050 vs 063 Chain: Choosing Bars Over 36 Inch (Pro Guide)

As someone deeply involved in the world of wood processing, logging, and firewood preparation, I understand the importance of making informed decisions about the tools we use. Before diving into the specifics of chain gauge selection, it’s worth considering the resale value of your equipment. A well-maintained chainsaw, even one used extensively, can fetch a good price if it’s equipped with quality components and has been properly cared for. Choosing the right chain and bar, and understanding their impact on performance and longevity, directly affects that resale value. Think of it as an investment, not just an expense.

050 vs 063 Chain: Choosing Bars Over 36 Inch (Pro Guide)

When you’re working with bars over 36 inches, the choice between a 0.050″ (1.3 mm) and a 0.063″ (1.6 mm) chain gauge becomes critical. This isn’t just about preference; it’s about matching the right tool to the job, ensuring safety, optimizing performance, and, as I mentioned earlier, protecting your investment. I’ve spent years felling trees, bucking logs, and processing firewood, and I’ve learned firsthand the difference the right chain gauge can make. Let’s delve into the details.

Understanding Chain Gauge

The chain gauge refers to the thickness of the drive links – the part of the chain that sits inside the groove of the guide bar. It’s measured in thousandths of an inch (e.g., 0.050″) or millimeters (e.g., 1.3 mm). The gauge of your chain must match the gauge of your guide bar; otherwise, the chain won’t fit properly, leading to poor performance, premature wear, and potentially dangerous situations.

Why Chain Gauge Matters, Especially with Longer Bars

With longer bars (over 36 inches), the forces acting on the chain are significantly greater. Think about the leverage involved. A longer bar means more weight and more resistance as you cut through wood. This increased stress amplifies the impact of chain gauge on several key factors:

• Chain Strength and Durability: A thicker gauge (0.063″) generally means a stronger, more durable chain. This is crucial for handling the increased stress and strain associated with longer bars and larger diameter trees.
• Bar Wear: A mismatched or undersized chain can cause excessive wear on the guide bar, shortening its lifespan.
• Cutting Efficiency: The correct chain gauge ensures smooth, efficient cutting. An improperly fitted chain can bind or wobble, reducing cutting speed and increasing the risk of kickback.
• Safety: A properly matched chain and bar are essential for safe operation. Mismatched components can lead to chain breakage, bar damage, and potential injury.

050 Gauge Chains: When Are They Appropriate?

While 0.063″ is generally recommended for bars over 36 inches, there are specific situations where a 0.050″ gauge chain might be considered.

• Smaller Chainsaws: Some smaller, less powerful chainsaws, even when fitted with a longer bar, may be designed for a 0.050″ gauge chain. This is because the engine simply doesn’t have the power to effectively drive a thicker chain.
• Specific Wood Types: Cutting softer woods like pine or cedar might allow for the use of a 0.050″ gauge chain, even with a longer bar. However, this is still not generally recommended for professional use.
• Limbing and Pruning: For limbing and pruning tasks where precision and maneuverability are paramount, a 0.050″ chain on a longer bar might offer a slight advantage in terms of weight and handling.

However, I strongly advise against using a 0.050″ gauge chain on bars over 36 inches for felling large trees or processing hardwoods. The risk of chain breakage and bar damage is simply too high.

063 Gauge Chains: The Go-To Choice for Longer Bars

For bars exceeding 36 inches, a 0.063″ gauge chain is almost universally recommended. Here’s why:

• Increased Strength and Durability: The thicker drive links of a 0.063″ chain provide superior strength and resistance to stretching and breakage. This is essential for handling the increased stress associated with longer bars and larger diameter trees.
• Improved Bar Stability: The thicker gauge provides a more stable fit within the guide bar groove, reducing wobble and vibration. This translates to smoother, more efficient cutting and reduced wear on both the chain and the bar.
• Better Heat Dissipation: The increased mass of a 0.063″ chain helps to dissipate heat more effectively, reducing the risk of overheating and premature wear.
• Enhanced Cutting Performance: The added strength and stability of a 0.063″ chain allow for more aggressive cutting angles and increased cutting speed, especially in hardwoods.

My personal experience has consistently shown that 0.063″ chains hold up significantly better under the demanding conditions of felling large trees with long bars. I’ve seen 0.050″ chains stretch and break far too often when pushed to their limits.

Factors Influencing Your Chain Gauge Decision

Beyond the bar length, several other factors should influence your choice of chain gauge:

• Chainsaw Power: The power of your chainsaw is a critical factor. A more powerful saw can effectively drive a thicker, 0.063″ chain, while a less powerful saw might struggle.
• Wood Type: As mentioned earlier, the type of wood you’re cutting matters. Hardwoods like oak and maple require a stronger chain than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Cutting Conditions: The severity of the cutting conditions also plays a role. Felling large trees in dense forests puts more stress on the chain than limbing branches in an open area.
• User Experience: Your level of experience with chainsaws should also be considered. Less experienced users might benefit from the added stability and forgiveness of a 0.063″ chain.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: Understanding Your Material

Before choosing a chain, it’s crucial to understand the wood you’ll be cutting. Wood isn’t just a uniform substance; it’s a complex material with varying properties that affect how easily it cuts and how much stress it puts on your chainsaw.

• Hardwood vs. Softwood: This is the most basic distinction. Hardwoods (deciduous trees like oak, maple, and hickory) are generally denser and harder to cut than softwoods (coniferous trees like pine, fir, and spruce). Hardwoods require a sharper, stronger chain and more power to cut effectively.
• Density: Density is a measure of the mass per unit volume of wood. Denser woods are harder to cut and put more stress on the chain.
• Moisture Content: The moisture content of wood significantly affects its cutting properties. Green (freshly cut) wood is generally easier to cut than dry, seasoned wood. However, green wood is also heavier and more prone to warping and cracking.
• Grain Pattern: The grain pattern of wood can also affect its cutting properties. Wood with straight, consistent grain is easier to cut than wood with knots, burls, or twisted grain.

Data Point: A study by the USDA Forest Service found that the cutting force required to cut dry oak is approximately 50% higher than the cutting force required to cut green pine. This highlights the importance of choosing the right chain for the specific type and condition of wood you’re cutting.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices

Beyond the chain and bar, proper tool selection and maintenance are essential for safe and efficient wood processing.

• Chainsaw Selection: Choose a chainsaw that is appropriately sized for the type of work you’ll be doing. A larger, more powerful saw is needed for felling large trees, while a smaller, lighter saw is sufficient for limbing and pruning.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
• Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting. Learn how to sharpen your chain properly using a file or a chain grinder. Dull chains are more likely to kick back and can put excessive strain on the chainsaw engine.
• Bar Maintenance: Regularly inspect your guide bar for wear and damage. Remove any burrs or sharp edges with a file. Keep the bar groove clean and lubricated.
• Chainsaw Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for chainsaw maintenance, including cleaning the air filter, changing the spark plug, and lubricating the bar and chain.

Case Study: I once worked on a logging project where a crew was consistently experiencing chain breakage and bar damage. After observing their operation, I realized that they were neglecting basic maintenance tasks, such as chain sharpening and bar lubrication. By implementing a simple maintenance schedule, they were able to significantly reduce downtime and improve their overall productivity.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently. It also reduces the risk of chimney fires.

• Splitting: Split firewood before seasoning to speed up the drying process. Smaller pieces dry faster than larger pieces.
• Stacking: Stack firewood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation. This allows the wood to dry evenly.
• Location: Choose a sunny, windy location for your firewood pile. This will help to speed up the drying process.
• Time: Allow firewood to season for at least six months, and preferably a year or more. The longer it seasons, the better it will burn.

Data Point: A study by the University of Maine found that properly seasoned firewood can have a moisture content of 20% or less, while green firewood can have a moisture content of 50% or more. This difference in moisture content significantly affects the BTU (British Thermal Unit) output of the wood.

Safety Considerations:

• Stacking Stability: Ensure that your firewood pile is stable and will not collapse.
• Pest Control: Take steps to prevent pests, such as termites and carpenter ants, from infesting your firewood pile.
• Clearance: Maintain a safe clearance between your firewood pile and any buildings or flammable materials.

Project Planning and Execution: A Step-by-Step Approach

Whether you’re felling trees, processing firewood, or building a log cabin, proper project planning is essential for success.

1. Define Your Objectives: Clearly define your objectives for the project. What do you want to accomplish?
2. Assess Your Resources: Assess your available resources, including time, money, equipment, and manpower.
3. Develop a Plan: Develop a detailed plan that outlines the steps you will take to achieve your objectives.
4. Gather Your Materials: Gather all the necessary materials and equipment.
5. Execute the Plan: Execute the plan, following the steps you have outlined.
6. Monitor Your Progress: Monitor your progress and make adjustments to the plan as needed.
7. Evaluate Your Results: Evaluate your results and learn from your experiences.

Example: Let’s say you want to cut and split 10 cords of firewood for the winter.

• Objectives: Cut and split 10 cords of firewood by October 1st.
• Resources: Chainsaw, splitting maul, wedges, safety gear, truck, firewood permit.
• Plan:
  • Obtain a firewood permit.
  • Locate a source of firewood.
  • Fell trees (if necessary).
  • Buck logs into firewood lengths.
  • Split firewood.
  • Stack firewood for seasoning.
• Materials: Chainsaw, splitting maul, wedges, safety gear, truck, firewood permit.
• Execution: Follow the plan, step by step.
• Monitoring: Track your progress and make adjustments to the plan as needed.
• Evaluation: Evaluate your results and learn from your experiences. Did you meet your objectives? What could you have done better?

Detailed Comparisons: Hardwood vs. Softwood; Manual vs. Hydraulic Splitters

Let’s delve deeper into some specific comparisons that are crucial for making informed decisions about wood processing.

Hardwood vs. Softwood:

Manual vs. Hydraulic Splitters:

Unique Insights: I’ve found that using a combination of tools can be the most efficient approach. For instance, I often use a splitting maul for smaller, easier-to-split logs and a hydraulic splitter for larger, knotty pieces. This minimizes strain on my body and maximizes my productivity.

Practical Tips and Actionable Advice

Here are some practical tips and actionable advice you can apply immediately to improve your wood processing efficiency and safety:

• Sharpen Your Chain Regularly: A sharp chain cuts faster, smoother, and safer. Invest in a good chain sharpening kit and learn how to use it properly.
• Lubricate Your Bar and Chain: Proper lubrication reduces friction and wear, extending the life of your bar and chain. Use a high-quality bar and chain oil.
• Maintain Your Chainsaw: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for chainsaw maintenance. This includes cleaning the air filter, changing the spark plug, and inspecting the fuel lines.
• Wear Proper PPE: Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
• Plan Your Cuts: Before making a cut, take a moment to plan your approach. This will help you to avoid kickback and other hazards.
• Use Wedges: Use wedges to prevent the bar from pinching when felling trees or bucking logs.
• Stack Firewood Properly: Stack firewood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation. This will help it to dry quickly and evenly.
• Season Firewood for at Least Six Months: Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.
• Consider Using a Wood Moisture Meter: A wood moisture meter can help you to determine when your firewood is properly seasoned. The ideal moisture content for firewood is 20% or less.

Recommended Logging Tool: Based on my experience, I highly recommend the Stihl MS 462 R C-M chainsaw for felling large trees. It’s a powerful, reliable saw that can handle even the most demanding cutting conditions.

Current Industry Statistics and Data Points

• Chainsaw Market Size: The global chainsaw market is projected to reach \$3.5 billion by 2027, driven by increasing demand for firewood and forestry products. (Source: Global Market Insights)
• Firewood Consumption: Approximately 20 million households in the United States use firewood as a primary or secondary heating source. (Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration)
• Firewood Moisture Content: Properly seasoned firewood with a moisture content of 20% or less can produce up to 30% more heat than green firewood. (Source: University of Maine)
• Chainsaw Injury Statistics: According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, chainsaws cause approximately 30,000 injuries each year in the United States.
  • Limited Budget: Affording high-quality tools and equipment can be a significant challenge.
  • Lack of Space: Limited workspace can make it difficult to process large quantities of wood.
  • Access to Resources: Access to affordable firewood and lumber can be limited in some areas.
  • Knowledge and Skills: Developing the necessary knowledge and skills for safe and efficient wood processing can take time and effort.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Maintaining and repairing tools and equipment can be costly and time-consuming.

  Tip for DIYers: Consider purchasing used tools and equipment to save money. Look for well-maintained items that are in good working condition. Also, take advantage of online resources and workshops to learn new skills and techniques.

  Conclusion: Key Takeaways and Next Steps

  Choosing the right chain gauge for your chainsaw is a critical decision that affects safety, performance, and the longevity of your equipment. For bars over 36 inches, a 0.063″ gauge chain is generally the best choice due to its increased strength, durability, and stability. However, it’s essential to consider other factors, such as chainsaw power, wood type, and cutting conditions, when making your decision.

  Key Takeaways:

  • 0.063″ gauge chains are generally recommended for bars over 36 inches.
  • A thicker chain gauge provides superior strength and resistance to stretching and breakage.
  • Proper chain and bar maintenance is essential for safe and efficient cutting.
  • Always wear appropriate PPE when operating a chainsaw.
  • Season firewood properly to maximize its heat output.

  Next Steps:

  1. Assess your chainsaw and bar: Determine the appropriate chain gauge for your equipment.
  2. Inspect your chain and bar: Look for signs of wear and damage.
  3. Sharpen your chain: Ensure that your chain is sharp and properly maintained.
  4. Practice safe cutting techniques: Always follow proper safety procedures when operating a chainsaw.
  5. Consider taking a chainsaw safety course: This can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to operate a chainsaw safely and efficiently.

  By following these guidelines, you can make informed decisions about chain gauge selection and improve your overall wood processing experience. Remember, safety and proper maintenance are paramount. Now, get out there and put these tips into action!

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