A sharp, high-quality chainsaw chain is the difference between a frustrating, laborious job and a smooth, efficient cutting experience. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling storm cleanup, a landscaper managing property maintenance, or a professional felling timber, the right chain directly impacts performance, safety, and the longevity of your equipment. Dull or poorly matched chains lead to kickback, uneven cuts, and unnecessary strain on your chainsaw’s engine.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best chainsaw chains available. We’ve curated options for various bar lengths and saw models, from trusted brands like Oregon and STIHL to value-packed multi-packs. You’ll find details on compatibility, key features, and the specific benefits each chain offers to help you make an informed purchase for your next project.
The Best Chainsaw Chains for Your Needs
- Oregon S62T AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chains 2-Pack
- NEO-TEC 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-Pack
- Oregon 3-Pack E72 PowerCut Replacement Chainsaw Chain
- 3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain
- Oregon 3-Pack Chainsaw Chain for 14″ Bar
- 4 Pack 14 Inch Chainsaw Chain 52 Drive Links
- 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links
- Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 18-Inch Bar
- Husqvarna 531300441 20-Inch H80-72 Saw Chain
- STIHL 63PM3-72 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain
Oregon S62T AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chains 2-Pack
This two-pack from Oregon is an excellent value for homeowners and landscapers who need reliable 18-inch replacement chains. Designed as a pro-grade option, these chains are built for consistent performance on a wide range of popular saw models from Craftsman, Ego, Ryobi, and Husqvarna. Having a spare chain on hand means you can quickly swap in a sharp chain and continue working without significant downtime.
The chains feature a semi-chisel design that offers a great balance between cutting speed and durability. They are engineered for low-kickback and low-vibration operation, which helps reduce user fatigue during extended use. This makes them a safe and efficient choice for a variety of cutting tasks, from pruning to firewood processing.
NEO-TEC 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-Pack
For those who frequently use a 16-inch chainsaw, this three-pack from NEO-TEC provides outstanding value and convenience. The set ensures you always have a sharp chain ready to go, which is ideal for landscaping projects or rental equipment. These semi-chisel chains are compatible with a long list of brands, including Greenworks, Husqvarna, and Echo models that use the 3/8″ low-profile pitch.
The low-profile design contributes to a lower kickback risk, making it a suitable option for users who prioritize safety. The chains are manufactured to provide smooth and efficient cutting performance for light to medium-duty work. Buying in a multi-pack like this is a cost-effective way to maintain your equipment over the long term.
Oregon 3-Pack E72 PowerCut Replacement Chainsaw Chain
This three-pack is tailored for larger chainsaws with 20-inch guide bars, typically found on professional or high-powered ranch models from brands like Husqvarna. The Oregon PowerCut chain is a premium option designed for saws between 50-100 cc, delivering robust cutting power for demanding tasks like felling trees and bucking large logs.
A key feature of this chain is Oregon’s LubriTec oiling system, which is integrated into the chain’s design. This system helps retain lubrication oil, ensuring the chain and guide bar are consistently oiled during operation. This reduces friction and heat, leading to extended life for both the chain and your guide bar.
3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain
STIHL is a name synonymous with quality in the outdoor power equipment industry, and this three-pack offers their renowned performance in a convenient bundle. The Picco Micro chain is a low-kickback chain known for its smooth and fast cutting action. It is designed for smaller STIHL saws and other models that use this specific pitch and gauge combination.
The “Oilomatic” designation means the chain is engineered to efficiently transport oil from the saw to the critical cutting and friction points. This ensures optimal lubrication, which protects the chain from premature wear and helps maintain peak cutting performance. For users who demand STIHL’s original equipment quality, this multi-pack is a practical choice.
Oregon 3-Pack Chainsaw Chain for 14″ Bar
Ideal for compact electric and gas-powered chainsaws, this Oregon three-pack covers the popular 14-inch bar length. It’s a perfect match for lightweight models from Earthwise, Echo, Greenworks, and Ryobi, making it a top pick for homeowners with smaller property maintenance needs. The low-kickback design provides an added layer of safety for less experienced users.
These chains are built to deliver smooth, efficient cutting for tasks like pruning, limbing, and cutting small firewood. As with other Oregon products, they are manufactured to precise standards for reliable performance. The three-pack format ensures you have a lasting supply, reducing the frequency of reordering.
4 Pack 14 Inch Chainsaw Chain 52 Drive Links
This four-pack offers exceptional value for users of 14-inch chainsaws. The chains are designed for low-kickback performance and meet ANSI safety standards, providing peace of mind during use. They are compatible with a vast array of brands, including Craftsman, Echo, Poulan, and Worx, offering wide applicability.
The chains are deeply quenched during manufacturing to enhance their hardness and wear resistance. This process helps ensure a longer service life and allows for smooth, fast cutting. The hardened rivets add strength at the connection points, making the chain more durable and able to withstand the stresses of regular use.
5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links
For the frequent user, this five-pack is a bulk solution that maximizes value and minimizes interruptions. Designed for 18-inch bars with a 3/8″ low-profile pitch, these chains are compatible with many popular models from Ryobi, Kobalt, and Craftsman. The set is perfect for those who run a small business or have multiple saws of the same size.
The chains feature a premium industrial hard chrome outer layer on the cutters, which reduces wear and can lead to fewer chain adjustments over time. The low-vibration design helps reduce user fatigue, allowing for more consistent and controlled cutting during long work sessions.
Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 18-Inch Bar
This single Oregon AdvanceCut chain is a reliable and widely available replacement for 18-inch bars. It shares the same quality construction and compatibility as the two-pack version, fitting models from Husqvarna, Echo, Craftsman, and DeWalt. Its precision, heat-treated semi-chisel cutters are designed to cut smoothly and maintain a higher tolerance for dirt and debris than some other chains.
The focus on low-kickback and reduced vibration is a significant benefit, making it a safer and more comfortable option for a wide range of users. This chain is an excellent standalone purchase for someone who needs a single, trustworthy replacement.
Husqvarna 531300441 20-Inch H80-72 Saw Chain
This is a genuine Husqvarna original equipment manufacturer (OEM) chain designed specifically for their larger, more powerful saws like the 455 Rancher and 460 series. Using an OEM chain ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance, as it is engineered to work in harmony with Husqvarna’s guide bars and engines.
The H80 chain is built to handle the rigors of professional use and heavy-duty cutting. If you own a compatible Husqvarna model, using this chain is the best way to maintain the performance and reliability the brand is known for. It’s a professional-grade choice for demanding applications.
STIHL 63PM3-72 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain
STIHL’s Rapid Super chain is a premium, full-chisel chain designed for the highest cutting performance in professional conditions. Full-chisel chains have square-cornered cutters that are exceptionally aggressive and fast-cutting in clean wood. This chain is intended for experienced users who require maximum productivity, such as professional loggers.
It is crucial to note that this chain is designed for use on saws with an anti-kickback safety system and by operators trained in proper chainsaw handling techniques due to its aggressive nature. For those who need the ultimate in cutting speed and are operating compatible STIHL professional saws, the Rapid Super chain is a top-tier option.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Chainsaw Chain
Choosing the right chainsaw chain can feel like a puzzle, but it’s simpler once you know what to look for. I’ve learned from experience that the wrong chain makes every job harder and less safe. The goal is to match the chain to your saw and the work you plan to do most often. Let’s break down the key things to consider before you buy.
First, you absolutely must get the correct fit. This is non-negotiable. You need three specific measurements: pitch, gauge, and drive link count. The pitch is the average distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two. The gauge is the thickness of the drive link that fits into the guide bar’s groove. The drive link count is the total number of those links. You can usually find this information in your chainsaw’s manual or stamped directly on the guide bar. Getting this wrong means the chain simply won’t fit or operate safely.
Next, think about the chain’s cutter type. Full-chisel chains have square-cornered teeth that are incredibly aggressive and fast-cutting. They’re my go-to for clean, softwood logging, but they dull faster in dirty or hardwood conditions and can be more prone to kickback. Semi-chisel chains have rounded corners. They cut a tiny bit slower but stay sharp much longer when cutting through dirty wood, frozen wood, or hardwood. For a general-purpose chain that’s forgiving and durable, semi-chisel is a fantastic choice.
Then there’s the chain sequence, which refers to the pattern of cutters and links. A full-skip chain has a blank space between each cutter. This design allows for deeper gullets to clear out long wood chips, making it ideal for large-diameter timber and powerful, professional-grade saws. A standard chain (or full-complement) has a cutter on every other link. This provides a smoother cut and is what most homeowners will need for typical tasks like cutting firewood or pruning. For the best balance of the 10 best chainsaw chains for cutting, consider a semi-skip chain, which offers a middle ground between cutting speed and smoothness.
Finally, don’t forget about safety features. Many modern chains feature built-in kickback reduction technology. Look for chains labeled as “low-kickback” or those with parts like bumper links that are designed to minimize the dangerous kickback effect. While no chain is kickback-proof, these features add an important layer of protection, especially for less experienced users. Pairing the right chain with a sharp chain and proper technique is the ultimate recipe for efficient and safe work.
FAQ
How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain?
I sharpen my chain as soon as I notice it’s producing fine sawdust instead of coarse chips, or when I have to push harder to make a cut. There’s no set number of hours; it depends entirely on what you’re cutting. Hitting dirt, rocks, or old wood will dull it instantly. For frequent use, you might sharpen it every time you refuel. For occasional use, a visual inspection for shiny, rounded cutter edges is a good indicator it’s time.
What is the difference between a .325 and a 3/8″ chain pitch?
This is a common point of confusion. The .325 and 3/8″ are measurements of the chain’s pitch. The 3/8″ pitch is larger and more common on homeowner and professional saws, offering a robust and aggressive cut. The .325 pitch is smaller and typically found on mid-range and consumer saws. It generally provides a smoother cut with less vibration. You cannot interchange them; you must use the pitch that your guide bar and sprocket are designed for.
Can I use any brand of chain on my chainsaw?
Generally, yes, as long as the pitch, gauge, and drive link count are an exact match for your saw and bar. My Stihl saw runs just fine with Oregon chains, and vice-versa. The important thing is the specifications, not the brand name on the box. However, some manufacturers have proprietary designs, so it’s always best to double-check compatibility. Sticking with reputable brands from the list of the 10 best chainsaw chains for cutting ensures you get a quality product.
Why does my new chain cut crookedly?
A chain that cuts to one side, or creates a curved cut, usually indicates that the cutters on one side are sharper or filed at a different angle than the other. This is often called a “dull side.” When you sharpen the chain, you must file each cutter to the same length and at the same angle (usually 30 or 35 degrees) with consistent pressure. Using a filing guide can help immensely with maintaining that perfect symmetry.
What does “full-chisel” and “semi-chisel” actually mean?
These terms describe the shape of the cutter’s corner. A full-chisel cutter has a sharp, 90-degree corner. Think of it like a chisel—it’s designed for maximum cutting speed in ideal conditions. A semi-chisel cutter has a rounded corner. This design is more durable and resistant to dulling when it encounters minor dirt or grit in the wood. It’s a trade-off between raw speed and long-lasting sharpness.