When choosing a ripping chain for a chainsaw, the goal is smoother, faster rips with reduced kickback and cleaner cuts. This guide highlights five top options ideal for professional log savers, weekend woodworkers, and anyone needing to maximize long, straight cuts. Each product is evaluated for fitment compatibility, durability, and practical limits. The selections favor commonly used bar lengths and standard pitches to help buyers match their saws with minimal guesswork. A quick buying guide and FAQs follow to help you decide confidently.
| Product | Bar Length | Pitch | Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch | 18 Inch | 0.325 | .050 | 72 |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch | 20 Inch | 0.325 | .063 | 81 |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch | 24 Inch | 3/8 | .050 | 84 |
| OREGON 72RD084G 84 Drive Link | 84 Drive Links | 3/8 | .050 | 84 |
| Archer 36″ 3/8-063-114DL | 36 Inch | 3/8 | 0.063 | 114 |
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch
Best for: Echo and Husqvarna saws with 18-inch bars and 0.325 pitch. The 72 drive links match several OEM patterns, providing broad compatibility for ripping tasks. This chain uses 68CrNiMo33 steel with GCr15 rivets, offering durable performance for straight rips and long cuts.
Why selected: It covers many common OEM patterns, making it easier to find a fit for mid-sized saws and preserving bar life during ripping tasks. The chain’s design focuses on straight-line performance essential for dimensional lumber and log rips.
Caution: Please verify exact fitment with your specific model numbers before purchasing, as chain compatibility varies by bar and sprocket configuration.
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch
Best for: Stihl and Husqvarna saws needing a longer 20-inch bar with 0.325 pitch and 0.063 gauge. The 81 drive links align with many OEM parts, enabling strong ripping performance on larger limbing or timber cuts.
Why selected: The chain’s compatibility with multiple OEM part numbers reduces mismatch risk and supports better feed rates during rips. It’s a solid option when upgrading a mid-to-large bar for straight, efficient cuts.
Caution: Confirm fitment for you saw’s exact model, since some 20-inch bars require slightly different drive-link counts or rivet patterns.
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch
Best for: Professionals using 24-inch bars on Husqvarna, Echo, or Stihl saws. The 84-drive-link configuration with 0.050 gauge and 3/8 pitch supports robust ripping across long lumber sections.
Why selected: The wider drive-link pattern boosts chain stability during aggressive rips, delivering durable performance on longer bar-length setups and larger timber; ideal for bulk lumber processing.
Caution: Heavier chains require more torque and may demand a more powerful saw to maintain optimal cutting speed; ensure your saw can handle the added mass.
OREGON 72RD084G 84 Drive Link
Best for: Chainsaw mills and bar configurations where standard 3/8-inch pitch is used with 0.050 gauge. The 72 drive links align with long bars for ripping and milling tasks.
Why selected: It emphasizes compatibility with chain-type sawmills, offering a reliable ripping performance on longer, stationary workflows where precision matters.
Caution: Not recommended for hand-held use with short bars; design is tailored for milling or fixed setups to avoid unsafe operation.
Archer 36″ 3/8-063-114DL
Best for: Long, heavy-duty ripping with oversized 36-inch bars. Archer’s Japanese steel construction suggests strong durability for high-volume milling or substantial log games.
Why selected: This option is best for users who frequently work with long bars and require consistent performance through large-rip cycles, where stability matters.
Caution: The long length and heavier construction can be less maneuverable on smaller saws; ensure your machine supports a 36-inch bar and proper chain tensioning.
Oregon RipCut Ripping Chainsaw Chain
Best for: 20-inch bars with 70 drive links and 0.050 gauge. It includes LubriTec for reduced friction and longer life, along with durable OCS-01 steel for added longevity.
Why selected: The combination of LubriTec lubrication and durable steel makes this a solid all-around ripping option for mid-sized machines, offering smoother feeding and longer bar life.
Caution: Verify exact bar length and chain compatibility; some 20-inch setups may require different drive link counts or bar configurations.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a ripping chain:
- Bar length compatibility: Match the chain to your saw’s bar length and drive-link count to avoid poor engagement or binding.
- Pitch and gauge: Ensure the pocket size and width fit your guide bar and drive sprocket; mismatches reduce cutting efficiency and increase wear.
- Carbide and steel quality: Higher-grade steel and rivets improve durability in ripping tasks and reduce the need for adjustments.
- Ripping design: Ripping chains are optimized for straight cuts and long feed; avoid using a ripping chain for curved cuts where a standard chain might perform better.
- Safety considerations: Long bars and aggressive chains require careful handling, proper PPE, and adherence to saw safety guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a ripping chain used for?
Ripping chains are designed to produce long, straight, and flat cuts in timber, often used in milling and dimensional lumber work. - Can I mix drive links with different bar lengths?
Drive links must match the bar length and chain pitch; mixing can cause binding or derailment. - Is a higher gauge better for ripping?
Higher gauge (.063) provides more durability and stiffness but can require more power and heavier handling; select based on saw capacity and task. - What should I verify before buying a ripping chain?
Check pitch, gauge, drive-link count, compatibility with OEM patterns, and whether the chain is suited for milling or hand-held ripping. - Are long 36-inch ripping chains practical for all saws?
No; 36-inch chains require compatible saws and bars; they are typically used in milling setups rather than handheld cutting.