Stihl MS391 Chain Selection Guide (5 Pro Tips for Loggers)
“I was always struggling to find the right chain for my Stihl MS391. It felt like a gamble every time. This guide is exactly what I needed – practical, no-nonsense advice that actually works!” – Mark J., Independent Logger, British Columbia
I’m thrilled to share my insights on one of the most crucial aspects of chainsaw operation: chain selection, specifically for the Stihl MS391. Trust me, I’ve been there, done that, and got the sawdust to prove it. Choosing the right chain can make or break your day, turning a frustrating slog into a smooth, efficient operation. This guide isn’t just about picking any chain; it’s about maximizing your MS391’s potential and working smarter, not harder.
Globally, the wood processing and firewood industries are seeing a resurgence, fueled by a growing interest in sustainable heating solutions and the enduring appeal of working with wood. In North America, for example, firewood remains a primary or supplemental heating source for millions of homes. Similarly, in Europe, particularly in Scandinavian countries, wood stoves are a staple, driving demand for quality firewood. However, with this demand comes increased pressure on efficiency and safety, making proper tool selection absolutely critical.
Why Chain Selection Matters: More Than Just Cutting Wood
Think of your chainsaw chain as the teeth of a saw. Dull, improperly sized, or the wrong type of teeth, and you’re in for a world of trouble. A good chain not only cuts faster but also enhances safety, reduces wear and tear on your saw, and improves fuel efficiency. Let’s dive into the details.
Understanding the Basics: Key Concepts
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of chain selection, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page with some key concepts:
- Chain Pitch: This is the distance between any three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. Common pitches are .325″, 3/8″, and .404″.
- Chain Gauge: The thickness of the drive link where it fits into the chainsaw bar groove. Common gauges are .050″, .058″, and .063″.
- Drive Link Count: The number of drive links on the chain, which determines the chain length.
- Chain Type: Different chain designs cater to different cutting needs, like ripping, cross-cutting, or safety features.
Pro Tip #1: Know Your Stihl MS391 Specifications
Okay, this sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many folks skip this crucial step. The Stihl MS391 is a versatile saw, but it has specific requirements.
- Recommended Bar Length: Stihl typically recommends bar lengths between 16″ and 20″ for the MS391.
- Compatible Chain Pitch: The MS391 usually uses a .325″ pitch chain.
- Compatible Chain Gauge: The MS391 usually uses a .063″ gauge chain.
Why this matters: Using the wrong pitch or gauge can damage your saw and potentially cause serious injury. A too-long bar will strain the engine and reduce cutting efficiency. Always consult your owner’s manual for the definitive specs for your specific MS391.
Actionable Step: Pull out your Stihl MS391 owner’s manual right now and double-check the recommended bar length, chain pitch, and gauge. Write it down and keep it handy.
Pro Tip #2: Choose the Right Chain Type for the Job
Not all chains are created equal. There’s a whole world of chain types out there, each designed for specific tasks.
- Full Chisel Chains: These have square-cornered cutters and are the fastest cutting chains. Ideal for experienced users and clean wood. They dull quickly if they hit dirt. I remember one time, I was clearing a large oak that had fallen after a storm. I used a full chisel chain and made quick work of the trunk. The downside? I hit a patch of dirt near the base, and the chain dulled almost instantly.
- Semi-Chisel Chains: These have rounded corners on the cutters, making them more durable and forgiving in dirty or frozen wood. A great all-around choice for most firewood cutting and general logging.
- Low-Kickback Chains: These have guard links that reduce the risk of kickback, making them safer for inexperienced users. They cut slower but provide added peace of mind.
- Ripping Chains: These are designed for cutting with the grain of the wood, ideal for milling lumber.
Case Study: A small sawmill in Oregon was struggling to efficiently mill cedar logs using standard cross-cutting chains. Switching to ripping chains increased their lumber yield by 15% and significantly reduced cutting time.
Actionable Step: Consider the type of wood you’ll be cutting and your skill level. For most firewood cutting, a semi-chisel chain is a solid choice. If you’re milling lumber, invest in a ripping chain. If you’re new to chainsaws, opt for a low-kickback chain.
Pro Tip #3: Understand the Importance of Chain Maintenance
A sharp chain is a safe chain. Dull chains require more force, increasing the risk of kickback and putting unnecessary strain on your saw.
- Sharpening: Learn to sharpen your chain regularly using a file or a chain grinder. I prefer using a file in the field. It’s a skill every chainsaw user should master.
- Tensioning: Proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient cutting. A loose chain can derail and cause serious injury.
- Lubrication: Always use high-quality bar and chain oil to keep your chain lubricated. A dry chain will wear out quickly and can damage your bar.
Data Point: Studies show that a properly sharpened chain can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% and increase cutting speed by 30%.
Actionable Step: Invest in a good quality chainsaw file, a depth gauge, and a filing guide. Watch some online tutorials and practice sharpening your chain until you get the hang of it. Check chain tension before each use and after every few cuts.
Pro Tip #4: Consider the Wood Species You’re Cutting
Different wood species have different properties that can affect chain performance.
- Hardwoods: Oak, maple, and hickory are dense and require a sharp chain and a powerful saw.
- Softwoods: Pine, fir, and spruce are easier to cut but can be sappy and gum up your chain.
- Exotic Woods: Some exotic woods like teak or ironwood are incredibly hard and abrasive, requiring specialized chains.
Personal Story: I once tried to cut through a piece of Osage Orange (hedge apple) with a standard chain. Let’s just say it was an exercise in futility. The wood was so dense and hard that it dulled the chain almost instantly.
Actionable Step: If you’re cutting hardwoods, choose a more aggressive chain like a full chisel or semi-chisel. Clean your chain frequently when cutting softwoods to remove sap and pitch. For extremely hard woods, consider a chain with carbide-tipped cutters.
Pro Tip #5: Don’t Skimp on Quality
Cheap chains are tempting, but they’re often made from inferior materials and won’t last as long.
- Stihl Chains: Stihl makes excellent chains specifically designed for their saws. They’re a reliable choice.
- Oregon Chains: Oregon is another reputable brand that offers a wide range of chains for different applications.
- Avoid Knock-offs: Steer clear of cheap, unbranded chains. They may save you a few bucks upfront, but they’ll cost you more in the long run due to poor performance and short lifespan.
Cost Analysis: A high-quality Stihl or Oregon chain might cost $30-$50, while a cheap knock-off might cost $15-$20. However, the high-quality chain will likely last two to three times longer, making it the more cost-effective option in the long run.
Actionable Step: Invest in a reputable brand of chain. It’s a small price to pay for improved performance, safety, and longevity.
Chain Selection Chart for Stihl MS391
| Cutting Task | Wood Type | Chain Type | Bar Length (Recommended) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firewood (General) | Mixed (Soft/Hard) | Semi-Chisel | 18″ – 20″ | Good all-around choice for most firewood cutting. |
| Firewood (Hardwoods) | Oak, Maple, Hickory | Full Chisel/Semi-Chisel | 18″ – 20″ | Use full chisel for faster cutting, semi-chisel for more durability. |
| Firewood (Softwoods) | Pine, Fir, Spruce | Semi-Chisel | 16″ – 18″ | Watch for sap build-up; clean chain frequently. |
| Small Tree Felling | Mixed (Soft/Hard) | Semi-Chisel/Low-Kickback | 18″ – 20″ | Low-kickback recommended for inexperienced users. |
| Milling (Small Logs) | Cedar, Pine | Ripping | 16″ – 18″ | Essential for cutting with the grain. |
| Storm Clean-up | Mixed, Dirty Wood | Semi-Chisel | 18″ – 20″ | More forgiving in dirty conditions. |
| Exotic Hardwoods | Teak, Ironwood | Carbide-Tipped | 18″ – 20″ | Necessary for extremely hard and abrasive woods. |
Troubleshooting: Common Chain Problems and Solutions
- Chain Dulls Quickly: Check for dirt, rocks, or metal in the wood. Sharpen the chain more frequently. Consider using a semi-chisel chain for dirty conditions.
- Chain Smokes: Insufficient lubrication. Check the oil reservoir and oiler function. Make sure the bar is properly oiled.
- Chain Cuts Crooked: Unevenly sharpened cutters. Sharpen the chain properly, ensuring all cutters are the same length and angle.
- Chain Jumps or Bounces: Loose chain tension. Tighten the chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Chain Kicks Back: Improper cutting technique. Use a low-kickback chain. Be aware of the kickback zone at the tip of the bar.
Budgeting for Chains and Maintenance
- Chain Costs: As mentioned earlier, expect to pay $30-$50 for a high-quality chain.
- Sharpening Equipment: A good chainsaw file kit will cost around $20-$30. A chain grinder can range from $50 to $200.
- Bar and Chain Oil: A gallon of high-quality bar and chain oil will cost around $15-$20.
- Replacement Bars: A replacement bar for your Stihl MS391 can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, depending on the length and quality.
Resource Management Tip: Consider buying chains in bulk to save money. Also, properly maintaining your chains and bars will extend their lifespan and reduce replacement costs.
Next Steps and Additional Resources
Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, here’s what I recommend you do next:
- Review Your Owner’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with the specific recommendations for your Stihl MS391.
- Assess Your Needs: Determine the type of wood you’ll be cutting and your skill level.
- Choose the Right Chain: Select a chain that matches your needs and your saw’s specifications.
- Invest in Maintenance: Get the necessary tools for sharpening and maintaining your chain.
- Practice and Learn: Practice sharpening your chain and using your chainsaw safely.
Suppliers of Logging Tools and Chains:
- Stihl Dealers: Your local Stihl dealer is a great resource for chains, bars, and other chainsaw accessories.
- Oregon Products: Oregon products are widely available online and at many hardware stores.
- Northern Tool + Equipment: Northern Tool offers a wide selection of logging tools and equipment.
- Bailey’s: Bailey’s is a popular online retailer specializing in logging and chainsaw supplies.
Drying Equipment Rental Services:
- While not directly related to chain selection, proper firewood drying is crucial. Check with local equipment rental companies for wood chippers, splitters, and other wood processing equipment.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Chain Sharp and Your Saw Running Smoothly!
Choosing the right chain for your Stihl MS391 is a crucial step towards safe and efficient wood processing. By understanding the different chain types, maintaining your chain properly, and considering the wood species you’re cutting, you can maximize your saw’s performance and make your logging or firewood preparation tasks much easier. Remember, a sharp chain is a safe chain, so keep those teeth sharp and get out there and make some sawdust!
