Chainsaws are powerful tools that allow people to cut through wood quickly and efficiently. The cutting power of a chainsaw comes from its engine and chain. The chain is a key component that determines the size capabilities of the saw. Chainsaw chains come in different sizes, with smaller chains allowing for more precise and detailed cuts. For projects requiring intricate shapes or curves, a smaller chain is ideal. This allows the operator to wield the chainsaw in tight spaces and produce more accurate cuts. So what is the smallest chainsaw chain available? Let’s take a closer look at chainsaw chain sizes and find out.
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Chainsaw Chain Sizes
Chainsaw chains are measured based on the drive links, which are the cutting sections. The most common chain sizes are:
| Chain Pitch | Drive Link Count | Chain Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| 3/8 inches | 40-46 links | 0.043-0.050 inches |
| .325 inches | 56-66 links | 0.050-0.058 inches |
| 3/4 inches | 72-84 links | 0.058-0.063 inches |
The chain pitch refers to the distance between consecutive rivets. This determines how far the chain will travel with each rotation of the sprocket.
The drive link count is the number of cutting sections along the chain loop. More drive links allow the chain to wrap around a larger bar and cut wider sections of wood.
The gauge measurement determines the thickness of the drive links. Thicker gauge chains are sturdier for cutting hardwoods while thinner gauges are more maneuverable.
Based on this, smaller chains have a shorter pitch, lower drive link count, and thinner gauge. This allows them to fit on smaller bars and make intricate cuts.
Micro Chainsaws
On the extreme end of small chainsaws are micro chainsaws. As the name suggests, these miniature saws have very short bars ranging from just 4-6 inches. They utilize a .043 gauge chain with a 1/4 inch pitch and only 14-16 drive links.
Micro chainsaws are designed for ultra-precise cuts and detail work. The small bar and chain allows users to control them easily for arts, crafts, model making and other micro projects. It would be extremely difficult to fell trees or cut firewood with these tiny chainsaws. Instead, they serve a niche purpose when an extremely compact and maneuverable chainsaw is required.
Some examples of micro chainsaws include:
- Dremel Micro Chainsaw
- Proxxon Micro Chainsaw
- Foredom Micro Chainsaw
These chainsaws live up to their micro name with bars under 5 inches and lightweight designs of 5 lbs or less. They utilize the smallest chain combinations available to fit their tiny footprint.
Full-Size Chainsaw Capabilities
While micro chains provide the most precision and maneuverability, their capabilities are still very limited compared to full size chains. They are best suited to small scale hobby, craft and model work. For most practical chainsaw uses, a larger chain is required.
Here are some comparison of cutting capabilities with different chain sizes:
| Chain Size | Bar Length Range | Max Cut Width |
|---|---|---|
| Micro chain – .043″ gauge, 1/4″ pitch, 14-16 drive links | 4-6 inches | 3-5 inches |
| 3/8″ pitch, .043″ gauge, 45 drive links | 10-16 inches | 8-14 inches |
| .325″ pitch, .058″ gauge, 72 drive links | 18-24 inches | 16-22 inches |
As the chain size increases, so does the maximum cutting width. This dictates how wide of a cut can be made in a single pass. While micro chains are limited to a few inches, larger chain can fell entire trees or cut wood to size for splitting and stacking.
The longer bar lengths also improve reach and ability to cut deeper into wood. Micro bars only allow surface level cuts, while 10″ or greater bars can embedded deeply into logs or stumps.
Chain Replacement Considerations
When purchasing a replacement chain, you generally want to stick with the same pitch and gauge as the existing bar and chain. This ensures proper fit and function. Jumping to a larger chain size may require buying a new bar as well.
It’s also important to match the proper length for your chainsaw’s bar. Chains are sold in certain drive link counts. You’ll get best performance when the chain length allows it to wrap tightly around the bar with just a bit of sag room.
Consult your saw’s manual or measure the existing chain if the size is uncertain. This will provide the details needed to get the right replacement chain.
The profile of cutters is another factor to consider for the chain. Cutters come in different shapes and sizes such as chisel, semi-chisel and chipper. Matching the existing profile helps maintain cutting performance you’re used to with the saw.
Maintenance for Long Chain Life
With proper maintenance, a chainsaw chain can last a long time before needing replaced. Here are some tips to maximize chain life:
- Regularly lubricate the chain and bar when cutting using chain oil
- File down any nicks or burrs in cutters to prevent snags
- Ensure the chain is tensioned correctly, too loose can cause it to derail
- Check the sprocket for wear and replace if damaged
- Clear the bar groove periodically of any debris
- Store saw properly between uses and avoid dirt/moisture exposure
A well-maintained chain stays sharper longer. This reduces cutting effort, motor strain, and chain elongation over time.
When to Replace a Chain
Here are signs it’s time to swap out a worn chain:
- Cutters are heavily rounded and fail to sharpen properly
- Cutting teeth depth reduced by more than 4-5 mm
- Elongation causes looseness on the bar no matter the tension
- Cracks or broken drive links
- Bar groove is worn and chain derails easily
Safety should be the top priority when operating a chainsaw. A excessively worn chain is dangerous and prone to increased kickback and other hazards. Replace at the first sign of structural damage or severe dulling.
Conclusion
In summary, the smallest chainsaw chain available is a micro chain with .043″ gauge, 1/4″ pitch and only 14-16 drive links. However, these have very limited practical cutting capabilities. For most chainsaw uses, a larger chain size in the range of .325″ to 3/4″ pitch with longer bars is required. A properly maintained chain can last a long time before replacement is needed. But it’s important to watch for signs of excess wear and damage requiring a new chain. When selecting a replacement, match the pitch, gauge and drive link count of the existing setup for optimal function. With a quality chain installed, your chainsaw will continue operating safely and productively on cutting projects both large and small.