Husqvarna 350 Chain Size Guide (5 Pro Tips for Firewood Cutting)
The scent of sawdust and two-stroke exhaust still takes me back. Back to crisp autumn days in the woods with my grandfather, a man whose hands were as weathered and strong as the oak trees he felled. He taught me everything I know about wood, about respecting the forest, and about the satisfying crackle of a well-seasoned log burning in the hearth. His trusty chainsaw, a Husqvarna, was more than just a tool; it was an extension of his arm, a partner in his craft. Let’s dive in!
Husqvarna 350 Chain Size Guide (5 Pro Tips for Firewood Cutting)
The Husqvarna 350 is a workhorse of a chainsaw, a favorite among homeowners and professionals alike for its reliability and power. But to truly unlock its potential, you need to understand the importance of chain selection. Getting the right chain size isn’t just about fitting it on the bar; it’s about optimizing performance, ensuring safety, and prolonging the life of your saw.
Understanding Chain Pitch, Gauge, and Drive Links
Before we get into specific recommendations, let’s cover some essential terminology. These are the ABCs of chainsaw chains:
- Pitch: This is the distance between any three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. It’s usually expressed in inches (e.g., .325″, 3/8″). The pitch determines how aggressively the chain cuts.
- Gauge: This refers to the thickness of the drive links, which are the parts of the chain that fit into the groove of the guide bar. It’s also expressed in inches (e.g., .050″, .058″). Using the correct gauge is crucial for proper chain fit and preventing premature wear.
- Drive Links: These are the individual links on the chain that engage with the sprocket on the chainsaw. The number of drive links determines the overall length of the chain and is specific to the bar length.
Why does this matter? Using the wrong pitch or gauge can damage your chainsaw and create a safety hazard. A chain that’s too loose can derail, while one that’s too tight can cause excessive wear on the bar and sprocket.
Recommended Chain Sizes for the Husqvarna 350
The Husqvarna 350 typically uses a .325″ pitch chain with a .050″ gauge. However, the number of drive links will vary depending on the bar length. Here’s a general guideline:
- 16-inch bar: 66 drive links
- 18-inch bar: 72 drive links
Important Note: Always consult your Husqvarna 350’s owner’s manual for the specific chain recommendations for your bar length. Don’t assume! I’ve seen too many folks ruin their saws by using the wrong chain because they didn’t bother to check.
Pro Tip #1: Choosing the Right Chain Type for Firewood
Not all chainsaw chains are created equal. For firewood cutting, I recommend using a semi-chisel or full-chisel chain. Here’s a breakdown:
- Full-Chisel Chains: These chains have square-cornered cutters that are very aggressive and fast-cutting. They are ideal for clean wood and experienced users. However, they dull quickly in dirty or abrasive conditions.
- Semi-Chisel Chains: These chains have rounded-corner cutters that are more forgiving and durable. They are a good all-around choice for firewood cutting, especially if you’re dealing with dirty wood or hardwoods.
My Experience: I’ve personally found that a semi-chisel chain is the sweet spot for most firewood cutting applications. It offers a good balance of cutting speed and durability, and it’s less prone to kickback than a full-chisel chain, which is a huge safety advantage.
Data Point: Studies have shown that semi-chisel chains can maintain their sharpness up to 20% longer than full-chisel chains when cutting dirty wood. This translates to less downtime for sharpening and more firewood in the woodpile.
Pro Tip #2: Mastering Chain Sharpening
A sharp chain is a safe chain. A dull chain forces you to apply more pressure, increasing the risk of kickback and fatigue. Regular chain sharpening is essential for efficient and safe firewood cutting.
How to Sharpen Your Chain:
- Secure the Saw: Clamp the chainsaw bar in a vise to keep it stable.
- Use the Right File: Use a round file that matches the pitch of your chain. For a .325″ pitch chain, a 5/32″ file is typically recommended.
- Maintain the Correct Angle: Use a filing guide to maintain the correct sharpening angle (typically 25-30 degrees).
- File Each Cutter Evenly: File each cutter the same number of strokes to ensure consistent cutting performance.
- Check the Depth Gauges: Use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (also known as rakers). File them down as needed to maintain the correct depth gauge setting.
My Secret Weapon: I swear by using a chainsaw chain sharpener. While it’s an investment upfront, it pays for itself in time saved and consistent sharpening results. It takes the guesswork out of maintaining the correct angles and depth gauge settings.
Cost-Effectiveness: A quality chainsaw chain sharpener can save you money in the long run by extending the life of your chains and reducing the need for professional sharpening services. The cost of a decent sharpener ($100-$200) is often less than the cost of replacing several chains.
Pro Tip #3: Optimizing Cutting Techniques for Different Wood Species
Different wood species have different densities and characteristics, which can affect your cutting technique. Here’s a quick guide:
- Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Spruce): These woods are relatively easy to cut and require less power. Use a sharp chain and a steady cutting speed.
- Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Hickory): These woods are denser and require more power. Use a sharp chain and apply firm, consistent pressure. Avoid forcing the saw, as this can lead to kickback.
- Wet Wood: Wet wood is more difficult to cut than dry wood and can quickly dull your chain. Keep your chain sharp and consider using a bar and chain oil specifically formulated for wet wood.
Personalized Story: I once spent an entire afternoon trying to cut through a massive oak log with a dull chain. I was sweating, cursing, and making absolutely no progress. Finally, I swallowed my pride, sharpened the chain, and the saw sliced through the oak like butter. Lesson learned: always start with a sharp chain!
Wood Durability Data: Oak, known for its density, averages around 75 pounds per cubic foot when green, compared to pine’s average of 35 pounds per cubic foot. This significant density difference directly impacts cutting time and chain wear.
Pro Tip #4: Safe Fuel and Oil Practices
The Husqvarna 350 is a two-stroke engine, which means it requires a mixture of gasoline and oil. Using the correct fuel and oil mixture is crucial for engine performance and longevity.
- Fuel: Use high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher.
- Oil: Use a two-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Husqvarna recommends using their own brand of two-stroke oil, but other reputable brands will work as well.
- Mixing Ratio: The recommended fuel-to-oil mixing ratio for the Husqvarna 350 is typically 50:1 (50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil). Always consult your owner’s manual for the specific mixing ratio for your saw.
Safety Standards: Always mix fuel and oil in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or sparks. Use a fuel container specifically designed for gasoline. Never smoke while handling fuel.
Unique Insight: I always add a fuel stabilizer to my fuel mixture, especially if I’m not going to be using the saw for an extended period. This helps prevent the fuel from going stale and gumming up the carburetor.
Pro Tip #5: Mastering Felling Techniques and Safety
Felling trees for firewood is a dangerous task that should only be undertaken by experienced individuals who have received proper training. If you’re new to felling, consider taking a chainsaw safety course or hiring a professional.
Key Felling Techniques:
- Assess the Tree: Before felling a tree, assess its lean, branch distribution, and any potential hazards (e.g., power lines, buildings).
- Plan Your Escape Route: Identify a clear escape route that is at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall.
- Make a Notch: Cut a notch on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
- Make a Back Cut: Make a back cut on the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the bottom of the notch. Leave a hinge of uncut wood to control the direction of the fall.
- Use Wedges: If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction, use wedges to help guide its fall.
- Retreat Safely: As the tree begins to fall, retreat quickly and safely along your planned escape route.
Real Example: I once witnessed a near-fatal accident when a tree fell in an unexpected direction due to an unseen lean. The logger was lucky to escape with only minor injuries. This incident reinforced the importance of careful assessment and planning before felling any tree.
Safety Considerations:
- Wear appropriate safety gear: This includes a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
- Never work alone: Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for falling branches and other hazards.
- Take breaks: Felling trees is physically demanding work. Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Original Research: A recent study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that chainsaw-related injuries are most common among inexperienced users and those who are fatigued. This highlights the importance of proper training and taking breaks.
Bonus Tip: Winter Firewood Cutting
Cutting firewood in winter presents unique challenges. The cold weather can make the wood harder to cut, and snow and ice can create slippery conditions.
- Use a Winter-Grade Bar and Chain Oil: Winter-grade bar and chain oil is formulated to flow more easily in cold temperatures.
- Keep Your Saw Warm: Before starting your saw, let it warm up for a few minutes. This will help the engine run smoothly.
- Be Extra Careful on Slippery Surfaces: Wear boots with good traction and be extra cautious when walking on snow and ice.
My Winter Routine: I always keep my chainsaw stored indoors during the winter to prevent the fuel lines from freezing. I also use a propane torch to gently warm up the bar and chain before starting the saw.
Conclusion: The Art and Science of Firewood Cutting
Cutting firewood is more than just a chore; it’s a craft, a connection to nature, and a way to provide warmth and comfort for yourself and your family. By understanding the principles of chain selection, mastering sharpening techniques, and practicing safe felling procedures, you can transform this task into a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
The Husqvarna 350, with the right chain and proper care, is a reliable partner in this endeavor. So, grab your saw, sharpen your chain, and head out to the woods. Just remember to respect the forest, stay safe, and enjoy the process. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll pass down your knowledge and skills to the next generation, just like my grandfather did for me. After all, some things are just too good not to share.
