What is Chainsaw Pitch? The chainsaw pitch is the distance between the drive links (measured across three rivets, divided by two). It defines the chain’s size and determines compatibility with the saw’s sprocket and guide bar.
In your woodworking career or hobby, there are various terms that you ought to grasp. They include the chainsaw pitch, gauge, and drive link count.
In this article, we will expound on the nitty-gritty of the chainsaw pitch. Having said that, let’s highlight what a chainsaw gauge and a drive link amount are, since these three terms are well … related.
Chain gauge is the thickness of the Drive link at the point where it fits into the groove, while the drive link length is the length of the chain loop.
So, without much further ado, let’s cut to the chase and have an in-depth look at a chain pitch.
What is a chain pitch?
It is the distance between 3 consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by 2. Luckily, most chainsaw manufacturers display the measurement on the tool or in the manual.
How do you calculate the pitch?
You should take the distance between three rivets and divide by two/.
For example, 3/4” divided by half = 3/8”. The chain pitch can be represented as a fraction or a decimal. It is used to list the pros of a chain’s length.
A larger pitch indicates a bigger chain and vice versa.
What is the most common chain pitch size?
Most pros in woodworking use either of the following pitch sizes:
- 1/4”
- .404
- 3/8” low profile
- 3/8”
- .325
The 3/8” is widely used by professional saw users due to its agility, cutting speed when used with powerful motors, low weight, and flexibility to make accurate and precise cuts.
Disclaimer! You cannot interchange a 3/8” with a 3/8” low-profile chain.
The .404 is predominantly used in heavy-duty tasks. Why? The considerable distance between the rivets facilitates aggressive cutting.
Why is chainsaw pitch important?
It is essential because it helps users choose the correct chain during replacement, which would otherwise be a daunting task.
Additionally, the pitch of the chain, drive sprocket, and nose sprocket ought to be the same.
Which are the best brands, and what are their pitch sizes?
Different brands offer chainsaws with varying pitch settings. However, if you are looking for quality, Oregon, Husqvarna, and Carlton produce state-of-the-art chainsaws.
Let’s have a look at their respective chain pitch.
The above drive link markings can be used to identify the gauge and pitch of the chainsaw.
Over to you
The above definitive discussion of what chainsaw pitch is has definitely cleared the air. If you are into light tasks, go for chains with a smaller pitch and vice versa.