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A gasoline chainsaw turns engine power into a moving loop of cutting chain. The engine rotates a drive mechanism; a sprocket moves the chain around the guide bar, while an oiler supplies lubricant to reduce friction and wear. A chain brake is designed to stop the chain when activated, but it cannot make unsafe cutting safe.
What are the main parts of a chainsaw?
A chainsaw has two main assemblies: the powerhead, which contains the engine and controls, and the cutting attachment, made up chiefly of the guide bar and saw chain. OSHA’s chainsaw parts guide identifies typical components, including the clutch, throttle controls, chain catcher and hand guards. The exact layout and drive arrangement vary by model.
- Engine and powerhead: On a gasoline saw, the engine produces rotational power.
- Clutch and drive sprocket: These are part of the path that transfers engine rotation to the chain. Their specific arrangement depends on the saw.
- Guide bar and chain: The bar guides the chain’s loop as it travels around the cutting attachment.
- Throttle and throttle interlock: The throttle controls engine speed; the interlock helps prevent unintended throttle operation.
- Chain oiler: Supplies oil to moving chain and bar surfaces.
- Chain brake, front hand guard and chain catcher: Safety components designed to address particular hazards, such as chain movement or a broken or derailed chain.
How does a gasoline chainsaw make the chain move?
In a gasoline two-stroke saw, fuel and air burn in the cylinder. Combustion moves the piston; a connecting rod transfers that back-and-forth motion to the crankshaft, which turns it into rotation. STIHL’s two-stroke engine overview describes this basic process.
The rotating engine output reaches the chain through the saw’s drive mechanism. The clutch and sprocket are components in that drive path, and the sprocket engages the chain to move it around the guide bar. This is a simplified explanation: the precise clutch, sprocket and drive configuration is model-dependent.
#1 Best Overall
- 【SPECIFICATIONS】 3 Pack 18 Inch, 3/8" LP Pitch, .050" Gauge, 62 Drive Links, semi-chisel. This saw chain met the kickback performance requirements of ANSl B175.1-2012 when tested according to the provisions of ANSl B175.1-2012. Low kickback saw chain meets the kickback performance requirements of CSA Standard Z62.3.
- 【FIND YOUR CHAIN】Check the owner's manual or the guide bar side stamp to find the PITCH, GAUGE, LENGTH and DRIVE LINK NUMBER and select the chain according to these parameters. You are also welcome to contact the KAKEI Customer Support with the chainsaw/bar part number, we are always ready to assist you. (Visit the KAKEI Store for all 60+ sizes)
- 【Features】 Germany steel with heating temperature control and punching system make better toughness, Flatness. All saw chain rivets hardened and quenched, resists wear and improves strength, reducing chain tension changes.
- 【Features】Japanese chrome-plated technology creates better durability for cutters, and each of them was grinded and cold-headed with Rotary machines, becomes sharper than ever.
- Saw chain comes with protective oil, resists corrosion.
This account describes a representative gasoline saw, not every chainsaw. Battery-powered and corded-electric saws use different power sources, and the available source information does not establish enough detail for a reliable comparison of their drive mechanisms.
Why does a chainsaw need chain oil?
The chain moves against the guide bar as it circulates, so the saw needs to deliver lubricant to reduce friction and wear. Oil reaches wear areas on and around the chain and bar; how it is routed and distributed depends on the saw and chain design.
Rank #2
- 【SPECIFICATIONS】 3 Pack 16 Inch, 3/8" LP Pitch, .043" Gauge, 55 Drive Links, semi-chisel, your bar may take .043" or .050" gauge chain, verify gauge before purchasing. This saw chain met the kickback performance requirements of ANSl B175.1-2012 when tested according to the provisions of ANSl B175.1-2012. Low kickback saw chain meets the kickback performance requirements of CSA Standard Z62.3.
- 【FIND YOUR CHAIN】Check the owner's manual or the guide bar side stamp to find the PITCH, GAUGE, LENGTH and DRIVE LINK NUMBER and select the chain according to these parameters. You are also welcome to contact the KAKEI Customer Support with the chainsaw/bar part number, we are always ready to assist you. (Visit the KAKEI Store for all 60+ sizes)
- 【Features】 Germany steel with heating temperature control and punching system make better toughness, Flatness. All saw chain rivets hardened and quenched, resists wear and improves strength, reducing chain tension changes.
- 【Features】Japanese chrome-plated technology creates better durability for cutters, and each of them was grinded and cold-headed with Rotary machines, becomes sharper than ever.
- Saw chain comes with protective oil, resists corrosion.
As one model-specific example, Shindaiwa lists a clutch-driven automatic oiler on its 335s product page. STIHL describes oil-distribution features in its chain design, including channels and reservoirs that carry oil to the chain, groove and rails. Those examples illustrate possible arrangements, not a universal design for all saws.
What do the safety components do?
Chain brake and front hand guard
The chain brake is designed to stop chain rotation when activated. STIHL says its Quickstop brake can be activated by the operator’s hand moving the hand guard or by inertia if kickback produces sufficient force. The brake reduces risk in some situations; it does not prevent every injury or make poor technique acceptable. Kickback can cause serious injury.
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- 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗙𝗬 𝗙𝗜𝗧: This saw chain is for chainsaw models that run 3/8" low-profile pitch, .043" (1.1 mm) gauge (guide bar slot), 56 drive links, 16" (40cm) bar and fits chainsaws up to 42cc - DOUBLE CHECK THE CHAINSAW MANUAL & VERIFY THE FIT
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Makita DUC400, EA3200S, EA3201S, EA3500S, XCU03, XCU04, XCU04CM, XCU09 / Ego CS1600 56V, CS1604 16" 56V Lithium-Ion, CS1610, CS1611
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Greenworks 20152 DigiPro 40V, 20312 Digipro G-Max 40V, 20322 / Harbor Freight Atlas 56938 / DeWalt DCC690M1, DCCS670, DCCS690 / Milwaukee M18 Fuel, 272720, 272721 / Toro 60V 16" 51850 and more
- 𝗟𝗢𝗪 𝗞𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗞: Bumper drive link paired with depth gauge design, offers reduced kickback with strong performance
- 𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗢𝗡 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: The original pioneer and inventor of modern saw chain since 1947. Designed and engineered in the USA.
Throttle interlock and chain catcher
The throttle interlock helps guard against accidental acceleration. A chain catcher is intended to help address the hazard of a broken or derailed chain. These features are safeguards, not substitutes for inspection, correct operation or the saw’s manual.
What should you check before operating a chainsaw?
Follow the instructions for the exact model and applicable workplace or local requirements. OSHA’s chainsaw operating guidance recommends checking controls, chain tension, bolts and handles before starting. It also advises keeping both hands on the handles, maintaining secure footing, clearing obstacles that could affect the cut or retreat, and avoiding overhead cuts.
Rank #4
- 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗙𝗬 𝗙𝗜𝗧: This saw chain is for chainsaw models that run 3/8" low-profile pitch, .050" (1.3 mm) gauge (guide bar slot), 56 drive links, 16" (40cm) bar and fits chainsaws up to 42cc - DOUBLE CHECK THE CHAINSAW MANUAL & VERIFY THE FIT
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Craftsman/Sears 358.34116, 358.35161, 358.35170, 358.35514, 358.38070, 358.38160, 38.38170, Echo (only when used with Oregon branded bars) CS-310, CS-330T, CS-346, CS-352, CS-355T, CS-360T, CS-370, CS-400, CS-3400, CS-3450
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗦𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗪 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗦: Husqvarna 136*, 137*, 142*, 235E*, 240*, 240E*, 334T, 335T, 338XPT*, 339XP*, T435, T540XP (*Ensure your model has a 3/8” low profile sprocket), Greenworks 20022, 20232, CS60L210, CS60L00, CS80L211, and CS80L01
- 𝗟𝗢𝗪 𝗞𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗞: Bumper drive link paired with depth gauge design, offers reduced kickback with strong performance
- 𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗢𝗡 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: The original pioneer and inventor of modern saw chain since 1947. Designed and engineered in the USA.
Starting controls differ among saws. Husqvarna’s starting guidance tells users to consult the particular model’s manual and gives general guidance to engage the chain brake. Do not treat general directions as a complete procedure for an unfamiliar saw.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What chainsaw specifications are model-specific?
Bar compatibility and chain dimensions are not universal. For example, Shindaiwa’s 335s listing specifies a 34.4 cm³ engine, 1.3 kW output, 0.28 L fuel tank, 230 mL chain-oil tank, 3/8-inch chain pitch, 0.050-inch gauge and applicable 30/35 cm (12/14 in.) bars. These are specifications for that listed model, not general chainsaw figures. Check the exact saw’s manual and specifications before selecting a replacement bar or chain.
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Best Value
- 【SPECIFICATIONS】 3 Pack 16 Inch, 3/8" LP Pitch, .050" Gauge, 56 Drive Links, semi-chisel. This saw chain met the kickback performance requirements of ANSl B175.1-2012 when tested according to the provisions of ANSl B175.1-2012. Low kickback saw chain meets the kickback performance requirements of CSA Standard Z62.3.
- 【FIND YOUR CHAIN】Check the owner's manual or the guide bar side stamp to find the PITCH, GAUGE, LENGTH and DRIVE LINK NUMBER and select the chain according to these parameters. You are also welcome to contact the KAKEI Customer Support with the chainsaw/bar part number, we are always ready to assist you. (Visit the KAKEI Store for all 60+ sizes)
- 【Features】 Germany steel with heating temperature control and punching system make better toughness, Flatness. All saw chain rivets hardened and quenched, resists wear and improves strength, reducing chain tension changes.
- 【Features】Japanese chrome-plated technology creates better durability for cutters, and each of them was grinded and cold-headed with Rotary machines, becomes sharper than ever.
- Saw chain comes with protective oil, resists corrosion.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
