A chainsaw is a critical tool for any landowner, and it’s important to invest in the right one. A chainsaw chain is even more essential for making the best cuts possible.
Chainsaws are built to handle certain types of wood, but not all chainsaws with the same power level will work on every type of wood. Since there are so many variables we’ve decided to dedicate this review article to helping you find the best chainsaw chain for cutting hardwood.
We will talk about what it takes for a chainsaw to cut through hardwood. We are going to talk about the features, pros, and cons of each chainsaw chain. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
COMPARISON CHART
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
  |
1. Husqvarna H30-72 Pixel Saw Chain
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
2. Oregon S52 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
3. SUNGATOR 3-Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
4. Husqvarna 16-Inch H30-66
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
5. Forester 24 Inch Chainsaw Chain Loop
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
One of the main benefits of using a chainsaw is the ability to cut through dense hardwood trees. But, no matter the power of the chainsaw, you still need the right type of chain in order to get through that dense wood.
Hardwood has more density than softwood so it is more difficult to cut through. Hardwood is also stronger than softwood so it is also more difficult to cut through. A chainsaw chain can be defined as being able to cut through tough hardwood trees.
A chainsaw chain is created from a solid piece of metal that is heated to a certain temperature.
1. Husqvarna H30-72 Pixel Saw Chain
Specification
| TEETH SHAPE | YES |
| PITCH | YES |
| GAUGE | .050 INCHES |
| LENGTH | 18 INCHES |
| KICKBACK RATING | LOW |
| DRIVE LINKS OF THE CHAIN | 72 |
The Husqvarna chainsaw chain is one of the best chainsaw chains on the market, and it’s part of the Series 1 production line. However, a great chainsaw chain is an investment, as they should be replaced over the years, so let’s go through a few things about this chain.
Here’s what we found in the Husqvarna Series 1 Chain:
Sharp teeth: The Husqvarna chainsaw has one of the sharpest teeth chains we’ve ever come across. The mains’ teeth are designed to cut any type of hardwood. This makes them very versatile for the person who cuts a lot of different types of hardwood.
Included chain guide: Husqvarna has included a chain guide into the Husqvarna chainsaw for easy torque adjustment. This is very helpful for anyone looking to use this chainsaw for more than a few days.
WHAT WE LIKE
The metalwork is secured with strong threading and the action of the chain is designed to wear evenly over time.
It can cut a single wide board very quickly.
Husqvarna Pixel chainsaws offer the greatest flexibility and versatility when it comes to cutting tough trees.
The Husqvarna Pixel saw chain features a variable cutting arc (many different cuts are possible) and all-metal construction.
The saw chain allows the user to make multiple different kinds of cuts, such as sawing the corners off an oak board or moving the work across the width of the tree.
The saw chain has a protective guard to protect the operator’s hand. The saw chain easily cuts through small to medium size hardwood with no problems.
PROS
- The saw chain is very well built and built for durability.
- Very stable when cutting
- Holds a sharp edge for a very long time which is very important for cutting longevity
CONS
- Some customers report that the chain dulls quickly, but this is understandable when dealing with hardwood trees
- Chain use is more for light cutting
2. Oregon S52 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain – Best Affordable Chain
Specification
| TEETH SHAPE | YES |
| PITCH | YES |
| GAUGE | .050 INCHES |
| LENGTH | 14 INCHES |
| KICKBACK RATING | LOW |
| DRIVE LINKS OF THE CHAIN | 52 |
The Oregon S52 Advance Cut 14″ Chainsaw Chain is a premium bar and chain for the professional logger. It is sold in the package of 2 chains.
The chain is designed to produce less friction, less kickback, and leave less debris. The chain is made with a steel alloy that is stronger than standard chains and also has a longer wear life.
The chain is also designed with a patented tooth design that is designed to reduce bogging and increase cutting speed.
The S52 chain is designed to be used with 14″ bar and chain saws, with a .325 pitch. The chain is also designed to be used with the Oregon brand bar and chain saws.
WHAT WE LIKE
- This is a great chainsaw chain that is designed specifically for homeowners.
- It is a low kickback chain, and it is self-sharpening, which means it has a high level of safety and comfort.
- The Oregon S52 AdvanceCut 14″ Chainsaw Chain is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and long-lasting chainsaw chain for their home.
PROS
- It’s a heat-treated chain that cuts smoothly with a higher tolerance for debris
- Cuts very smoothly
- Chain fits a huge variety of saws
CONS
- Some reports say that the chain dulls easily, but we feel that this may be the type of hardwood or the size of the tree being cut
- The chain is extremely sharp when pulled out of the package. We recommend wearing gloves when handling
- Chain size may run larger than expected
3. SUNGATOR 3-Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain – Best For Cutting Firewood And Logs
Specification
| TEETH SHAPE | YES |
| PITCH | YES |
| GAUGE | .050 INCHES |
| LENGTH | 18 INCHES |
| KICKBACK RATING | LOW |
| DRIVE LINKS OF THE CHAIN | 62 |
For years, SunGator Chainsaw has been the official retail source of professional quality chainsaws from a variety of brands. They’ve been around for more than 35 years and are always one step ahead of the game when it comes to chainsaws.
A brand built on quality and performance, SunGator is a reliable name when it comes to chainsaws and chains.
This 18-Inch Chainsaw Chain is the perfect choice for all those looking for a reliable, professional chainsaw chain for doing any work with hardwood.
This chainsaw chain is made from a special Nickel-Titanium alloy that is extremely durable. The chainsaw chain comes with a 700-pound duty rating, but because of its lightweight, it won’t harm your arms if you use it too much.
We recommend the SunGator 18-Inch Chainsaw Chain for anyone looking for a reliable chain.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The 3-pack of chainsaw chains from SUNGATOR is the most economical way to get a high-quality 18-inch chainsaw chain for making the best cuts
- SUNGATOR chains aren’t just cheap though; they’re also stiff and durable
- The Chain comes with all the high-quality features you’d expect, including hardened steel plates, a lifetime warranty, and a tough stainless steel shaft that’s highly puncture-resistant.
PROS
- Compatible with many chainsaw models
- Heat-treated rivets make for a durable chain
- Does a good job at keeping debris to a minimum
CONS
- Works best on small to medium cutting tasks only
- Blades have been reported to dull quickly
- Some feel the chain is not good value for what you get
4. Husqvarna 16-Inch H30-66 – Best in Low Vibration
Specification
| TEETH SHAPE | YES |
| PITCH | YES |
| GAUGE | .050 INCHES |
| LENGTH | 16 INCHES |
| KICKBACK RATING | LOW |
| DRIVE LINKS OF THE CHAIN | 66 |
Husqvarna makes the best chainsaw chains for cutting hardwood. In fact, they have built their entire lineup around this category.
The 16-inch H30-66 chainsaw chain from Husqvarna uses a hydraulic-assist saw to cut through wood, and Husqvarna has a great deal of knowledge on how to make the best chains for their equipment.
You can use the Husqvarna 16-inch chainsaw chain to cut: Plywood Cedar Chip Lumber Softwood and other types of wood.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Husqvarna’s 16-inch chain was designed specifically for cutting hardwood.
- Its cut length can be changed by changing the blade angle.
PROS
- Cuts a wide variety of hardwood
- Chain blades can take resharpening with no issues
- Comes in a double pack for better savings
CONS
- Chain dulls quickly according to purchasers
- Blades on the chain have been reported to bend, depending on the type of hardwood
5. Forester 24 Inch Chainsaw Chain Loop – Best Chainsaw Chain For Ripping
Specification
| TEETH SHAPE | YES |
| PITCH | YES |
| GAUGE | .050 INCHES |
| LENGTH | 24 INCHES |
| KICKBACK RATING | LOW |
| DRIVE LINKS OF THE CHAIN | 84 |
The Forester 24-inch chainsaw is the larger option in the Forester chain lineup. The 24-inch chainsaw offers the maximum power to the operator and features a hex-head design.
This design allows for faster and safer cuts through hardwoods and solid wood. The heavier duty quality chainsaw chain offers a lengthy life expectancy.
The lubrication system is a simple, heavy-duty design to keep the chainsaw chains on the go.
With the heavy-duty chainsaw chains, you get the best type of value for your dollar. These chains are a heavy-duty design that will last you a lifetime.
The durable chain links are corrosion-proof and take a pounding from the sawing but still manage to be tough.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The Forester 24 Inch chainsaw chain is the lightest chain on the market. It is built to perform to the highest level, and at a low weight, making cutting hardwood easy and quick.
- The forester 24 Inch chainsaw chain does not get hot or make a lot of noise. It’s got a free float system to keep it from popping off the motor, so it is easy to adjust.
The Forester 24-inch chainsaw chain is a great tool that is built for cutting hardwood. It has a great and efficient free float system to adjust for most wood types.
The Forester 24-inch chainsaw chain is not only light but also easy to use with great quality control standards. In addition, the Forester 24-inch chainsaw chain is reliable and reasonably priced.
PROS
- Extremely light chain
- Built for professional use
- Can be fitted to a very wide range of chainsaws
CONS
- Some quality issues have been reported concerning the chain breaking after only a couple of uses
- Some customers report that the chain is not fitting their chainsaw, so we caution that you always make sure you order for your specific model or contact the manufacturer first
Conclusion
Thanks so much for reading our article about the best chainsaw chain for hardwood, we hope you enjoyed it. Our champion for this round goes to the HUSQVARNA H30-72 PIXEL SAW CHAIN.
The H30-72 is one of the best chainsaw chains around. It has the sharpness and durability to handle small to medium hardwood tasks. We’re sure you’ll be happy with it. Happy Sawing!
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Best Japanese Pull Saw (Reviews and Comparison)
- The Best Circular Saw Blades for Plywood (Reviews and Comparisons)
- Best Router Tables (Reviews and Comparison)
- The Best Fret Saw (Reviews and Comparison)
- Best Folding Saw Horses (Reviews and Comparisons)
I am a woodworker with over 21 years of experience crafting everything from furniture to ornamental pieces. I take pride in my ability to bring out the beauty of the wood I work with, creating unique and lasting objects. My passion for woodworking has been a life-long pursuit and I strive to push myself further and further with each new project. I am dedicated to the craft and take great satisfaction in the final product that I create.Read More.
