Husqvarna 572XP Chain Size Guide (5 Pro Tips For Precision)

The late autumn air hung crisp and heavy with the scent of pine as I stood surveying the downed oak. A windstorm had gifted it to me, a magnificent beast of a tree sprawled across my property line. This wasn’t just firewood; this was a project, a challenge, and a potential source of warmth for the coming winter. My Husqvarna 572XP, a machine I’d come to rely on, sat patiently nearby. But the question that always nagged at me wasn’t just how to cut it, but how much it would all really cost. Choosing the right chain size for the 572XP is crucial for both efficiency and safety, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Today, I’m diving deep into the world of Husqvarna 572XP chain sizes and, more importantly, how to budget for the entire wood processing endeavor, from felling to splitting and stacking. This isn’t just about picking the right chain; it’s about mastering the art of cost-effective wood processing, no matter where you are in the world.

Husqvarna 572XP Chain Size Guide: 5 Pro Tips for Precision

The Husqvarna 572XP is a beast of a chainsaw, designed to tackle demanding tasks. But like any powerful tool, its performance hinges on using the right accessories, especially the chain. Choosing the wrong chain size can lead to inefficient cutting, increased wear and tear on your saw, and even dangerous kickback.

1. Understanding the Basics: Chain Pitch, Gauge, and Drive Links

Before we delve into specific recommendations, let’s clarify some essential terminology:

Pitch: The distance between any three consecutive rivets on the chain divided by two. Common pitches for the 572XP include .325″ and 3/8″.
Gauge: The thickness of the drive links, which fit into the guide bar groove. The 572XP typically uses a .058″ (1.5mm) gauge.
Drive Links: The number of drive links determines the chain’s overall length and ensures it fits your specific guide bar.

Think of it like this: the pitch is how far apart the teeth are, the gauge is how thick the chain’s “feet” are, and the drive links are how many “feet” you need to walk around the bar.

Why is this important for budgeting? Different chain types (pitch, gauge) have varying price points. Knowing what you need allows for accurate price comparisons. I’ve seen folks buy the wrong chains, ending up with a useless piece of metal and a dent in their wallet.

2. Matching Chain Size to Bar Length: A Critical Consideration

The Husqvarna 572XP can accommodate a range of bar lengths, typically from 18″ to 28″. The longer the bar, the more drive links your chain will need. Here’s a general guide:

18″ Bar: Approximately 72 drive links
20″ Bar: Approximately 78 drive links
24″ Bar: Approximately 84 drive links
28″ Bar: Approximately 92 drive links

Pro Tip: Always consult your chainsaw’s manual or the Husqvarna website for the most accurate specifications for your specific model and bar length.

Cost Implication: Longer chains, logically, cost more. This is a direct material cost. When budgeting, I always add 10% to the estimated chain cost as a buffer for potential price fluctuations or needing to purchase a higher-quality chain than initially planned.

3. Chain Type and Wood Type: Choosing the Right Teeth for the Job

Not all chains are created equal. Different chain types are designed for different cutting conditions and wood types.

Full Chisel Chains: These have aggressive, square-cornered teeth that cut quickly and efficiently through clean wood. They are ideal for felling and bucking. However, they dull more quickly in dirty or frozen wood.
Semi-Chisel Chains: These have rounded corners, making them more durable and less prone to dulling in abrasive conditions. They are a good all-around choice for firewood cutting and general use.
Low-Kickback Chains: These chains have features designed to reduce the risk of kickback, making them a safer option for inexperienced users. However, they typically cut slower than full or semi-chisel chains.

My Experience: I learned this the hard way. I tried using a full chisel chain on some gnarly, dirty firewood logs. The chain dulled incredibly fast, and I spent more time sharpening than cutting. Switching to a semi-chisel chain made a world of difference, even though it cut slightly slower.

Budgeting for Chain Type: Full chisel chains are generally more expensive than semi-chisel or low-kickback chains. This cost difference needs to be factored in, especially if you anticipate cutting a lot of hardwood or dirty wood. I keep both full chisel and semi-chisel chains on hand, swapping them out depending on the task. This adds to the initial investment but saves time and money in the long run by extending the life of each chain.

4. Chain Sharpening: Maintaining Peak Performance and Reducing Costs

A sharp chain is essential for efficient and safe cutting. A dull chain not only cuts slower but also puts more strain on your chainsaw and increases the risk of kickback.

Methods for Sharpening:

Hand Sharpening: Using a round file and a file guide, you can sharpen your chain manually. This is the most affordable option but requires practice and skill.
Electric Chain Sharpener: These sharpeners use a grinding wheel to quickly and accurately sharpen your chain. They are more expensive than hand sharpening but can save you time and effort.
Professional Sharpening: You can take your chain to a professional sharpening service. This is the most convenient option but also the most expensive.

Cost Analysis of Sharpening Methods:

Hand Sharpening: Initial cost of files and file guide (around $20-$50). Ongoing cost of replacing files.
Electric Chain Sharpener: Initial cost of the sharpener (around $50-$200). Cost of replacement grinding wheels.
Professional Sharpening: Cost per sharpening (around $10-$20).

Long-Term Cost Savings: Regularly sharpening your chain, regardless of the method, extends its lifespan and reduces the need for frequent replacements. I’ve found that a well-maintained chain can last twice as long as a neglected one.

Budgeting for Sharpening: Include the cost of sharpening tools or professional sharpening services in your overall budget. I allocate a small amount each month for sharpening supplies, even if I don’t need them immediately. This ensures I’m always prepared to keep my chains in top condition.

5. Pro Tip: Optimize Chain Selection for Specific Tasks

Consider these scenarios and chain recommendations:

Felling Large Trees: Full chisel chain for fast, efficient cutting through clean wood.
Cutting Firewood (Mixed Wood Types): Semi-chisel chain for durability and versatility.
Limbing: Low-kickback chain for increased safety, especially when working in awkward positions.
Cutting Frozen Wood: Special “ice chains” with hardened cutters are available for optimal performance in freezing conditions.

The Importance of Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to try different chain types to see what works best for you and your specific cutting needs. Keep a log of your experiences, noting the chain type, wood type, cutting conditions, and chain lifespan. This data will help you make informed decisions about chain selection in the future.

Budgeting for Multiple Chains: While it may seem expensive to purchase multiple chains, it can be a cost-effective strategy in the long run. Having different chains for different tasks allows you to optimize performance and extend the lifespan of each chain. I recommend having at least two chains: one for felling and one for general firewood cutting.

1. Timber Acquisition Costs: Free vs. Purchased

The first major cost factor is acquiring the wood itself. This can range from free (salvaged wood from your property) to significant (purchasing timber from a logging company).

Free Timber: Downed trees on your property, storm damage, or permission to remove trees from a neighbor’s property. While seemingly free, there are still costs associated with time, fuel, and equipment wear and tear.
Purchased Timber: Standing timber (you fell the trees) or already-felled logs. Prices vary widely depending on species, quality, and location.

Global Timber Price Data: According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations), global timber prices have fluctuated significantly in recent years due to factors such as demand, supply chain disruptions, and environmental regulations. Softwood prices, commonly used for construction and pulpwood, have seen particularly volatile swings. Hardwood prices, often used for furniture and flooring, tend to be more stable but are still subject to regional variations.

Regional Price Variations: In North America, for example, softwood lumber prices surged during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased demand for home improvement projects. In Europe, timber prices have been affected by factors such as beetle infestations and increased demand for biomass energy. In Asia, timber prices are influenced by factors such as deforestation and illegal logging.

My Experience: I once spent a small fortune on oak logs from a local supplier, only to discover that they were riddled with internal rot. I learned a valuable lesson about inspecting timber carefully before purchasing. Now, I prefer to source wood from my own property whenever possible, even if it means more work.

Budgeting for Timber:

Free Timber: Allocate a budget for fuel, chainsaw maintenance, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Purchased Timber: Obtain quotes from multiple suppliers and carefully inspect the wood before purchasing. Factor in transportation costs. I always negotiate the price, especially when buying in bulk.

Cost Optimization Tip: Consider purchasing timber during the off-season (e.g., late winter or early spring) when demand is lower and prices may be more favorable.

2. Tool and Equipment Costs: Chainsaws, Splitters, and More

Beyond the chainsaw itself, you’ll likely need other tools and equipment for wood processing.

Chainsaw: We’ve already discussed chain selection and sharpening, but the chainsaw itself represents a significant upfront cost. The Husqvarna 572XP is a professional-grade saw, so expect to pay a premium.
Wood Splitter: Manual, hydraulic, or electric. Splitters significantly reduce the effort required to split logs, especially large ones.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots are essential for safety.
Other Tools: Axes, wedges, sledgehammers, measuring tools, and a log carrier.

Cost Breakdown:

Chainsaw (Husqvarna 572XP): $800 – $1,200 (depending on location and promotions)
Hydraulic Wood Splitter: $1,000 – $3,000 (depending on size and power)
PPE: $200 – $500
Other Tools: $100 – $300

Equipment Rental vs. Purchase: For occasional use, renting equipment like wood splitters may be more cost-effective than purchasing. However, if you plan to process wood regularly, purchasing your own equipment will likely save you money in the long run.

Rental Rates: Expect to pay around $50-$100 per day to rent a wood splitter, depending on its size and power.

Budgeting for Tools and Equipment:

Prioritize Safety: Invest in high-quality PPE. This is not an area to cut corners.
Consider Used Equipment: You can often find used chainsaws, splitters, and other tools in good condition at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.
Factor in Maintenance Costs: Chainsaws and splitters require regular maintenance, including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and air filter cleaning.

Cost-Saving Strategies:

Buy Used: Check online marketplaces and local classifieds for used equipment.
Borrow or Share: Consider borrowing tools from friends or neighbors, or sharing equipment with a group of people.
DIY Maintenance: Learn how to perform basic maintenance tasks yourself to save on repair costs.

3. Labor Costs: DIY vs. Hiring Help

If you’re processing wood yourself, your labor cost is your time. If you’re hiring help, you’ll need to factor in wages, insurance, and potentially worker’s compensation.

DIY: The “cost” is the value of your time. Consider how much you could earn doing other tasks during the time you spend processing wood.
Hiring Help: Logging crews or firewood handlers. Wages vary widely depending on location, experience, and the complexity of the job.

Global Labor Cost Data: According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), average hourly wages vary significantly across countries. In high-income countries, average hourly wages can range from $20 to $50 or more. In low-income countries, average hourly wages can be as low as $1 to $5.

Regional Wage Variations: Within countries, wages can also vary significantly depending on factors such as location, industry, and skill level. For example, wages in urban areas are typically higher than wages in rural areas.

My Experience: I once hired a logging crew to fell a large number of trees on my property. I was initially attracted by their low hourly rate, but I quickly realized that their lack of experience and poor equipment resulted in a slow and inefficient job. In the end, I paid more than I would have if I had hired a more experienced crew with better equipment.

Budgeting for Labor:

DIY: Track your time and estimate the opportunity cost.
Hiring Help: Obtain quotes from multiple contractors and check their references. Ensure they are properly insured and licensed.

Cost Optimization Tip: Consider hiring help for specific tasks that you find difficult or time-consuming, such as felling large trees or splitting large logs.

4. Fuel and Consumables: Keeping the Machines Running

Fuel, oil, and other consumables represent a significant ongoing cost.

Chainsaw Fuel: A mix of gasoline and two-stroke oil.
Chainsaw Bar Oil: Lubricates the chain and guide bar.
Wood Splitter Fuel: Gasoline or electricity (for electric splitters).
Hydraulic Oil: For hydraulic wood splitters.

Fuel Consumption Rates: Chainsaws typically consume around 1-2 gallons of fuel per day, depending on the size of the saw and the type of wood being cut. Wood splitters typically consume around 0.5-1 gallon of fuel per hour.

Budgeting for Fuel and Consumables:

Track Fuel Consumption: Keep a record of how much fuel you use per day or week.
Buy in Bulk: Purchase fuel and oil in bulk to save money.
Consider Electric Options: Electric chainsaws and wood splitters can eliminate fuel costs, but they may have limitations in terms of power and portability.

Cost-Saving Strategies:

Use High-Quality Fuel and Oil: This can extend the life of your equipment and reduce maintenance costs.
Maintain Your Equipment: Regularly cleaning and maintaining your equipment can improve fuel efficiency.
Sharpen Your Chain: A sharp chain requires less power to cut, which reduces fuel consumption.

5. Permits and Regulations: Staying Legal

Depending on your location and the scope of your project, you may need to obtain permits for tree removal or wood processing.

Tree Removal Permits: May be required for removing trees on your property, especially if they are located in protected areas or near waterways.
Burning Permits: May be required for burning brush or wood debris.
Business Licenses: May be required if you are selling firewood or other wood products.

Cost of Permits: Permit fees vary widely depending on location and the type of permit. Expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred dollars for a permit.

Budgeting for Permits:

Research Local Regulations: Contact your local government to determine what permits are required for your project.
Apply for Permits in Advance: Allow ample time for the permit application process.
Factor Permit Fees into Your Budget: Don’t forget to include the cost of permits in your overall budget.

Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines, legal action, and even the seizure of your wood products.

6. Transportation and Storage: Getting the Wood Where It Needs to Be

Transporting the wood from the cutting site to your storage location can be a significant cost.

Truck or Trailer: For hauling logs or firewood.
Log Carrier: For moving logs short distances.
Storage Space: A dry, well-ventilated area for storing firewood.

Transportation Costs: Transportation costs depend on the distance, the size of the load, and the type of vehicle used. Expect to pay around $1-$3 per mile for truck transportation.

Storage Costs: Storage costs depend on the size and location of the storage area. If you are storing firewood on your property, you may not have any direct storage costs. However, if you are renting storage space, expect to pay around $50-$200 per month.

Budgeting for Transportation and Storage:

Optimize Transportation: Consolidate loads to reduce transportation costs.
Consider On-Site Storage: If possible, store firewood on your property to avoid rental costs.
Protect Wood from the Elements: Cover firewood with a tarp or store it in a shed to prevent it from rotting.

Cost-Saving Strategies:

Use a Smaller Vehicle: If you only need to transport small amounts of wood, consider using a pickup truck or trailer instead of a larger truck.
Enlist Help: Ask friends or neighbors to help you transport wood in exchange for firewood.
Build Your Own Storage Shed: If you have the skills and resources, consider building your own storage shed.

7. Drying Time and Moisture Content: The Key to Quality Firewood

Properly drying firewood is essential for efficient burning and reducing creosote buildup in your chimney.

Drying Time: Firewood typically needs to dry for 6-12 months to reach an acceptable moisture content.
Moisture Content: Ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%.

Drying Time Calculation: Drying time depends on factors such as wood species, climate, and storage conditions. As a general rule, hardwoods take longer to dry than softwoods.

Formula: Drying Time (months) = (Initial Moisture Content – Target Moisture Content) / Drying Rate

Example: If you start with firewood with a moisture content of 50% and want to dry it to 20%, and the drying rate is 5% per month, the drying time would be (50% – 20%) / 5% = 6 months.

Cost Implications of Drying: Improperly dried firewood burns inefficiently, produces more smoke, and can damage your chimney.

Budgeting for Drying:

Allocate Drying Time: Plan your wood processing schedule to allow ample time for drying.
Invest in a Moisture Meter: A moisture meter can help you determine when your firewood is dry enough to burn.
Optimize Storage Conditions: Store firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area to promote drying.

Cost-Saving Strategies:

Split Wood Early: Splitting wood into smaller pieces accelerates the drying process.
Stack Wood Properly: Stack firewood in a way that allows for good air circulation.
Cover Wood During Wet Weather: Protect firewood from rain and snow to prevent it from reabsorbing moisture.

8. Sales and Marketing (If Applicable): Turning Firewood into Profit

If you plan to sell firewood, you’ll need to factor in the costs of sales and marketing.

Advertising: Online ads, newspaper ads, flyers, etc.
Website: For online ordering and information.
Delivery: Truck, fuel, and labor costs.
Packaging: Bags, boxes, or pallets.

Marketing Costs: Marketing costs vary widely depending on the methods used. Expect to spend around 5-10% of your revenue on marketing.

Budgeting for Sales and Marketing:

Develop a Marketing Plan: Identify your target market and choose the most effective marketing methods.
Track Marketing Expenses: Keep a record of all your marketing expenses to determine which methods are most profitable.
Price Your Firewood Competitively: Research the prices of other firewood suppliers in your area.

Cost-Saving Strategies:

Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Encourage satisfied customers to refer new customers.
Social Media Marketing: Use social media to promote your firewood business.
Local Partnerships: Partner with local businesses to promote your firewood.

Case Study: Budgeting for a Cord of Firewood

Let’s break down the estimated costs for processing one cord of firewood, assuming you’re sourcing the wood from your own property and doing most of the work yourself.

Assumptions:

Sourcing wood from your own property (downed trees).
Using a Husqvarna 572XP chainsaw.
Using a rented hydraulic wood splitter.
Processing wood yourself.
No permits required.

Cost Breakdown:

Timber Acquisition: $0 (wood sourced from property)
Chainsaw Maintenance (Chain, Fuel, Oil): $50
Wood Splitter Rental (1 Day): $75
PPE (Amortized over multiple projects): $20
Other Tools (Amortized over multiple projects): $10
Transportation (Fuel): $15
Labor (Estimated 2 Days): $0 (DIY, but consider opportunity cost)

Total Estimated Cost: $170 per cord

Important Considerations:

This is just an estimate. Actual costs may vary depending on your specific circumstances.
Labor costs are not included, but you should consider the value of your time.
Permit costs are not included, but you should check local regulations.

Profit Margin (If Selling):

If you sell the cord of firewood for $300, your profit margin would be ($300 – $170) / $300 = 43%.

Sensitivity Analysis:

Let’s see how the cost changes if we make some different assumptions.

Scenario 1: Purchasing Timber: If you purchase the timber for $50 per cord, your total cost would increase to $220 per cord, reducing your profit margin to 27%.
Scenario 2: Hiring Labor: If you hire someone to help you process the wood for $20 per hour for 16 hours, your total cost would increase to $490, resulting in a loss of $190 per cord.

Conclusion:

This case study illustrates the importance of carefully considering all costs and assumptions when budgeting for wood processing. By tracking your expenses and performing sensitivity analyses, you can make informed decisions about whether to DIY or hire help, and whether to purchase timber or source it from your own property.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

So, you’ve got a downed tree, a Husqvarna 572XP, and a burning desire to heat your home with wood. Here’s what to do next:

Assess Your Wood Source: Is it free, or will you need to buy it? Get quotes!
Choose the Right Chain: Consider the wood type and your skill level. Don’t skimp on quality.
Budget for Tools and Equipment: Prioritize safety and consider renting vs. buying.
Factor in Labor Costs: DIY or hire help? Be realistic about your time and abilities.
Plan for Drying and Storage: Properly dried wood is essential for efficient burning.
Track Your Expenses: Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to track your costs.
Learn from Experience: Keep a log of your projects and adjust your budget accordingly.

Wood processing, whether for personal use or for profit, is a rewarding but demanding endeavor. By carefully planning and budgeting, you can maximize your efficiency, minimize your costs, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a job well done. Remember, it’s not just about the chainsaw; it’s about the whole process. And now, armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to tackle that pile of wood with confidence and a clear understanding of the true cost. Go forth and conquer!

Husqvarna 572XP Chain Size Guide (5 Pro Tips for Precision)