Chainsaw Chain Types
Full Chisel Chains
PROS
- Best for big jobs
- Experienced cutters
CONS
- Does not cut soft or dirty wood well
- High chance of kickback
Semi-Chisel Chains
PROS
- Firmer grip on wood
- Cuts through soft or dirty wood
- Less chance of kickback
CONS
- Slower cut than a full chisel chain
Low Profile Semi-Chisel Chains
PROS
- Safest, least chance of kickback
- Safety elements in-between teeth of chain
- Can withstand rough weather
CONS
- Requires sharpening more often
Chainsaw Chain Terminology
Chain Length
Chain Length: The actual length of the chainsaw chain.
Drive Links
Drive Links: The drive links are the actual number of links on the chainsaw chain. You can actually count the links to get the exact number of links on your chain.
Gauge
Gauge: The gauge of a chain refers to the thickness of its drive links. The drive link is on the underside of the chain. It's job is to secure the chain into the bar. Without it, your chain could fly off the saw.
Pitch
Pitch: The pitch of a chain refers to the distance between its drive links. The pitch can be measured by taking the distance between any three of the teeth and dividing that number by two.