How To Measure a Chainsaw Bar: Tips & Tricks

When it comes to chainsaw bars, it is important that you get the right size and measurements if you need to replace the bar. If you get a replacement bar that is too big or too small, it won’t fit!

In this blog post, we will discuss how to measure chainsaw bars and provide some tips and tricks on how to get the perfect measurement. We will also talk about what factors you need to consider when choosing a chainsaw bar size.

So, whether you are a professional logger or just someone who likes to do occasional DIY projects around the house, make sure to read this blog post!

How To Measure a Chainsaw Bar

  • Grab a tape measure and place the tip of the tape at the point where the bar enters the chainsaw.
  • Extend the tape measure to the very end of the bar and note that the measurement
  • Round that measurement up to the nearest even number. (E.g 15 and 1/2 inches would be rounded up to 16 inches.

When measuring, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go with the larger size. That way, you’ll be sure you’re getting a properly-sized replacement when it comes time to buy a new chainsaw bar.

Ways To Measure A Chainsaw Bar

Before you can select the correct size replacement bar or chainsaw chain, you need to know how to measure a chainsaw bar.

There are two ways to measure the length of your saw’s guide bar. 

  • The first is by measuring from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail. 
  • The second way is by measuring from one end of the drive link to the other.

Another interesting read: What size chainsaw do I need for cutting trees?

Where To Look For Chainsaw Bar Measurements

The first place you’ll want to look when trying to determine the size of your chainsaw bar is in the owner’s manual. Oftentimes, the bar length will be included in the product information section. If it’s not listed there, check under the technical specifications or features.

Another good place to look is on the chainsaw itself. Many manufacturers will stamp the size right onto the bar. This is especially common with electric models.

If you can’t find any reference to the size anywhere, measure it yourself using a tape measure or ruler.

Another interesting read :How to Saw Lumber with a Bandsaw Mill

Things To Consider When Measuring Chainsaw Bars

There are a few different things that you’ll need to take into account when measuring your chainsaw bar. In this section, we’ll discuss each one in more detail so that you can get an accurate measurement every time.

  • The first thing you need to know is the pitch of your chain. The pitch is the distance between any three rivets divided by two. It’s important to know this because it will determine the gauge, or thickness, of the bar.

You can usually find this information stamped right on the chain itself. If not, consult your owner’s manual or ask a salesperson at your local hardware store for help in determining the pitch of your particular model.

  • Once you know the pitch, you can move on to measuring the length and width of the bar itself.

Now that you know how to measure your chainsaw bar, it’s time to learn about the different types of bars available. In the next section, we’ll discuss the three most common types of chainsaw bars and their best uses. Stay tuned!

Types of Chainsaw Bars

There are three main types of chainsaw bars: solid, sprocket-nose, and double-ended. The type of bar you choose will depend on the size and power of your saw as well as the type of wood you’ll be cutting. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Solid Bars

A solid bar is just what it sounds like – one solid piece of metal with no moving parts. These bars are the most durable and longest-lasting, but they’re also the heaviest. That’s why they’re mostly used on larger, more powerful saws.

Sprocket-Nose Bars

A sprocket-nose bar has a small wheel with teeth (called a sprocket) at the end. This type of bar is lighter than a solid bar and therefore easier to maneuver.

It’s also less likely to get jammed with branches and other debris. However, because of the way the sprocket is designed, these bars wear out faster than solid bars.

Another interesting read :How to Cut a 135 Degree Angle on a Miter Saw

Double-Ended Bars

A double-ended bar is simply two solid bars welded together in the middle. These bars are lighter than solid bars but not as light as sprocket-nose bars.

They’re also more durable than sprocket-nose bars and less likely to get jammed. However, they can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Now that you know the different types of chainsaw bars available, you can start shopping for a replacement bar for your saw.

Measuring Your Chainsaw Bar- 8 Tips And Tricks

Most people think that measuring a chainsaw chain pitch is pretty straightforward-you just take a tape measure and voilà! However, there’s a bit more to it than that. Here are eight tips and tricks on how to measure your chainsaw bar correctly:

Step 1: Check Owner’s Manual:

The first thing you should do is check the owner’s manual that came with your chainsaw body. Oftentimes, the manufacturer will have specific instructions on how to measure the chainsaw bar groove.

Step 2: Use A Ruler Or Tape Measure:

If there are no specific instructions in the owner’s manual, you can use a ruler or tape measure for effective cutting length.

Just extend it out to the full length of the chain bar and make a note of the required length measurement.

Another interesting read :7 Best Saw Blade for Cutting Hardwood Flooring

Step 4: Measure From End To End:

Step 6: Take Multiple Measurements:

It’s always a good idea to take multiple measurements and then average them out. This will help ensure accuracy.

Step 7: Write Down The Measurement:

Once you have your final measurement, be sure to write it down somewhere. That way, you’ll always know what size bar you need when ordering replacements or making repairs.

Step 8: Bring The Saw To The Store:

When you’re ready to buy a new bar, it’s always best to bring your chainsaw with you to the store. That way, you can make sure that the bar is a perfect fit.

By following these eight tips, you’ll be able to measure your chainsaw bar correctly every time. With accurate measurements, you can be sure that your saw will always perform at its best.

Another interesting read :5 Best Sawzall Blade for Cutting Tires

Chainsaw Measurement Safety Measures:

Before you begin to measure the bar of your chainsaw, it is important to take some safety measures.

  • First, make sure that the chainsaw is turned off and that the chain is not engaged when measuring the chainsaw blade length. Second, wear gloves to protect your hands from the sharp edges of the saw, and follow all the safety tips.
  • Third, measure the bar while it is still on the saw. This will ensure that you get an accurate measurement of the chainsaw’s bar.
  • Fourth, use a tape measure or ruler to measure the bar. Do not try to eyeball the chain measurements, as this could lead to inaccuracies.
  • Fifth, write down the measurement so that you can reference it later.
  • Sixth, when you are finished measuring the bar, disengage the chain and turn off the chainsaw.
  • Finally, be aware of your surroundings and make sure that there are no other people or animals nearby who could be injured if something went wrong.

Conclusion:

We hope you found this guide on how to measure your chainsaw bar helpful. Measuring your chainsaw bar correctly is crucial in order to get the right size replacement.

If you have any questions or tips of your own, be sure to leave them in the comments below! Thanks for reading!

Share on:

Sam Morgan is a general contractor based in Charlotte, North Carolina. He does home renovations, extensions, landscaping maintenance, and general handyman jobs for homeowners. He is also the part-time content writer at Machine Handyman and a lifelong tools enthusiast. Sam loves hand tools, power tools, machinery, and DIY gadgets of all shapes and sizes! He is always researching the different types of home improvement tools that will get the best results. This site will cover products like power drills, air compressors, saws, nail guns, screw guns, grinders, cutting tools, and many more.

Leave a Comment