When it comes to choosing the right chainsaw bar for your needs, size does matter. The length of the bar will determine the cutting capacity of the saw, and the width of the bar will affect the saw’s performance in different cutting applications. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when sizing a chainsaw bar, and we will provide some tips on choosing the right bar for your saw.
The length of the chainsaw bar is the distance from the tip of the bar to the end of the cutting teeth. The length of the bar will determine the maximum diameter of the wood that you can cut with the saw. For example, a saw with a 16-inch bar can cut wood up to 16 inches in diameter. If you are unsure of the maximum diameter of the wood that you will be cutting, it is always better to choose a bar that is longer rather than shorter.
Selecting the Right Bar for Your Needs
When choosing a chainsaw bar, consider the type of tree you’ll be cutting, the size of the logs, and the power of your chainsaw. Bars are measured in inches from tip to tip. The length you need depends on the diameter of the logs you’ll be cutting, plus a few inches for safety. A bar that’s too short may not be able to cut through the logs, while a bar that’s too long may be unwieldy and difficult to control.
Chain Type
Chainsaws use two main types of chains: standard and low-profile. Standard chains are more aggressive and cut faster, but they produce more vibration and kickback. Low-profile chains are less aggressive and produce less vibration and kickback, but they cut slower. The type of chain you need depends on your cutting needs and experience level. If you’re a novice chainsaw user, a low-profile chain is safer and easier to control. Standard chains are better suited for experienced users who need to cut through thick and tough logs quickly.
Bar Size
The length of the bar you need depends on the diameter of the logs you’ll be cutting, plus a few inches for safety. A bar that’s too short may not be able to cut through the logs, while a bar that’s too long may be unwieldy and difficult to control. Here’s a general guide to chainsaw bar sizes:
| Log Diameter | Bar Length |
|---|---|
| Up to 10 inches | 14 to 16 inches |
| 10 to 18 inches | 16 to 20 inches |
| 18 to 24 inches | 20 to 24 inches |
| Over 24 inches | 24 inches or longer |
Matching Bar Length to Chain Saw Power
Engine Displacement Affects Bar Length
The power of a chainsaw is determined by its engine displacement, measured in cubic centimeters (cc). A larger engine displacement usually indicates a more powerful saw. The length of the bar that a chainsaw can handle is directly related to its power.
Optimal Bar Length
As a general rule, the optimal bar length for a chainsaw is between 12 and 20 inches. Bars shorter than 12 inches are not recommended for most tasks, as they can be difficult to control and may not provide enough cutting power. Bars longer than 20 inches are suitable for felling large trees, but they can be heavy and unwieldy.
Choosing the Right Bar Length
To choose the right bar length for your chainsaw, consider the following factors:
- Engine displacement: A more powerful saw can handle a longer bar.
- Task: Longer bars are better for felling large trees, while shorter bars are more suitable for trimming branches or cutting firewood.
- Experience: If you are a novice user, a shorter bar may be easier to control.
Table: Recommended Bar Lengths for Chainsaw Engine Displacement
| Engine Displacement (cc) | Recommended Bar Length (inches) |
|---|---|
| 25-35 | 12-14 |
| 35-45 | 14-16 |
| 45-55 | 16-18 |
| 55+ | 18-20 |
Consequences of Using an Inappropriate Bar Length
Using a bar that is too long or too short for your chainsaw can have negative consequences:
- Too Short: Can lead to insufficient cutting power and difficulty in controlling the saw.
- Too Long: Can cause the saw to bog down, overheat, or become difficult to handle.
Types of Chainsaw Bars
Carving Bars
Carving bars are short, narrow bars designed for precision cutting. They feature a small nose radius, enabling tight turns and intricate cuts. Carving bars are commonly used in artistic woodworking and sculpting.
Laminated Bars
Laminated bars are composed of multiple layers of steel, making them strong and durable. They are often used in professional logging operations where heavy-duty cutting is required. Laminated bars provide increased stability, reducing vibration and wear.
Solid Bars
Solid bars are made from a single piece of steel, providing a robust and cost-effective option. They are ideal for homeowners and occasional users who require a basic cutting tool for small to medium-sized trees.
Narrow-Kerf Bars
Narrow-kerf bars have a thinner cutting width, resulting in less wood waste and increased efficiency. They are suitable for cutting smaller logs and branches, such as in firewood preparation.
Wide-Kerf Bars
Wide-kerf bars have a thicker cutting width, enabling them to remove more wood per cut. They are commonly used in heavy-duty applications, such as felling large trees or cutting through dense undergrowth.
Specialty Bars
Specialty bars are designed for specific cutting tasks, such as pruning, demolition, or milling. They come in various sizes and configurations, tailored to meet specific needs.
Comparison of Chainsaw Bar Types
| Bar Type | Use | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carving | Precision cutting | Tight turns, intricate cuts | Limited cutting capacity |
| Laminated | Professional logging | Strength, durability | Expensive |
| Solid | Homeowners, occasional users | Robust, cost-effective | Limited durability |
| Narrow-Kerf | Cutting smaller logs, branches | Efficient, less wood waste | Less aggressive cut |
| Wide-Kerf | Heavy-duty applications | High cutting capacity | More wood waste |
| Specialty | Specific cutting tasks | Tailored to specific needs | May be less versatile |
How to Size a Chainsaw Bar
The length of the chainsaw bar you need depends on the size of the trees you’re cutting. A general rule of thumb is to choose a bar that is about 6 inches longer than the diameter of the largest tree you’ll be cutting.
If you’re not sure how big the trees you’ll be cutting are, you can measure them. To do this, stand at a distance from the tree and hold your hand out with your thumb extended. Close one eye and line up your thumb with the base of the tree. Then, keep your thumb in place and close your other eye. The length of your thumb from the base of the tree to the tip of your thumb is the diameter of the tree.
Once you know the diameter of the largest tree you’ll be cutting, you can choose a chainsaw bar that is 6 inches longer. For example, if the largest tree you’ll be cutting is 12 inches in diameter, you would choose a chainsaw bar that is 18 inches long.
People Also Ask About How to Size a Chainsaw Bar
What is the difference between a chainsaw bar and a chainsaw chain?
A chainsaw bar is the metal rail that the chainsaw chain runs on. The chainsaw chain is the cutting component of the chainsaw, and it is made up of a series of sharp teeth.
How do I choose the right chainsaw chain for my chainsaw bar?
The type of chainsaw chain you need depends on the type of wood you’ll be cutting. There are different chains designed for cutting softwood, hardwood, and frozen wood.
How do I maintain my chainsaw bar and chain?
To maintain your chainsaw bar and chain, it is important to keep them clean and lubricated. You should also sharpen the chain regularly.
