If you’re not sure which chainsaw chain is right for the job at hand, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. We’re going to talk about one of the most important of them today – how fast the chain cuts. But which chain cuts fastest and which should you choose?
The fastest cutting chainsaw chain is either a full chisel or a chisel skip chain. The full chisel offers the fastest and most aggressive cutting action for chainsaw bars that are 24” or less. For bars that are longer than 24”, choose a chisel skip chain.
But what does that all mean and why is the case? We’re going to break it all down in detail and give you the information you need when choosing the type of chainsaw chain that’s going to offer you the fastest possible cut. Find out more below.
Finding the Chainsaw Chain That Cuts the Fastest?
As we’ve discussed, you’ll want either a full chisel or a chisel skip chain depending on the size of your chainsaw. This is the case because these are the chains that are capable of making quick and aggressive cuts, helping you get through most materials rapidly.
There’s a range of other things that should be taken into account when deciding which chainsaw chain is going to offer what you need though. Some examples of those are as follows:
- The chainsaw bar’s length
- The type and depth of cuts you’re looking to make
- The power of your chainsaw
- The type of material you’re going to be cutting with your chain
- The set pitch of your chainsaw
Full Chisel Chains for Fast Cutting
A full chisel chain is a chain with square cornered teeth, and they’re known for being the fastest cutting blade shape available. A full chisel chain also has a higher number of teeth than other chain options (full chisel is also known as a standard chisel chain). The squared shape of the teeth provides a cut that’s fast and clean on most bars under 24 inches.
If you’re looking to cut wood, particularly softwood, quickly and easily, it’s generally considered that the full chisel chain is the one that you should be working with. The high quantity of teeth on the chain ensures the cut remains smooth and clean through, creating a finish you’re sure to be happy with.
How Does the Speed of a Chisel Skip Chain Differ?
We mentioned that depending on the size of the chainsaw bar’s length, you might need to use a chisel skip chain rather than a full chisel chain. So how are the two different? They have significantly less teeth than a full chisel chain. And that’s why they’re suited to chainsaws with longer bars.
They’re used for taking on bigger tasks, such as tree felling. That extra space in between the teeth makes it possible for the chain to carry the wood chips that are created before releasing them. This prevents to wood chips from getting stuck inside the wood you are cutting. It stops them from getting in the way, slowing down the cut by generating a whole lot of saw dust and not wood chips. So, for big wide cuts, it is a good idea to use a skip or semi chain with chisel teeth.
You wouldn’t use a skip chain on a small log, as there just are not enough teeth in the small wood at the any one time. This would result in a very rough cut and a chainsaw that is hard to handle.
Is a Faster Chain Also More Aggressive?
When we talk about a chain cutting a piece of wood quickly and offering a fast performance, we’re also talking about the chainsaw’s aggression. For a chainsaw to perform aggressively, it necessarily needs to also cut quickly. That’s why these terms are often used interchangeably by some.
As we’ve discussed, full chisel chains are the fastest cutting chains in most applications, and they’re best used in bars under 24” in length. There are therefore the most aggressive solution, so whether you’re looking for an aggressive chain or a fast-cutting chain, the answer will be the same. Chisel chains are capable of long, deep cuts thanks to their speed and aggression. But they are not for everyone. A chisel chain is more dangerous than other chain types such as a semi chisel chain, so if you have not had the appropriate training, a chisel chain may not be for you.
How Does Your Chainsaw Chain Pitch Affect Speed?
Another thing you might be wondering about is the pitch of the chainsaw. How important is this when it comes to the speed and performance of your chainsaw chain? Of course, if you already have a chainsaw and you’re simply looking for a new chain, this won’t be relevant because you’ll just use what you already have.
But if you’re considering new options and you want to know which chainsaw pitch is going to help you achieve the fastest cuts, you’ll probably want to look at a .404 chain pitch. It’s a large, fast and aggressive pitch, offering what you’re more than likely looking for here. Most importantly, only use chains that suit the pitch of your chainsaw.
Is it Safe to Use a Fast Chainsaw Chain?
Safety is always an important factor to consider when choosing chains and handling chainsaws, as I’m sure you already know. It’s also true that aggressive and very fast chainsaw chains are often not recommended to people who have had any or much experience using a chainsaw. Although they are still safe, there are more risks associated with them.
The biggest risk of all that comes with using a very fast cutting chainsaw chain like a chisel chain is kickback. Kickback happens when the chainsaw isn’t handled properly and it can be very dangerous. That’s why training and experience is recommended before using a chain.
Finding the Right Chainsaw and Chain
Choosing the right chain from the right can be tough due to the wealth of options out there. Be sure to take a look at the range of products currently offered by Husqvarna if you’re looking for a good place to start. Their chainsaws are easy to use, safe and reliable.
There are lots of things to think about and weigh up when choosing a new chain for your chainsaw. Be sure to take into account the information and help outlined above as you make your decision. We actually have a detailed guide calledDifferent Types of Chainsaw Chainsand it is a great read if you haven’t already seen it! There are plenty of options out that’ll help you achieve the results you’re looking for if you follow the guidance above.
We also have chainsaw chains for sale and deliver Australia wide, so give us a call on 0262428996
