Top 12 Best Chainsaw Chains Tested and Reviewed

Richard McMann

Accessories

top-rated chainsaw chainsChainsaw chains have crucial importance when it comes to cutting performance of the chainsaw. Eventually, you will need to replace your chainsaw chain, so why not go for the best chainsaw chain available?

Problem? If you are a beginner or don’t know about these chains much, you might end up making the wrong choice.

Simply purchasing a compatible chain that meets the bar size won’t do the job. A chainsaw chain is responsible for quick and clean cuts.

Also, a good chain will provide better handling and low kickback. So, you must pick the right chain for your tool.

Fortunately, I have tested dozens of chainsaw chains over the past few weeks and was able to narrow them down to a list of the 12 best chainsaw chains that will ensure exceptional cutting performance and safety.

So, without any further ado, let’s discuss these amazing chains in detail.

In this Article

Top 12 Best Chainsaw Chain for 2024 Compared and Tested

Chainsaw Chain
Bar Size Compatibility
Drive Links
1. Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chain [Editor's Pick]
18"
62
2. Husqvarna 18” Chain [Runner Up]
18"
72
3. KAKEI Chainsaw Chain [Best for the Money]
10"
40
4. Stihl 3610 Chain
16"
55
5. Husqvarna H-30 Chain
16"
66
6. Husqvarna H-80 Chain
10"
40
7. SUNGATOR SG-S40 Chain
10"
40
8. Oregon S52 Chain
14"
52
9. Oregon D72 AdvanceCut Chain
20"
72
10. Oregon E72 PowerCut Chain
20"
72
11. Oregon L68 Control Cut Chain
18"
68
12. STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super
20"
81

1. Oregon S62 Advance Cut Chain—Overall the “Best Chainsaw Chain” in 2024

Bar Length: 18” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 62 | No of Chains Included: 1

Oregon S62 Advance Cut Chain

Bringing down trees is no easy task. So, why make it more difficult by selecting the wrong chain for your sawing machine?

Oregon S62 Advance Cut chain is one of the best available chainsaw chains in the market. The name Oregon needs no introduction as they have an unsurmountable reputation for manufacturing the best hardware including saws, chains, and blades.

The durable and long-lasting chain ensures that you don’t require a replacement soon. Not only this, the rivets are hardened and have a chrome outer layer to reduce wear and tear.

Hence, you won’t need a sharpener to sharpen the chain or replace it anytime soon. Adding to this, the hardened rivets also make the chain adjustment a lot easier.

This semi-chisel chain is heat treated to provide precise and smooth cuts. You don’t have to worry about the chain hitting the dirt as you cut, as it has a higher tolerance and won’t dull easily.

Moreover, the chain ensures low kickback by gripping the wood while cutting. So, you will have more control of the tool and can handle it comfortably.

By separating the drive links from the bar, the chain also takes care of unnecessary vibrations which guarantees better user control.

Although the chain has a wide compatibility range, I recommend that you contact the friendly customer support of Oregon and make sure you are getting the right one for your model.

Last but not the least, the revolutionary Lubri-Tec oiling system ensures that the chain oil reaches even the deepest parts of your chain to keep it lubricated. So, it not only increases the chain’s life but also reduces downtime and maintenance.

What We Like

  • Low Kickback
  • Low Vibration
  • Durable
  • Heat Treated Chain
  • Chrome Coated
  • Hardened Rivets
  • Smooth Cutting Performance

What We Don't Like

  • Only 1 Chain in Pack
  • 10% Slower Cutting than a Full Chisel Chain

Why Consider Oregon S62 Advance Cut Chain?

An ideal chain for your 18-inch chainsaw. It has a wide compatibility range and ensures smooth cutting performance with the perfect grip on the wood. So, if you want to bring down whole trees quickly, you can’t find a better option.

2. Husqvarna 18” Chainsaw Chain—Best Heavy Duty Chainsaw Chain [2024]

Bar Length: 18” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 0.325” | Drive Link: 72 | No of Chains Included: 1

Husqvarna 18” Chainsaw Chain

If you are looking for a heavy-duty chainsaw chain for faster cutting in a high production environment, then Husqvarna 18” chain is an ideal choice.

Husqvarna is the best brand for professionals who need exceptional cutting performance in commercial applications.

I absolutely loved this premium chain because of its unmatchable performance with modern lightweight chainsaws.

The chain ensures smooth and fast cutting performance with the help of more micro-chisel drive links that are both durable and offer low kickback.

As I mentioned, the chain is ideally suited for sawing machines in commercial use, which means they will last longer and cut through more wood before needing sharpening or replacement.

Also, the cutting performance is both faster and more efficient. You can also use this chain for cutting firewood at your home.

Moreover, the chain has a wide compatibility range and will fit most 18-inch chainsaws. It comes with a standard gauge and pitch size.

You also have the option to purchase a pack of 2 or four at discounted prices from the online marketplace. The hardened and thicker links can be sharpened a couple of times to return the chain to its original performance.

What We Like

  • Premium Built Chain
  • Ideal for Commercial Use
  • Micro-Chisel Chain
  • More Drive Links
  • Faster Cutting Performance
  • Low Kickback and Vibration
  • Pack of 2 and 4 Available

What We Don't Like

  • A bit more expensive than other chains
  • No Innovative Oiling Technology

Why Consider Husqvarna 18” Chainsaw Chain?

For those who need a faster cutting performance on hardwood, the Husqvarna chain serves its purpose perfectly. Although the chain doesn’t last as long as Oregon Advance Cut, it has more drive links which ensure quicker cuts.

3. KAKEI Chainsaw Chain—Best Budget Chainsaw Chain [2024]

Bar Length: 10” | Gauge: 0.043 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 40 | No of Chains Included: 3

KAKEI Chainsaw Chain

For small chainsaw users who need a bundle of replacements in advance, the KAKEI chain comes in a pack of three for an affordable price.

The packs are available in a variety of sizes, so you must check compatibility before purchasing to make sure you are getting the right one.

Because of its wide compatibility range, I assure you that this chain fits your tool perfectly. Not to mention, it is the best seller in the market currently.

Heated German steel ensures the toughness and durability of the chain. The rivets are hardened to improve their strength so they can resist wear and run for a longer time.

It also means you won’t be required to adjust chain tensioning as often as other sawing machines.

Adding to this, the Japanese chrome plated technology ensures that your chain is sharpest and has higher durability when cutting. Each cutter on the chain is ground with rotatory machines to ensure maximum sharpness.

Moreover, the chain comes coated with protective oil. Hence, it will resist corrosion which ensures better reliability.

What We Like

  • Pack of 3 chains
  • Budget-Friendly Price
  • Tough German Steel
  • Hardened Rivets
  • Better Durability
  • Long Lasting Chain
  • Maximum Sharpness on Cutters

What We Don't Like

  • Not a good option for hardwood
  • Not Recommended for Heavy Duty Use

Why Consider KAKEI Chainsaw Chain?

A budget-friendly option that allows you to keep a bundle of replacements with you. KAKEI chains are both durable and reliable with a sharpness that can cut through wood with ease.

4. Stihl 3610 Chainsaw Chain—Best Chainsaw Chain for Stihl [2024]

Bar Length: 16” | Gauge: 0.043 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 55 | No of Chains Included: 2

Stihl 3610 Chainsaw Chain

Stihl is a global leading saw and hardware brand that has produced some of the best sawing machines and their parts. They are always designing innovative new features in tools to aid the woodcutters in their endeavors.

Stihl 3610 is a professional-grade chain designed for wood-cutting professionals and large property owners.

This chain can cut through all kinds of woods and is tested against pressure-treated wood for guaranteed performance.

A perfect replacement chain to suit all your needs. So, whether you need to cut firewood with a firewood chainsaw, take down trees or cut construction timber, this chain will prove best on your tool.

The micro chisels are sharpened with machines and will provide excellent cutting performance against hardwood.

Adding to this, innovative Oilomatic technology by Stihl ensures that oil reaches every corner of the chain and cutter. So, the chain will require less maintenance.

Durable and sturdy blades won’t wear easily and will require less maintenance. They can be sharpened by using a file at 30 degrees.

What We Like

  • Excellent Cutting Performance
  • Durable Cutters
  • Micro-Chisel Blades
  • Oilomatic Technology
  • Professional Grade Chain
  • Pack of 2

What We Don't Like

  • Slow Cutting Speed
  • No Kickback Reduction

Why Consider Stihl 3610 Chainsaw Chain?

I recommend that you should purchase this chain only if your tool has professional applications. Stihl 3610 is a professional-grade heavy-duty chain for cutting through trees.

5. Husqvarna H-30 Chainsaw Chain—Best Professional Chainsaw Chain [2024]

Bar Length: 16” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 0.325” | Drive Link: 66 | No of Chains Included: 1

Husqvarna H-30 Chainsaw Chain

Need a heavy-duty professional-grade chainsaw chain for your 16” tool? You won’t find a better option than Husqvarna H-30.

This chain comes with a wide compatibility range and will fit perfectly on your Husqvarna or other 16-inch chainsaws.

You can experience better user control and handle the tool easily with the low-kickback design which grips on the wood firmly.

Also, this chain contributes to reducing the vibration of the sawing machine which also ensures better grip and steadier control.

This chain is highly preferred by arborists who need preciseness and accuracy above all in maintaining the properties.

So, both for professionals and arborists, this is the best chain to get.

What We Like

  • Professional Grade Chain
  • Ideal for Homeowners and Arborists
  • Low Kickback Chain
  • Reduced Vibrations
  • Better Control and Handling
  • Heavy Duty Performance

What We Don't Like

  • Needs cleaning after use
  • Doesn’t come oil coated

Why Consider Husqvarna H-30 Chainsaw Chain?

Maintaining the trees requires accuracy and precision, and the Husqvarna H-30 ensures both. It offers quick and easy cuts without any risk of kickback.

6. Husqvarna H-80 Chain—Best 20-Inch Chain for Chainsaw in 2024

Bar Length: 20” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 72 | No of Chains Included: 1

Husqvarna H-80 Chain

Now, for larger tools, you will need a chain that can bring down whole trees. After all, that is the purpose of a 20-inch chainsaw.

So, you should definitely go with the name that has established itself with the best chainsaws. Husqvarna H-80 chain is designed for 20 inch 455 Rancher and 460 Rancher X series.

While there can be a compatibility issue, because of the unique features of this chain, it is rated as one of the best.

Hence, if you have either Rancher or Rancher X series, you should definitely get this chain.

It has got every feature to boost your cutting performance and allow you better control of the tool.

With the low-kickback feature, you have a better grip on the trees as you cut them down. So, there is less chance of the chainsaw kicking back and you can handle it comfortably.

However, there is a compatibility issue. Even if you have a 20-inch bar size, you should definitely check with customer support for assurance before purchasing this chain.

What We Like

  • Heavy Duty Chain
  • High Performance
  • Ideal for Rancher and Rancher X
  • Low Kickback
  • Super Sharp
  • Works well with Lightweight Chains

What We Don't Like

  • Expensive
  • Goes Dull a bit faster than Oregon Chains

Why Consider Husqvarna H-80 Chain?

Highly recommended replacement chain for Rancher and Rancher X series. This chain meets the standards for low kickback and provides you with better control while cutting trees.

7. SUNGATOR SG-S40 Chain—Best Professional Chain for 10-Inch Chainsaw

Bar Length: 10” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 40 | No of Chains Included: 3

SUNGATOR SG-S40 Chain

A pack of 3 10-inch chains ensures stable and efficient cutting performance. SUNGATOR SG-S40 chain is also a budget-friendly choice for chainsaw chains.

You get a pack of three chains at a discounted price. Not to mention the chains come with a standard pitch size and gauge which allows them to fit most of the bars easily.

You can select the size of the chains as per the bar length. There are multiple options available from 8-inch to 18-inch chains.

The unique round-edged cutter design ensures stability and higher cutting performance. Also, there is less chance of kickback as the rounded edges of the cutter are able to grip the wood perfectly while cutting.

Chain teeth are sharpened to their maximum limit to improve the cutting performance. The cutters on the chain are coated with a premium hard coat to make them wear-resistant.

So, your chain will last longer and will ensure better control while cutting. Also, the hardened rivets reduce maintenance and downtime.

What We Like

  • German Imported Steel
  • Pack of 3
  • Durable and Sturdy
  • High Cutting Performance
  • Hard Coated Cutters
  • Wear Resistant
  • Easy to Install

What We Don't Like

  • No Innovative Oiling System
  • Not Full Chisel

Why Consider SUNGATOR SG-S40 Chain?

SUNGATOR SG-S40 is a budget-friendly option that is both quicker and cheaper than getting your chain cutters sharpened. You get three good quality replacement chains for the price of one. A good deal to be honest.

8. Oregon S52 Chain—Best Durable Chainsaw Chain

Bar Length: 14” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 52 | No of Chains Included: 1

Oregon S52 Chain

Oregon is renowned for manufacturing some of the best hardware and replacement parts globally. The S52 Advance Cut chain is an ideal chain for 14-inch sawing machines that ensures the best cutting performance.

With a standard gauge size of 0.050 inches and a low profile pitch of 3/8, the chain will fit most of the bar sizes no matter the manufacturer.

So, whether you have an Echo, Craftsman, Homelite, or Poulan PR 5020 tool, this chain will perfectly on the bar.

Although the chain is not rated for heavy-duty performance, it is best suited for those who own home use chainsaws.

A durable and low kickback chain that maintains its grip on the wood as it is cutting, to ensure user safety and better control.

Also, the separation of cutters from the bar by a thousandth of an inch would significantly reduce the vibrations and also ensure better handling.

Cutters are tough and coated with a chrome outer layer which reduces wear. So, the chain will require sharpening less often and will last longer.

The built-in Lubri-Tec automatic oiling system is an innovative addition only by Oregon which ensures that lubrication reaches each part of your chain and extends its life.

What We Like

  • Built-in Lubri-Tec Oiling System
  • Chrome Coated Cutters
  • Long Lasting and Durable
  • Wear Resistant Cutters and Chain
  • Requires Tensioning Less Often
  • Best Suited for Home Owners
  • Wide Compatibility

What We Don't Like

  • Only 1 Chain in Pack
  • Not Recommended for Husqvarna Chainsaws

Why Consider Oregon S52 Chain?

Oregon Advance Cut S52 is one of the best chainsaw chains for homeowners and occasional users. The chain is wear-resistant and will ensure efficient cutting performance for a longer period.

9. Oregon D72 Advance Cut Chain—Best Chainsaw Chain for Homeowners

Bar Length: 20” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 72 | No of Chains Included: 1

Oregon D72 Advance Cut Chain

A high-quality chain for 20-inch bar size that comes with a wide compatibility range. While the S52 chain doesn’t fit Husqvarna chainsaws, this one perfectly does.

So, if you have a Husqvarna or Stihl tool, this chain would work perfectly for you. This chain has 72 cutters which ensure higher cutting performance and quick cuts.

Hence, if you are in the business of logging or cutting down whole trees, this is the right chain for your sawing machine.

It comes with the exceptional performance of Oregon which has both low kickback and low vibration features.

Also, the built-in advanced oiling technology ensures that oil reaches every part of your cutters which extends the life of the cutter and reduces the downtime on the chain.

Machine-hardened rivets will not loosen easily, so you won’t be required to tension the chain often.

So, you can use the chain for a longer period without needing maintenance.

Moreover, the precision heat-treated blades have higher tolerance toward debris. So, while cutting fallen trees into logs, you don’t have to worry about chains running into the dirt. It won’t be dulled easily.

What We Like

  • Best for Husqvarna and Stihl
  • Exceptional Cutting Performance
  • Higher Tolerance to Debris
  • Better User Control
  • Less Maintenance Requirement
  • Heat-Treated Blades for Endurance

What We Don't Like

  • Not for Poulan and Echo brands
  • Not Recommended for Beginners

Why Consider Oregon D72 Advance Cut Chain?

A perfect chain for commercial cutters, loggers, and arborists. This is a heavy-duty chain designed for Husqvarna, Stihl, and Troy-Bilt tools.

10. Oregon E72 Power-Cut Replacement Chain—Best Full Chisel Chainsaw Chain [2024]

Bar Length: 20” | Gauge: 0.050 Inch | Pitch: 3/8” LP | Drive Link: 72 | No of Chains Included: 1

Oregon D72 Advance Cut Chain

While Oregon D72 is a professional chain, it is a semi-chisel which means while it has high endurance, the D72 will cut wood slower.

So, if you need a replacement chain with faster cutting capabilities that can help you rush through the cutting process with perfect safety and control, Oregon E72 is your choice.

A power-cut full chisel chain made for loggers and professionals. This chain cuts through wood and timber with precision and high speed.

So, you can cut down whole trees in no time. The speed is 10 percent faster than our previous pick.

Also, the blades on the chain are chrome coated for more endurance, stability, and reduced wear on the cutters.

Adding to this, the hardened rivets will reduce the downtime on the tool and won’t let it loosen easily.

However, with a full-chisel chainsaw, you have to be careful during its use. You cannot run it down in the dirt, as the blades will be sensitive to the debris and will go dull faster if came in contact.

Make sure you get in touch with Oregon support to get the right chain for your chainsaw. The E72 is compatible with most heavy-duty tools including Stihl, Poulan, Husqvarna, Jonsered, and Dolmar.

What We Like

  • Full Chisel Chain
  • Chrome Coated Blades
  • Hardened Rivets
  • Oregon Advanced Oiling Technology
  • Faster Cutting
  • Precise blades

What We Don't Like

  • Less Endurance to Debris
  • Dulls a bit quicker than D72

Why Consider Oregon E72 Power-Cut Replacement Chain?

You should definitely go for the Oregon E72 Power Cut chain if you are looking for faster cutting performance. I would recommend that you only get it once you have good control of your chainsaw. So, the choice is not for beginners.

11. Oregon L68 Control-Cut Chain—Best Chainsaw Chain for Softwood

Bar Length: 18” | Gauge: 0.063 Inch | Pitch: 0.325” | Drive Link: 68 | No of Chains Included: 1

Oregon L68 Control-Cut Chain

More often than not, users have performance issues when using a chainsaw on the hardwood. That’s because not every chain is suitable for hardwood.

You need a micro-chisel chain on your bar for cutting through the hardwood smoothly. Fortunately, the Oregon Control Cut series focuses on just that.

The Oregon L68 is designed for cutting through hardwood and is an ideal chain for beginners.

Even if you are a beginner, this chain can help you because of its verified standards for low kickback and reduced vibrations.

Hence, you will have better control of your chainsaw while working and will be able to handle it better.

The micro-chisel sharp-edged cutters will grip the hardwood and reduce the kickback from the chain which will allow you to cut through the wood easily.

A highly recommended chain for cutting hardwood. The only reason we have placed it low on our list is that this chain has very limited compatibility.

It is only compatible with a handful of models of Stihl. So, you must contact customer support to ensure compatibility before making the purchase.

What We Like

  • Ideal for Hardwood
  • Super Sharp Cutters
  • Recommended for Beginners
  • Low Kickback Chain
  • Reduced Vibrations
  • Better Control and Stability

What We Don't Like

Why Consider Oregon L68 Control-Cut Chain?

All in all, it’s a good chain for cutting hardwood. You can also look for similar series options for your chainsaw. If you got a Stihl tool, this is the best replacement chain to get.

12. STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super—Best Professional Chain for Stihl Chainsaw [2024]

Bar Length: 20” | Gauge: 0.063 Inch | Pitch: 0.325” | Drive Link: 81 | No of Chains Included: 1

STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Professional Chain

While Oregon definitely puts forward a decent chain, why not go with a genuine Stihl replacement chain when you can?

The Stihl 26RS81 Rapid Super chain is designed for Stihl chainsaws and is the perfect replacement chain.

There is no doubt about fitting or chain tension, as these chains are designed by the same manufacturer.

With this chain, you have the ability to cut through all kinds of wood with superfast cutting speed and accuracy.

Rapid Super chain has extra sharp rounded edges that will cut through the wood with ease while ensuring superior user control.

Stihl’s patented Oilomatic technology ensures that oil reaches every part of the chain, ensuring longer-lasting lubrication.

Hence, you will experience less downtime on the performance, and also the chain will require less maintenance.

Moreover, these thick cutters are sharpened with rotatory machines, so they won’t lose their dullness easily.

However, you can’t use this chain with other chainsaw models. At least, I don’t recommend it. Only use for Stihl.

What We Like

  • Ideal for Stihl chainsaws
  • Rapid Cutting Performance
  • Super Sharp Cutters
  • Oilomatic Technology
  • Requires Less Maintenance
  • Doesn’t Dull Easily

What We Don't Like

  • An expensive option
  • Only 1 Chain in the Pack

Why Consider STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super?

If you have a Stihl or a battery chainsaw, then you should definitely get a genuine Stihl chain. It will work perfectly with your tool and will last longer.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Chainsaw Chain in 2024

Buying a good chainsaw chain can be quite confusing, especially if you are new and don’t know much about them.

So, to help you out, I will be sharing some of the buying tips that can assist you in making the right choice and selecting the best chain replacement for your tool.

Let’s Begin:

Type of Chainsaw Chain

First of all, you have to decide which type of chain you want to go with. Generally, chainsaw chains can be classified into three main types.

Full chisel chains have a higher number of blades and ensure the fastest cutting experience. So, for occasional users and semi-professionals, it can prove quite beneficial as they go about their eventful tasks.

Semi-Chisel chains have less number of cutters and are usually 10 percent slower than full-chisel chains. However, they also require less maintenance and won’t go dull very quickly.

Skip-Chisel chains have the least number of blades with more empty space. They don’t require maintenance very often but they are slow in cutting. Also, they are professional chainsaw chains with a kickback that is not suitable for beginners.

Hence, if you are a beginner, you should go with chisel chains instead of skip chisel.

Read More: 20+ Types of Chainsaw Chains Every Homeowner Should Know

Compatibility

Compatibility is without a doubt the most crucial aspect of a chainsaw chain. Buying chains of the same brand is always a wise choice.

So, if you have a Husqvarna chainsaw, you should go with a genuine replacement chain no matter the cost.

Not only it would fit perfectly, but also having been made by the same manufacturer, it would increase the performance of your tool.

As for others who don’t find a replacement from the parent brand, they can go with Oregon chainsaw chains.

Oregon is No.1 chainsaw global brand that produces highly efficient and super sharp chains.

There is quite a bit of option to explore like control cut, power cut, advance cut, etc. depending on your needs.

Just make sure you contact Oregon customer support to ensure compatibility before making the purchase.

Never ever try to fit a non-compatible chain on the tool’s bar. The kickback alone can cause a serious accident.

Related: 6 Simple Steps to Carve Totem Pole With a Chainsaw

Low Kickback

Always make sure that the chain you are purchasing meets the ANSI standards for low kickback.

These chains ensure a perfect grip on the wood while cutting and reduce the kickback from the tool.

So, users have better control over these chainsaws and can handle them perfectly. These chains are highly recommended for beginners.

Maintenance

If not chosen wisely, you can end up with the wrong chainsaw chain which will require maintenance more often than usual.

So, you have to ensure that the chain is machine sharpened with premium coating and hardened rivets that won’t loosen easily.

Not only it will be easier to maintain, but also it will not require chain tensioning very often.

Hence, you will be at ease while using such a low maintenance chain.

Oiling System

Modern chains for sawing machines are designed in an innovative way that allows the oil lubrication to reach every corner of the cutters which prevents them from rustiness.

So, make sure you purchase a chain that has this advanced feature. Stihl calls it Oilomatic while Oregon calls it Lubri-Tech oiling system.

This advanced design ensures perfect lubrication of chains which means they will require less maintenance and will last a lot longer.

Budget Matters

Budget is always an important factor in the decision of a good chainsaw. Why purchase one expensive chain when you can get a bundle for a similar price?

Well, the expensive chain will last longer, but you will have to maintain it and sharpen it.

It will have better steel, advanced sharpness, and better features certainly, but without experience, it can also dull pretty quickly.

So, if you are a beginner, I recommend you purchase a bundle of 3 from SUNGATOR or KAKEI. Both provide good quality chainsaw chains made from durable steel.

They won’t sharpen as many times as Oregon or Husqvarna chains, but you get to replace them when they go dull, which is easier.

How to Extend Life of a Chainsaw Chain?

Is your chainsaw chain going dull pretty quickly, and you are tired of replacing the chain again and again? Well, you don’t have to.

Despite what you might think, using it appropriately can extend the life of your chainsaw chain.

Good maintenance will not only save you money but also enable you to use you’re chains for longer periods with better cutting and performance results.

So, to ensure that your chainsaw chain has a longer life, you just have to take care of two things.

Learn More about a Saw Chain Lifespan Here!

1. Don’t Run Chainsaw into Debris

Firstly, you have to make sure not to use a carving chainsaw carelessly. Adjusting it at the right angle and then using it on wood is the right way.

Chainsaw chains are very sensitive to debris like dirt, wrong, metal fences, or anything other than wood. So, you have to make sure that you control the tool and not the other way around.

Running your chainsaw into the ground will allow the cutters to go dull a lot faster. If you are a beginner, starting with a lightweight model and low kickback chain is a better choice.

2. Sharpen the Cutters When They Go Dull

Secondly, and most importantly, you can sharpen the blades on your chainsaw chain quite a few times before they become unusable.

So, don’t rush into replacing the chain as soon as it goes dull. You can get an electric sharpener, or manual files to sharpen the blades or cutter.

Of course, there is a bit of a learning curve, but angle adjustments are included with files that help you sharpen them accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best type of chain for your chainsaw?

Well, that depends on the kind of chainsaw you will use on any type of wood you will cut with it. Because of fast cutting speed and exceptional performance, full chisel chains are considered the best for professionals.

Which chainsaw chain do professionals use?

Professionals prefer full chisel chains. These chains have the highest number of cutters and ensure a faster cutting experience. Although they are a bit sensitive to debris, professionals have firm control over chainsaws so they don’t worry about that.

What type of chainsaw chain cuts the fastest?

Full chisel chains cut fastest because they have more cutters with less space between them. So, they run smoothly through the wood and cut it down quicker than any other type of chainsaw.

What chainsaw chain is best for cutting trees?

You can go with either semi-chisel or a full chisel chain. The compatibility will decide which chain you should get. We recommend checking out options from Oregon, Husqvarna, and Stihl.

Does skip tooth chain cut faster?

A skip-tooth chain has less number of blades on the chain. So, no it won’t be as fast as a full chisel chain. However, having less number of blades means it will improve the performance of your chainsaw and will require less power.

What type of chain is best for hardwood?

A full chisel chain is best for cutting hardwood. We have discussed several options above that are ideal for cutting hardwood. You should definitely check out Oregon Control Cut, which is an ideal choice for cutting hardwood.

Final Takeaways: Which is the Best Chainsaw Chain in 2024?

Whenever your chainsaw chain goes dull, you must replace it with the best chain available. To help you out, I have tested and reviewed some of the best available options in the market.

Oregon Advance Cut is our top choice because it has a wide compatibility range, low kickback, causes fewer vibrations, has an innovative oiling system, hard chrome coating, hardened rivets and doesn’t go dull quickly.

You should also check our premium picks by Husqvarna which though a bit expensive, are definitely worth the price and ensure heavy-duty cutting performance.

If you are on a budget and want to keep a bundle of replacements with you, you should look at KAKEI or SUNGATOR chainsaw chains. They come in packs of three and are good quality replacement chains for chainsaws.

Good luck with finding the best chain for your chainsaw. Hope the guide helps.

Richard McMann
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