What Chain Does My Chainsaw Need? A Guide to Choosing the Correct Chainsaw Chain

Even the highest quality chainsaw will need to have the chain replaced eventually. Your chainsaw will only function properly if fitted with the proper chain. So how do you decide which chain fits your chainsaw? 

In order to choose the correct chain for your specific chainsaw, you will need to know the following four sets of numbers:

1. Bar length
2. Pitch
3. Gauge
4. Drive Lengths (quantity)

These numbers can usually be found printed at the base of the chainsaw's bar. For the saw pictured to the left, the bar length would be 24”/60cm; the pitch would be 3/8”; the gauge would be .050”; and it has a total of 84 drive links (DL).

Some older chainsaws may not have these numbers printed on their bar or perhaps the numbers have worn out over time. In these cases, you can find your bar length, pitch, gauge, and number of drive lengths by using the guidelines below. You can also take your chainsaw to your local dealer.

Bar Length

You can find this number by measuring the length of the bar from the front of the chainsaw base to the farthest point on the cutting side of the bar. The “bar length” is always rounded to the nearest inch. 

Note: The bar length should be calculated from the main body of the chainsaw to the tip of the bar, not from the base of the bar itself which sits inside your chainsaw frame.

Pitch

Pitch is the distance between your chainsaw’s drive links. Drive links are the small metal pieces sticking inwards on your blade that fit into your bar. Simply take a ruler and measure the distance from the center of one rivet to the center of the second rivet adjacent to it and divide by two. This simple calculation will give you your pitch.

Number of Drive Links

To ensure you've chosen the right chainsaw chain, count the number of drive links on the chain. The easiest way to count them is to set up your chain so that the drive lengths are aligned. You can then count them easily, two at a time, down the length of the chain.

Gauge

This number refers to the width of the groove in your chainsaw bar holding the drive links. One way to find this number is to measure your drive links with a tool called a caliper. If you don't have a caliper handy, start by cleaning one of the grooves using a knife or screwdriver. Then, try inserting a dime, a penny, and a quarter into the groove. The coin that fits snugly without forcing it will tell you the gauge.


Dime=.050"
Penny= .058"
Quarter= .063"


Buying your New Chainsaw Chain

Once you your bar length, pitch, gauge, and drive number you are ready to buy your new chain. Most chains will have the numbers clearly labeled somewhere on the packaging (see below). Chains come in various models and tooth options but if the numbers on the chain match the numbers you worked out for your chainsaw, you now have the right chainsaw chain and you're ready to get to work.

To purchase a new chainsaw chain, chainsaw accessories, or a new chainsaw, please visit DuranteRentals.com or call 1-800-DURANTE today!