The Benefits of Using Skip Chains for Cutting Wood

Skip chains are a type of chainsaw chain that have fewer teeth than standard full-complement chains. This design allows for faster cutting speeds and less drag on the chainsaw, making them a popular choice for cutting wood. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using skip chains for cutting wood and provide some tips for choosing the right skip chain for your needs.

Skip chains: what are they?

Skip chains are a type of chainsaw chain that are designed for faster cutting speeds and less drag on the chainsaw. They have fewer teeth than standard full-complement chains, which allows for larger gaps between the teeth. This design reduces the amount of wood that the chain comes into contact with, resulting in less resistance and faster cutting speeds.

Skip chains are typically used for cutting larger pieces of wood, such as logs or firewood. They are also used in commercial applications where speed and efficiency are important. Skip chains are available in different sizes and configurations, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs.

Benefits of using skip chains for cutting wood

There are several benefits to using skip chains for cutting wood:

1. Faster cutting speeds:Skip chains are designed to cut faster than standard full-complement chains. The larger gaps between the teeth reduce the amount of wood that the chain comes into contact with, resulting in less resistance and faster cutting speeds.

2. Less drag on the chainsaw:Skip chains create less drag on the chainsaw, which reduces wear and tear on the motor and extends the life of the chainsaw. This also allows the chainsaw to run cooler and with less vibration, making it easier to use for extended periods of time.

3. More efficient cutting:Skip chains are more efficient at cutting wood because they remove more material with each pass. This means that you can cut through larger pieces of wood more quickly and with fewer passes.

4. Better for cutting larger pieces of wood:Skip chains are ideal for cutting larger pieces of wood, such as logs or firewood. The larger gaps between the teeth allow for faster cutting and less binding, making it easier to make clean cuts.

How to choose the right skip chain for your needs

When choosing a skip chain for cutting wood, there are several factors to consider:

1. Size and configuration:Skip chains are available in different sizes and configurations, so it is important to choose the right one for your chainsaw. Check the owner’s manual for your chainsaw to determine the correct size and configuration for your needs.

2. Tooth design:Skip chains are available with different tooth designs, such as square or round. Square-tooth designs are better for making fast, aggressive cuts, while round-tooth designs are better for making smoother cuts.

3. Pitch and gauge:Skip chains are available in different pitches and gauges. The pitch is the distance between the drive links, while the gauge is the width of the guide bar. It is important to choose a skip chain with the correct pitch and gauge for your chainsaw.

4. Brand and quality:When choosing a skip chain, it is important to choose a reputable brand and high-quality chain. Cheap, low-quality chains can be dangerous and may not cut properly.

5. Type of wood being cut:The type of wood being cut can also affect the choice of skip chain. For example, skip chains with a square-tooth design are better for cutting softwoods, while chains with a round-tooth design are better for cutting hardwoods.

6. Experience level:Finally, the experience level of the user should also be taken into consideration when choosing a skip chain. Skip chains can be more difficult to use than standard full-complement chains, so beginners may want to start with a standard chain before moving on to a skip chain.

Conclusion

Skip chains are a popular choice for cutting wood because they offer faster cutting speeds, less drag on the chainsaw, and more efficient cutting. When choosing a skip chain, it is important to consider factors such as size, configuration, tooth design, pitch and gauge, brand and quality, type of wood being cut, and experience level. By choosing the right skip chain for your needs, you can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your wood-cutting tasks.