CS 400 Echo Chainsaw Chain Size (Full Chisel Options Reviewed)

Isn’t it strange how something as seemingly simple as a chainsaw chain can be the key to unlocking the full potential of a powerful machine like the Echo CS-400? You’d think any chain would do, right? Wrong. The right chain – especially when we’re talking full chisel options – transforms this saw from a decent tool into a wood-devouring beast. Let’s dive into the world of CS-400 Echo chainsaw chains, focusing on full chisel options, and get you set up for optimal cutting.

Understanding Your Echo CS-400 and Chain Selection

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of full chisel chains, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page about the Echo CS-400. It’s a popular chainsaw, known for its reliability and affordability. It’s a great homeowner saw, ideal for felling small trees, limbing, and bucking firewood. But, like any tool, its performance is heavily reliant on using the right accessories, and in this case, the right chain.

Why Chain Type Matters

The chain is the heart of your chainsaw. It’s what actually does the cutting. Different chain types are designed for different purposes and wood types. Using the wrong chain can lead to:

Poor Cutting Performance: Slow cutting, excessive vibration, and stalling.
Increased Wear and Tear: On both the chain and the saw.
Safety Hazards: Kickback is more likely with an improperly matched chain.
Premature Failure: Of the chain, guide bar, or even the saw itself.

I’ve seen firsthand the difference a proper chain makes. I remember one time helping a friend cut up a massive oak that had fallen in his yard. He was using a dull, incorrect chain on his saw, and it was taking forever. After switching to a sharp, full chisel chain designed for hardwoods, the difference was night and day. The saw practically flew through the oak.

Full Chisel Chains: Aggressive Cutting for Experienced Users

Full chisel chains are designed for speed and efficiency. They have square-cornered cutters that slice through wood quickly and cleanly. This makes them ideal for experienced users who need to cut large volumes of wood. However, they also require more skill and attention to use safely.

Key Characteristics of Full Chisel Chains:

Aggressive Cutting Action: Best for clean wood, less effective in dirty or frozen conditions.
Requires Sharpness: Dulls quickly if not properly maintained.
Higher Kickback Potential: More prone to kickback than other chain types.
Fast Cutting Speed: Ideal for felling and bucking larger trees.

Determining the Correct Chain Size for Your CS-400

Finding the correct chain size is crucial. Using the wrong size can damage your saw and create a safety hazard. Luckily, it’s not too complicated.

Essential Chain Specifications

To determine the correct chain, you need to know three key specifications:

Pitch: The distance between any three consecutive rivets divided by two. Common pitches for the CS-400 are .325″ and 3/8″ low profile.
Gauge: The thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar groove. Common gauges are .050″ and .058″.
Drive Link Count: The number of drive links on the chain. This is specific to the bar length.

Where to Find This Information:

Owner’s Manual: Your Echo CS-400 owner’s manual will list the recommended chain specifications. This is the most reliable source.
Guide Bar: Many guide bars have the pitch and gauge stamped on them.
Old Chain: If you have the old chain, you can count the drive links.
Online Resources: Echo’s website and other online retailers often have chain finders that allow you to input your saw model and find the correct chain.

My Personal Experience:

I always keep a small notebook with the specs for all my saws. It saves me time and prevents mistakes when ordering new chains. I also recommend taking a picture of the markings on your guide bar for easy reference.

Measuring Your Chain

If you can’t find the information you need, you can measure your old chain. Here’s how:

Pitch: Use a ruler or calipers to measure the distance between three rivets. Divide that number by two.
Gauge: Use a caliper to measure the thickness of the drive link.
Drive Link Count: Count the number of drive links.

Important Note: It’s always best to double-check your measurements and consult your owner’s manual to ensure accuracy.

Common Chain Sizes for Echo CS-400

While it’s important to verify the specifications for your particular CS-400, here are some common chain sizes I’ve seen used successfully with this saw:

16-inch Bar: .325″ pitch, .050″ gauge, 66 drive links
18-inch Bar: .325″ pitch, .050″ gauge, 72 drive links

These are starting points only. Always confirm the correct size for your specific bar length.

Full Chisel Chain Options for the Echo CS-400

Now that we understand the basics of chain size, let’s explore some specific full chisel chain options that work well with the Echo CS-400.

Popular Brands and Models

Several manufacturers offer high-quality full chisel chains that are compatible with the CS-400. Here are a few of my favorites:

Oregon: Oregon is a well-known and respected brand in the chainsaw world. Their 72LPX series is a popular full chisel option.
Stihl: Stihl chains are known for their durability and performance. Their Rapid Micro (RM) series is a good choice for the CS-400.
Husqvarna: Husqvarna also makes excellent chainsaw chains. Their H30 series is a full chisel option worth considering.
Carlton: Carlton chains offer a good balance of performance and value. Their A1LM series is a solid full chisel option.

Personal Recommendation:

I’ve had great success with Oregon chains over the years. They hold their edge well and are relatively easy to sharpen. I’ve also been impressed with the Stihl chains I’ve used.

Comparing Full Chisel Chain Features

When choosing a full chisel chain, consider these factors:

Steel Quality: Higher quality steel will hold its edge longer and resist stretching.
Chrome Plating: Chrome plating on the cutters helps to improve durability and reduce wear.
Lubrication Features: Some chains have features that help to distribute oil more effectively, reducing friction and wear.
Anti-Vibration Design: Some chains have features that help to reduce vibration, making the saw more comfortable to use.

Performance in Different Wood Types

Full chisel chains excel in certain types of wood but may struggle in others.

Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Spruce): Full chisel chains cut through softwoods quickly and efficiently.
Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Hickory): Full chisel chains can handle hardwoods, but they require more frequent sharpening.
Dirty or Frozen Wood: Full chisel chains are not ideal for cutting dirty or frozen wood. The dirt and ice can quickly dull the cutters.

My Experience with Hardwoods:

I’ve found that using a full chisel chain on hardwoods requires more frequent sharpening. I typically sharpen my chain after every tank of gas when cutting oak or maple.

Installing and Maintaining Your Full Chisel Chain

Proper installation and maintenance are essential for maximizing the performance and lifespan of your full chisel chain.

Step-by-Step Chain Installation

Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling a chainsaw chain.
Loosen the Bar Nuts: Use the wrench that came with your saw to loosen the bar nuts.
Adjust the Tensioning Screw: Use the tensioning screw to move the guide bar forward, creating slack in the chain.
Remove the Old Chain: Carefully remove the old chain from the guide bar groove.
Install the New Chain: Place the new chain around the guide bar, making sure the cutters are facing the correct direction (they should point forward on the top of the bar).
Position the Chain: Place the drive links into the guide bar groove and position the chain around the sprocket.
Adjust the Tension: Use the tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. The chain should be snug but still able to be pulled around the bar by hand.
Tighten the Bar Nuts: Tighten the bar nuts securely.
Check the Tension: Double-check the chain tension after tightening the bar nuts.

Pro Tip:

I always rotate my guide bar every time I change the chain. This helps to distribute wear evenly and prolong the life of the bar.

Sharpening Your Full Chisel Chain

Sharpening is crucial for maintaining the performance of your full chisel chain. A dull chain is not only less efficient but also more dangerous.

Tools You’ll Need:

Chainsaw File: A round file of the correct size for your chain’s pitch.
File Guide: A file guide helps you maintain the correct angle and depth when sharpening.
Depth Gauge Tool: A depth gauge tool is used to adjust the depth of the rakers (also known as depth gauges or gullets).
Vise: A vise to hold the chain securely while you sharpen.

Sharpening Procedure:

Secure the Chain: Place the chain in the vise.
File the Cutters: Use the round file and file guide to sharpen each cutter. Maintain the correct angle and depth.
Adjust the Rakers: Use the depth gauge tool to adjust the depth of the rakers.
Repeat: Repeat the process for all the cutters on the chain.

Frequency of Sharpening:

How often you need to sharpen your chain depends on the type of wood you’re cutting and how much you’re using the saw. As a general rule, sharpen your chain whenever it starts to feel dull or when you notice the saw is cutting slower.

My Sharpening Schedule:

I typically sharpen my chain after every tank of gas when cutting hardwoods and every two to three tanks of gas when cutting softwoods. I also touch up the chain with a few strokes of the file whenever I notice it’s not cutting as efficiently as it should.

Chain Lubrication

Proper lubrication is essential for reducing friction and wear on the chain and guide bar.

Types of Chain Oil:

Bar and Chain Oil: This is a specially formulated oil designed for use in chainsaws. It’s tackier than regular motor oil, which helps it to adhere to the chain and guide bar.
Vegetable-Based Oil: Vegetable-based oils are a more environmentally friendly option. They are biodegradable and less toxic than petroleum-based oils.

Oiling Procedure:

Check the Oil Level: Before each use, check the oil level in the oil reservoir.
Fill the Reservoir: Fill the reservoir with the appropriate type of chain oil.
Adjust the Oiler: Adjust the oiler to deliver the correct amount of oil to the chain. The chain should be lightly coated with oil at all times.

My Oiling Tip:

I always use a high-quality bar and chain oil. It’s worth spending a little extra money to protect your chain and guide bar. I also check the oil level frequently and refill it as needed.

Chain Tension Adjustment

Maintaining proper chain tension is crucial for safety and performance.

Checking Chain Tension:

Cold Chain: When the chain is cold, it should be snug but still able to be pulled around the bar by hand.
Hot Chain: When the chain is hot, it will be slightly looser. This is normal.

Adjusting Chain Tension:

Loosen the Bar Nuts: Use the wrench that came with your saw to loosen the bar nuts.
Adjust the Tensioning Screw: Use the tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension.
Tighten the Bar Nuts: Tighten the bar nuts securely.
Recheck the Tension: Recheck the chain tension after tightening the bar nuts.

Important Note:

Never operate a chainsaw with a loose or overly tight chain. A loose chain can derail and cause serious injury. An overly tight chain can overheat and break.

Safety Considerations When Using Full Chisel Chains

Full chisel chains are more aggressive than other chain types, which means they also have a higher kickback potential. Kickback occurs when the tip of the guide bar contacts an object, causing the saw to suddenly jump back towards the operator.

Understanding Kickback

Kickback is a serious hazard that can result in severe injury. To avoid kickback, follow these safety precautions:

Maintain a Firm Grip: Always maintain a firm grip on the saw with both hands.
Keep Your Thumb Wrapped Around the Handle: This will help you to control the saw if it kicks back.
Avoid Cutting with the Tip of the Bar: Be aware of the position of the tip of the bar and avoid contacting it with objects.
Use Low-Kickback Chains: Consider using low-kickback chains, especially if you are a beginner.
Maintain Proper Stance: Stand slightly to the side of the saw and keep your feet firmly planted.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid cutting in areas where there are obstacles or other hazards.
Use Proper Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps when operating a chainsaw.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wearing the right PPE is essential for protecting yourself from injury when operating a chainsaw.

Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Protect your ears from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from cuts in case of kickback.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and other hazards.
Helmet: A helmet is recommended, especially when felling trees.

My Safety Rule:

I never operate a chainsaw without wearing all of my PPE. It’s not worth the risk.

Safe Cutting Techniques

Using safe cutting techniques can help to reduce the risk of kickback and other injuries.

Felling: When felling a tree, use proper techniques to control the direction of the fall.
Limbing: When limbing a tree, stand on the uphill side and cut away from your body.
Bucking: When bucking a log, support the log to prevent it from pinching the bar.

A Close Call:

I once had a close call when limbing a tree. I was standing on the downhill side and cutting towards my body when the saw kicked back. Luckily, I was wearing chaps, which prevented a serious injury. That experience taught me the importance of using safe cutting techniques and always being aware of my surroundings.

Troubleshooting Common Chain Problems

Even with proper maintenance, you may encounter problems with your chainsaw chain. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

Chain Dulls Quickly

Cause: Cutting dirty or frozen wood, improper sharpening, using the wrong chain for the wood type.
Solution: Clean the wood before cutting, use a file guide when sharpening, use a chain designed for the wood type.

Chain Stretches Excessively

Cause: Using a low-quality chain, improper lubrication, excessive tension.
Solution: Use a high-quality chain, lubricate the chain properly, adjust the tension correctly.

Chain Derails Frequently

Cause: Loose chain, worn sprocket, damaged guide bar.
Solution: Tighten the chain, replace the sprocket, replace the guide bar.

Chain Smokes or Overheats

Cause: Improper lubrication, excessive tension, dull chain.
Solution: Lubricate the chain properly, adjust the tension correctly, sharpen the chain.

My Troubleshooting Tip:

I always keep a spare chain on hand. That way, if I encounter a problem with my chain, I can quickly replace it and get back to work.

Advanced Firewood Preparation Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basics of chainsaw operation and chain maintenance, you can start to explore more advanced firewood preparation techniques.

Timber Grading and Selection

Understanding timber grading can help you to select the best wood for firewood.

Grade 1: High-quality wood with few knots or defects.
Grade 2: Good-quality wood with some knots or defects.
Grade 3: Low-quality wood with many knots or defects.

My Wood Selection Preference:

I prefer to use Grade 2 wood for firewood. It’s a good balance of quality and affordability.

Sawmill Operations

If you have access to a sawmill, you can use it to cut logs into firewood-sized pieces.

Portable Sawmills: Portable sawmills are a convenient option for processing logs on-site.
Commercial Sawmills: Commercial sawmills can process large volumes of logs quickly and efficiently.

Splitting Techniques

Splitting wood can be done manually or with a log splitter.

Manual Splitting: Manual splitting requires a splitting axe or maul and a chopping block.
Log Splitters: Log splitters are hydraulic machines that make splitting wood much easier.

My Splitting Method:

I prefer to use a log splitter. It’s much faster and easier than manual splitting, especially when dealing with large or knotty logs.

Wood Drying Processes

Drying wood is essential for making it burn efficiently.

Air Drying: Air drying is the most common method of drying firewood. It involves stacking the wood in a well-ventilated area and allowing it to dry naturally.
Kiln Drying: Kiln drying is a faster method of drying firewood. It involves placing the wood in a kiln and heating it to a high temperature.

My Drying Strategy:

I always air dry my firewood. It takes longer than kiln drying, but it’s a more cost-effective option. I stack the wood in a sunny, well-ventilated area and cover it with a tarp to protect it from the rain.

Conclusion: Mastering the CS-400 with the Right Chain

Choosing the right full chisel chain for your Echo CS-400 can significantly improve its performance and your overall cutting experience. By understanding the key specifications, installation, maintenance, and safety considerations, you can unlock the full potential of your saw and tackle any wood-cutting project with confidence. Remember, safety always comes first. Wear your PPE, use safe cutting techniques, and maintain your chain properly. With a little practice and attention to detail, you’ll be cutting wood like a pro in no time.