Finding the Right Saw Chain

Identifying and Replacing Chain

In many cases, Oregon offers multiple saw chain options for chainsaws. Here is information to help you determine the right saw chain fit-up for your chainsaw and the different chain types to meet the needs of different chainsaw users. Learn how to identify and replace chain by finding the chain pitch, chain gauge, and how to measure chainsaw chain.

Tools Required

What is the Saw Chain Product Family?

Oregon understands that the need of woodcutters – professionals and novices – are as diverse as the terrains and environments in which they work.

We have organized our saw chains and guide bars into product families with key characteristics that different users will value. These product families will ensure that you choose the right chain and bar based on your everyday needs. It will make understanding the differences between our products effortless.

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Saw Chain Identification

To identify saw chain you need to know the following:

Gauge

Chain Gauge is the Drive Link's thickness where it fits into the guide bar groove, matching the guide bar gauge. The gauge of the chain and the gauge of the bar must match. Oregon has several gauges of saw chain: .043", .050", .058", and .063". Normal wear can make it difficult to accurately measure chain gauge on a worn chain. Always order by the number stamped on the drive link of your old chain to assure correct gauge. Please see table below for more information.

Pitch

Chain pitch is the size of the chain and is defined as the distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two. Oregon chain is made in several pitches - 1/4" is the smallest, 3/8" is the most popular, and 3/4” is the largest. Pitch is important because the drive sprocket must be the same pitch as the chain, and if applicable, the bar nose sprocket. The easiest way to determine the pitch of your chain is to look at the number stamped on the drive link. Please see table below for more information.

Cutter Type

There are various cutter types:
1. Chipper
2. Semi-Chisel
3. Chamfer-Chisel
4. Micro-Chisel
5. Chisel

Sequence

Saw chain sequences include: standard, semi-skip, and skip.

Saw Chain Family Specification Chart — Servicing Dealer

Not all saw chain and guide bar mentioned on the packaging or in search results will fit every version of equipment listed. To make sure you are getting the correct part feel free to call our Customer Service team at 1-800-223-5168.

Saw Chain Pitch	Saw Chain By Gauge
	.043"	.050"	.058"	.063"
1/4"		25
3/8" Low Profile™	90	91
.325"		20 95	21	22
3/8"		72	73	75
.404"				27 59 68

Reduce Chainsaw-Related Injuries by Using Low Kickback Chain

Most of today’s chainsaws incorporate features that reduce kickback and other sources of chainsaw-related injuries. These built-in features include chain brakes, the front (left) hand guard, the bar tip guard, and low or reduced kickback chain and guide bars. In order to guarantee the effectiveness of these safety features, you need to make sure that your chainsaw is properly assembled and that all of the components are securely attached and functional. Unless you have experience or training for responding to chainsaw kickback, you should use low kickback chain. In North America, low kickback chain is packaged with a green label from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

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