Chainsaw Chain Information

Chain Parts

• The common chainsaw chain is comprised of a drive link, guard ling, tie strap, preset tie strap, depth gauge, right hand and left hand cutter. The cutter types are chipper, chisel or safety.

Low-kickback Chain

• According to the University of Missouri Extension office, saws purchased for personal consumer use or with engines smaller than 3.8 cubic inches are required to be equipped with a safety chain or low-kickback chain. Saw kickback is a very dangerous and sometimes fatal occurrence.

Replacement Chain

• When shopping for a replacement chain for your chainsaw, look for chains with a blue label. A blue label indicates that the chain meets the low-kickback requirements. Blue label chains fit most saws. Yellow label chains fit only certain saws, do not meet low-kickback requirements, and should only be used by professionals.

Chainsaw Maintenance

• Chainsaw chain maintenance includes sharpening, checking chain tension and lubrication. If a chain is cutting slower, throwing sawdust instead of chips or gives off a burning wood smell, it may need sharpened. Chains should be lubricated with SAE30 or chain oil in the summer, and SAE10 or chain oil in the winter.