Direct answer: For 20-inch ripping chains, high-quality 3/8″ or .050″ gauge chains with sturdy rivets and compatible drive links are essential. The top picks below are best for serious woodcutting, log yard work, and professional sawyers who need fast, sustained rip cuts. Each product is suited to different saw brands and performance needs.
Buying at a glance: below are five 20-inch ripping chains that balance compatibility, durability, and cutting efficiency. The quick table helps compare key specs at a glance.
| Product | Drive Links | Pitch | Gauge | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL For Husqvarna / Stihl | 72 | 3/8 inch | .050 inch | Husqvarna 455 Rancher, Stihl MS 270, Poulan PP5020AV |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL For Stihl 024-290 | 81 | .325 inch | .063 inch | Stihl MS-260, MS-270, MS-271 series |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL For Husqvarna / Stihl | 72 | 3/8 inch | .050 inch | Husqvarna 455 Rancher, Stihl MS 270, Poulan PP5020AV |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 70DL For Echo / Jonsered | 70 | 3/8 inch | .050 inch | Echo CS-590, Jonsered 1020/110/2051 |
| 20″ Archer Ripping Chainsaw Chain .325-050-81DL | 81 | .325 inch | 0.50 gauge | MS261, MS311, MS291, MS362 and similar 20″ bars |
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL for Husqvarna 455 Rancher 372XP Stihl MS 270 Poulan PP5020AV (2 Pack)
This 20-inch ripping chain uses a 3/8 inch pitch with a .050 inch gauge and 72 drive links. It is designed for aggressive, lengthwise cuts and is compatible with several Husqvarna and Stihl OEM parts. Best for professional refernce and heavy duty yard work. Choose this if you need quick, straight ripping on larger logs and prefer a widely compatible chain. Caution: verify fitment with your specific model numbers to ensure correct mounting.
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL for Stihl 024-290 (2 Pack)
With a .325 pitch and .063 gauge, this chain provides robust ripping performance for mid- to heavy-duty Stihl platforms. 81 drive links support longer bars and consistent cutting. Best for Stihl MS-260, MS-270, MS-271 family and similar specifications. Better for users who require thicker cutting edges for tougher wood. Limitation: heavier gauge can require more power and may generate more chain wear in soft wood cutting.
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL for Husqvarna / Stihl (3 Pack)
This three-pack provides multiple 20-inch ripping chains with a .050 gauge and 3/8 pitch, 72 drive links each. Best for multi-saw setups or backup chains for Husqvarna and Stihl machines. Choose this if you want cost efficiency through bulk packaging and consistent ripping performance. Limitation: triple-pack requires appropriate storage and rotation to prevent chain corrosion between uses.
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 70DL For Echo / Jonsered / Makita (1 Pack)
This 70-drive-link chain uses a .050 gauge and 3/8 pitch, designed for Echo, Jonsered, and Makita compatible platforms. Best for users who require a lighter-displacement chain for mid-range ripping on compatible tools. Better for portable cutting on smaller crews. Caution: verify exact OEM fitment numbers—the chain lists several compatible brands and models, which may require precise verification for your particular saw.
20″ Archer Ripping Chainsaw Chain .325-050-81DL
Archer’s 20-inch ripping chain features a .325 pitch with a .050 gauge and 81 drive links. It is presented as a universal option suitable for several 20-inch bars on Stihl MS-261, MS-311, MS291, MS362 and similar models. Best for sawyers seeking a flexible, compatible option across multiple brands. Note: always confirm the correct pitch and drive link count for your exact saw model to ensure proper fitment.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a 20-inch ripping chain:
- Compatibility: Check your saw’s pitch, gauge, and drive-link count. Common options include 3/8″ pitch with .050″ gauge on Husqvarna/Stihl platforms and .325″ pitch with .063″ gauge on certain Stihl models.
- Ripping performance: Ripping chains are designed for straight, long cuts along the grain. A chain labeled “ripping” often features different cutting tooth geometry focused on aggressive depth and reduced kerf wandering.
- Durability: Chains with robust rivets (e.g., GCr15 steel rivets) and high-quality steel blends (e.g., 68CrNiMo33) typically offer longer life under heavy use.
- Maintenance: Proper tensioning and lubrication extend chain life. Inspect drive links and rivets for wear and replace as needed.
- Bulk vs single packs: Bulk packs lower per-chain cost but require storage planning; singles are convenient for a single-saw setup.
- Brand considerations: OEM-fitment and compatibility notes in product features help ensure correct performance on Husqvarna, Stihl, Echo, Jonsered, and Makita tools.
FAQ
- What is a ripping chain used for? Answer: It is designed for long, straight cuts through log and timber with increased cutting efficiency compared to standard crosscut chains.
- How do I know the right drive-link count? Answer: Match the chain’s drive-link count to your bar length and model guidelines; common counts for 20-inch bars include 70, 72, and 81.
- Can I mix chain brands on a single saw? Answer: It may work if the pitch and gauge match your bar and chainring specs, but it can affect performance and safety; verify compatibility before use.
- What maintenance steps extend chain life? Answer: Regular tension checks, proper lubrication, and cleaning of the bar groove help maximize life and performance.
- Is a larger gauge always better? Answer: Not necessarily; a heavier gauge can improve durability but may require more power and reduce speed on lighter-duty saws.
- Are bulk packs a good value? Answer: Yes, when you have multiple saws or anticipate frequent replacements, bulk packs reduce per-chain cost and downtime.