Chainsaw chains can make or break your wood-cutting experience. A dull chain turns a powerful saw into a frustrating paperweight. I’ve spent countless hours wrestling with subpar chains, and trust me, it’s not fun. That’s why finding the right chainsaw chain is crucial for efficiency and safety. Choosing the best one for your saw and needs will save you time and effort.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Oregon S52 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain: Best overall for general use.
- Husqvarna 18-Inch H30-72: Top choice for Husqvarna saws, known for durability.
- Stihl 26 RM3 Pro Chainsaw Chain: Premium chain for professional use and hardwood cutting.
- Oregon R56 VersaCut Chainsaw Chain: Versatile option, performs well in various conditions.
- Carlton N1C-52E: Budget-friendly chain with decent cutting performance.
Top 5 What Is The Best Chainsaw Chain Reviews
1. Oregon S52 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain
The Oregon S52 AdvanceCut is a popular choice for homeowners and occasional users. It’s designed for small to mid-sized chainsaws and offers a good balance of performance and value. The chain’s narrow kerf design requires less power from the saw, making it more efficient for lighter tasks.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to sharpen
- ✅ Reduced kickback design for safety
- ✅ Good value for the price
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for very large or hardwood trees
- ❌ May not last as long as more expensive chains with heavy use
- ❌ Requires more frequent sharpening than premium chains
Verdict: A solid all-around choice for homeowners who need a reliable chain for occasional yard work and small tree cutting.
2. Husqvarna 18-Inch H30-72
Specifically designed for Husqvarna chainsaws, the H30-72 chain is known for its durability and smooth cutting. It features a chamfer chisel design that helps it maintain its sharpness for longer periods. This chain is a great upgrade if you’re looking for enhanced performance from your Husqvarna saw.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent durability and long-lasting sharpness
- ✅ Designed specifically for Husqvarna saws
- ✅ Smooth cutting performance
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than some other options
- ❌ May not be the best choice for non-Husqvarna saws
- ❌ Sharpening requires a bit more precision
Verdict: If you own a Husqvarna chainsaw, the H30-72 is a worthwhile investment for improved cutting and longevity.
3. Stihl 26 RM3 Pro Chainsaw Chain
The Stihl 26 RM3 Pro is a premium chainsaw chain designed for professional users and those who demand the best performance. Its full chisel cutters provide aggressive cutting action, making it ideal for felling large trees and cutting through hardwoods. This chain is built to withstand heavy use and maintain its sharpness.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional cutting speed and efficiency
- ✅ Durable construction for demanding tasks
- ✅ Stays sharp for a long time
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point
- ❌ Requires more skill to sharpen properly
- ❌ More aggressive cutting can be less forgiving for beginners
Verdict: A top-of-the-line chain for professionals or serious homeowners who need maximum cutting power and durability.
4. Oregon R56 VersaCut Chainsaw Chain
The Oregon R56 VersaCut is designed to be a versatile chain that performs well in various cutting conditions. It features a semi-chisel cutter design that provides a good balance of cutting speed and durability. This chain is a solid choice if you encounter different types of wood and cutting tasks.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile performance in different wood types
- ✅ Good balance of cutting speed and durability
- ✅ Easy to maintain
Cons:
- ❌ Not as aggressive as a full chisel chain
- ❌ May not be the best choice for extremely hard wood
- ❌ Can be a little more prone to kickback than some other designs
Verdict: A reliable and versatile chain for users who need a good all-around performer for various cutting tasks.
5. Carlton N1C-52E
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly chainsaw chain, the Carlton N1C-52E is worth considering. It offers decent cutting performance at a lower price point. While it may not be as durable or long-lasting as premium chains, it’s a good option for occasional users who don’t want to spend a lot of money.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price
- ✅ Decent cutting performance for light tasks
- ✅ Readily available
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as more expensive chains
- ❌ May require more frequent sharpening
- ❌ Not ideal for heavy-duty cutting
Verdict: A good budget option for occasional users who need a chainsaw chain for light yard work and small projects.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right chainsaw chain involves more than just picking the cheapest option. Several factors influence performance, safety, and longevity. Here’s what to consider:
- Chain Pitch: This refers to the size of the chain, specifically the distance between the rivets. It needs to match your chainsaw’s sprocket. Common pitches are 3/8″ and .325″. Check your saw’s manual to find the correct pitch.
- Chain Gauge: The gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar groove. Again, this needs to match your chainsaw. Common gauges are .050″ and .058″.
- Number of Drive Links: This is the number of links that fit into the guide bar. You’ll need to know this to ensure the chain fits your specific bar length. Count the links on your old chain or consult your saw’s manual.
- Cutter Type: There are primarily two types: full chisel and semi-chisel. Full chisel cutters are more aggressive and faster but dull more quickly. Semi-chisel cutters are more durable and better for dirty or abrasive wood.
- Safety Features: Look for chains with features like reduced kickback links. These are designed to minimize the chance of the saw kicking back towards you, which can be dangerous.
- Intended Use: Consider what you’ll be cutting. For small branches and light yard work, a less expensive chain might suffice. For larger trees and hardwoods, invest in a higher-quality, more durable chain.
- Saw Compatibility: Some chains are designed specifically for certain brands or models of chainsaws. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure compatibility.
Think about the type of wood you’ll be cutting most often. Softwoods like pine are easier on chains than hardwoods like oak or maple. If you frequently cut dirty or abrasive wood, a more durable chain with semi-chisel cutters is a better choice.
FAQs
Q: How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain?
A: It depends on how often you use your saw and the type of wood you’re cutting. Sharpen the chain when you notice it’s taking more effort to cut, producing sawdust instead of chips, or pulling to one side.
Q: Can I use any chainsaw chain on my chainsaw?
A: No, you need to use a chain that matches the pitch, gauge, and number of drive links specified for your chainsaw model. Consult your saw’s manual or a knowledgeable dealer.
Q: What’s the difference between a full chisel and a semi-chisel chain?
A: Full chisel chains have square corners on the cutters, making them faster and more aggressive. Semi-chisel chains have rounded corners, making them more durable and better suited for dirty or abrasive wood.
Q: How do I know what size chainsaw chain to buy?
A: The size of the chainsaw chain is determined by three factors: pitch, gauge, and the number of drive links. This information can be found in your chainsaw’s user manual or on the packaging of your current chain.
Q: Is it worth it to buy an expensive chainsaw chain?
A: If you use your chainsaw frequently or for demanding tasks, a more expensive, higher-quality chain is often worth the investment. It will last longer, cut more efficiently, and require less frequent sharpening. However, for occasional light use, a less expensive chain may be sufficient.
Conclusion
Choosing the best chainsaw chain depends on your specific needs and the type of work you’ll be doing. Consider factors like chain pitch, gauge, cutter type, and intended use to make the right choice. For general use, the Oregon S52 AdvanceCut is a solid all-around option. Husqvarna users will appreciate the H30-72, while professionals may prefer the Stihl 26 RM3 Pro. And don’t forget to keep your chain sharp for optimal performance and safety!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
