36 Inch Chainsaw Bars (Guide To Rare Long Bars & Gauge Insights)

Are you ready to wield the power of a 36-inch chainsaw bar, turning massive logs into manageable pieces with unparalleled efficiency? I’ve spent years in the woods, felling trees and processing timber, and I can tell you that the right chainsaw bar makes all the difference. This guide dives deep into the world of 36-inch chainsaw bars, exploring their applications, the nuances of gauge and pitch, and everything you need to know to choose the perfect one for your needs. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your chainsaw!

Understanding the Allure of the 36-Inch Chainsaw Bar

The 36-inch chainsaw bar isn’t your everyday tool. It’s a specialized piece of equipment designed for tackling large-diameter trees and demanding cutting tasks. Its extended reach allows you to fell mature hardwoods, mill substantial timbers, and process oversized logs with greater ease and precision.

Why Choose a 36-Inch Bar?

Felling Large Trees: When dealing with trees exceeding 30 inches in diameter, a 36-inch bar provides the necessary length to make a single, clean cut, minimizing the risk of pinching and maximizing efficiency.
Milling Timber: For those venturing into the world of portable sawmills, a 36-inch bar allows you to mill wider boards and slabs, expanding your project possibilities.
Processing Oversized Logs: Whether you’re preparing firewood or clearing storm damage, a longer bar lets you tackle large logs without constantly repositioning the saw.

The Trade-Offs: Power and Maneuverability

Of course, the increased cutting capacity comes with certain trade-offs. A 36-inch bar requires a powerful chainsaw to drive the longer chain effectively. It also reduces the saw’s maneuverability, making it less suitable for limbing or smaller cutting tasks.

Decoding Chainsaw Bar Gauge and Pitch

Gauge and pitch are two critical measurements that determine the compatibility of your chainsaw bar and chain. Understanding these concepts is essential for safe and efficient operation.

Gauge: The Groove Width

The gauge refers to the thickness of the drive links on your chainsaw chain, which must match the width of the groove on your chainsaw bar. Common gauges include .050″, .058″, and .063″.

Importance of Matching Gauge: Using a chain with the wrong gauge can lead to poor chain tracking, increased wear on the bar and chain, and even chain derailment.
Identifying Your Gauge: Your chainsaw’s owner’s manual will specify the correct gauge for your saw. You can also find this information stamped on the bar itself.
My Experience: I once tried to use a .058″ chain on a bar designed for .050″. The chain felt loose and wobbly, and it quickly damaged the drive links. Lesson learned!

Pitch: The Chain Link Spacing

The pitch refers to the distance between any three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. Common pitches include 3/8″ and .325″.

Importance of Matching Pitch: Using a chain with the wrong pitch will prevent it from engaging properly with the sprocket on your chainsaw, rendering it unusable.
Identifying Your Pitch: Like the gauge, the correct pitch for your chainsaw will be specified in the owner’s manual and often stamped on the bar.
Practical Tip: Always double-check the gauge and pitch before purchasing a new chain. A simple mistake can cost you time and money.

Finding Rare Long Bars: A Quest for the Unusual

While 36-inch chainsaw bars are readily available, finding bars longer than that can be a challenge. These “rare long bars” are often sought after by professional loggers and those involved in specialized milling applications.

Where to Find Extra-Long Bars

Specialty Chainsaw Shops: Local chainsaw shops that cater to professional loggers are your best bet. They often have access to a wider range of bars and can even custom-order specific lengths.
Online Retailers: Online retailers specializing in chainsaw parts and accessories may carry longer bars, but be sure to verify the gauge and pitch compatibility before ordering.
Direct from Manufacturers: Some chainsaw bar manufacturers offer custom bar fabrication services. This is the most expensive option, but it allows you to get exactly what you need.
Used Equipment Markets: Keep an eye on online marketplaces and auctions for used chainsaw equipment. You might stumble upon a rare long bar at a bargain price.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Long Bar

Chainsaw Power: Ensure your chainsaw has sufficient power to drive a longer chain effectively. A general rule of thumb is to add approximately one horsepower for every 12 inches of bar length.
Bar Construction: Look for a bar made from high-quality steel with a durable tip. Longer bars are subjected to greater stress and require robust construction.
User Skill: Operating a chainsaw with a long bar requires a high level of skill and experience. Be sure you’re comfortable handling the saw before attempting to use a longer bar.

Chainsaw Bar Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your Investment

Proper maintenance is crucial for maximizing the lifespan and performance of your chainsaw bar. Here are some essential maintenance tasks:

Regular Cleaning

After Each Use: Remove sawdust and debris from the bar groove and oil holes using a scraper or wire brush.
Why It Matters: Buildup of sawdust can restrict oil flow, leading to premature wear on the bar and chain.

Bar Rail Dressing

Purpose: Filing the bar rails ensures they are square and even, preventing uneven chain wear and improving cutting performance.
Tools: Use a bar rail dresser or a flat file to carefully remove any burrs or imperfections.
Frequency: Dress the bar rails every few chain sharpenings, or whenever you notice uneven wear.

Bar Flipping

Procedure: Periodically flip the bar over on the saw.
Benefits: This distributes wear evenly across both sides of the bar, extending its lifespan.
Recommendation: I recommend flipping the bar every time you replace the chain.

Sprocket Inspection and Replacement

Importance: A worn sprocket can damage the chain and reduce cutting efficiency.
Signs of Wear: Look for worn teeth or excessive play in the sprocket bearing.
Replacement: Replace the sprocket whenever you replace the chain, or sooner if it shows signs of wear.

Chain Sharpening

Sharp Chain, Safe Operation: A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.
Tools: Use a chainsaw file and guide to maintain the correct cutting angles.
Frequency: Sharpen the chain whenever it becomes dull, or at least every few hours of use.
My Technique: I prefer using a handheld file for sharpening my chains. It gives me more control and allows me to maintain the correct angles.

Choosing the Right Chainsaw for a 36-Inch Bar

Not all chainsaws are created equal. A 36-inch bar demands a powerful saw capable of delivering sufficient torque and chain speed.

Horsepower Requirements

As a general guideline, you’ll need a chainsaw with at least 60-80 cc engine displacement (approximately 4-6 horsepower) to effectively run a 36-inch bar.

Recommended Chainsaw Models

Stihl MS 462 R C-M: A professional-grade chainsaw with exceptional power and performance.
Husqvarna 572 XP: A rugged and reliable saw designed for demanding logging applications.
Echo CS-620P: A powerful and affordable option for occasional use.
Considerations: These are just a few examples. Consult your local chainsaw dealer for recommendations based on your specific needs and budget.

Bar and Chain Oiler Performance

Importance: A sufficient bar and chain oiler is essential for preventing friction and wear.
Check the Oiler: Ensure your chainsaw’s oiler is functioning properly and delivering adequate lubrication to the bar and chain.
Adjustable Oilers: Some chainsaws have adjustable oilers, allowing you to increase the oil flow when using a longer bar.

Safety First: Operating a Chainsaw with a 36-Inch Bar

Operating a chainsaw with a 36-inch bar requires a high level of skill, experience, and attention to safety.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Essential Gear: Always wear a chainsaw helmet with face shield and ear protection, chainsaw chaps, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
Why It Matters: PPE can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

Proper Cutting Techniques

Stance and Grip: Maintain a stable stance with both hands firmly gripping the chainsaw.
Avoiding Kickback: Be aware of the kickback zone at the upper quadrant of the bar tip and avoid using this area for cutting.
Controlled Cuts: Make slow, controlled cuts, allowing the saw to do the work.
My Experience: I once experienced a kickback while felling a tree. Fortunately, I was wearing proper PPE and was able to avoid serious injury.

Situational Awareness

Assess the Surroundings: Before cutting, assess the surrounding area for hazards such as overhead branches, power lines, and uneven terrain.
Plan Your Escape Route: Always have a clear escape route in case of a falling tree or other emergency.
Work with a Partner: When felling large trees, it’s always best to work with a partner who can assist with spotting and provide assistance in case of an emergency.

Chain Brake

How it Works: The chain brake is a safety device that stops the chain instantly in the event of kickback or other emergency.
Always Engaged: Always engage the chain brake when starting the saw, moving between cuts, or setting the saw down.
Regular Inspection: Inspect the chain brake regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly.

Applications of a 36-Inch Chainsaw Bar: Beyond the Basics

While felling large trees is the most common application, a 36-inch chainsaw bar can be used for a variety of other tasks.

Milling Lumber with an Alaskan Chainsaw Mill

What it is: An Alaskan chainsaw mill is an attachment that allows you to use your chainsaw to mill lumber on-site.
Benefits: This is a great option for those who want to mill their own lumber for projects or for those who don’t have access to a traditional sawmill.
36-Inch Bar Advantage: A 36-inch bar is ideal for milling wider boards and slabs with an Alaskan mill.

Cutting Firewood from Large Rounds

Efficiency: A 36-inch bar allows you to cut firewood from large rounds without having to constantly reposition the log.
Safety: This can be a safer and more efficient way to process large rounds compared to using a smaller chainsaw or an axe.

Clearing Storm Damage

Reach and Power: A 36-inch bar provides the reach and power needed to clear storm damage quickly and efficiently.
Large Limbs and Trunks: It’s particularly useful for cutting through large limbs and trunks that have been downed by storms.

Bucking Large Logs

Definition: Bucking is the process of cutting a felled tree into shorter lengths.
36-Inch Bar Advantage: A 36-inch bar makes bucking large logs easier and faster, especially when dealing with hardwood species.

Case Studies: Real-World Applications of 36-Inch Chainsaw Bars

To illustrate the practical applications of 36-inch chainsaw bars, let’s examine a few real-world case studies.

Case Study 1: Felling a Giant Redwood

Location: Northern California
Challenge: Felling a massive redwood tree with a diameter exceeding 4 feet.
Solution: A professional logger used a chainsaw equipped with a 36-inch bar to make a precise felling cut.
Outcome: The tree was felled safely and efficiently, minimizing damage to surrounding vegetation.

Case Study 2: Milling Lumber for a Custom Home

Location: Rural Oregon
Challenge: Milling lumber on-site for a custom home using an Alaskan chainsaw mill.
Solution: A homeowner used a chainsaw with a 36-inch bar and an Alaskan mill to mill lumber from locally sourced timber.
Outcome: The homeowner was able to save money on lumber costs and create a unique home with locally sourced materials.

Case Study 3: Clearing Storm Damage After a Hurricane

Location: Coastal Florida
Challenge: Clearing fallen trees and debris after a major hurricane.
Solution: A team of arborists used chainsaws with 36-inch bars to quickly and efficiently clear roadways and properties.
Outcome: The arborists were able to restore access to affected areas and help residents begin the recovery process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with 36-Inch Chainsaw Bars

Even with proper maintenance, you may encounter some common issues with your 36-inch chainsaw bar.

Chain Binding or Pinching

Causes: This can be caused by a dull chain, improper cutting technique, or a warped bar.
Solutions: Sharpen the chain, use proper cutting techniques, and inspect the bar for damage.

Uneven Chain Wear

Causes: This can be caused by a worn bar, improper chain tension, or a dull chain.
Solutions: Dress the bar rails, adjust chain tension, and sharpen the chain regularly.

Insufficient Oiling

Causes: This can be caused by a clogged oiler, low oil level, or a worn oil pump.
Solutions: Clean the oiler, fill the oil reservoir, and inspect the oil pump.

Bar Damage

Causes: This can be caused by hitting rocks or other foreign objects, or by using the saw improperly.
Solutions: Avoid hitting foreign objects, use proper cutting techniques, and replace the bar if it’s severely damaged.

The Future of Chainsaw Technology

The chainsaw industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to improve efficiency, safety, and performance.

Battery-Powered Chainsaws

Benefits: Battery-powered chainsaws are becoming increasingly popular due to their quiet operation, low emissions, and ease of use.
Limitations: While battery technology has improved significantly, battery-powered chainsaws still lack the power and runtime of gas-powered models.
Future Potential: As battery technology continues to advance, battery-powered chainsaws are likely to become more competitive with gas-powered models, even for demanding applications.

Automated Chainsaw Systems

Concept: Some companies are developing automated chainsaw systems that can be used for tasks such as tree harvesting and lumber milling.
Benefits: These systems can improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and enhance safety.
Challenges: The development of automated chainsaw systems is still in its early stages, and there are many technical and logistical challenges to overcome.

Enhanced Safety Features

Examples: Manufacturers are incorporating new safety features into chainsaws, such as electronic chain brakes, anti-vibration systems, and improved ergonomics.
Benefits: These features can help to reduce the risk of injury and improve operator comfort.
Importance: Staying up-to-date on the latest safety features is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient chainsaw operation.

Conclusion: Mastering the 36-Inch Chainsaw Bar

The 36-inch chainsaw bar is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance your ability to fell large trees, mill lumber, and process oversized logs. By understanding the nuances of gauge and pitch, choosing the right chainsaw, and practicing proper maintenance and safety procedures, you can unlock the full potential of this versatile tool. Remember, safety is paramount. Always wear proper PPE, use proper cutting techniques, and be aware of your surroundings. With the knowledge and skills you’ve gained from this guide, you’re well-equipped to tackle even the most challenging wood processing tasks. Now, get out there and put your chainsaw to work!