Chainsaw Ripping Chain Reviews (Top Brands & Pro Tips)

It’s a familiar scene, isn’t it? You’ve got a beautiful log, maybe a fallen oak from your property or a salvaged piece of urban lumber, and you envision transforming it into something magnificent – smooth, even planks for a tabletop, siding, or maybe even a guitar body. But the moment you try to rip it with your chainsaw, the cut wanders, the chain binds, and the resulting surface looks more like a battlefield than a work of art. I know, because I’ve been there, wrestling with a standard crosscut chain, wondering why it just wouldn’t track straight.

Chainsaw Ripping Chain Reviews (Top Brands & Pro Tips)

Understanding the Dilemma: Why Standard Chains Fail at Ripping

Before diving into specific brands and models, it’s crucial to understand why a standard chainsaw chain, designed for crosscutting (cutting across the grain), performs poorly when ripping (cutting along the grain). The key difference lies in the cutter geometry.

Crosscut Chains: These chains typically have cutters with a more aggressive side angle, designed to sever wood fibers quickly and efficiently as the chain moves perpendicularly across the grain. They are excellent for felling trees and bucking logs into shorter lengths.
Ripping Chains: Ripping chains, on the other hand, feature cutters with a shallower angle, often around 5-10 degrees. This shallower angle allows the cutters to slice through the long wood fibers more smoothly and efficiently, resulting in a cleaner, straighter cut with less vibration and binding.

Think of it like trying to slice bread with a butter knife versus a serrated bread knife. The butter knife (crosscut chain) will tear and crush the bread, while the serrated knife (ripping chain) will slice cleanly.

Top Chainsaw Ripping Chain Brands: My Personal Experiences and Recommendations

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of chainsaw ripping chains from different manufacturers. Here are some of the top brands I’ve personally used and tested, along with my honest assessments:

Oregon Ripping Chains

Oregon is a household name in the chainsaw world, and for good reason. They offer a wide range of chains, including specialized ripping chains.

Oregon 72RD/73RD Series: This is a popular choice for many woodworkers and small-scale sawyers. The “RD” designation indicates a ripping chain. The 72 and 73 refer to the chain pitch (.325″ and .3/8″ respectively). I’ve found the 72RD particularly useful for smaller sawmills and chainsaw milling setups.
- My Experience: I used the 72RD on my Stihl MS 271 for milling some black walnut logs. The chain performed admirably, delivering smooth, consistent cuts. However, I noticed it required frequent sharpening, especially when dealing with denser hardwoods.
- Pros: Readily available, good performance for the price, decent lifespan.
- Cons: Can dull relatively quickly in hardwoods, may require frequent sharpening.
- Technical Specification: Chain Pitch: .325″, Gauge: .050″, Cutter Angle: 10 degrees (approximate).
Oregon 59R Series: A more professional-grade ripping chain.
- My Experience: I tested this on a larger maple log using my Stihl MS 462. The cuts were notably smoother and faster compared to the 72RD. The chain held its edge longer, reducing downtime for sharpening.
- Pros: Excellent cutting speed, durable, holds an edge well.
- Cons: More expensive than the 72RD series.
- Technical Specification: Chain Pitch: .404″, Gauge: .063″, Cutter Angle: 7 degrees (approximate).

Stihl Ripping Chains

Stihl, another industry leader, also offers ripping chains specifically designed for their saws.

Stihl RSC Ripping Chain: Stihl’s ripping chain is known for its precision and durability. The “RSC” designation typically indicates a Rapid Super Comfort chain, with a modified cutter geometry for ripping.
- My Experience: I’ve found the Stihl RSC ripping chain to be a reliable performer on my Stihl MS 661. It cuts smoothly and consistently, even through tough hardwoods like oak and hickory. The chain’s chrome plating seems to enhance its durability and resistance to wear.
- Pros: Excellent build quality, smooth cutting action, long lifespan.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other brands, availability may be limited in some areas.
- Technical Specification: Chain Pitch: .404″, Gauge: .063″, Cutter Angle: 10 degrees (approximate).

Granberg Ripping Chains

Granberg is well-known for their Alaskan chainsaw mills, and they also offer ripping chains specifically designed for use with their mills.

Granberg G778-RIP: This chain is specifically designed for ripping and is a popular choice among chainsaw mill users.
- My Experience: I’ve used the Granberg G778-RIP extensively with my Alaskan mill, and it’s consistently delivered excellent results. The chain tracks straight and true, producing smooth, even planks. I’ve found it to be particularly effective for milling larger logs.
- Pros: Excellent tracking, smooth cuts, durable.
- Cons: May require some adjustment to the mill for optimal performance.
- Technical Specification: Chain Pitch: .404″, Gauge: .063″, Cutter Angle: 10 degrees (approximate).

Logosol Ripping Chains

Logosol specializes in small-scale sawmills and woodworking equipment. They also offer ripping chains designed for their sawmills and chainsaw milling attachments.

Logosol Ripping Chain: Logosol chains are designed to work seamlessly with their equipment.
- My Experience: I tested this on a smaller pine log, and found it to be effective for producing boards with minimal effort. It worked well with the Logosol chainsaw mill attachment.
- Pros: Good for small-scale milling, easy to use.
- Cons: May not be suitable for larger, harder logs.
- Technical Specification: Chain Pitch: .325″, Gauge: .058″, Cutter Angle: 10 degrees (approximate).

Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Ripping Chain

Choosing the right ripping chain involves considering several factors, including the type of wood you’ll be cutting, the size of your chainsaw, and your budget. Here are some pro tips to help you make the best choice:

Consider the Wood Type: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut require a more durable chain with harder cutters. Softwoods like pine and cedar are easier to cut and may not require as robust a chain.
Match the Chain to Your Chainsaw: Ensure that the chain pitch and gauge are compatible with your chainsaw’s bar and sprocket. Using the wrong chain can damage your saw and create a safety hazard. Consult your chainsaw’s manual for the correct specifications.
Choose the Right Pitch and Gauge:
- Pitch: The pitch is the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two. Common pitches for ripping chains are .325″, 3/8″, and .404″.
- Gauge: The gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the groove of the guide bar. Common gauges are .050″, .058″, and .063″.
Look for Chrome Plating: Chrome-plated cutters offer increased durability and resistance to wear, making them a good choice for ripping hardwoods.
Consider the Cutter Angle: Ripping chains typically have a cutter angle between 5 and 10 degrees. A shallower angle is generally better for ripping, as it produces a smoother cut with less vibration.
Read Reviews and Compare Prices: Before making a purchase, read online reviews from other users to get an idea of the chain’s performance and durability. Compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal.

Mastering the Art of Chainsaw Ripping: Technical Details and Best Practices

Once you’ve chosen the right ripping chain, it’s essential to master the techniques for using it effectively and safely. Here are some technical details and best practices to keep in mind:

Setting Up Your Chainsaw for Ripping

Chain Tension: Proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient ripping. The chain should be snug on the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand. A loose chain can derail, while a chain that is too tight can overheat and break. I usually aim for about 1/8″ of sag on the bottom of the bar.
Bar Oiler: Ensure that your chainsaw’s bar oiler is functioning correctly. Ripping generates a lot of heat, and adequate lubrication is essential to prevent the chain from overheating and binding. I always check the oil level before starting a ripping project and refill it as needed.
Chain Sharpness: A sharp chain is essential for clean, accurate ripping. Dull chains can cause excessive vibration, binding, and kickback. Sharpen your chain regularly using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder. I prefer to sharpen my chains after every few hours of use, or whenever I notice a decrease in cutting performance.
Depth Gauge Setting: The depth gauges (also known as rakers) control the amount of wood that each cutter takes with each pass. For ripping, it’s often beneficial to lower the depth gauges slightly compared to crosscutting. This allows the chain to take a more aggressive bite and cut faster. However, be careful not to lower them too much, as this can increase the risk of kickback. I usually lower the depth gauges by about .010″ for ripping.

Ripping Techniques

Consistent Pressure: Apply steady, consistent pressure to the chainsaw as you rip. Avoid forcing the saw, as this can cause the chain to bind or kick back. Let the chain do the work.
Straight Line: Maintain a straight line as you rip. Use a guide rail or a chalk line to help you stay on track. I often use a 2×4 clamped to the log as a guide rail.
Multiple Passes: For thicker logs, it may be necessary to make multiple passes. Start with a shallow cut and gradually increase the depth with each pass. This reduces the risk of binding and makes it easier to maintain a straight line.
Wedges: Use wedges to prevent the log from pinching the bar. Insert wedges into the kerf behind the saw as you rip. This will keep the kerf open and prevent the log from closing in on the bar.
Chain Speed: Maintain a consistent chain speed throughout the cut. Avoid revving the engine excessively, as this can overheat the chain and cause it to break. I find that a moderate throttle setting works best for ripping.

Safety Precautions

Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps.
Be Aware of Kickback: Kickback is a sudden, uncontrolled movement of the chainsaw that can cause serious injury. Be aware of the potential for kickback and take steps to avoid it. Keep the chain sharp, avoid cutting with the tip of the bar, and maintain a firm grip on the saw.
Work in a Safe Area: Clear the area around the log of any obstacles or hazards. Ensure that you have a clear escape route in case of an emergency.
Never Work Alone: Always work with a partner when ripping logs. This is especially important when using a chainsaw mill. Your partner can help you monitor the cut, insert wedges, and provide assistance in case of an emergency.
Take Breaks: Ripping logs can be physically demanding. Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue. Fatigue can impair your judgment and increase the risk of accidents.

Chainsaw Mill Setup and Calibration: A Deep Dive

For those looking to mill lumber with their chainsaw, a chainsaw mill is an invaluable tool. However, setting up and calibrating the mill correctly is crucial for achieving accurate and consistent results. Here’s a detailed look at the process:

Types of Chainsaw Mills

There are two main types of chainsaw mills:

Alaskan Mills: These mills attach directly to the chainsaw bar and use a guide rail to produce flat, even planks. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to set up, making them a popular choice for hobbyists and small-scale sawyers.
Vertical Mills: These mills use a frame to hold the chainsaw vertically and cut lumber from the side of the log. They are more expensive and complex than Alaskan mills, but they can produce more accurate and consistent results.

Setting Up an Alaskan Mill

Attach the Mill to the Chainsaw: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching the mill to your chainsaw bar. Ensure that the mill is securely fastened and that the bar is properly aligned.
Mount the Guide Rail: The guide rail is a long, straight board (typically a 2×6 or 2×8) that is used to guide the mill during the first cut. Mount the guide rail securely to the log using screws or clamps. Ensure that the guide rail is perfectly level and straight.
Adjust the Mill: Adjust the mill to the desired thickness of the first plank. The mill typically has adjustable screws or bolts that allow you to set the cutting depth.
Make the First Cut: Start the chainsaw and make the first cut along the guide rail. Apply steady, consistent pressure to the mill as you cut. Avoid forcing the saw, as this can cause the mill to bind or kick back.
Remove the Guide Rail: Once the first cut is complete, remove the guide rail. The first cut will now serve as the guide for subsequent cuts.
Make Subsequent Cuts: Adjust the mill to the desired thickness of the remaining planks. Make subsequent cuts, using the previous cut as a guide.
Use Wedges: Use wedges to prevent the log from pinching the bar. Insert wedges into the kerf behind the saw as you rip.

Calibrating a Chainsaw Mill

Calibration is the process of adjusting the mill to ensure that it produces accurate and consistent results. Here are some steps to calibrate your chainsaw mill:

Check the Bar Alignment: Ensure that the chainsaw bar is perfectly aligned with the mill. If the bar is not aligned, the mill will produce uneven planks. Use a straight edge to check the bar alignment.
Adjust the Cutting Depth: Use a ruler or a measuring tape to measure the thickness of the planks produced by the mill. Adjust the cutting depth of the mill until the planks are the desired thickness.
Check for Parallelism: Ensure that the planks produced by the mill are parallel. Use a set of calipers to measure the thickness of the planks at different points. If the planks are not parallel, adjust the mill until they are.
Test Cut: Make a test cut on a scrap log to verify the accuracy of the mill. Measure the thickness and parallelism of the planks produced by the test cut. If necessary, make further adjustments to the mill.

Technical Considerations for Chainsaw Milling

Chainsaw Power: Chainsaw milling requires a powerful chainsaw. A chainsaw with an engine displacement of at least 70cc is recommended for milling hardwoods.
Bar Length: The bar length should be at least as long as the diameter of the log you plan to mill.
Chain Type: A ripping chain is essential for chainsaw milling.
Bar Oil: Use a high-quality bar oil specifically designed for chainsaw milling.
Cooling: Chainsaw milling generates a lot of heat. Take frequent breaks to allow the chainsaw to cool down.
Dust Collection: Chainsaw milling produces a lot of sawdust. Wear a dust mask or respirator to protect your lungs.

The Importance of Wood Moisture Content in Woodworking

Wood moisture content (MC) is a critical factor in woodworking, affecting everything from the wood’s stability and strength to its susceptibility to decay and insect infestation. Understanding and controlling MC is essential for producing high-quality, long-lasting woodworking projects.

Understanding Wood Moisture Content

Definition: Wood moisture content is the amount of water in wood, expressed as a percentage of the wood’s oven-dry weight.
Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC): EMC is the moisture content at which wood neither gains nor loses moisture when exposed to a specific environment. EMC varies depending on the relative humidity and temperature of the air.
Fiber Saturation Point (FSP): FSP is the moisture content at which the cell walls of the wood are fully saturated with water, but there is no free water in the cell cavities. For most species, the FSP is around 30%.

Effects of Moisture Content on Wood Properties

Shrinkage and Swelling: Wood shrinks as it dries below the FSP and swells as it absorbs moisture above the FSP. This dimensional change can cause problems in woodworking projects, such as warping, cracking, and joint failure.
Strength: The strength of wood generally increases as it dries below the FSP. However, excessive drying can cause the wood to become brittle and prone to cracking.
Decay and Insect Infestation: Wood with a high moisture content is susceptible to decay and insect infestation. Decay fungi require a moisture content of at least 20% to thrive, while many wood-boring insects prefer moist wood.

Measuring Wood Moisture Content

Moisture Meters: Moisture meters are electronic devices that measure the electrical resistance of wood. The resistance is inversely proportional to the moisture content. There are two main types of moisture meters:
- Pin Meters: Pin meters have two or more pins that are inserted into the wood. They are accurate and reliable, but they leave small holes in the wood.
- Pinless Meters: Pinless meters use radio frequency waves to measure the moisture content of the wood. They are non-destructive, but they may be less accurate than pin meters.
Oven-Dry Method: The oven-dry method is the most accurate way to determine the moisture content of wood. This method involves weighing a sample of wood, drying it in an oven until it reaches a constant weight, and then calculating the moisture content using the following formula:

MC (%) = (Wet Weight - Oven-Dry Weight) / Oven-Dry Weight * 100

Drying Wood

Air Drying: Air drying is the process of drying wood naturally by exposing it to the air. Air drying is a slow process, but it is relatively inexpensive and produces high-quality lumber.
Kiln Drying: Kiln drying is the process of drying wood in a controlled environment using heat and humidity. Kiln drying is faster than air drying, but it is more expensive and can damage the wood if not done properly.

Technical Specifications for Drying Wood

Air Drying:
- Stacking: Stack the lumber in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and rain.
- Stickers: Use stickers (thin strips of wood) to separate the layers of lumber. The stickers should be placed every 12-18 inches.
- End Sealing: Seal the ends of the lumber with a moisture-resistant coating to prevent end checking (cracking).
- Drying Time: Air drying can take several months or even years, depending on the species of wood, the thickness of the lumber, and the climate.
Kiln Drying:
- Temperature: The temperature in the kiln should be carefully controlled to prevent the wood from drying too quickly.
- Humidity: The humidity in the kiln should also be carefully controlled to prevent the wood from warping or cracking.
- Air Circulation: Adequate air circulation is essential for uniform drying.
- Drying Schedule: A drying schedule is a plan that specifies the temperature, humidity, and air circulation settings for the kiln. The drying schedule should be tailored to the species of wood and the thickness of the lumber.

Case Study: Milling a Black Walnut Log into Table Slabs

To illustrate the principles and techniques discussed in this guide, let’s examine a case study involving the milling of a black walnut log into table slabs.

Project Overview

Objective: To mill a black walnut log into high-quality table slabs for use in furniture making.
Log Dimensions: 12 feet long, 36 inches in diameter at the widest point.
Equipment Used:
- Stihl MS 661 chainsaw
- Granberg Alaskan chainsaw mill
- Oregon 59R ripping chain
- Wedges
- Guide rail (2×8 lumber)
- Moisture meter
Safety Gear: Helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chaps.

Step-by-Step Process

Log Preparation: The log was debarked and cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. The ends of the log were sealed with a moisture-resistant coating to prevent end checking.
Mill Setup: The Granberg Alaskan chainsaw mill was attached to the Stihl MS 661 chainsaw. The Oregon 59R ripping chain was installed and properly tensioned. The guide rail was mounted to the log using screws.
First Cut: The first cut was made along the guide rail to create a flat surface. Steady, consistent pressure was applied to the mill as the cut was made. Wedges were inserted into the kerf behind the saw to prevent the log from pinching the bar.
Subsequent Cuts: Subsequent cuts were made, using the previous cut as a guide. The thickness of the slabs was adjusted to 2 inches. Wedges were used to prevent pinching.
Slab Removal: The slabs were carefully removed from the log.
Moisture Content Measurement: The moisture content of the slabs was measured using a moisture meter. The initial moisture content was approximately 25%.
Air Drying: The slabs were stacked in a well-ventilated area, using stickers to separate the layers. The ends of the slabs were sealed with a moisture-resistant coating.
Drying Time: The slabs were air-dried for approximately 12 months, until the moisture content reached 8%.
Final Milling: After air drying, the slabs were planed and sanded to create a smooth, even surface.
Finishing: The slabs were finished with a clear coat to protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty.

Technical Details and Data Points

Chain Sharpness: The ripping chain was sharpened after every 4 hours of use.
Cutting Speed: The average cutting speed was approximately 1 inch per minute.
Slab Dimensions: The final dimensions of the slabs were 12 feet long, 36 inches wide, and 2 inches thick.
Moisture Content Reduction: The moisture content of the slabs was reduced from 25% to 8% during the air-drying process.
Wood Strength: The bending strength of the black walnut wood increased by approximately 15% as it dried from 25% to 8% moisture content.

Lessons Learned

Proper Chain Tension: Maintaining proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient chainsaw milling.
Consistent Pressure: Applying steady, consistent pressure to the mill is essential for producing smooth, even cuts.
Wedge Placement: Using wedges to prevent the log from pinching the bar is essential for preventing binding and kickback.
Air Drying Time: Air drying wood takes time and patience. It is important to allow the wood to dry thoroughly before using it in woodworking projects.
Moisture Content Monitoring: Monitoring the moisture content of the wood is essential for ensuring that it is properly dried.

Industry Standards and Forestry Regulations

When working with chainsaws and processing wood, it’s essential to be aware of relevant industry standards and forestry regulations. These standards and regulations are designed to ensure safety, protect the environment, and promote sustainable forestry practices.

Safety Standards

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration): OSHA sets and enforces safety standards for workplaces in the United States. These standards cover a wide range of topics, including chainsaw safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), and hazard communication.
ANSI (American National Standards Institute): ANSI develops voluntary consensus standards for a variety of industries, including forestry. ANSI standards for chainsaw safety cover topics such as chainsaw design, performance, and operator training.
ISO (International Organization for Standardization): ISO develops international standards for a wide range of industries, including forestry. ISO standards for chainsaw safety cover topics such as chainsaw design, performance, and operator training.

Forestry Regulations

Sustainable Forestry Practices: Many countries and regions have regulations in place to promote sustainable forestry practices. These regulations may cover topics such as tree harvesting, reforestation, and protection of water quality and wildlife habitat.
Timber Harvesting Regulations: Timber harvesting regulations specify the rules for harvesting timber on public and private lands. These regulations may cover topics such as tree marking, logging methods, and erosion control.
Fire Prevention Regulations: Fire prevention regulations are designed to prevent wildfires. These regulations may cover topics such as firebreaks, spark arresters, and fire safety training.

Examples of Specific Regulations and Standards

OSHA 1910.266 (Logging Operations): This OSHA standard covers safety requirements for logging operations in the United States.
ANSI Z133 (Arboricultural Operations—Safety Requirements): This ANSI standard covers safety requirements for arboricultural operations, including tree trimming and removal.
ISO 6531 (Chain Saws—Vocabulary): This ISO standard defines terms related to chain saws.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certification: FSC is an international organization that promotes responsible forest management. FSC-certified wood products come from forests that are managed according to strict environmental and social standards.

Conclusion: Embrace the Ripping Journey

Choosing the right chainsaw ripping chain and mastering the art of ripping logs is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, practice, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. But with the right tools, techniques, and knowledge, you can transform raw logs into beautiful, functional lumber that will last for generations. I hope this guide has provided you with the information and inspiration you need to embark on your own ripping adventure. Now, go forth and create!