Square Grind Chainsaw Chain Benefits (5 Pro Tips For Efficient Cuts)

I understand you’re looking to unlock the potential of your chainsaw and achieve unparalleled cutting efficiency. That’s where the square grind chainsaw chain comes in. I’ve spent years in the woods, felling trees and processing timber, and I can tell you firsthand that the right chain makes all the difference.

Square Grind Chainsaw Chain Benefits: 5 Pro Tips for Efficient Cuts

The square grind chain, also known as a chisel chain, is a game-changer for anyone serious about chainsaw work. It’s designed for speed and efficiency, slicing through wood with aggressive precision. But it’s not a magic bullet. To truly harness its power, you need to understand its nuances and employ the right techniques. So, buckle up, and let’s dive into the world of square grind chains!

Understanding the Square Grind Advantage

Before we get into the tips, let’s clarify what sets the square grind apart. Unlike the more common round grind chains, square grind chains feature cutters with a sharp, square corner. This design creates a more aggressive cutting edge, allowing the chain to slice through wood fibers rather than scrape or tear them. This translates to faster cutting speeds, smoother finishes, and less strain on your saw.

However, this aggressive design also means the square grind is less forgiving. It requires more precise sharpening and is more susceptible to damage from dirt and debris. But don’t let that scare you! With the right knowledge and skills, you can master the square grind and reap its rewards.

Pro Tip 1: Mastering the Art of Sharpening

Sharpening is the cornerstone of efficient square grind chain use. A dull chain is not only slow and inefficient but also dangerous. It can cause the saw to buck, kickback, or bind, increasing the risk of injury.

Why Sharpening Matters

A sharp square grind chain effortlessly pulls itself into the wood, requiring minimal force from the operator. A dull chain, on the other hand, requires you to push harder, increasing fatigue and reducing control.

The Right Tools for the Job

Chainsaw File Guide: A file guide is essential for maintaining the correct filing angle and depth. I prefer a guide with adjustable settings for different chain pitches and filing angles.
Round File: Use a high-quality round file that matches the size of your chain’s cutters. Refer to your chain manufacturer’s specifications for the correct file size.
Flat File and Depth Gauge Tool: These are crucial for maintaining the correct depth gauge setting (also known as the raker height). The depth gauge controls how much the cutter bites into the wood.
Magnifying Glass: A magnifying glass helps you inspect the cutting edges for damage and ensure precise filing.
Vise: A small vise to hold the chainsaw bar steady during filing is invaluable.

The Sharpening Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Secure the Bar: Place the chainsaw bar in a vise to keep it steady.
Identify the Correct Filing Angle: Consult your chain manufacturer’s specifications for the correct filing angle. This angle is critical for maintaining the cutting edge’s geometry. Typically, it’s around 25-35 degrees.
Position the File Guide: Place the file guide on the chain, aligning it with the cutter you’re sharpening.
File with Precision: Using smooth, consistent strokes, file the cutter from the inside out. Maintain the correct angle and depth throughout the stroke. I usually aim for 3-5 strokes per cutter.
Check Your Work: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the cutting edge. It should be sharp and clean, with no rounded edges or burrs.
Repeat for All Cutters: Sharpen each cutter, ensuring that they are all filed to the same length. Uneven cutter lengths will cause the chain to cut unevenly.
Adjust the Depth Gauges (Rakers): After sharpening, use a flat file and depth gauge tool to adjust the depth gauges. The depth gauges should be slightly lower than the cutting edges. Refer to your chain manufacturer’s specifications for the correct depth gauge setting. Typically, it’s around 0.025-0.030 inches.
Deburr the Chain: Use a fine file or deburring tool to remove any burrs from the cutting edges and depth gauges.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Filing at the Wrong Angle: This can ruin the cutting edge and make the chain cut poorly.
Using a Dull File: A dull file will not sharpen the chain effectively and can damage the cutters.
Filing Too Deep: This can weaken the cutters and shorten the chain’s lifespan.
Ignoring the Depth Gauges: Incorrect depth gauge settings can cause the chain to buck, kickback, or cut unevenly.

My Personal Sharpening Ritual

I sharpen my square grind chains after every tank of gas. It might seem excessive, but I’ve found that it keeps the chain cutting at peak performance and extends its lifespan. I also use a diamond-coated file for final honing, which gives the cutting edges an extra-sharp bite.

Takeaway: Mastering the art of sharpening is crucial for maximizing the performance and lifespan of your square grind chain. Invest in the right tools, follow the correct procedures, and practice regularly.

Pro Tip 2: Maintaining the Correct Chain Tension

Proper chain tension is essential for safe and efficient chainsaw operation, especially with square grind chains. Too loose, and the chain can derail, causing damage to the saw and potentially injuring the operator. Too tight, and the chain can overheat, stretch, and even break.

Why Chain Tension Matters

Correct chain tension ensures that the chain runs smoothly and efficiently around the bar. It also prevents the chain from binding or jumping off the bar.

Checking and Adjusting Chain Tension

Turn Off the Saw: Always turn off the saw and engage the chain brake before checking or adjusting chain tension.
Loosen the Bar Nuts: Use a wrench to loosen the bar nuts that secure the bar to the saw. Don’t remove the nuts completely.
Adjust the Tensioning Screw: Locate the chain tensioning screw (usually located on the side of the saw) and use a screwdriver to adjust the tension.
Check the Tension: Lift the chain in the middle of the bar. The drive links (the parts of the chain that fit into the bar’s groove) should just barely touch the bar. You should be able to pull the chain around the bar by hand, but it shouldn’t be too loose.
Tighten the Bar Nuts: Once you’ve achieved the correct tension, tighten the bar nuts securely.
Recheck the Tension: After tightening the bar nuts, recheck the tension to ensure that it hasn’t changed.

The “Cold” vs. “Hot” Tension Difference

It’s important to note that chain tension changes as the chain heats up during use. A chain that is properly tensioned when cold will become tighter as it warms up. Therefore, it’s best to tension the chain slightly looser than you think it should be when it’s cold. This will allow for expansion as the chain heats up.

My Experience with Over-Tensioned Chains

I once ruined a brand-new square grind chain by over-tensioning it. I was cutting some hardwood logs on a hot summer day, and the chain got so tight that it stretched and eventually broke. I learned my lesson the hard way: always err on the side of caution when tensioning your chain.

Takeaway: Regularly check and adjust your chain tension to ensure safe and efficient chainsaw operation. Remember to account for the effects of heat on chain tension.

Pro Tip 3: Choosing the Right Bar and Chain Combination

The performance of your square grind chain is heavily influenced by the bar and chain combination you use. Using the wrong bar or chain can lead to poor cutting performance, increased wear and tear, and even safety hazards.

Matching the Chain Pitch to the Sprocket

The chain pitch is the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. It’s crucial that the chain pitch matches the sprocket (the toothed wheel that drives the chain) on your chainsaw. Using a chain with the wrong pitch can damage the sprocket and chain.

Bar Length and Saw Power

The length of the bar should be appropriate for the power of your chainsaw. Using a bar that is too long for your saw will strain the engine and reduce cutting performance. As a general rule, smaller saws (under 40cc) should use bars no longer than 16 inches, while larger saws (over 60cc) can handle bars up to 20 inches or longer.

Bar Types and Their Applications

Solid Bars: Solid bars are the most durable and are best suited for heavy-duty applications like felling large trees.
Laminated Bars: Laminated bars are lighter and less expensive than solid bars. They are suitable for general-purpose cutting tasks.
Sprocket-Nose Bars: Sprocket-nose bars have a small sprocket at the tip, which reduces friction and increases cutting speed. They are often used for limbing and pruning.

My Preferred Bar and Chain Setup

For my Stihl MS 462 (72cc), I prefer a 20-inch solid bar with a .375″ pitch square grind chain. This combination provides a good balance of power, speed, and durability for felling and bucking large trees.

Takeaway: Choose the right bar and chain combination for your chainsaw and the type of work you’re doing. Consider the chain pitch, bar length, bar type, and saw power when making your selection.

Pro Tip 4: Optimizing Cutting Techniques for Square Grind Chains

Square grind chains require a slightly different cutting technique than round grind chains. Because of their aggressive cutting action, they tend to “grab” more easily. This means you need to be more careful to avoid kickback and other hazards.

The Importance of a Steady Hand

Maintain a firm grip on the saw with both hands. Use your body weight to control the saw and keep it moving smoothly through the wood. Avoid jerky or abrupt movements.

Let the Saw Do the Work

Don’t force the saw into the wood. Let the chain do the cutting. Apply gentle pressure and allow the saw to pull itself through the wood.

Avoid Pinching the Bar

Pinching occurs when the wood closes in on the bar, trapping the chain. This can cause the saw to stall, kickback, or even damage the bar and chain. To avoid pinching, use wedges to keep the cut open, especially when felling trees or bucking logs.

Cutting Techniques for Different Types of Wood

Softwood: Softwood is generally easier to cut than hardwood. Use a fast, smooth cutting motion.
Hardwood: Hardwood requires more power and a slower, more deliberate cutting motion.
Frozen Wood: Frozen wood can be very difficult to cut. Use a sharp chain and a slow, steady cutting motion. Be extra careful to avoid kickback.

My “No-Pinch” Felling Strategy

When felling trees, I always use two wedges: one to keep the back cut open and another to control the direction of the fall. I also make sure to leave a hinge of uncut wood to guide the tree as it falls. This technique has saved me countless headaches and prevented numerous close calls.

Takeaway: Master the proper cutting techniques for square grind chains to maximize efficiency and minimize the risk of accidents. Pay attention to your body position, the type of wood you’re cutting, and the potential for pinching.

Pro Tip 5: Maintaining Chain Lubrication

Proper chain lubrication is absolutely critical for the longevity and performance of your square grind chain. Without adequate lubrication, the chain will overheat, wear out quickly, and may even break.

Why Chain Lubrication Matters

Chain oil reduces friction between the chain and the bar, preventing overheating and wear. It also helps to flush away dirt and debris, keeping the chain clean and sharp.

Choosing the Right Chain Oil

Use a high-quality chain oil that is specifically designed for chainsaws. Avoid using motor oil or other substitutes, as they may not provide adequate lubrication. I prefer a bar and chain oil with a high tackifier content, which helps it cling to the chain and bar.

Checking the Oil Level

Regularly check the oil level in the saw’s oil reservoir. Never operate the saw with a low oil level.

Adjusting the Oil Flow

Most chainsaws have an adjustable oiler that allows you to control the amount of oil that is delivered to the chain. Adjust the oil flow according to the type of wood you’re cutting and the ambient temperature. In general, you’ll need more oil when cutting hardwood or in hot weather.

Cleaning the Oiler

Periodically clean the oiler to ensure that it is functioning properly. Remove the bar and chain and use a small brush or compressed air to clean the oil passages.

My Oiling Ritual

I’m religious about chain lubrication. I check the oil level every time I refuel the saw, and I adjust the oiler as needed based on the type of wood I’m cutting. I also use a synthetic bar and chain oil in the winter to prevent the oil from thickening in the cold.

Case Study: The Importance of Chain Lubrication

I once worked with a logger who neglected to maintain proper chain lubrication. He was cutting hardwood logs all day long, and he never checked the oil level in his saw. As a result, his chain overheated and broke, causing significant damage to the saw and nearly injuring him. This incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of chain lubrication.

Takeaway: Maintain proper chain lubrication to extend the life of your square grind chain and prevent costly repairs. Use a high-quality chain oil, check the oil level regularly, adjust the oil flow as needed, and clean the oiler periodically.

Conclusion: Unleash the Power of the Square Grind

The square grind chainsaw chain is a powerful tool that can significantly improve your cutting efficiency and productivity. However, it requires a commitment to proper sharpening, maintenance, and technique. By following these five pro tips, you can master the square grind and unlock its full potential. So, get out there, sharpen your chain, and start cutting! Remember to always prioritize safety and use the right personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating a chainsaw. Happy cutting!