Ripping wood requires a chainsaw chain designed to deliver precision, smoother cuts, and better wood surface finishes. Unlike standard chains, ripping chains have unique features such as deeper gullets and flat cutting surfaces to optimize the milling process. This article presents a comparison of top ripping chainsaw chains ideal for various saw models and applications.
| Product | Size (Inch) | Pitch | Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain | 36 | 3/8″ | .063″ | 114 |
| NEOTEC 24 Inch Ripping Chain | 24 | 3/8″ | .050″ | 84 |
| 8TEN 20 Inch Ripping Chain .063 Pitch .325 Gauge | 20 | .325″ | .063″ | 81 |
| 8TEN 20 Inch Ripping Chain .050 Gauge 3/8 Pitch | 20 | 3/8″ | .050″ | 72 |
| NEO-TEC 28 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain | 28 | 3/8″ | .063″ | 92 |
KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain for Huskvarna & Stihl
This 36-inch ripping chain from KAKEI fits various Husqvarna and Stihl chainsaws, featuring a 3/8″ pitch with a .063″ gauge and 114 drive links. Made of German steel with heating temperature control and precise punching, it delivers high durability and toughness to withstand intense ripping tasks.
The semi-chisel design ensures sharper cuts optimized for slabbing and board making, not recommended for cross-cutting. Hardened and quenched rivets provide excellent wear resistance and help reduce tension changes for better chain stability. Note that this chain does not meet low kickback standards, so users should exercise caution during operation.
NEOTEC 24 Inch Ripping Chain for Smooth Finishing Cuts
The NEOTEC ripping chain is built for users needing a smoother finish during milling. With a 24-inch length, 3/8″ pitch, and a narrow .050″ gauge, it contains 84 drive links. The hardened chrome plating and rivets help resist wear and reduce the frequency of chain adjustments.
This design leaves cleaner cuts on wood compared to traditional chains, though it operates at a slower pace, making it ideal for milling and fine woodworking tasks. Suitable for Husqvarna 455 Rancher 450 460 models, this chain balances durability with corrosion resistance.
8TEN 20 Inch Ripping Chainsaw Chain Semi-Chisel Design
8TEN provides a 20-inch, 81 drive link ripping chain with a .063 gauge and .325 pitch compatible with Stihl models such as MS-260, 270, and 280. The chain is manufactured from 68CrNiMo33 steel with GCr15 steel rivets for enhanced strength and wear resistance.
This semi-chisel chain is ideal for fast and smooth ripping of logs into boards. Compatibility with OEM numbers ensures easy replacement. It supports heavier-duty applications for users needing reliable ripping precision on smaller saws.
8TEN 20 Inch Ripping Chain .050 Gauge for Husqvarna & Stihl
This 20-inch chain from 8TEN features a 3/8″ pitch, .050″ gauge, and 72 drive links designed for Husqvarna 455 Rancher, 372XP, and Stihl MS 270 saws. Crafted from the same high-quality steel as other 8TEN chains, it ensures durability and stable cutting performance during ripping operations.
It is a direct fit replacement compatible with multiple OEM part numbers, offering a balanced approach between moderate speed and a clean ripping finish. Ideal for chainsaws requiring a narrow gauge for precise milling tasks.
NEO-TEC 28 Inch Ripping Chain for Larger Saw Sizes
The NEO-TEC 28-inch chain features a 3/8″ pitch and .063 gauge with 92 drive links. UL approved and ANSI standards compliant, this chain is appropriate for larger saws sized 50-100 cc, including Stihl 44, 56, MS441, 650, 660, and 661 models.
Designed for ripping, its longer teeth, deeper gullets, and flat cutting surfaces ensure faster wood cutting and effective debris clearing. This balance enhances productivity in demanding ripping operations on bigger saw models.
Chainsaw Ripping Chain Buying Guide
Choosing the best chainsaw ripping chain depends on several key factors suitable to your specific ripping needs and equipment.
1. Chain Dimensions and Compatibility
- Length: Match the chain length to your chainsaw’s guide bar length for proper fit.
- Pitch: Common ripping chains come in 3/8″ and .325″ pitches; your saw’s sprocket and bar must support the pitch.
- Gauge: This is the thickness of the drive link; typical gauges are .050″ and .063″. Ensure your guide bar groove matches the gauge for smooth operation.
- Drive Links: The number of drive links must correspond to your specific chain and bar system.
2. Chain Type and Design
- Semi-Chisel vs Full Chisel: Semi-chisel ripping chains provide a balance of speed and smoothness, while full chisel offers aggressive cutting but may dull faster.
- Flat Cutting Surfaces: Essential for ripping chains to create long, smooth planed boards rather than rough cuts.
- Depth Gauges/Gullets: Deeper gullets improve chip clearance, which is vital to maintain cutting speed and reduce clogging during ripping.
3. Material Quality and Durability
- Steel Composition: Look for chains made from high-grade steel with heat treatment for better toughness and wear resistance.
- Rivet Strength: Hardened and quenched rivets extend chain life under heavy ripping conditions.
- Corrosion Resistance: Chrome plating or protective coatings help ensure longevity, especially for outdoor and wet environments.
4. Performance Considerations
- Cutting Precision: Ripping chains provide smoother surfaces, which reduces the need for further sanding or finishing.
- Speed vs Smoothness: Some ripping chains cut slower but cleaner, ideal for fine milling, while others focus on faster throughput.
- Kickback Ratings: Most ripping chains are not designed to reduce kickback; adequate protective equipment and careful handling are recommended.
5. Brand and Customer Support
- Choose brands offering extensive size ranges to fit various chainsaws.
- Good customer support helps in cross-checking chain compatibility and replacements.