- .325-Inch Pitch
- 1.1 pounds
- low vibration chain
- Pitch: .325″
- 3.38 Pounds
- long-lasting durability
- 3/8-Inch Pitch
- 2.47 Pounds
- High-performance
- 0.5 x 4.25 x 16.47 inches
- 1 pounds
- Slim contour
- 12.5 x 2.75 x 0.1 inches
- 12 ounces
- Lightweight, maneuverable
Choose the Best Chainsaw Bar
Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Chainsaw Bars
14 users answered this survey. Please help us improve this review!
For example, some models also feature durable anti-vibration systems that allow them to last longer between repairs while being more comfortable to operate than older tools that might not have these advanced features yet still do an excellent job when it comes to cutting down trees and other lumber products.
Chainsaws are an essential tool for many homeowners. Whether you’re cutting down a tree, taking care of some weedy growth, or just want to have the perfect outdoor space, there is nothing like a chainsaw to get the job done.
Chainsaws come in all shapes and sizes, but what is the best chainsaw bar? In this guide, experts will discuss 5 different types of chainsaw bars with product reviews and tips on how to use each one effectively.
Table of Contents
Husqvarna 531300438 18-Inch Pixel Chain Saw Bar – the Editor’s choice!
Ideal for professionals who need powerful tasks done quickly, with less effort required on their part, these chainsaw bars are efficient machines that deliver power and precision when cutting through wood effortlessly.
Those looking for rugged machinery can count on this chain saw bar from Husqvarna to keep going as long as they do! Their durable materials withstand tough working environments like no other, so get it today (and be prepared with an additional backup). With one of the most affordable price tags, investing in one of these has never been easier!
Pros
- Compatible with most Husqvarna chainsaws;
- Good for professional uses;
- Low vibration;
- High performance;
Cons
- More drive tooth size than claimed;
- Expensive;
The Husqvarna 531300438 18-Inch Pixel Chain Saw Bar is made of long-lasting metal and fireproof plastic components. It’s ideal for professional users who are in demanding conditions every day. Its high-performance, low vibration chain can cut through any kind of hardwood with ease – cutting time in half!
Oregon 105671 20-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar – the best for less friction!
Once again, this product undergoes rigorous quality control standards to ensure satisfaction – with a little extra smooth work done just for you. This product can be perfect for the Stihl chainsaw owner.
Pros
- Lubritec system for less friction;
- Compatible with most Stihl chainsaws;
- Narrow kerf;
- Smooth operation;
- Durable steel;
Cons
- The center part is too narrow;
- Doesn’t fit the Stihl SMS 290 and MS310 chainsaws;
Oregon’s special steel makes for an effective cut-through experience that won’t frustrate the user. With a wide range of compatibility with many brands experts like to think this replacement chainsaw bar is worth grabbing in case you need one that day!
Husqvarna 531300440 20-Inch Chainsaw Bar – the best for professional use!
At only 2 pounds, you’ll be able to set up camp or safely transport it wherever the task at hand may be – without hurting yourself or lugging around an extra 20 pounds! You’re protected from dirt and other debris by two different shields that help keep your hands clean.
Pros
- Good for professional uses;
- Low vibration;
- OEM certification and quality;
- High performance;
Cons
- Doesn’t fit M77;
- Heavy;
Made especially for professionals using chainsaws regularly, this Husqvarna product is an OEM quality item to be trusted with your valuable equipment.
Makita E-00072 14-Inch Guide Bar – the best for maneuverability!
The narrow kerf on this classic tool reduces the thickness of side blades which means that in no time you’ll be ripping through cutting wood like a new chainsaw without any kickback whatsoever thanks to its sprocket nose. To top it all off, it’s simple to install and replace with just two bolts towards the front or rear end so anyone who has the right tools at home can enjoy precision.
Pros
- Laminated body;
- Maneuverable;
- Slim contour;
- Smooth operation;
- Good for low profile chains;
- Easy to install;
Cons
- Expensive;
- Won’t do for some Stihl chainsaws;
Cut through wood faster with the Makita E-00072 14 Inch Guide Bar. With a narrow kerf and slim contour, this guide bar will slice through your material like butter. Simply install it and watch as your Makita circular saw performs better than ever before!
Sun Joe SWJ-10BAR Replacement Bar – the best for pole chainsaws!
Get near-professional results with this Sun Joe SWJ-10BAR Replacement Bar. Not only is it lightweight, but it’s also reversible for extended life and operates at lower speeds for heightened safety. The small radius nose produces minimal kickback to keep you in control of your saw more smoothly than ever before!
Pros
- Designed for pole chainsaws;
- Lightweight and portable;
- Safe;
- Durable;
- Extended service;
Cons
- Only for pole chainsaws;
- Only for small chainsaws;
Prevent your Sun Joe bar from breaking with this replacement bar that’s lightweight and maneuverable. You get more life out of your chainsaw thanks to the small radius nose, slim symmetrical contour, and engineered safety features.
The Buyer’s Guide
Main Features:
Length
A chainsaw bar is the part of a chainsaw that connects to the end of your saw’s chain. Chainsaws come in different sizes and each size has its own length, ranging from 16 to 36 inches or even more.
The most common lengths are:
- 18-20 inches for consumer use;
- 24-inch bars which look good on larger professional models;
- large 36-inch bars used for commercial work such as clearing land with electric power lines running through it;
If you’re looking at buying a new chainsaw then head over here first.
They typically range between 12-20 inches, but there are longer ones out there if needed (like 28 inches). A general rule of thumb: every foot traveled forward, lift the tip of the bar off the ground by one inch.
The length of a chainsaw will vary depending on what you need it for and how tall you are. If in doubt, go with an 18 or 20 inches. It’s always good to have options though.
Weight
A chainsaw bar is the part of a chainsaw that holds the chain and attaches to the motor sprocket. A good way to ensure you are getting top-quality, durable parts for your saws is by purchasing brand bars like Oregon, Stihl, or DeWalt. They make more lightweight bars than some other brands but they are also extremely strong and will last longer with proper maintenance.
The weight of a chainsaw bar affects the power, speed, and control. The average lightweight chainsaw bars weigh about 5 pounds while heavier ones can be weighed at seven or eight pounds on average.
A lightweight saw is easy to use but it’s not that efficient when cutting through thicker pieces like hardwood logs as opposed to soft wood saplings with thin trunks.
Heavier bars are better in making these kinds of cuts because they don’t bounce off coarse wood surfaces easily due to their weight and inertia level which keeps the tip firmly planted on the ground even if there are strong upward jerks applied by an operator during cuttings (which is common especially for beginners).
Material
- Steel. More durable and more long-lasting than aluminum, but also heavier. Can rust over time if not properly maintained. Typically, only found in professional chainsaws;
- Carbide-tipped steel bars are even stronger than regular carbon steel bars because of their added hardness as well as the carbide tips that run along both sides of each tooth for greater wear resistance and longevity since they won’t get dulled by friction against wood fibers nearly as quickly. Carbide-tipped bars are found in both professional and consumer saws;
- Aluminum alloy. Lightweight with great strength to weight ratio, but can warp or become bent under heavy use or from dropping the saw when it is hot (like after cutting through a big tree). Does not corrode as steel does;
- Titanium alloy. Even lighter than aluminum and stronger than steel. Titanium will bend easier under heavy use or from dropping the chainsaw when hot as other alloys can do, which could require the replacement of teeth if bent too badly (but titanium retains its good sharpness longer). Does not corrode as steel does;
Steel bars tend to be cheaper, though they will wear out faster. Aluminum bars are more lightweight than their steel counterparts, which means more speed for less effort on your part. However, aluminum tends to bend under pressure and should not be used in very large trees or other difficult conditions.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to look at. Chain saw bars get a lot of wear and tear since they are attached directly to the motor and exposed to all types of weather conditions.
The best chainsaw bars should be made from forged steel because it’s stronger than other metals like aluminum or magnesium. This means you will have fewer issues with your bar bending when in use which can result in damage to your chain as well as the sprocket, clutch, engine bearings, crankshaft, etc.
In addition, look for T-shaped tips that curve slightly inward instead of flat ones because this helps to prevent breakage if the tip meets hard objects such as rocks while cutting through wood materials on ground level (tree stumps, logs, etc.).
Intended Purpose
The primary purpose of a chainsaw bar is to guide the user’s chain through wood that needs to be cut. The length and width also play an important role in cutting down on wasted motion, so it’s desirable for them to be long enough but not too heavy or large. They have different names depending upon their shape (such as full-round bars), which can make choosing more difficult when shopping around.
When looking at your options you should consider how much weight you want the bar itself adding onto your saw, because they typically go from being lighter than one pound all the way up to over 2 pounds of weight added with just a few ounces difference between each product type.
Brand
Before purchasing a chainsaw bar, it is important to know the brand of your chainsaw. This can be checked on either the inside or outside of the box that holds your machine’s instruction manual and product registration card. If you do not have this information available, most manufacturers list their products online with model numbers for easy identification and compatibility checks.
The following chainsaw bars are compatible with the most popular brands on today’s market:
- Oregon;
- Husqvarna;
- Stihl;
- Jonsered;
- Makita;
- Sun Joe;
Coating
Chainsaw chains are usually covered with a protective layer to prevent rust, damage and reduce friction. Some bars are also coated with a special coating for extra protection against rusting and other damage. This makes them last longer even when used in heavy-duty applications like construction projects and can help prevent accidents because they won’t break as easily if dropped onto concrete, rocks, gravel surfaces, etc.
Anti-vibration
An anti-vibration system is a common feature on many chainsaws today. An anti-vibration feature will make your work easier by reducing strain on hands that decreases chances of injury such as carpal tunnel syndrome developing over time that could lead to long-term disability requiring surgery resulting in loss of income.
This system reduces the vibration of the chainsaw, which is a common complaint. A good anti-vibration system features rubber bumpers that cradle the engine to reduce impact and dampen vibrations when it’s running.
Clutches on bar
Another thing you should look for in your next chainsaw is an easy-to-use clutch handle. The chain brake can cause problems if you’re not familiar with them, so make sure whoever uses it understands how they work before engaging in any heavy cutting tasks. You don’t want someone trying out their new saw only to have it shut off mid-cut because they didn’t know about or understand how the clutch works!
Types of Chainsaw Bars:
- Half-moon bars. The most common type of bar to find on a chainsaw, this kind is popular because it’s easy to attach and remove. However, they are also known for being unstable when cutting;
- Full support bars. These can be helpful in preventing the machine from jumping around or vibrating too much. However, you won’t have as much control over your cut with these bars compared to other options since they are bulky and heavy. It could take longer when transporting them between job sites as well if not placed properly into its case (if one comes included). Not all full support bars come with boots either which prevent wood chips from getting caught up inside the motor area while still allowing airflow through ventilation holes;
- Edge guide bars. You can expect much more stability and cutting accuracy with this type of bar. The teeth are designed to follow the natural shape of a log that is why it’s best for working on non-cutting projects like bucking (splitting logs into smaller pieces). The downside is that they don’t work as well when trying to cut along straight lines or at angles, but you’ll still have better results than using a half-moon bar;
- Anti-vibration bars. If you’re working in a loud environment, then these bars will help reduce the noise by absorbing some of it. They are also helpful for protecting your hands and arms from vibrations while operating since they have vibration-reducing pads attached to them. Some even come with boots that prevent debris such as wood chips or leaves from being stuck inside;
- Pivoting bars. These types of bars can be adjusted into multiple different positions which makes cutting certain angles much easier than using other options. For example, if there is more room on one side of the tree trunk but not another – you could adjust this bar so that it pivots towards whichever direction has less space allowing for better results without having to reposition the chainsaw;
- Solid bars with replacement tips. A solid bar has no moving parts. It is made of the same material as your chainsaw’s blade and frame. Solid bars are very durable, but if you need to replace them, the cost can be quite high – especially for professional-quality models that last longer than basic ones. If you do not mind replacing the bar every few years then consider a more affordable model with regular replacement tips instead of full-length replacements;
- Solid bars without replacement tips. Solid bars are the most common type of chainsaw bar. They offer a sturdy cutting performance without any major replacements or maintenance needed throughout their lifetime. These saws usually come in large sizes and can be used for pruning, limbing, and felling trees up to 35 inches thick. Most models have replaceable tips that need replacement after every 20 hours of use as they become dulled from processing wood;
- Laminated bars with nose wheels. Laminated bars are typically larger than their steel counterparts and have a variety of special features. One such feature is the nose wheel, which reduces kickback by keeping the bar near to your chainsaw’s drive sprocket at all times. A large part of this design is that they tend not to kink as well – good for those who need longer bars or don’t want to deal with kinks in laminates;
Some manufacturers offer laminated bars with quick-release mechanisms that reduce swapping time between different lengths; you can even get an extension kit if it still isn’t long enough!
Chainsaw Bar Care
Chainsaw bars are constantly exposed to a lot of wear and tear from getting bumped around, hitting rocks, or other obstacles. The best way to keep your chainsaw bar in good shape is with regular cleaning and maintenance.
It’s important to keep your chainsaw bar free of any material that could cause friction. Use a wire brush for caked-on dirt and sap, while wiping down the surface with oil between uses can help prevent rusting. You should also make sure you have enough lubricant in order to provide smoother performance during use and reduce wear from heat buildup that results from high speeds.
A little bit of maintenance goes a long way when it comes to keeping your saw chain running smoothly!
Here is what you should remember about the chainsaw bar maintenance:
- Chainsaws come equipped with an automatic grease system but this only lasts about 50 hours so be careful not to wait too long or else you’ll need some additional tools like the Oregon Bar Lube Kit;
- Oil is another thing people often forget about. You always want to be sure you have enough oil for your saw and that it is still good. If the oil appears dirty or cloudy, replace with a new container of fresh high-quality bar and chain lube;
- Investing in some additional safety equipment like protective eyewear can go a long way as well! We all know how dangerous chainsaw injuries can be so don’t take any chances by not wearing proper protection while operating one;
- Chainsaws are powerful tools that must always be respected but they’re also very fun to use if used properly. In addition to practicing safe operation techniques when using them, regular maintenance will keep both your machine and yourself protected from harm’s way;
Factors to Consider When Buying Chainsaw Bars: A Comparative Analysis
When buying a chainsaw bar, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best possible product for your needs. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a table comparing different indicators of chainsaw bars.
Indicator | Description |
---|---|
Bar Length | The distance between the chainsaw’s powerhead and the tip of the bar. |
Gauge | The thickness of the bar’s groove, which determines the size of the chainsaw chain that can be used. |
Material | The type of metal used to make the bar, which affects its durability and weight. |
Mount Type | The mechanism used to attach the chainsaw bar to the powerhead. |
Sprocket Type | The type of sprocket used to drive the chainsaw chain. |
Nose Type | The shape of the bar’s nose, which affects its maneuverability and precision. |
Compatibility | The chainsaw model(s) that the bar is compatible with. |
Price | The cost of the chainsaw bar. |
This table provides a comparative analysis of different indicators of chainsaw bars that should be considered when making a purchase. By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the chainsaw bar that best meets your needs.
FAQ
Do chainsaw bars make a difference?
Chainsaw bars are one of the most critical components in a chainsaw. This is because they transfer power from your motor to the chain, which does all of the cutting work for you. While there isn’t too much difference between models when it comes to their overall weight and design, some do have better features that make them more appealing than others (for example, longer bar lengths).
There are a number of different types and designs available on today’s market for you to choose from. However, it’s important that you don’t just pick any random model because this could lead to subpar performance when cutting through wood or metal (which would defeat the purpose).
Who makes the best lightweight chainsaw bar?
There are a number of good lightweight chainsaw bars available, but the Oregon 95-820 is an excellent choice. The bar comes with its own wrench and features five replaceable teeth for improved durability.
Is a shorter chainsaw bar better?
A chainsaw bar is one of the most important components in a chainsaw. It provides power to your machine, which allows it to cut through tough materials like wood and metal with ease. The length of a saw bar determines how finely you can control your tools’ cutting abilities. Chainsaws come with different-sized bars that are appropriate for specific tasks – but not every size will work well for all applications.
For example, if you need something longer than 40 inches, then you should consider getting an overhead cutter instead because they provide more force and better stability when working on large pieces of material or very tall objects.
The best chainsaw bar is one that can handle the application you need it for and has an appropriate size. If you want to make a lot of smaller cuts in metal or wood, then using a longer bar will be better because it allows more control on your cut-line. However, if you are cutting down very thick trees with large diameters, having a shorter saw chain could be much more efficient.
Is a longer chainsaw bar better?
A longer chainsaw bar can make it easier to cut deeper into the wood, but this is not always a good thing. Longer bars are more unwieldy and require more effort when cutting. They also have a larger mass that must be moved around during each motion of the sawing process which may lead to fatigue after extended use. For most uses, experts recommend investing in shorter bars for their convenience and cost-effectiveness rather than buying ultra-long ones just because they’re available without considering if you really need such an accessory or how often you plan on using your chainsaw.
Is a longer chainsaw bar more dangerous?
A longer chainsaw bar is not more dangerous and has some advantages. First of all, a long bar will give you much better control over your saw in certain situations, so it’s actually safer than a shorter one. In addition to this safety benefit, the increased distance from the engine also means that experts can use stronger drive sprockets which results in greater power transfer and an improved cutting performance on thicker logs.
What is the most aggressive chainsaw chain?
There is no one answer to this question. The best chainsaw chain for you will depend on your skill level and the type of wood that you are cutting. The best chainsaw bar should fit well with saws because poorly matched equipment can lead to many problems when working in rough terrain or hardwood.
Can you put a bigger bar on your Stihl chainsaw?
No, you cannot. Stihl chainsaws are designed to work best with a specific size bar and chain combination.
Trying to use an incorrect size can result in the following issues:
- The saw will be less able to cut through thick material like tree branches or logs;
- It may vibrate more as it cuts through wood due to improper tension on its parts;
- The engine won’t last as long because of the added strain caused by using an incompatible sized chain;
- The saw’s motor may emit a screeching sound as it cuts through the wood because the chain is not seated correctly;
If you are unsure what size bar and chain your chainsaw needs, check with an authorized Stihl dealer.
Can you put a shorter bar on your chainsaw?
Yes, you can. Chainsaw bars come in a range of sizes to fit the needs of your project and chainsaws. However, shorter bar lengths are typically designed for smaller saws with less cutting power (less than 18 amps), such as lawn mowers or weed trimmers. A short bar is usually between 14 and 20 inches.
Will an Oregon bar fit a Stihl chainsaw?
An Oregon bar will mostly fit a Stihl chainsaw. However, it is recommended to check your chainsaw manual for the proper compatibility before purchasing an additional chain saw blade. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
What are the benefits of using a high-quality chainsaw bar?
Using a high-quality chainsaw bar ensures that the chainsaw performs efficiently and lasts longer. A good chainsaw bar allows the chain to move smoothly, reducing the risk of kickback and damage to the chain. It also reduces the risk of fatigue in the operator and increases productivity.
What factors should I consider when choosing a chainsaw bar?
When choosing a chainsaw bar, you should consider the length, pitch, gauge, and number of drive links of your chainsaw. You should also consider the type of work you will be doing, as different bars are designed for different applications. Additionally, you should consider the brand, as some brands are known for their high-quality bars.
What is the difference between a standard chainsaw bar and a carving chainsaw bar?
A standard chainsaw bar is designed for general-purpose cutting, while a carving chainsaw bar is designed for precision carving and detail work. Carving chainsaw bars are typically shorter and thinner than standard bars, allowing for greater maneuverability and control.
What is the best material for a chainsaw bar?
The best material for a chainsaw bar is typically a high-quality, hardened steel alloy. This type of steel is durable and long-lasting, providing excellent performance and resistance to wear and tear. Some manufacturers also use materials such as titanium or aluminum to make lightweight, high-performance bars.
What is the best chainsaw bar length for cutting firewood?
The best chainsaw bar length for cutting firewood depends on the size of the logs you will be cutting. A 16-inch or 18-inch bar is typically sufficient for cutting small to medium-sized logs, while a 20-inch or 24-inch bar is better for larger logs.
What is the best chainsaw bar length for cutting down trees?
The best chainsaw bar length for cutting down trees depends on the size of the tree. For smaller trees, a 14-inch or 16-inch bar is typically sufficient, while larger trees may require a 20-inch or 24-inch bar. It is important to choose a bar length that is appropriate for the job to avoid safety hazards.
What is the best brand of chainsaw bar?
There are many reputable brands of chainsaw bars, including Oregon, Stihl, and Husqvarna. The best brand for you will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your chainsaw. It is important to choose a high-quality brand that is known for its durability and reliability.
What is the best chainsaw bar for cutting through thick branches?
The best chainsaw bar for cutting through thick branches is a longer bar with a larger pitch and gauge. A 20-inch or 24-inch bar with a pitch of .375 or .404 inches and a gauge of .050 or .063 inches is ideal for cutting through thicker branches.
What is a replaceable sprocket nose chainsaw bar?
A replaceable sprocket nose chainsaw bar is a bar that has a replaceable nose sprocket. The nose sprocket is the part of the bar that guides the chain, and it can wear out over time. With a replaceable sprocket nose bar, you can replace the nose sprocket instead of replacing the entire bar, which can save you money in the long run.
What is a laminated chainsaw bar?
A laminated chainsaw bar is a bar that is made up of layers of metal, with a groove in the middle to guide the chain. The layers are typically made of a high-strength steel alloy and are bonded together with adhesive. Laminated bars are known for their strength and durability.
What is a solid chainsaw bar?
A solid chainsaw bar is a bar that is made from a single piece of steel. Solid bars are known for their rigidity and durability, making them ideal for heavy-duty cutting. However, they can be heavier than other types of bars, which can make them more difficult to handle.
What is a chainsaw carving bar?
A chainsaw carving bar is a specialized bar that is designed for precision carving and detail work. Carving bars are typically shorter and narrower than standard bars, which allows for greater control and maneuverability. They are also often curved, which helps to reduce kickback and improve visibility.
What is a chainsaw milling bar?
A chainsaw milling bar is a specialized bar that is designed for milling lumber from logs. Milling bars are typically longer than standard bars, with a larger nose sprocket and a narrower tip. This allows for greater precision and control when milling, and can result in higher-quality lumber.
What is the best chainsaw bar for a professional arborist?
The best chainsaw bar for a professional arborist depends on the specific needs of the job. However, a lightweight bar with a shorter length, such as a 12-inch or 14-inch bar, is often ideal for climbing and pruning. It is important to choose a high-quality bar that is durable and reliable, as well as appropriate for the specific job at hand.
Useful Video: Best Chainsaw Bars Review
Final thoughts
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with the information that you need to make a knowledgeable decision about which chainsaw bar is best for your needs. Considering that a good chainsaw can last decades, it’s worth investing in one that is right for what you will use it for most often!
Leave a Reply