Chainsaw chain: everything about choosing a pitch, length, material and manufacturer. Description of what they are and how the circuit is designed

Updated: 03/07/2021 16:23:13

Expert: Konstantin Borisovich Polyakov

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The chain experiences the highest loads during operation of the chainsaw. It is a set of links, each of which has cutting teeth. Over time, the sharpness of the sharpening becomes worse, the chain has to be removed and sharpened. The equipment must be changed periodically; service life depends on the load and quality of workmanship. Specialized stores in Russia sell saw chains from different manufacturers. To choose the best option, you should listen to the recommendations of our experts.

Oregon chains for home use

In addition to a wide selection of saw chains of the usual (classic) design, Oregon today offers several types of the latest and more advanced models.

Model 91VXL

This is a low profile chain for household chainsaws. The height of the cutting tooth is reduced. As a result, the chain grabs less wood. This reduces the cutting speed, but puts less stress on the chainsaw. The wood is sawed more smoothly and softly, vibration and the possibility of rebounds are reduced.

Model 91VXL Multi-cut

A chain marked Multi-cut means that this model has cutting elements of increased strength. The chain can cut frozen wood and is not dull by ice and snow. Saws hard wood, knotty butts, stumps. When sawing regular wood, sharpening is required approximately 2 times less often than on a regular chain.

Model 90PX

Model 90PX belongs to the Micro-lite series of models. These are narrow chains that provide unprecedented cutting speed due to the low resistance of the wood. Unlike narrow profile chains such as the SpeedCut 95TXL, Micro-lite not only has a narrow cutting section, but the entire chain as well. The thickness of the guide segments and the groove of the tire under them is 1.1 mm.

Previously, the minimum generally accepted standard was 1.3 mm thickness. These chains can be installed on many popular models of household chainsaws, but are supplied with a bar with a groove thickness of 1.1 mm.

Model 91P

Differs in versatility of use. The unique shape of the half-chisel-half-chipper makes it equally easy to cut construction wood and trim gardens.

Model 91 POWERSHARP

The POWERSHARP system is a new word in this area. Tires and chains of this series allow you to sharpen the chain during operation, thanks to the abrasive device built into the tire.

Design Features

All chains from this manufacturer can be easily distinguished from others by the Oregon inscription on each connecting link of the chain. They also differ in technological and design features.

1. The cutting links are shiny and chrome plated.
2. Specially applied control notches are clearly visible on them, which help control the exact sharpening angle.
3. The grooves on all links are designed so that they evenly distribute oil throughout the chain exactly where it is needed during operation.
4. All corners and surfaces of Oregon chains that come into contact with wood are designed to reduce vibration and kickback during operation.

Oregon chains use two main types of cutting tooth shapes:

1. Chipper (CHIPPER, translated as “chopping into chips”). When viewed in profile, it is shaped like a sickle. Rounded at the top.
2. Chisel (CHISEL, translated as “chisel” or “cutter”). Shaped like a number 7. Flat on top.

How to choose

The selection issue is relevant for inexperienced users. Professionals know almost everything about the headset and know how to choose what they need. For this reason, our advice will be aimed specifically at amateurs, and not at pros. So let's get started.

In order to choose correctly you need:

1. Know the characteristics of the chainsaw, namely the pitch and length of the bar. When choosing, you should not rely on the name and model of the chainsaw, because... One chainsaw can be equipped with tires of different lengths and seat widths.
2. Decide in advance on the volume and type of work for which you plan to use it. If you cut across, we choose chisel ones; if we cut along, we choose chipper ones.

Important! You will have to sharpen it for a longitudinal cut (10) yourself or at a service center. A headset sharpened for longitudinal cuts is rarely found on sale

Separately, it is necessary to mention the choice of the Shtil headset. If you are planning to buy a chain from this manufacturer (they are considered the highest quality today), then to make your choice it is better to use a special search form, which can be found on the company’s website.

By entering the chainsaw data into the search form, the program will automatically select and offer you suitable options. The service is convenient, but has one big drawback: selection is carried out only according to Shtil chainsaw models. In order to select a chain for saws of other brands, you will have to arm yourself with a catalog.

Garden Home line

In 1999, when Patriot chainsaws appeared on the Russian market, they were sold under the Garden Home brand, because... the manufacturer could not be under its own brand. The Garden Home company became a kind of guide for Patriot to the Russian market. In 2013, the Patriot company was able to sell tools under its own brand, after which the phrase Garden Home completely disappeared from the name of chainsaws.

We often receive questions from our visitors asking us to explain how the Garden Home series chainsaws differ from the Patriot series. The answer is nothing! This is all done for marketing and legal reasons.

The knives most often used with this guide are:

• 91VXL;
• 91VXL Multi-cut;
• 90PX;
• 91P;
• 91 POWERSHARP.

Advantages of the Oregon chain blade 91VXL:

• semi-chisel incisors;
• stable operation over a wide temperature range;
• versatility of use;
• possibility of sharpening without special tools;
• Suitable for saws with a working volume of up to 45 cm3 and 40 cm tires.

Features of "Oregon" 91VXL Multi-cut:

• chrome plated;
• work in difficult conditions;
• increased cutting edge resource;
• sawing contaminated, old, or chemical-impregnated wood.

"Oregon" 90PX:

• high speed mode;
• minimal link thickness and lightweight design for reduced cutting resistance;
• long service life;
• Installed on household chainsaws.

Properties of the Oregon91 POWERSHARP chain:

• durability;
• automatic sharpening on the tool itself, without requiring its dismantling;
• ideal option for amateurs.

Analogs

The closest analogues of Procraft chainsaws are:

1. Stavr PCB-50/2400M. A powerful 3.3 hp engine is installed. 58 cu. cm, tire 50 cm, fuel tank 0.55 l. The kit includes all the necessary keys, a case, and a container for preparing a gasoline-oil mixture. Anti-vibration and chain brake function. 3 year warranty. The cost is similar to the K300S and K450L models.
2. Vityaz BP-45-3.0. Tire 45 cm, engine 3 hp. It costs 300-500 rubles more than the K450 model, but is inferior in power and build quality. Weight exceeds the Procraft analogue by 300 g.
3. Interskol PCB-16/45L. Despite the long 40 cm tire, it has a 2.5 hp engine, which does not have enough power to cut dense wood logs. This model is aimed at domestic use. The delivery set is standard. The characteristics can be compared with the GS-58X model.

Almost all analogues are made in China, but with worse technical characteristics and build quality. The package includes mostly low-quality tools. Therefore, in all respects, products from Procraft win.

Husqvarna chain sharpening file

To sharpen Husqvarna chains, it is better to buy a branded sharpening kit from the same manufacturer. Others may not exactly match the diameter of the cutting plane of the tooth.

In addition, the file metal from other manufacturers may be softer than the cutting alloy of high-strength teeth. It will wear off on its own without sharpening the harder tooth.

Sharpening kits from chain manufacturers are, by definition, suitable in all respects. The Husqvarna tooth dressing kit comes with a template with two guide rollers that indicates the angle and limits sharpening to the desired depth. The kit may also include a template for measuring the height of the cutting depth limiting teeth and a flat file for aligning them.

Chainsaw Oregon WGCS 401

The Oregon household tool cuts bulky logs, processes bush branches, and trims roots. It can be used to solve gardening or gardening problems, in public utilities. Technical characteristics:

• the tire has a length of 0.4 m;
• productivity – 1.5 kW;
• revolutions - 3.2 thousand revolutions per minute;
• weight – 4.7 kg.

The Oregon model is characterized by a large working life of the motor. There is automatic chain lubrication and a locking system to limit the operation of the saw. Operator safety is ensured by a safety guard. The saw can work in any conditions, even at low temperatures. The chainsaw does not have sharpening, so the chain must be serviced manually.

Owner reviews

In the surrounding villages I earn extra money by sawing firewood and dumping dead wood. I respect Oregon saw chains for their endurance and ease of sharpening, so taking into account the constant rise in prices, I bought a whole coil and a machine for sharpening chains, which cost less than 14,000 rubles. I have provided for myself for several years to come, and on occasion I also help out friends and acquaintances. Garik

I bought a Chinese chainsaw with an Oregon chain. The tool itself needs improvement. As for the headset, the products are branded and wear out moderately. Even after manually sharpening the chain, sawing performance is restored almost completely. Sergey Nikolaevich

Review of the best and most budget saw chain models

CHAMPION A050-VS-50E 3/8₺

This is an inexpensive budget new product made in China, which is an analogue of the Oregon 91VS. It is suitable for use in medium and small chainsaws belonging to the household and semi-professional segment.

Users note that this product has satisfactory cutting abilities and technical parameters, does not make noise during operation and provides a smooth ride when sawing trees. The number of links is 50 pieces, the pitch is 3/8, and the total width of the groove is 1.3 mm.

chain CHAMPION A050-VS-50E 3/8

Advantages:

• availability (average price – 380 rubles);
• sharpness of cutting teeth;
• suitable for using household tools and solving simple problems;
• Suitable for standard sized saws.

Flaws:

• the product is not of the highest quality;
• may fly off the tire during prolonged operation;
• needs to be sharpened after sawing large trees.

DDE 249-358 14₺

This is an affordable model recommended for use in chainsaws whose engine capacity does not exceed 45 cubic centimeters. It is suitable for tires no longer than 45 cm. This model also has increased lengths of the cutting edges of the teeth.

The design capabilities allow the DDE 249-358 14₺ to be sharpened a large number of times using a file. Sharpening does not affect its performance in any way, since wear-resistant and high-quality alloy steel was used in the manufacture of the teeth. Thanks to the special design, this model is protected from strong kickbacks.

The number of links is 52. The chain pitch is 3/8, and the groove width is 1.3 mm. The chain fits 14" (35.6 cm) tires.

chain DDE 249-358 14

Advantages:

• affordable price (410 rubles);
• moderate quality;
• high quality sharpening;
• copes well with the tasks even after several sharpenings.

Flaws:

• It is not recommended to purchase for frequent use;
• with prolonged use it wears off quickly.

BISON₺

This is inexpensive equipment from a popular domestic manufacturer, which is suitable for saws with an internal combustion engine capacity of up to 40-55 cubic centimeters. This model is excellent for performing a variety of wood sawing jobs in the garden, plot or country house. It has a high level of performance, and the specific shape of the teeth provides good anti-vibration characteristics.

The ZUBR 70302-40 model ideally combines such qualities as accuracy, productivity, service life and cost. Durable and high-quality steel was used in its manufacture, thanks to which “ZUBR” 70302-40 can be used even to perform complex tasks of sawing thick wood. This product can withstand about 1 thousand cuts up to 1 sharpening.

This model has 66 links and fits 16 inch (40.6 cm) tires. The pitch is 0.325 inches, and the groove width is 1.5 mm.

BISON chain

Advantages:

• affordable price (459 rubles);
• good strength;
• durability;
• sharp and high-quality factory sharpening.

Flaws:

• after performing complex work on sawing hard wood, it quickly becomes dull;
• stretches out during continuous use.

Specifications

• Model: CS1500; • Operating current: 15A, 220V; • Power: 2400 W; • Engine orientation: transverse; • Tire size: 45 cm (18 inches); • Effective cutting length: 43 cm; • Chain model: PowerSharp, low recoil; • Link pitch: 9.3 mm, 3/8″ Low Profile; • Drive link shank thickness: 1.3 mm; • Number of teeth on the drive sprocket: 6; • Chain rotation speed (idling): 14.7 m/sec.; • Weight: 5.7 kg, including headset; • Tension adjustment: does not require special tools; • Chain lubrication: automatically; • Oil tank capacity: 140 ml; • Noise level: 110 dBA; • Vibration: 4.35 m/s2; • Warranty: 3 years; • Average price: 8,500 rub.

Characteristic features of petrol saws Zubr

There are several features of the company and chainsaws that make Zubr saws stand out from the competition.

1. All models of chainsaws have a pleasant appearance. The gaps between the body parts are well adjusted. The color combination is bright.
2. Zubr saws are designed according to a classic design, so the ignition and engine operation controls are located in exactly the same way as other popular chainsaws.
3. All Zubr models have an additional fuel pump, which makes it much easier to start a cold chainsaw. Electronic ignition, which produces a spark when the piston is a few millimeters before top dead center. Emergency chain braking system, which makes using Zubr chainsaws safer.
4. The company maintains a high level of warranty service, thanks to which users can be confident that if a malfunction occurs, they will not be left alone with the problem, but will be able to turn to qualified specialists for help.
5. Zubr enters into warranty service agreements only with service centers that have all the necessary equipment, and whose specialists have undergone special training in the company.
6. In order to extend the life of its chainsaws, the company offers a full range of consumables and lubricants, which were developed by specialists taking into account all GOST requirements, especially for Zubr gasoline chain saws.
7. The Zubr company offers an extended five-year warranty on all gasoline saws of its production.

Next, let's take a closer look at each chainsaw from the model range.

Chainsaw “AL KO” BKS 3835

The optimal solution for gardening needs.

Peculiarities:

• durable body material;
• presence of easy-to-use handles;
• equipped with a powerful engine;
• economical fuel consumption, allowing to reduce the number of refuelings per unit of time;
• the presence of a capacitive tank for the combustible mixture, making refueling during operation absolutely problem-free;
• automatic oil supply system, pumped precisely into the area of ​​the tire and cutting blade;
• the use of standard tire-cutting components that allow performing a large range of work;
• high idle torque;
• use of a reliable manual starter;
• equipping the saw with an additional inertia-type braking system that operates in just 0.12 seconds to prevent injuries and accidents;
• vibration absorption technology that reduces fatigue during work;
• ease of construction;
• ease of maintenance and repair operations, facilitated by the production of components
• and spare parts specifically for this model.

Specifications:

• Engine power – 1200 W;
• Maximum rotation of the chain blade – 21 m/s;
• Fuel tank capacity – 390 ml;
• The volume of the lubricant reservoir is 210 ml;
• Guide dimension – 0.35 m;
• Weight – 5250 g.

Husqvarna chains overview

Previous chains of the H series model (H 30, H 25, etc.) with the HUSQV stamp had the following key advantages:

1. Tensile resistance.
2. Long work without sharpening.
3. Overall high strength.
4. High cutting speed.

New chains of the X-CUT series with a stamped logo on each link went on sale in Russia in 2022. Laboratory and practical tests have shown that the new model is superior to the previous one in all respects.

New models have an additional X-CUT marking on the box. For example, one of the first new models of new chains has the following marking on the packaging: X-CUT SP33G.

Explanation of markings:

• X - estra, CUT - cut (extra cut);
• S denotes tooth shape: Semi chisel (half chisel);
• P - Pixel technology - it gives a thinner cut, less resistance and load on the internal combustion engine, increased cutting speed;
• The first number 3 indicates the chain pitch in inches (standard 0.325);
• the second digit 3 indicates the last digit thickness of the chain (bar groove) - 1.3 mm;
• G is a structural type of link connection that reduces the possibility of rebound when cutting with the end of the bar.

These are equipped with the new Husqvarna chainsaws of the four hundredth series - 435, 440, 445, 450.

When selling all models of Husqvarna chains, in addition to the exact dimensions, recommendations are given on what power or model chainsaws they are suitable for. For example:

Saw chain model Husqvarna S64 (S means half chisel or micro chisel tooth shape).

Suitable models: Husqvarna 3120 XP, Husqvarna 395 XP.

Performance characteristics of this model:

• tire length - 36 cm;
• bar groove width (chain thickness) - 1.6 mm;
• chain pitch - 0.404″;
• number of leading links - 104;
• Manufacturer: Husqvarna AB, Sweden.

The cost of this model for January 2022 is about 2000 rubles.

The next model has more detailed descriptions and recommendations - Husqvarna H25:

• tooth type - Micro chisel;
• suitable models - Husqvarna 560, 562 XP, 555, 455 e-series Rancher AT, 357 XP, 545, 445 e-series, 450 e-series II, 450 II;
• tire length - 50 cm;
• chain pitch is 0.325″.

Recommended for chainsaws with internal combustion engine displacement from 35 to 62 cc. High speed chain with low vibration. The small radius of the working angles of the teeth increases sawing speed and facilitates sharpening.

As a result, the preserved previous production and the newly created one offer a full range of saw chain models not only for all Husqvarna, but also for chainsaws of other brands.

Oregon Saw Chains at a Glance

The current range includes more than 10 models for various purposes. The given data will help you navigate the characteristics of the model range and choose a branded saw chain that matches the features and level of complexity of subsequent work.

LGX and LPX

Professional grade saw chains work effectively with PRO-LITE and PRO-AM tires. These are the best options for power saws used in large-scale logging and construction jobs.

• The design features of the LGX model are high-performance chisel-type cutting links with rectangular sidewalls and wedge-shaped cutting depth limiters.
• The product is recommended for working with professional category saws with a cylinder volume of 50-80 cm3. The LPX chain is aimed at equipping saws with a small displacement, in the range of 38-50 cm 3 and a lower level of operating loads.

Both models provide shock-free entry into the cut, which eliminates the possibility of traumatic situations.

Saw chains BPX, SpeedCut (95TXL) and DPX/DX

The model range is designed for medium-intensity use.

• Micro-Chisel cutting elements have a small radius of curvature, which is most convenient for manual and machine sharpening. The combination of chain and PRO-AM guide bar ensures full supply of chain oil to the joints.
• SpeedCut's narrow profile chain features a narrow kerf width and less intense drive tension. The model is designed for use with saws in the mid-power range. The main priority is high speed.
• DPX/DX - a model with semi-chisel type cutters designed for working with problematic wood. The chain is less sensitive to the quality of hand sharpening.

When designing the chain, the emphasis is on long-term operation and saving on consumables. DPX/DX chains work effectively with semi- and professional saws with engine cylinder capacity from 50 to 100 cm3.

Oregon 91VXL, 91VXL Multi-cut and 90PX chains

This series is designed to complete PRO-AM 91DOUBLE and GUARD guide bars.

• The 91VXL saw chain is a universal option for household use. A significant advantage of semi-chisel cutting links is their unpretentiousness to the quality of manual sharpening.
• The 91VXL series chain saw successfully copes with a wide range of construction and private household work.

A characteristic feature of the 91VXL Multi-cut series is the presence of a particularly durable chrome coating, which determines increased wear resistance of the chain when working in an abrasive environment.

• MultiCut technology allows you to increase the service life of the cutting edges of saw links when sawing logs contaminated by dragging, sleepers and other problematic materials.
• The new generation 90PX low-profile saw chain, successful in all respects, combines high performance and comfort for complex sawing work, a lower level of load on the power unit, and an extension of the real life of the tool as a whole.

New generation saw chains 91P and 91 POWERSHARP

The range of Oregon chains has been replenished with new developments of the household class.

• The design of the OREGON 91P product uses chamfer-type saw links that combine the advantages of chisel and semi-chisel cutters of the same type.
• The branded Oregon bar and chain, model 91P, is the optimal option for completing small saws with a moderate volume of gas-powered drive.

The OREGON 91 PowerSharp chain was developed using new design solutions and modern production technologies. The chain differs from previous analogues in its extended service life and simplified manual sharpening to the maximum.

Pros and cons of Oregon chains

The main advantage is stable quality. There are practically no factory defects in Oregon chains, such as:

• the riveting is too hard, the links do not fold and the chain jams;
• inaccurate compliance with strict parameters for thickness and link pitch;
• unsuitable alloys of links (hard ones burst, soft ones stretch), teeth (soft ones, quickly dull).

Such defects can occur in small industries, but this is not about Oregon.

All Oregon chains are of equal quality, standard, with micron precision fit according to the tolerances allowed in production.

The disadvantages include the unclear origin of individual groups of saw chains. For example, a consumer buys a saw chain with the inscription Oregon on the box, then discovers another honest inscription in a smaller font - Made in China. At the same time, it is unknown whether this chain was produced at the Oregon enterprise under the supervision of specialists, from alloys and using the company’s technologies, or whether a certain Chinese company bought a patent for the right to produce its products under this brand.

Be that as it may, chains for household chainsaws under the Oregon Made in China brand have a number of disadvantages:

• stretch quickly;
• the teeth quickly become dull and require frequent sharpening, so they quickly grind down to an unusable state;
• the teeth wear unevenly.

The last drawback is critical when sharpening on a machine is required. The machine is always set to sharpen according to the smallest tooth, otherwise it will remain unsharpened. As a result, almost entire teeth are ground down to the size of one, the smallest one. And the entire chain will not last long. When the tooth measured from above is less than 4 mm, the chain needs to be changed.

But objectively, even Oregon Made in China is more stable in quality than chains from unknown manufacturers.

What kind of company

By 1951, the company entered the world market and began selling patents. Since 1955, the Swedish Husqvarna began using Oregon chains for its chainsaws. Gradually the whole world switched to using new type chains. In Russia, they appeared only after 1991 and were called in everyday life - “hooked”.

At first, Oregon specialized exclusively in the production and improvement of the design of saw chains. Then she began producing her own chainsaws under this brand.

In 2004, the main part of the company became part of the global concern Blount Incorporation. Today, the specialized company Oregon Cutting Systems, part of the Blount Incorporation concern, specifically produces and improves saw chains.

Chainsaw Oleo-Mac

Oleo-Mac chainsaws are among the most popular on the domestic market. This is due to the high quality and wide range of EmakSpA products. The Oleo-Mac brand was founded in 1972, and in 1992 the company became part of EFCO production. EmakSpA is an Italian brand of high-quality garden equipment. Today, Oleo-Mac products are one of the large-scale production lines.

Chainsaws Oleo-Mac

Today, the EmakSpA community has several subsidiaries in Europe and China. The main specialization of the company is the production of garden and petrol tools. On the Russian market, the Oleo-Mac line of chainsaws is represented by several professional, semi-professional and household models.

Oleo-Mac chainsaws are used:

• in construction;
• in suburban areas;
• agricultural industry;
• private workshop, etc.

It is worth noting that most models are designed for harvesting and gardening work.

Oregon electric saws - American quality in every model

Oregon's history begins in 1947. The founder of the company, American Joseph Buford Cox, owned a small farm where he was forced to chop wood by hand. At that time, there was already a small selection of chainsaws on the market, but finding suitable bars and chains for them was a big problem for users.

The beginning of the rapid development of the Oregon company was the development and production of hook chains. This gave a powerful boost to the newly created brand. Already in 1951, the company's turnover amounted to $1 million, and a year later the American company expanded by purchasing a controlling stake in one of the Canadian plane manufacturers.

Today, Oregon continues to actively develop, constantly improving its products and creating saw sets for various garden saws from other manufacturers. In addition, the American brand’s assortment includes high-quality electric saws designed to solve various problems both in the local area and in felling forests.

How to sharpen correctly?

In order to properly sharpen the main types of chains, you need to sharpen with a round file. Depending on the size of the link, the file diameter is selected from 4 to 5.5 mm. This method is good for experienced owners who can accurately maintain the angle of inclination when sharpening.

To prevent the file from drifting to the side, it is better to use a machine for sharpening chainsaw chains.

What should be the procedure? To do this you need:

1. Place the file in the clamp at an angle of 25-30˚.
2. Fix the machine on the saw bar so that the file comes into close contact with the cutting edge of the tooth.
3. Using light pressure, perform 3-5 file movements. If the cutting edge of a tooth is damaged by a nail caught in a log, then more movements need to be made.
4. After the tooth is sharpened, the movable carriage in which the file is clamped is moved upward, and the chain moves to the next tooth. Then the process is repeated.
5. After one circle has been completed, the angle of the file in the clamp changes to a mirror image, and the teeth, which have a reverse sharpening, are sharpened.

After this, the height between the cutting stop and the upper edge of the cutting tooth is checked. If it is less than the permissible value, then the limiting tooth is ground off from above with a flat file, which restores the depth of the cut.

The method discussed above allows you to make an ideal sharpening that will preserve the chain for a long time. However, this method is labor-intensive. Which chainsaw chain sharpening machine will save time and effort better? That's right - electric. Its advantages include the speed of sharpening. The disadvantages include the formation of an irregularly shaped edge of the cutting tooth, rapid wear of the chain, and the inability to use the machine in field conditions.

Currently reading: Customer reviews about Chainsaw Eurolux GS-5220

You can also sharpen the chain using a small grinder. But you need to take into account that it will not be possible to make the correct cutter profile.

Difference in the shape of the cutting tooth

On modern chains, the profile of the cutters differs in shape. There are 2 main varieties:

1. Chisel. The profile of this tooth is similar to a seven. It is good because it has a small contact area with the material being cut, which means it encounters less resistance. For this reason, it makes a greater depth of cut per cut. The disadvantage of a chisel is that it is difficult to maintain. The shape of this profile is more difficult to maintain when sharpening.
2. Chipper. This is the main type of incisor. The cutting edge of this type is round in shape, so it can be straightened with a simple round file. Chipper is more unpretentious and forgives many mistakes when sharpening.

Which chainsaw chain is best? If you take it for professional work, then the chisel and half-chisel will help you cope with large volumes faster, while the chipper can be sharpened by any beginner on their own.

How to choose the right chain for a chainsaw

The first thing you should focus on when choosing is what the chain is being purchased for and how much work will be done with it.

Rules for choosing:

If we are talking about banal firewood preparation, you should not spend money on a premium option. However, this is not a reason to order the first option you come across from the “what’s cheaper” series. It is also necessary to take into account the length of the tire

A chain can be of any excellent quality, but it will be useless if it does not fit the length of the bar; pay attention to the tooth. Typically it is 1.3 mm;

Video - How to choose a bar and chain for a chainsaw

The brand also matters a lot. Not only the cost, but most of all, the service life of the tool depends on it. Among the premium class, the most popular are Stihl, Husqvarna and Oregon - they owe their excellent quality to high-quality raw materials and the manufacturer’s precision in design development. Of course, such models are the most expensive. The German manufacturer Stihl holds the lead here - it has the widest selection of chains with particularly efficient and easy cutting.

Their models are even suitable for felling large trees; if your budget is limited, you should pay attention to simpler models. But even here it is necessary to monitor the quality - the brands Champion and Reser have proven themselves best

Their chains are riveted at the manufacturer or special equipment, which is often neglected by other representatives of the budget segment; In general, when it comes to tools, preference should be given to well-known companies. You should absolutely not purchase a noname on Chinese sites, even if they are the cheapest. In most cases, such a chain will not last long; it will get stuck even in ordinary wood and will ultimately become unusable. The secret is in the primitive design and careless rivet - experience shows that the Chinese rarely attach due importance to the rivet of the chain. It is best to buy a chain not online, but by making a personal visit to the store; The appearance of the metal also matters. Good quality metal has a pleasant shine and does not wear off when deformed. If there is a gray haze or coating on the instrument, this is a sure sign that the chain will not last long.

The sample is examined from all sides and filed with a file to check for strength (in self-respecting markets, sellers allow this to be done).

Expert opinion: Afanasyev E.V.

Chief editor of the Stroyday.ru project. Engineer.

It’s clear with chains, but do you know how to choose a chainsaw? If not, then I recommend that you read this material.

Popularity rating

Now it’s worth considering the main models of chainsaws that are sold in Russia. This will allow you to choose the best option for performing a particular job.

Oregon

This is a well-known brand that produces some of the most reliable chains. Manufacturer company BlountIncorporation. It specializes in the production of accessories for professional and household chainsaws, so this brand can be trusted. A special patented alloy makes Oregon chains especially strong and durable. Most of the chains are chrome plated, which also extends their service life. A special vibration suppression system reduces the strain on your hands during operation.

Here are the most popular Oregon chains:

Stihl

The German company Stihl offers not only chainsaws, but also chains with tires. They are often supplied as a set. Chains from this manufacturer are strong and quite reliable. There are models for household and professional chainsaws. Production facilities are located in Switzerland, which guarantees product compliance with European Union requirements.

Interestingly, even with intensive use of the chain of this brand, the carved element will not stretch. This effect was achieved due to the fact that saw chains are riveted on heated metal. The patented oil groove system ensures that the lubricant is evenly distributed over the entire surface, allowing the chain to last longer.

Here are the most popular Stihl chains in Russia:

Husqvarna

This company is not a global manufacturer of chainsaw chains, but it supplies several samples to the market. They usually come complete with branded saw models. It’s interesting that they develop chains at the Oregon plant, but under a different brand. Accordingly, the technology used is also different: only other people's production facilities are used. Husqvarna today offers chains for household and semi-professional tools.

Windsor

Another well-known organization that offers heavy-duty alloy chains. It's patented, so no one else uses it. The peculiarity of this alloy is that the chain is not subject to stretching. That is, its service life is quite long. At the same time, the material has excellent heat resistance. This means you can work in any weather. Stamped links and sealed rivets are used to ensure high reliability. You can purchase chains from this manufacturer in specialized stores.

Carlton

This is an American manufacturer that is focused on the production of chains for professional and semi-professional chainsaws. This means that the quality of the alloy is quite high. Shot blasting at the production stage makes it possible to achieve increased metal hardness.

Bison

Chains from a Russian company are quite reliable and affordable. They have increased strength, but are recommended for use on household and semi-professional chainsaws. If you use a chain every day for several hours, it quickly stretches and wears out. Therefore, this manufacturer cannot boast of excellent circuit properties for professional devices.

Sturm

This chainsaw manufacturer also offers its own chains, but they are not of high quality. They should be used for household or semi-professional tools.

Criteria to choose from

When purchasing an electric or gasoline saw for the first time, a person does not yet realize that the chain is a consumable item and will have to be replaced several times.
Mid-level manufacturers install chains that are not of the highest quality. They do not last long: they quickly lose the sharpness of the cutting teeth and stretch out. The chain stretches due to wear on the joints. This leads to the end of the chain tension adjustment and it needs to be changed.

Which chain is best for a chainsaw? Every owner will have to face this question. To make the right choice, there are several criteria:

1. Chain manufacturer. There are recognized leaders in the manufacture of such equipment. Each of them uses proprietary secrets to give the chain unique qualities.
2. Chain length. It depends on the tire on which it is installed. Its size can also vary within the range that the power of the tool allows.
3. Cutting depth. This factor depends on the height of the cutting tooth edge and affects productivity.
4. Step. This parameter is determined by the distance between the chain joints. It directly depends on the size of the drive gear that rotates the chain.
5. The tail of the chain is a link element included in the guide. With its help, the chain does not fly off the bar during rotation. The thickness of the tail depends on the width of the groove, as well as on the loads for which the chain is designed.