Finding the Right Saw Chain

Identifying and Replacing Chainsaw Chain

In many cases, Oregon offers multiple saw chain options for chainsaws. Here is information to help you determine the right saw chain fit-up for your chainsaw and the different chain types to meet the needs of different chainsaw users. Learn how to identify and replace chain by finding the chain pitch, chain gauge, and how to measure chainsaw chain.

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What is the Saw Chain Product Family?

Oregon understands that the need of woodcutters – professionals and novices – are as diverse as the terrains and environments in which they work.

We have organized our saw chains and guide bars into product families with key characteristics that different users will value. These product families will ensure that you choose the right chain and bar based on your everyday needs. It will make understanding the differences between our products effortless.

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Saw Chain Identification

To identify saw chain you need to know the following:

Gauge

The chain gauge refers to the thickness of the drive link where it fits into the guide bar groove, and it should match the gauge of the guide bar. Oregon® products offer saw chain gauges of .043", .050", .058", and .063". It may be challenging to accurately measure the chain gauge on a worn chain due to normal wear.

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To ensure the correct gauge, always order based on the number stamped on the drive link of your old chain. For more information, please refer to the table below.

Pitch

Chain pitch refers to the size of the chain and is determined by the distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two. Oregon® chain is available in several pitches - 1/4" is the smallest, 3/8" is the most popular, and 3/4” is the largest.

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Pitch is important because the drive sprocket must be the same pitch as the chain, as well as the bar nose sprocket if applicable. To find the pitch of your chain, simply look at the number stamped on the drive link. Please refer to the table below for more information.

Cutter Type

Chain Cutter Types:
1. Chipper
2. Semi-Chisel
3. Chamfer-Chisel
4. Micro-Chisel
5. Chisel

Sequence

When it comes to saw chain sequences, there are three main types to consider: standard, semi-skip, and skip. Each type has its own unique application and benefits. The standard sequence is ideal for general-purpose cutting, while the semi-skip and skip sequences are more suitable for applications where chip clearance is a priority, such as cutting larger diameter wood.

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Understanding the differences between these sequences can help in selecting the right saw chain for the specific cutting requirements.

Saw Chain Family Specification Chart — Servicing Dealer

Not all saw chain and guide bar mentioned on the packaging or in search results will fit every version of the equipment listed. To ensure you are getting the correct part, please feel free to call our Customer Service team at 1-800-223-5168.

Saw Chain Pitch	Saw Chain By Gauge
	.043"	.050"	.058"	.063"
1/4"		25
3/8" Low Profile™	90	91
.325"		20 95	21	22
3/8"		72	73	75
.404"				27 59 68

Reduce Chainsaw-Related Injuries by Using Low Kickback Chain

Most of today’s chainsaws incorporate features that reduce kickback and other sources of chainsaw-related injuries. These built-in features include chain brakes, the front (left) hand guard, the bar tip guard, and low or reduced kickback chain and guide bars. In order to guarantee the effectiveness of these safety features, you need to make sure that your chainsaw is properly assembled and that all of the components are securely attached and functional. Unless you have experience or training for responding to chainsaw kickback, you should use low kickback chain. In North America, low kickback chain is packaged with a green label from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

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