Skip to content Skip to navigation menu

Saw Chain Terminology

Chain Anatomy Video

Learn what parts make up the anatomy of a saw chain an the relationship between components.

Parts of Cutter

Parts of Cutter

1. Top Plate
2. Cutting Corner
3. Slide Plate
4. Gullet
5. Depth Gauge
6. Heel
7. Rivet Hole
8. Toe
 

Four Basic Components of Saw Chain

Four Basic Components of Saw Chain

1. Cutter
2. Rivet
3. Drive Link
4. Tie Strap

Saw Chain Identification

To identify saw chain you need to know the following:

Gauge

Gauge

Chain Gauge is the Drive Link's thickness where it fits into the guide bar groove, matching the guide bar gauge. The gauge of the chain and the gauge of the bar must match. Oregon has several gauges of saw chain: .043", .050", .058", and .063". Normal wear can make it difficult to accurately measure chain gauge on a worn chain. Always order by the number stamped on the drive link of your old chain to assure correct gauge. Please see table below for more information.
Pitch

Pitch

Chain pitch is the size of the chain and is defined as the distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two. Oregon chain is made in several pitches - 1/4" is the smallest, 3/8" is the most popular, and 3/4” is the largest. Pitch is important because the drive sprocket must be the same pitch as the chain, and if applicable, the bar nose sprocket. The easiest way to determine the pitch of your chain is to look at the number stamped on the drive link. Please see table below for more information.
Cutter Type

Cutter Type

There are various cutter types:
1. Chipper
2. Semi-Chisel
3. Chamfer-Chisel
4. Micro-Chisel
5. Chisel
Sequence

Sequence

Saw chain sequences include: standard, semi-skip, and skip.

Saw Chain Family Specification Chart — Servicing Dealer

Not all saw chain and guide bar mentioned on the packaging or in search results will fit every version of equipment listed. To make sure you are getting the correct part feel free to call our Customer Service team at 1-800-223-5168.

Saw Chain Pitch Saw Chain By Gauge 

saw chain pitch
 

gauge
.043"
gauge
.050"
gauge
.058"
gauge
.063"
1/4" 25 
3/8" 
Low Profile
 90  91
.325"

 20

95

21 22
3/8"  

72

 73  75
.404"

27

59

68

FAQs

What is chain gauge?

Chain Gauge is the Drive Link's thickness where it fits into the bar groove. The gauge of the chain and the gauge of the bar must match. Learn more.


What is chain pitch?

Chain pitch is the size of the chain and is defined as the distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two. Learn more.


Why chisel chain cuts faster?

Rounded cutters must re-cut the end-grain grain several times until the full width of the “kerf” is reached. Chisel cutters are square and cut a full width “kerf” with every pass.
 

Related Topics

Setting-Up Your Chainsaw

Setting-Up Your Chainsaw

To get your chainsaw ready for optimal performance, follow these key lubrication and oil usage tips.
Replacing Chainsaw Chain

Replacing Chainsaw Chain

Get insider tips on how to identify the end-of-life for your saw chain and how to replace it.
Sharpening Chainsaw Chain

Sharpening Chainsaw Chain

Make quick work of large jobs with a sharp chain. How do you get a sharp chain? Follow this guide, and with a little practice, you’ll be able to keep your chainsaw chain in top condition.
Tightening Chainsaw Chain

Tightening Chainsaw Chain

Proper chainsaw chain tension is critical for the performance of your chainsaw. Learn how to check and tighten your saw chain to avoid the risk of kickback and chainsaw related injuries.

Part Finder

Find a full selection of the replacement parts you need with the Oregon Part Finder.

Find a Local Dealer

Go to our dealer locator to find a servicing dealer near you.
Back To Top