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Saw Chain Anatomy & Terminology

Chainsaw Chain Anatomy Video: Understanding the Components

In this video, we will explore the detailed anatomy of a chainsaw chain, examining its various components and how they work together. We'll use clear visuals and explanations to help you understand the inner workings of the chainsaw chain and empower you to make informed decisions about its maintenance, replacement, and optimization.

Parts of a Chain Cutter

Parts of a Chain Cutter

1. Top PlateThe top plate is the uppermost part of the cutter, serving as the primary contact point with the material being cut.


2. Cutting CornerThe cutting corner is the edge or area of the cutter responsible for making the actual cutting action.


3. Slide PlateThe slide plate is a movable part of the cutter that facilitates smooth and controlled cutting motion.


4. GulletThe gullet is the recessed area between the cutting teeth, which helps in chip removal during cutting.


5. Depth GaugeThe depth gauge controls the amount of material removed during each cutting pass, ensuring precision and accuracy.


6. HeelThe heel of the cutter provides stability and support during the cutting process.


7. Rivet HoleThe rivet hole is the location where the rivet secures different parts of the cutter together.


8. Toe: The front part of the cutter that aids in guiding and positioning during use.

Four Basic Components of Saw Chain

Four Basic Components of Saw Chain

1. Cutter: This is the part of the chain that actually cuts through the wood.

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2. Rivet: These are the small metal pieces that hold the chain together.

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3. Drive Link: This component transfers the motion and power from the chainsaw to the cutter.

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4. Tie Strap: This component helps to keep the chain stable and in place during operation.

Saw Chain Identification

To identify saw chain you need to know the following:

Gauge

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

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

Cutter Type

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

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 

saw chain pitch
 

gauge
.043"
gauge
.050"
gauge
.058"
gauge
.063"
1/4" 25 
3/8" 
Low Profile
 90  91
.325"

 20

95

21 22
3/8"  

72

 73  75
.404"

27

59

68

FAQs

What is chain gauge?

Chain Gauge refers to the thickness of the  drive link where it fits into the bar groove. The gauge of the chain and the gauge of the bar must match. Learn more.


What is chain pitch?

Chain pitch is the size of the chain, defined as the distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two.  Learn more.


Why does chisel chain cuts faster?

Rounded cutters have to re-cut the end-grain grain multiple times until the full width of the “kerf” is reached. Chisel cutters are square and cut a full width “kerf” with every pass. “Kerf” is defined as the width of material that is removed by the cutting/sawing process.

 

Related Topics

Setting-Up Your Chainsaw

Setting-Up Your Chainsaw

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Replacing Chainsaw Chain

Replacing Chainsaw Chain

Get insider tips on how to identify the end-of-life for your saw chain and how to replace it.
Sharpening Chainsaw Chain

Sharpening Chainsaw Chain

Make quick work of large jobs with a sharp chain. How do you get a sharp chain? Follow this guide, and with a little practice, you’ll be able to keep your chainsaw chain in top condition.
Tightening Chainsaw Chain

Tightening Chainsaw Chain

Proper chainsaw chain tension is critical for the performance of your chainsaw. Learn how to check and tighten your saw chain to avoid the risk of kickback and chainsaw related injuries.

Part Finder

Find a full selection of the replacement parts you need with the Oregon Part Finder.

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