Choosing the right skip tooth chainsaw chain can significantly enhance your cutting performance while maintaining safety. Skip chains, known for their reduced number of cutting teeth, lower vibration, and better chip clearance, are ideal for heavy-duty cutting and longer bars. Below is a summary table highlighting key features of the top skip tooth chains available.
| Product | Brand | Length & Links | Pitch & Gauge | Pack Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KAKEI Skiptooth 20 Inch Chain 72EXJ072G | KAKEI | 20 Inch, 72 Drive Links | 3/8″ Pitch, .050″ Gauge | 3 Chains |
| KAKEI Skiptooth 28 Inch Chain 72EXJ091G | KAKEI | 28 Inch, 91 Drive Links | 3/8″ Pitch, .050″ Gauge | 3 Chains |
| 8TEN Full Chisel Skip Tooth 20 Inch | 8TEN | 20 Inch, 70 Drive Links | 3/8″ Pitch, .050″ Gauge | 1 Chain |
| 8TEN Full Chisel Skip Tooth 24 Inch (3 Pack) | 8TEN | 24 Inch, 84 Drive Links | 3/8″ Pitch, .050″ Gauge | 3 Chains |
| Husqvarna 585548993 C85S 28″ Skip Tooth Chain | Husqvarna | 28 Inch | 3/8″ Pitch, .058″ Gauge | 1 Chain |
KAKEI Skiptooth 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ Pitch .050″ Gauge 72 Drive Links
This 3-pack chainsaw chain set from KAKEI fits multiple popular saw models including Stihl MS311 MS391 and Husqvarna 455 Rancher. Each chain measures 20 inches with 72 drive links, featuring a 3/8″ pitch and .050″ gauge. The skip tooth design improves chip clearance and reduces load, making it suitable for heavy cutting tasks.
Constructed from Germany steel with advanced heat treatment and hardened rivets, these chains offer enhanced durability and wear resistance while reducing chain tension variations. The full chisel cutters provide aggressive and efficient cutting but require experienced handling due to possible kickback risks.
KAKEI Skiptooth 28 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ Pitch .050″ Gauge 91 Drive Links
This 28-inch chain, offered in a triple pack, suits high-power chainsaws such as the Stihl MS660 and MS440. It has 91 drive links, a 3/8″ pitch, and a .050″ gauge. The skip tooth, full chisel design helps clear chips efficiently and reduces vibration.
Manufactured with premium German steel, the chains have hardened and quenched rivets that enhance strength and wear resistance. The precise heat treatment process preserves chain flatness and toughness, allowing for better performance on demanding jobs. Users should take safety precautions due to potential kickback.
8TEN Full Chisel Skip Tooth Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 70DL
The 8TEN 20-inch chain features 70 drive links, a 3/8″ pitch, and a .050″ gauge and is compatible with various models, including Echo CS-590 and Poulan PP5020AV. Its full chisel skip tooth design excels in fast and aggressive cutting with fewer teeth to reduce drag and kickback potential.
Compatible with many OEM part numbers, this single-pack chain is made for durability and efficiency. The broad compatibility offers users flexibility for replacement or upgrades on multiple saw brands and models. It fits chainsaws used in both professional and residential cutting tasks.
8TEN Full Chisel Skip Tooth Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL (3 Pack)
This set includes three 24-inch chains with 84 drive links each. The chains have a 3/8″ pitch with a .050″ gauge and use high-quality 68CrNiMo33 steel for the cutting parts and GCr15 steel for the rivets, ensuring high strength and wear resistance. Designed for Husqvarna 455 Rancher, Echo CS-590, and Stihl chainsaws, it is a versatile option for medium to large bars.
The full chisel skip tooth cutter allows for aggressive cutting, ideal for crosscutting and heavy-duty forestry work. Attention to compatibility is necessary to ensure a perfect fit, and safety considerations apply due to the aggressive nature of full chisel chains.
Husqvarna 585548993 C85S 28″ Skip Tooth Chisel Chainsaw Chain
This is an OEM skip tooth chain designed specifically for Husqvarna models requiring part number 585548993. It measures 28 inches and features a 3/8″ pitch and a heavier .058″ gauge, offering durability suitable for professional-grade chainsaws.
The chain replaces obsolete parts 591152593 and 544075993, making it the ideal replacement for several Husqvarna saws. The genuine OEM quality ensures perfect fitting and optimal performance, with skip tooth chisels aimed at efficient cutting and better debris clearance.
Buying Guide for Skip Tooth Chainsaw Chains
Selecting the best skip tooth chainsaw chain requires understanding your specific chainsaw and cutting needs. The following factors are crucial when making a purchase:
Chain Size and Compatibility
- Bar Length: Confirm the chainsaw bar length to ensure the chain links match perfectly.
- Pitch: Measure the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two; common sizes include 3/8″ and .325″.
- Gauge: Verify the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove; typical gauges are .050″ and .058″.
- Drive Links: The number of drive links must correspond to your chainsaw’s specifications for smooth operation.
Chain Design and Cutter Type
- Skip Tooth Chains: Feature fewer teeth than full complement chains, reducing friction and improving cutting speed in large wood or wet conditions.
- Full Chisel vs. Semi-Chisel: Full chisel chains cut aggressively with square-cornered teeth, ideal for dense wood but can dull faster. Semi-chisel chains have rounded edges, offering longer durability in dirty conditions.
Material and Build Quality
- Steel Quality: High-grade steel with heat treatment improves chain toughness and resistance to wear.
- Rivets and Construction: Hardened and quenched rivets maintain chain strength and reduce the chance of breakage.
Safety Considerations
- Skip tooth chains with full chisel cutters may increase the risk of kickback. Experienced operators and protective equipment are recommended.
- Always match the chain type to your skill level and the intended cutting application.
Brand Reliability and Support
- Choose reputable brands with good customer service and wide compatibility options.
- Brands like KAKEI, 8TEN, and Husqvarna offer extensive chain size ranges and customer support to ensure correct fitment.
By considering these factors, you can find a skip tooth chainsaw chain that balances cutting efficiency, durability, and safety to match your chainsaw and cutting needs.