Buying Guide for the Best Chainsaw Bars
Choosing the right chainsaw bar is crucial for ensuring efficient and safe cutting. The chainsaw bar is the long, flat piece of metal that guides the chain during cutting. The right bar can make a significant difference in the performance of your chainsaw, depending on the type of work you plan to do. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a chainsaw bar, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.Bar LengthBar length refers to the length of the chainsaw bar, measured from the tip to where it enters the chainsaw body. This spec is important because it determines the size of the wood you can cut. Bar lengths typically range from 10 inches to over 24 inches. Shorter bars (10-14 inches) are ideal for light pruning and small tree cutting, medium bars (16-20 inches) are suitable for general property maintenance and cutting medium-sized trees, while longer bars (22 inches and above) are used for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees. Choose a bar length based on the size of the wood you will be cutting most frequently.
Bar TypeThere are different types of chainsaw bars, including solid bars, laminated bars, and sprocket-nose bars. Solid bars are durable and suitable for heavy-duty cutting, laminated bars are lighter and reduce user fatigue, and sprocket-nose bars have a sprocket at the tip to reduce friction and improve cutting efficiency. The type of bar you choose should match the intensity and frequency of your cutting tasks. For occasional light use, a laminated bar may be sufficient, while for frequent heavy-duty use, a solid or sprocket-nose bar would be more appropriate.
GaugeGauge refers to the thickness of the drive links on the chain that fit into the bar's groove. This spec is important because it ensures the chain fits properly and operates smoothly. Common gauge sizes include .043, .050, .058, and .063 inches. A thicker gauge (.058 or .063) is more durable and suitable for heavy-duty cutting, while a thinner gauge (.043 or .050) is lighter and better for lighter tasks. Choose a gauge that matches the type of cutting you will be doing and ensure it is compatible with your chainsaw.
PitchPitch is the distance between the drive links on the chain and is measured in inches. This spec is important because it affects the smoothness and speed of the cut. Common pitch sizes include 1/4 inch, .325 inch, 3/8 inch, and .404 inch. A smaller pitch (1/4 inch or .325 inch) is suitable for lighter, more precise cutting, while a larger pitch (3/8 inch or .404 inch) is better for heavy-duty cutting and faster cutting speeds. Choose a pitch that matches the type of cutting you will be doing and ensure it is compatible with your chainsaw and chain.
MaterialChainsaw bars are typically made from different materials, including steel and alloy. This spec is important because it affects the durability and weight of the bar. Steel bars are strong and durable, making them suitable for heavy-duty cutting, while alloy bars are lighter and reduce user fatigue, making them better for lighter tasks. Choose a material that matches the intensity and frequency of your cutting tasks.