EXL Chain Guide: Oregon’s Best Bar & Chain (5 Pro Tips)

Introduction: The Layered Approach to EXL Chain Guide & Costs

And just like building a house, this system has layers. There’s the initial purchase, the ongoing maintenance, the impact on your productivity, and ultimately, the effect on your bottom line. This article will peel back those layers, focusing on the EXL chain guide, offering pro tips, and diving deep into the often-overlooked cost factors associated with chainsaw operations and firewood preparation. I’ll share my own experiences, hard-earned lessons, and data-driven insights to help you make informed decisions, whether you’re a seasoned logger or a weekend warrior tackling your firewood pile.

EXL Chain Guide: Oregon’s Best Bar & Chain (5 Pro Tips) and Their Cost Implications

Oregon’s EXL (Extreme Long Life) chain is often lauded as a top-tier choice for chainsaw users. But what makes it so good, and how do those features translate into real-world cost savings or increases? It’s not just about the initial price tag; it’s about the long game.

1. Low-Vibration Design: Saving Your Body and Your Wallet

The EXL chain boasts a low-vibration design. While this might seem like a comfort feature, it has significant cost implications.

Reduced Fatigue: Less vibration means less fatigue. I’ve personally experienced the difference. After a long day bucking firewood with a high-vibration chain, my hands would be numb and my arms aching. Switching to a low-vibration chain meant I could work longer, more efficiently, and with less risk of injury. Lost productivity due to fatigue is a real cost, often overlooked.
Lower Risk of Injury: Prolonged exposure to vibration can lead to Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), a debilitating condition. Medical treatment, lost work time, and potential permanent disability are all significant costs associated with HAVS. Investing in a low-vibration chain like the EXL is a form of preventative medicine.
Increased Precision: Reduced vibration translates to better control of the chainsaw. This is crucial for precision cuts, reducing waste, and minimizing the risk of kickback. Wasted wood equals wasted money, whether you’re selling lumber or heating your home.

Data Point: Studies have shown that anti-vibration technology can reduce operator fatigue by up to 30%. (Source: Various forestry equipment manufacturers and ergonomic studies). The cost of HAVS treatment can range from $5,000 to $50,000+ depending on severity and required interventions.

2. Chamfer-Chisel Cutters: Efficiency and Sharpening Costs

The EXL chain utilizes chamfer-chisel cutters, known for their aggressive cutting action. This means you can cut through wood faster, but it also affects sharpening frequency and overall chain life.

Faster Cutting: The aggressive design allows for faster cuts, increasing productivity. I remember switching from a standard chain to an EXL chain while clearing some overgrown brush. The difference was night and day. I was able to cut through the wood with noticeably less effort and time. This translates to more wood processed in the same amount of time, which can be a significant advantage if you’re running a logging operation or selling firewood.
Sharpening Frequency: While chamfer-chisel cutters are efficient, they tend to dull faster than some other cutter designs, especially when encountering dirty or abrasive wood. This means you’ll need to sharpen the chain more frequently. Sharpening can be done manually with a file or with a powered sharpener. Both methods have their own costs.
- Manual Sharpening: Requires a good quality file, a file guide, and time. While the initial cost is low, the time spent sharpening adds up, and the quality of the sharpening depends on your skill.
- Powered Sharpening: Offers faster and more consistent sharpening but requires an initial investment in a sharpener. The cost of replacement grinding wheels also needs to be factored in.
Chain Life: The more frequently you sharpen a chain, the shorter its overall lifespan. Each sharpening removes a small amount of metal, eventually rendering the chain unusable. Therefore, the increased cutting efficiency of the EXL chain needs to be balanced against the potential for reduced chain life due to more frequent sharpening.

Data Point: A chainsaw chain typically needs sharpening after 1-3 hours of use, depending on the wood type and cutting conditions. Powered chainsaw sharpeners range in price from $50 to $500+. A high-quality chainsaw file costs around $20.

3. LubriTec™ System: Reducing Friction and Extending Lifespan

Oregon’s LubriTec™ system is designed to keep the chain and bar properly lubricated. This reduces friction, minimizes wear, and extends the lifespan of both the chain and the bar.

Reduced Friction: Proper lubrication reduces friction between the chain and the bar. This translates to smoother cutting, less heat buildup, and less wear and tear on both components.
Extended Chain and Bar Life: By minimizing friction, the LubriTec™ system helps to extend the lifespan of both the chain and the bar. This means you’ll need to replace them less frequently, saving you money in the long run.
Oil Consumption: While the LubriTec™ system improves lubrication, it may also lead to slightly higher oil consumption. However, the increased lifespan of the chain and bar typically outweighs the cost of the extra oil. I have found that consistent oiling with a good quality bar and chain oil is crucial for longevity, regardless of the chain type. Skimping on oil is a false economy.
Importance of Bar Maintenance: The LubriTec™ system only works effectively if the bar itself is in good condition. Regular cleaning, deburring, and proper tensioning are essential for optimal performance and longevity. Neglecting bar maintenance can negate the benefits of the LubriTec™ system and lead to premature wear.

Data Point: A well-maintained chainsaw bar can last for several years, while a neglected bar may need to be replaced annually. A gallon of high-quality bar and chain oil costs around $15-$30.

4. Chrome Plating: Durability and Resistance to Wear

The chrome plating on the EXL chain’s cutters provides added durability and resistance to wear. This is particularly important when cutting abrasive wood or working in dirty conditions.

Increased Durability: The chrome plating makes the cutters more resistant to wear and tear. This means they’ll stay sharper for longer and be less prone to damage from impacts or abrasive materials.
Resistance to Corrosion: Chrome plating also helps to protect the cutters from corrosion, which can be a problem in humid environments or when cutting wet wood.
Cutting Abrasive Wood: I’ve used EXL chains when cutting through old, weathered logs that were covered in dirt and grit. The chrome plating helped the chain maintain its edge for longer compared to non-plated chains. This is a significant advantage when working with abrasive wood, as it reduces the need for frequent sharpening.
Cost Savings: While the initial cost of a chrome-plated chain may be slightly higher, the increased durability and resistance to wear can lead to significant cost savings in the long run, as you’ll need to replace the chain less frequently.

Data Point: Chrome-plated chainsaw chains typically last 20-30% longer than non-plated chains under similar cutting conditions.

5. Bumper Drive Links: Reducing Kickback and Enhancing Safety

The EXL chain features bumper drive links, which help to reduce the risk of kickback. Kickback is a dangerous phenomenon that can occur when the tip of the chainsaw bar contacts an object, causing the saw to suddenly jump back towards the operator.

Enhanced Safety: Bumper drive links help to prevent kickback by reducing the aggressiveness of the chain’s cutting action. This gives the operator more control over the saw and reduces the risk of accidents.
Reduced Risk of Injury: Kickback can cause serious injuries, including cuts, lacerations, and even broken bones. By reducing the risk of kickback, bumper drive links help to protect the operator from these injuries.
Increased Confidence: Knowing that your chainsaw is equipped with features that reduce the risk of kickback can boost your confidence and allow you to work more efficiently. I’ve found that I can focus more on the task at hand when I’m not constantly worried about the possibility of kickback.
Trade-offs: While bumper drive links enhance safety, they may also slightly reduce the chain’s cutting speed. However, the trade-off is generally worth it, especially for inexperienced users.

Data Point: Kickback is a leading cause of chainsaw-related injuries. Chainsaws with anti-kickback features can reduce the risk of kickback by up to 50%. (Source: Consumer Product Safety Commission).

Deep Dive: Cost Factors in Firewood Preparation

Beyond the choice of chain, let’s explore the broader cost landscape of firewood preparation. This is an area where seemingly small decisions can have a big impact on your budget.

Wood Source and Acquisition Costs

The most significant cost factor is, of course, the wood itself. How you acquire it dramatically influences your overall expenses.

Free Wood (Salvaged or Scavenged): This is the cheapest option, but it comes with its own costs.
- Time and Labor: Searching for, cutting, and transporting free wood takes time and effort. This is especially true if you’re dealing with downed trees that are difficult to access. I’ve spent countless hours hauling deadfall from remote locations, a task that quickly loses its appeal when the weather turns sour.
- Transportation Costs: Fuel for your vehicle, trailer rental (if needed), and potential wear and tear on your equipment all add up.
- Permits and Regulations: Be aware of local regulations regarding wood harvesting on public lands. You may need a permit, and there may be restrictions on the type and amount of wood you can collect.
Purchased Logs: Buying logs from a logging company or sawmill offers a more consistent supply, but it comes at a cost.
- Species and Quality: The price of logs varies depending on the species and quality of the wood. Hardwoods like oak and maple typically command a higher price than softwoods like pine and fir. The presence of knots, rot, or insect damage can also affect the price.
- Volume Discounts: You may be able to negotiate a lower price per board foot or cord if you purchase a large volume of logs.
- Delivery Costs: Factor in the cost of transporting the logs to your property. This may involve hiring a trucking company or renting a trailer.
Standing Timber (Stumpage): Purchasing standing timber and harvesting it yourself can be a cost-effective option if you have the necessary skills and equipment.
- Stumpage Fees: You’ll need to pay the landowner a stumpage fee, which is the price per unit volume of timber. Stumpage fees vary depending on the species, quality, and location of the timber.
- Harvesting Costs: You’ll be responsible for all harvesting costs, including felling, limbing, bucking, and skidding the logs to a landing.
- Insurance and Liability: You’ll need to carry adequate insurance to cover potential accidents or property damage.

Data Point: The average price of firewood in the United States ranges from $200 to $400 per cord, depending on the region and species. Stumpage fees can range from $10 to $100+ per thousand board feet (MBF).

Tool and Equipment Costs

Chainsaws are just the beginning. Firewood preparation often requires a range of tools and equipment, each with its own associated costs.

Chainsaws: As discussed earlier, the initial cost of a chainsaw is just one factor. Ongoing maintenance, repairs, and fuel costs also need to be considered.
- Chain and Bar Replacement: Chains and bars wear out over time and need to be replaced. The frequency of replacement depends on the type of wood you’re cutting, the quality of the chain and bar, and your maintenance practices.
- Fuel and Oil: Chainsaws require a mixture of gasoline and oil. The cost of fuel and oil can add up, especially if you’re using the saw frequently.
- Repairs: Chainsaws can break down, requiring repairs. Repairs can be costly, especially if you need to take the saw to a professional mechanic.
Log Splitters: Splitting wood by hand is a back-breaking task. A log splitter can make the job much easier and faster.
- Manual Log Splitters: These are the cheapest option, but they require significant physical effort.
- Hydraulic Log Splitters: These are more expensive but offer much greater splitting power and efficiency. Hydraulic log splitters can be powered by gasoline, electricity, or hydraulics.
- Rental vs. Purchase: If you only split firewood occasionally, renting a log splitter may be more cost-effective than purchasing one.
Safety Gear: Safety gear is essential for protecting yourself from injury.
- Helmet with Face Shield and Ear Protection: Protects your head, face, and ears from flying debris and noise.
- Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
- Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and sharp objects.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts, splinters, and blisters.

Data Point: A good quality hydraulic log splitter can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000+. Chainsaw chaps typically cost around $100-$200.

Labor Costs

If you’re hiring someone to help you with firewood preparation, labor costs can be a significant expense.

Hourly Wages: The hourly wage for firewood preparation labor varies depending on the region, the skill level of the worker, and the type of work being performed.
Contract Labor: You may be able to hire a contractor to perform specific tasks, such as felling trees or splitting wood. Contract labor rates are typically higher than hourly wages, but you may be able to negotiate a lower price if you’re hiring the contractor for a large project.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you’re hiring employees, you’ll need to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover potential injuries.
Hidden Costs: Don’t forget to factor in things like payroll taxes, benefits, and potential downtime due to weather or equipment breakdowns.

Data Point: The average hourly wage for forestry and logging workers in the United States is around $20-$30. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Drying and Storage Costs

Properly drying and storing firewood is essential for ensuring that it burns efficiently and cleanly.

Drying Time: Firewood needs to be dried (seasoned) before it can be burned. The drying time varies depending on the species of wood, the climate, and the size of the pieces.
Storage Space: You’ll need a dry, well-ventilated space to store your firewood. This could be a woodshed, a covered pile, or even a tarped stack.
Tarp Costs: Tarps can be used to protect firewood from rain and snow. However, tarps can be expensive, and they need to be replaced periodically.
Shed Construction Costs: If you’re building a woodshed, you’ll need to factor in the cost of materials, labor, and permits.
Handling Costs: Moving firewood from the drying area to the storage area and then to your home can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Data Point: Firewood typically needs to be dried for 6-12 months before it can be burned. A good quality tarp costs around $50-$100.

Budgeting and Cost Optimization: Practical Tips

Now that we’ve explored the various cost factors involved in wood processing and firewood preparation, let’s look at some practical tips for budgeting and cost optimization.

1. Accurate Needs Assessment

Before you even start, accurately assess how much firewood you actually need. Overestimating can lead to unnecessary expense and wasted effort.

Heating Needs: Calculate your heating needs based on the size of your home, the climate, and the efficiency of your wood-burning appliance.
Cord Calculation: A standard cord of firewood is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. Use this as a benchmark when estimating your needs.
Contingency Planning: Add a small buffer to your estimate to account for unexpected cold snaps or inefficiencies in your burning practices.

2. Shop Around for Logs and Equipment

Don’t settle for the first price you see. Take the time to shop around and compare prices from different suppliers.

Log Quotes: Get quotes from multiple logging companies and sawmills. Compare prices based on species, quality, and delivery costs.
Equipment Rentals: Check rental rates from different equipment rental companies. Consider renting equipment instead of buying it if you only need it for a short period.
Used Equipment: Consider buying used equipment instead of new. You can often find good deals on used chainsaws, log splitters, and other tools.

3. Optimize Your Cutting and Splitting Techniques

Efficient cutting and splitting techniques can save you time, effort, and money.

Proper Chainsaw Maintenance: Keep your chainsaw properly maintained to ensure optimal performance and reduce the risk of breakdowns.
Sharpening: Sharpen your chainsaw chain regularly to improve cutting efficiency and reduce wear and tear.
Splitting Technique: Use proper splitting techniques to minimize effort and maximize the amount of wood you can split per hour. I learned early on that a sharp axe and a steady hand are far more effective than brute force.

4. Negotiate Prices

Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with suppliers and contractors.

Volume Discounts: Ask for volume discounts when purchasing logs or hiring contractors.
Cash Discounts: Offer to pay in cash to get a discount.
Bartering: Consider bartering your services for goods or services.

5. Minimize Waste

Minimize waste by using all parts of the tree.

Small Branches: Use small branches for kindling.
Sawdust: Use sawdust for composting or mulching.
Bark: Use bark for landscaping or as a fuel source in a wood-burning furnace.

6. Time Your Purchases Strategically

Consider the seasonality of firewood prices and equipment sales.

Off-Season Purchases: Buy logs and equipment during the off-season when prices are typically lower.
End-of-Season Sales: Look for end-of-season sales on firewood and equipment.
Tax Season: Take advantage of tax deductions for energy-efficient home improvements, such as installing a wood-burning stove.

7. Track Your Expenses

Keep track of all your expenses to see where your money is going and identify areas where you can save.

Spreadsheet: Use a spreadsheet to track your expenses.
Budgeting App: Use a budgeting app to track your income and expenses.
Receipts: Keep all your receipts for tax purposes.

8. Consider Alternative Fuel Sources

If firewood prices are too high, consider alternative fuel sources, such as propane, natural gas, or electricity.

Cost Comparison: Compare the cost of different fuel sources to determine which is the most economical for your situation.
Efficiency: Consider the efficiency of different heating appliances when comparing fuel sources.
Environmental Impact: Consider the environmental impact of different fuel sources.

9. DIY Where Possible

Tackle as much of the work yourself as you reasonably can. This is where your sweat equity can truly pay off.

Felling and Limbing: If you have the skills and equipment, fell and limb the trees yourself.
Splitting and Stacking: Split and stack the firewood yourself.
Transportation: Transport the firewood yourself if you have a truck or trailer.

10. Invest in Long-Term Solutions

Focus on investments that will save you money in the long run.

Energy-Efficient Stove: Invest in an energy-efficient wood-burning stove or furnace.
Proper Insulation: Improve the insulation in your home to reduce your heating needs.
Durable Equipment: Invest in durable, high-quality equipment that will last for many years.

Case Study: From Forest to Fireplace – A Budget Breakdown

To illustrate these principles, let’s consider a hypothetical case study: Preparing 5 cords of oak firewood in the Northeastern United States.

Scenario: A homeowner wants to prepare 5 cords of oak firewood for the upcoming winter. They have access to a chainsaw and a pickup truck but need to purchase the logs and rent a log splitter.

Cost Breakdown:

Log Purchase (Oak): \$250/cord x 5 cords = \$1250
Log Splitter Rental: \$100/day x 3 days = \$300
Chainsaw Fuel and Oil: \$50
Chainsaw Chain (EXL): \$40
Personal Protective Equipment (Existing): \$0 (Assuming already owned)
Transportation (Truck Fuel): \$100
Total Estimated Cost: \$1740

Cost Optimization Strategies:

Negotiate Log Price: The homeowner could negotiate a lower price per cord by purchasing a larger volume of logs.
Share Log Splitter: The homeowner could share the cost of the log splitter rental with a neighbor.
Seasoned Logs: The homeowner could purchase already seasoned logs, but they are usually more expensive.

Potential Savings: By implementing these cost optimization strategies, the homeowner could potentially save several hundred dollars on their firewood preparation project.

Formulas and Calculations for the Wood Warrior

Here are a few useful formulas to help you estimate costs and make informed decisions:

Board Foot Calculation: (Thickness in inches x Width in inches x Length in feet) / 12
Cubic Feet to Cords: Cubic Feet / 128 = Number of Cords
Estimated Drying Time: (Initial Moisture Content – Target Moisture Content) / Drying Rate (varies by species and climate)

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

Preparing firewood can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to heat your home, but it’s essential to approach the project with a clear understanding of the costs involved. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can optimize your budget, minimize waste, and ensure a safe and efficient firewood preparation experience.

Next Steps:

Assess your firewood needs: Determine how much firewood you need for the upcoming season.
Research wood sources: Explore different wood sources and compare prices.
Evaluate equipment options: Decide whether to rent or purchase a log splitter and other equipment.
Create a budget: Develop a detailed budget that includes all anticipated expenses.
Implement cost optimization strategies: Identify areas where you can save money.
Start preparing your firewood: Begin cutting, splitting, and stacking your firewood.
Track your expenses: Monitor your expenses to ensure that you stay within your budget.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Woodworking Journey

Preparing firewood is more than just a chore; it’s a connection to nature, a source of exercise, and a way to provide warmth and comfort for your family. By embracing the woodworking journey and approaching it with a thoughtful and budget-conscious mindset, you can reap the many rewards that it has to offer. Remember, a penny saved is a penny earned – and in the world of wood processing, those pennies can quickly add up to a substantial sum. So, grab your chainsaw (with that trusty EXL chain), put on your safety gear, and get ready to turn trees into treasure!