handle provides perfect leverage that allows you to break the chain with minimum effort.
The Timber Tuff 2-in-1 tool is also quite durable and will last for a lifetime. The high-quality construction of this tool makes it one of the sturdiest tools on the list.
Moreover, the built-in thrust bearing and low-friction feature allow you to effortlessly spin rivets and break chains. These features also make the process safer, so the chain will not get damaged easily.
On the downside, the replacement parts might not be easily available like in Oregon. So, you will have to struggle if you lose or break a particular part of the tool.
What We Like
- 2-in-1 Functionality
- Works with all rivets up to 0.404”
- Constructed of heavy-duty steel
- Base plate and mounting holes for easy mounting
- Long lever-action handle for easy chain breaking
- Safe chain breaker function
- Built-in thrust bearing and low friction
What We Don't Like
- Replacement Parts Might Not Be Available
- Manufacturer Warranty Not Available
Why Consider Timber Tuff CS-CBRSC?
In short, Timber Tuff CS-CBRSC is the perfect 2-in-1 chain breaker and rivet spinner that allows you to maintain and repair a chainsaw chain both efficiently and quickly. The product is highly recommended for beginners.
5. Laser Bench Mount Chainsaw Chain Breaker—Best Chainsaw Chain Breaker and Rivet Tool Kit
Type: Chain Breaker & Rivet Spinner | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: All Chain Sizes | Weight: 12.43 Pounds | Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 12 inches
The Laser Bench Mount chain breaker is one of the most versatile and efficient tools that includes both chain breaker and rivet spinner. In terms of functionality, it is similar to our previous pick, but in terms of design, it is a bit different.
Some users found the 2-in-1 tool a bit complex and wanted two separate tools, but didn’t want to purchase two expensive separate tools. So, for those users this laser bench mount chain breaker and rivet spinner are perfect.
The tools are designed to make chainsaw maintenance and repair easier and a lot more convenient.
Adding to this, the tool comes with a wide compatibility range. The large anvil and handle can handle multiple chain sizes and are ideal for repairing any kind of chain.
The chain breaker is sturdy and is built with an efficient design that is quick and safe to use. The time-saving feature makes the tool a lot more efficient.
Both of the tools are bench mountable, which increases their stability and ease of use. Their comparatively smaller size makes them easy to store when not in use, and you can even take out one and use it when you don’t need the other.
On the downside, the tool might not be suitable for larger chains like the harvester chain that has ¾ inches pitch.
What We Like
- Chain breaker and rivet spinner in one package
- Professional spinning for all chain sizes
- Large anvil and handle
- Sturdy and Time-Saving Design
- Effortless Rivet Punching
- Durable and Long Lasting
What We Don't Like
- May not be suitable for larger chains
- Lever Handle is a bit shorter compared to other chain breakers
Why Consider Laser Bench Mount Chainsaw Chain Breakers?
Considering the price, this tool offers much higher value for your money. You get two highly efficient tools for chainsaw chain maintenance and repair that will last for a long time.
6. Felled Chainsaw Chain Breaker—Best Chain Breaker with Workbench Mount
Type: Chain Breaker | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch low profile, 0.325-inch, 3/8-inch, and 0.404-inch | Weight: 7.19 Pounds | Dimensions: 9 x 7.3 x 4.3 inches
Getting both chain breaker and rivet spinner is not always mandatory. They both require a big budget, and if you just want to go with one, you should definitely go with a chain breaker, as the tool kit can be used to spin rivets.
So, if you are running on a low budget but don’t want to compromise on the quality of the chain breaker, then Felled chainsaw chain breaker and rivet tool kit is the perfect solution for you.
The toolset allows you to remove chainsaw links and repair them with new ones easily. One of the standout features of this tool is that it is easy to use.
It comes with a stable anvil that can hold chains of different sizes in place as you use the lever to apply pressure. The long 9.5-inch long handle allows you to remove the chainsaw rivets effortlessly.
The best part is, the tool comes with a complete kit to help you get the job of the rivet spinner done without needing it. It comes with hardened punches, an anvil to remove the rivets, and a hex wrench to make sure you get them back together.
Adding to this, it is a versatile tool and can be used with a wide range of chains. However, the tool is not portable like our pocket chain breaker. Although it has a lightweight design, you still need to find a flat and stable surface to get the job done.
What We Like
- Easy to use
- Added Leverage with Long Handle
- Durable Construction
- Workbench Mountable
- Wide Chain Size Compatibility
- Hardened Punches Included
- Hex Wrench Included for Adjustments
What We Don't Like
- Requires Assembly
- May require additional tools for proper mounting
Why Consider a Felled Chainsaw Chain Breaker?
Overall, the Felled Chainsaw chain breaker is a good option for those who are looking for an economic tool kit for saw chain maintenance. The tool comes with an easy-to-use design and a longer lever for easier chain breakage.
7. Central Machinery Chainsaw Chain Breaker—Best Breaker for Chainsaw Chain
Type: Chain Breaker & Rivet Spinner | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: 1/4″, 0.325″, 3/8″, 0.404″, 7/16″ and 1/2″ | Weight: 11.5 Pounds | Dimensions: 10.31 x 7.09 x 5.79 inches
Next, we have another chain breaker and rivet spinner combo tool that is essential for anyone who needs chainsaw maintenance on a regular basis.
Central Machinery combines both important tools and ensures effortless operation for all your maintenance and repair needs.
First of all, the base plate is made from heavy-duty steel which ensures that the tool remains in its place after mounting on the bench. You won’t have any stability issues which will allow you to focus on work more.
Adding to this, the built-in thrust bearing and low friction design allow for easy and fast rivet spinning. So, the tool saves you both time and energy.
Moreover, the long handle allows you to break the chain safely with minimum force exertion which ensures that the rest of the chain is not damaged.
On the downside, there is a bit of a learning curve in using this product. It might not be as simple as other products on this list. However, considering the lowest prices for the two tools combined, it is definitely worth it.
What We Like
- Long lever action handle
- Fast and effortless operation
- Height-adjustable chain guides
- Heavy-duty steel base plate
- Multiple anvils
- Durable construction
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for commercial use
- Might require a bit of learning
Why Consider the Central Machinery Chainsaw Chain Breaker?
Considering the price, it can be considered one of the most affordable 2-in-1 chain breaker and rivet spinning tools. A must-have for homeowners who need an affordable tool for regular maintenance and repair of their chainsaw chain.
8. Hicello 3PCS Pocket Chainsaw Breaker—Best Pocket Chainsaw Chain Breaker
Type: Pocket Chain Breaker | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: 1/4″, 3/8”LP, 325″, 3/8″ and 404″ | Weight: 10.4 Ounces | Dimensions: 8.1 x 4.9 x 0.7 inches
Hicello 3PCS pocket chainsaw chain breaker is one of the most versatile and cost-effective tools used in the maintenance of saw chains.
It is made from high-quality carbon steel that is durable and rigid enough to handle the toughest of jobs. Hence, the tool is strong enough to take care of the job easily.
The most premium feature of this tool is the compact size, which allows you to carry it in your pocket anywhere you want and use it to adjust or repair the chain when needed.
Moreover, the tool kit is incredibly easy to use. The unique and innovative design makes removing the rivets an easy and simple process, even for beginners.
On the downside, the tool cannot be used for heavy-duty tasks or larger chains.
What We Like
- Made with High-Quality Carbon Steel
- Easy to Use
- Compact and Portable
- Can be carried in the pocket
- Comes with 2 punches and a bracket
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for very large chains
- Not as robust as commercial chain breakers
Why Consider Hicello 3PCS Pocket Chainsaw Breaker?
A budget-friendly and portable tool that allows you to easily and quickly adjust the chainsaw chain on the go. Perfect for chainsaw users who work deep in the forest and need a handy tool for emergency adjustments.
9. OREGON Dura Max Heavy Duty Chain Breaker—Best Premium Chainsaw Chain Breaker
Type: Chain Breaker | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: All Chain Pitches | Weight: 13 Pounds | Dimensions: 13 x 4.5 x 7 inches
While the above chain breakers certainly have all reputable qualities and features, none of them entertains chains of large pitches, like harvester chains.
So, if you have a professional heavy-duty chainsaw, you will need a tool that can make adjustments to and repair its chain. That’s where Oregon Dura Max comes in.
It is a heavy-duty chain breaker that works with all chain pitches, including even the big ¾ inch pitch of the harvester chain.
The tool can also drive out nose rivets on these big pitches. It comes with high-quality punches for all chain pitches included in the package.
The best part is, no assembly is required. You can use the tool right out of the box, which is something rare to see when getting these tools.
On the downside, this one is quite expensive on its own. So, you need to have a good budget in order to afford it.
What We Like
- Works on Bigger Chain Pitches
- Compatible with Heavy Duty Chains
- Can Remove Nose Rivets out of Harvester Chain
- Heavy-Duty Punches Included
- No Assembly Required
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- No Integrated Rivet Spinner
Why Consider OREGON Dura Max Heavy Duty Chain Breaker?
Oregon Dura Max is designed for heavy-duty and larger saw chains that are not compatible with conventional chain breakers. The tool is very efficient and comes with the included set of punches and an anvil.
10. Archer Chainsaw Saw Steel Chain Breaker—Best Professional Chainsaw Chain Breaker
Type: Chain Breaker | Bench Mountable: Yes | Pitch Compatibility: All Chain Sizes | Weight: 10 Pounds | Dimensions: 9 x 8 x 6 inches
Last but not the least, we have the Archer chainsaw chain breaker tool that comes for an affordable price and offers some of the most interesting features.
The rugged construction of the tool ensures long-lasting durability. So, the tool is sure to last for a lifetime as it is made with high-quality parts.
Adding to this, it comes with a smooth functioning handle which allows for faster and easier chain breaking.
Moreover, the adjustable anvil allows you to work with almost all chain sizes, enhancing the compatibility of the tool.
The tool also comes with an instruction manual that helps you use it more efficiently. The replacement punches, anvil, and parts are also available for purchase.
On the downside, the tool requires careful operation. The punch needs to be precisely centered over the rivet or it might break during the chain-breaking process.
What We Like
- Rugged Construction
- Long Lasting Reliability
- Fast and Easy Chain Breaking
- Adjustable Anvil
- Includes Allen Wrench
What We Don't Like
- Replacement Parts are not included (sold separately)
- Requires careful operation or you might break it
Why Consider Archer Chainsaw Saw Steel Chain Breaker?
An efficient and affordable chain-breaking tool that offers reliable functionality. It comes with an operation manual and a wide compatibility range to help you take care of a wide range of chainsaw chains.
How to Select an Ideal Chainsaw Chain Breaker?
When it comes to the maintenance and repair of your chainsaw, having a good quality chainsaw chain breaker is a must.
This particular tool allows you to quickly and easily repair and adjust damaged chains, saving you both time and money. You can significantly increase the service life of your chainsaw.
However, with so many options available in the market, it can be quite difficult to choose which chain breaker is best suited for your needs.
So, to help you out, I will be discussing some key factors that can help you make the right decision.
Compatibility
First and foremost, you must check the compatibility of your chainsaw chain. The compatibility will be decided by pitch size. It will help you narrow down the options for the chain breaker.
If you are using an average chainsaw, it will be compatible with almost any chain breaker. However, a heavy-duty chainsaw chain requires a specialized chain breaker that can fit in larger chain sizes.
Certain models of chain breakers also come with an adjustable anvil which increases their compatibility range.
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Ease of Use
It is also one of the most important factors. The ease of use mainly depends on how easy it is to break the chain using the tool.
The tools that come with large handles are often very easy to use, as they require a minimum amount of force to be exerted on the chain in order to break the link.
The manual tools require much more precision and force and also have a higher risk of damaging the chain.
Bench Mount and Portability
You can either have a bench mount chain breaker or a portable one. The portable pocket-sized chain breakers come with punches for specific pitch sizes and anvils but they also require an additional hammer for operation.
They are so small that you can carry them in your pocket and take them anywhere you want.
On the other hand, the mountable chain breakers need to be mounted on a workbench and are also quite heavy. So, they are not portable and you have to keep them in one place.
Read More: How to Choose a Chainsaw Chain?
Budget
Budget is also an important factor, as it helps you decide which chain breaker to purchase. It is considered wise to make a decision within your budget.
While expensive options do seem like a good investment, there are plenty of options in the market that come in a low budget range and offer efficient functionality.
So, you should consider all the options before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all chain breakers the same?
No, many of them are different. There are various types of chain breakers. They can be identified as pocket chain breakers that are completely manual and conventional bench-mount chain breakers that are easy to use.
What is the best chain rivet tool?
Oregon 24549B is one of the best chain rivet tools you can find in the market. It comes in an efficient design and offers you the best adjustability and compatibility you can buy.
What tool can break a chain?
A chain breaker is a tool that is designed to break the damaged link in a chain. It is used to remove the link and then you can replace it with a new link to make the chain usable again.
How do you break a chain fast?
You can use a bench mount chain breaker that comes with a large handle to break a chain link in a faster and safer way. The hammer and anvil method is also quite efficient, but the bench mount chain breaker is a lot safer.
Does the brand of the chainsaw chain breaker matter?
Yes, it does. Oregon is considered the World’s No. 1 Chainsaw Brand for a reason. They maintain their high-quality standards in every product. So, Oregon chainsaw chain breakers are rated as the best in 2024.
How do I know what brand chain breaker to buy?
You can close your eyes and go for Oregon. However, if you really want to know, then you can look at the features of the particular tool, its compatibility range, and ease of use to decide.
How do you break a thick chain?
To break a thick or large chain, you will need a heavy-duty chain breaker, like Oregon Dura Max. Conventional chain breakers won’t work on these larger chains and might even damage them more.
How do you break a chain without a chain breaker?
If you don’t have a chainsaw chain breaker, you can use a hammer, anvil, and punches to remove the chain. If you don’t have a specific punch size available, then you would have to be really experienced to remove the link without damaging the chain.
Can bolt cutters break chains?
Technically, yes they can break chains, but they will damage more than one link. There is a reason chainsaw chain breakers were specially designed. You cannot expect a bolt cutter to work the same way. If you want to repair the chain, then using this is not a good option.
Final Takeaways: What is the Best Chainsaw Chain Breaker in 2024?
A good chainsaw chain breaker is one that allows you to remove the damaged link from a chain quickly and easily.
Considering all the important factors we have discussed in this article, and my personal expertise, I can assure you that the Oregon chainsaw chain breaker is the best chainsaw chain breaker in 2024.
This particular tool is designed to provide both ease of use and optimum functionality. Combined with the Oregon rivet spinner, it creates the perfect combo for top-notch chainsaw maintenance.
However, both of them combined might cost a bit much for some users. For those who are running low on budget, you should take a look at Felled Pocket Chainsaw Chain Breaker and Hicello 3PCS Pocket Chainsaw Breaker.
These pocket-sized chain breakers are portable and can be taken anywhere you go. Although they will need a hammer to work, they are the most affordable chainsaw chain breakers on the list.
If you are serious about the maintenance of your chainsaw chain, then you should definitely get a good quality chainsaw chain breaker. Good Luck!
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