Chainsaws come in all different sizes, and choosing the right one can be tough. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about what size chainsaw you need for your specific project.
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Introduction
Choosing the right chainsaw can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure what you need. There are many factors to consider, such as the size and type of wood you’ll be cutting, the amount of time you’ll be using the chainsaw, and your own strength and endurance.
In this guide, we’ll go over some of the things you need to think about before purchasing a chainsaw, so you can be sure you’re getting the right tool for the job.
The Different Sizes of Chainsaws
There are a few different factors to consider when you are trying to determine what size chainsaw you need . The size of the tree you are cutting, the type of wood, and your own personal preference will all play a role in deciding which saw is right for you. Let’s take a look at the different sizes of chainsaws so you can make an informed decision.
Small Chainsaws
Small chainsaws are great for cutting firewood and felling small trees around your home. If you’re looking for a chainsaw that’s easy to carry and maneuver, a small chainsaw is the way to go.
Most small chainsaws have bar lengths between 14 and 16 inches. The bar length is the distance from the tip of the blade to the back of the saw where the engine is located. Bar lengths can be determined by the model number of your saw, or by measuring it with a tape measure.
The length of the bar will determine how big of a log you can cut, and how deep into a log you can cut before having to reposition it. For example, a 14-inch bar can cut through a log that’s 14 inches in diameter, but you won’t be able to cut more than halfway into it before having to turn the log over.
Chain gauges for small chainsaws range from 0.050 to 0.063 inches. The gauge is the thickness of the drive link, which is the metal link at the bottom of the chain that fits into the groove on the bar. A thicker gauge will stay sharp longer, but it will also be more difficult to sharpen when it does get dull.
The pitch is another measurement that corresponds to the size of your saw chain. The pitch is simply the distance between three rivets divided by two. It’s usually stamped on the side of each drive link. For example, if it says “3/8-inch pitch,” that means that there are three eighth-inch rivets between each pair of links.
The most common pitches for small chainsaws are 3/8-inch and 0.325-inch, although some models may use a different pitch such as 0.404-inch or 0.050-inch. 3/8-inch and 0.325-inch saws will use chains with either 56 or 58 drive links; 0.404-inch saws use 60 drive links; and 0.050-inch saws use 72 drive links
Medium Chainsaws
If you’re looking for a chainsaw that’s big enough to tackle most jobs but not so large that it’s cumbersome, a medium-sized chainsaw is probably the right choice for you. Medium chainsaws typically have bar lengths between 16 and 20 inches, making them ideal for cutting through medium-sized logs.
One of the main benefits of choosing a medium chainsaw is that they are incredibly versatile. They can be used for everything from felling small trees to trimming branches and limbs. If you’re not sure what size chainsaw you need, a medium-sized model is always a good place to start.
Large Chainsaws
The largest chainsaws are typically used by professional loggers or tree service companies. If you have a lot of land with a lot of trees, or if you need to cut through thick tree trunks regularly, then a large chainsaw is probably the right choice for you. Some of the most popular large chainsaws on the market include the Stihl MS661C-M, the Husqvarna 3120XP, and the Echo CS-800P.
How to Choose the Right Size Chainsaw for You
Chainsaws come in all different sizes, from small electric saws to massive gas-powered saws. So, how do you know which size chainsaw is right for you? It depends on a few factors. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
Consider the Type of Wood You Will Be Cutting
When it comes to cutting wood, not all chainsaws are created equal. That’s why it’s important to consider the type of wood you will be cutting before you buy a chainsaw. If you’re only going to be cutting softwoods, like pine or fir, then you can get away with a smaller saw. But if you’re planning on cutting hardwoods, like oak or maple, then you’ll need a bigger saw.
The size of the wood you need to cut is also important. If you only need to cut small pieces of wood, then a smaller saw will be fine. But if you need to cut large pieces of wood, then you’ll need a bigger saw.
Finally, consider the type of cuts you will be making. If you only need to make straight cuts, then a smaller saw will be fine. But if you need to make curved or intricate cuts, then you’ll need a bigger saw.
Consider the Size of the Tree
In order to find the right size chainsaw for you, it’s important to consider the size of the tree. If you’re only going to be cutting branches, then a smaller saw will do the job just fine. But if you need to cut through the trunk of a tree, then you’ll need a much larger and more powerful saw.
The size of the tree will also determine how long it will take you to cut through it. If you have a lot of time, then you can take your time with a smaller saw. But if you need to get the job done quickly, then you’ll need a larger and more powerful saw.
Conclusion
Now that you know the 3 main things to consider when selecting a chainsaw, it’s time to make your decision. Use the charts above as a guide, but also trust your personal preferences. If you’re still not sure, ask a professional at your local hardware store for help.
