Stihl Kombi Pole Saw Chain Options (3 Pro Swaps)

Innovation in the world of wood processing and forestry never stops. From the development of lighter, more powerful chainsaws to the introduction of sophisticated log splitters and efficient drying techniques, the industry constantly evolves to improve productivity, safety, and sustainability. One area where innovation shines is in the realm of multi-tool systems, like the Stihl KombiSystem. These systems offer incredible versatility, allowing users to tackle a wide range of tasks with a single powerhead and interchangeable attachments. Among these attachments, the pole saw stands out as an essential tool for arborists, landscapers, and anyone managing trees on their property.

As someone deeply involved in wood processing and firewood preparation for over two decades, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of these innovations. I remember struggling with a cumbersome, heavy chainsaw to prune high branches, a task that was both physically demanding and potentially dangerous. The introduction of the Stihl Kombi pole saw attachment was a game-changer. It allowed me to reach those high branches safely and efficiently, significantly reducing the time and effort required. But the real key to unlocking the full potential of the Kombi pole saw lies in understanding and selecting the right chain.

Choosing the correct chain for your Stihl Kombi pole saw is crucial. It directly impacts cutting performance, safety, and the longevity of both the chain and the attachment itself. A dull or inappropriate chain can lead to kickback, increased wear and tear on the motor, and a frustratingly slow cutting experience. In this guide, I’ll share my insights on three professional-grade chain swaps that can significantly enhance your Stihl Kombi pole saw’s performance. We’ll delve into the specific characteristics of each chain, the types of wood they’re best suited for, and the practical steps for installation and maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and maximize the efficiency of your pole saw.

Understanding the Basics: Chain Types and Terminology

Before we dive into the specific chain swaps, let’s establish a solid foundation by understanding the key terms and concepts related to chainsaw chains. This will help you make informed decisions when selecting the right chain for your Stihl Kombi pole saw.

Pitch: The pitch is the distance between any three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. It’s usually expressed in inches (e.g., .325″, 3/8″). The pitch must match the sprocket on your pole saw. Using the wrong pitch will damage the sprocket and chain.
Gauge: The gauge is the thickness of the drive links (the parts of the chain that fit into the guide bar groove). It’s also expressed in inches (e.g., .043″, .050″, .058″, .063″). The gauge must match the guide bar groove width. Again, using the wrong gauge will prevent the chain from fitting properly and can damage the guide bar.
Drive Links: These are the small metal pieces on the chain that engage with the sprocket and run in the guide bar groove. The number of drive links is crucial for ensuring the correct chain length for your specific guide bar.
Cutters: These are the sharp teeth on the chain that actually do the cutting. There are various types of cutters, each designed for different cutting characteristics. Common types include:
- Full Chisel: These cutters have square corners and are very aggressive, providing fast and efficient cutting. However, they dull more quickly and are more susceptible to damage from dirt and debris.
- Semi-Chisel: These cutters have rounded corners, making them more durable and less prone to dulling in dirty conditions. They are a good compromise between cutting speed and durability.
- Low-Profile (Micro-Lite): These cutters have a smaller profile and are designed for smaller chainsaws and pole saws. They offer good cutting performance with reduced kickback potential.
Kickback: This is a sudden and forceful backward or upward movement of the chainsaw that can occur when the tip of the guide bar contacts an object. Kickback is a major safety hazard, and it’s essential to use chains and techniques that minimize the risk.
Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood that has a high moisture content. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has been dried for a period of time, reducing its moisture content. Green wood is typically easier to cut, while seasoned wood is denser and requires a sharper chain. For reference, I aim for a moisture content of below 20% for seasoned firewood. This is measured using a moisture meter.

Safety First: Essential Precautions When Working with Pole Saws

Before we even discuss chain options, I want to emphasize the importance of safety when operating a pole saw. These are powerful tools, and even experienced users can have accidents if they’re not careful. Here are some essential safety precautions:

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): This includes a helmet with a face shield or safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, long pants, and sturdy boots. I personally prefer steel-toed boots with good ankle support.
Read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions: Familiarize yourself with the pole saw’s operating procedures, safety features, and maintenance requirements.
Maintain a stable stance: Ensure you have a firm footing before starting the pole saw. Avoid working on uneven or slippery surfaces.
Keep a safe distance from power lines: Never operate a pole saw near overhead power lines. Maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet (3 meters) from any power line.
Be aware of your surroundings: Look for any obstacles or hazards in your work area, such as branches, rocks, or people.
Use proper cutting techniques: Avoid overreaching or cutting above your head. Use a controlled and steady motion when cutting.
Inspect the chain and guide bar regularly: Check for damage, wear, or dullness. Sharpen or replace the chain as needed.
Never operate a pole saw when you are tired, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Be aware of kickback: Understand the causes of kickback and take steps to avoid it. Use a low-kickback chain and maintain a firm grip on the pole saw.
When possible, have another person spot you to ensure no one enters your working radius.

Pro Swap 1: Upgrading to a Stihl Picco Micro 3 (PM3) Chain

The Stihl Picco Micro 3 (PM3) chain is a popular choice for Stihl Kombi pole saws, and for good reason. It’s a low-vibration, low-kickback chain that offers excellent cutting performance. It’s a great all-around option for both homeowners and professionals.

Key Features:
- Low Vibration: The PM3 chain is designed to minimize vibration, reducing fatigue and improving operator comfort. This is particularly important when working with a pole saw for extended periods.
- Low Kickback: The PM3 chain features a bumper drive link that helps to reduce the risk of kickback. This makes it a safer option for inexperienced users.
- Narrow Kerf: The PM3 chain has a narrow kerf (the width of the cut), which means it requires less power to cut through wood. This can extend the life of your Kombi powerhead and improve fuel efficiency.
- Semi-Chisel Cutters: The semi-chisel cutters provide a good balance between cutting speed and durability. They are less prone to dulling in dirty conditions than full-chisel cutters.
Benefits:
- Improved Safety: The low-kickback design makes the PM3 chain a safer option for all users.
- Increased Comfort: The low-vibration design reduces fatigue and improves operator comfort.
- Enhanced Performance: The narrow kerf and semi-chisel cutters provide efficient cutting performance.
- Versatility: The PM3 chain is suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks, including pruning, limbing, and felling small trees.
When to Use:
- General pruning and limbing: The PM3 chain is ideal for trimming branches and removing unwanted limbs from trees.
- Cutting small trees: The PM3 chain can be used to fell small trees with a diameter of up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm).
- Working in dirty conditions: The semi-chisel cutters are more resistant to dulling in dirty conditions, making the PM3 chain a good choice for working near the ground.
Installation:
1. Ensure the Kombi powerhead is turned off and the spark plug is disconnected. This is a crucial safety step to prevent accidental starting.
2. Loosen the guide bar nuts: Use the wrench that came with your KombiSystem to loosen the nuts that hold the guide bar in place.
3. Remove the old chain: Carefully remove the old chain from the guide bar groove and the sprocket.
4. Install the new PM3 chain: Place the new PM3 chain onto the guide bar, ensuring that the cutters are facing in the correct direction (they should point forward).
5. Position the guide bar: Place the guide bar back onto the Kombi attachment, aligning the guide bar studs with the holes in the guide bar.
6. Tighten the guide bar nuts: Tighten the guide bar nuts finger-tight.
7. Adjust the chain tension: Use the chain tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. The chain should be snug against the guide bar, but you should still be able to pull it around the bar by hand. A good rule of thumb is to be able to pull the chain out about 1/8″ (3mm) from the guide bar.
8. Tighten the guide bar nuts securely: Once the chain tension is properly adjusted, tighten the guide bar nuts securely.
9. Check the chain tension again: After tightening the nuts, double-check the chain tension to ensure it hasn’t changed.
Maintenance:
- Sharpen the chain regularly: Use a chainsaw file or a chain grinder to sharpen the cutters when they become dull. I typically sharpen my chains after every 2-3 tanks of fuel.
- Lubricate the chain: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain and guide bar. This will reduce friction and wear.
- Clean the guide bar: Regularly clean the guide bar groove to remove sawdust and debris.
- Check the chain tension: Check the chain tension before each use and adjust as needed.

Pro Swap 2: Optimizing for Hardwood with a Stihl Picco Duro 3 (PD3) Chain

While the PM3 chain is a great all-around option, it may not be the best choice for cutting hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory. These woods are denser and require a more aggressive chain. That’s where the Stihl Picco Duro 3 (PD3) chain comes in.

Key Features:
- Carbide-Tipped Cutters: The PD3 chain features carbide-tipped cutters, which are significantly harder and more durable than steel cutters. This allows the chain to stay sharp for much longer, even when cutting hardwoods.
- Low Vibration: Like the PM3 chain, the PD3 chain is designed to minimize vibration, improving operator comfort.
- Low Kickback: The PD3 chain also features a bumper drive link to reduce the risk of kickback.
- Narrow Kerf: The PD3 chain has a narrow kerf, which reduces the amount of power required to cut through wood.
Benefits:
- Extended Sharpening Intervals: The carbide-tipped cutters stay sharp for much longer than steel cutters, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. I’ve personally experienced up to 5 times longer run time before needing to sharpen a PD3 chain compared to a standard chain when cutting seasoned oak.
- Improved Performance in Hardwoods: The PD3 chain is specifically designed for cutting hardwoods, providing faster and more efficient cutting.
- Increased Durability: The carbide-tipped cutters are highly resistant to wear and damage, extending the life of the chain.
- Cost-Effective: While the PD3 chain is more expensive than a standard chain, the extended sharpening intervals and increased durability can make it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
When to Use:
- Cutting hardwoods: The PD3 chain is the ideal choice for cutting hardwoods like oak, maple, hickory, and ash.
- Cutting seasoned wood: Seasoned wood is denser and harder than green wood, making the PD3 chain a better choice for cutting firewood.
- Cutting abrasive materials: The carbide-tipped cutters are more resistant to wear when cutting abrasive materials like dirty wood or wood with embedded debris.
Installation: The installation process for the PD3 chain is the same as for the PM3 chain. Follow the steps outlined above.
Maintenance:
- Sharpening: Sharpening a carbide-tipped chain requires specialized tools and techniques. I recommend taking the chain to a professional sharpening service. Attempting to sharpen it yourself with a standard chainsaw file can damage the carbide cutters.
- Lubrication: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain and guide bar.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the guide bar groove to remove sawdust and debris.
- Chain Tension: Check the chain tension before each use and adjust as needed.

Pro Swap 3: Maximizing Speed in Softwoods with a Stihl Picco Super 3 (PS3) Chain

For those primarily working with softwoods like pine, fir, or cedar, the Stihl Picco Super 3 (PS3) chain offers a significant advantage in cutting speed. This chain is designed for aggressive cutting and efficient chip removal, making it ideal for quickly processing large volumes of softwood.

Key Features:
- Full Chisel Cutters: The PS3 chain features full chisel cutters, which have square corners and are very aggressive. This allows for faster and more efficient cutting in softwoods.
- Low Vibration: The PS3 chain is designed to minimize vibration, improving operator comfort.
- Low Kickback: The PS3 chain incorporates features to reduce the risk of kickback, although full chisel chains generally have a higher kickback potential than semi-chisel chains.
- Narrow Kerf: The PS3 chain has a narrow kerf, which reduces the amount of power required to cut through wood.
Benefits:
- Faster Cutting Speed: The full chisel cutters provide significantly faster cutting speeds in softwoods compared to semi-chisel or carbide-tipped chains. This can dramatically increase productivity when processing large volumes of wood.
- Efficient Chip Removal: The PS3 chain is designed for efficient chip removal, preventing the chain from becoming clogged and maintaining optimal cutting performance.
- Improved Productivity: The faster cutting speed and efficient chip removal translate to improved productivity, allowing you to complete tasks more quickly.
When to Use:
- Cutting softwoods: The PS3 chain is the ideal choice for cutting softwoods like pine, fir, cedar, and spruce.
- Processing large volumes of wood: If you need to process a lot of wood quickly, the PS3 chain can significantly increase your productivity.
- Felling trees: The PS3 chain is well-suited for felling trees, especially in softwood forests.
Installation: The installation process for the PS3 chain is the same as for the PM3 and PD3 chains. Follow the steps outlined above.
Maintenance:
- Sharpening: The full chisel cutters on the PS3 chain require frequent sharpening to maintain their aggressive cutting edge. Use a chainsaw file or a chain grinder to sharpen the cutters regularly. I personally sharpen my PS3 chains after every tank of fuel when cutting resinous pine.
- Lubrication: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain and guide bar.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the guide bar groove to remove sawdust and debris. Softwoods tend to produce more sawdust than hardwoods, so frequent cleaning is essential.
- Chain Tension: Check the chain tension before each use and adjust as needed.

Case Study: Optimizing Firewood Production with the Right Chain

I recently worked on a project to process a large quantity of firewood from a mix of oak, maple, and pine trees that had been felled due to storm damage. This project provided a perfect opportunity to test the performance of the different Stihl Kombi pole saw chain options.

Assess your needs: Determine the types of wood you’ll be cutting most often and select the appropriate chain accordingly.
Purchase the necessary chains: Invest in the Stihl PM3, PD3, and PS3 chains to have options for different cutting scenarios.
Learn how to install and maintain the chains: Follow the instructions outlined in this guide to properly install and maintain your chains.
Practice your sharpening skills: Master the art of chainsaw sharpening to keep your chains in optimal condition.
Experiment and refine your techniques: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cutting techniques and chain options to find what works best for you.
Prioritize safety: Always prioritize safety when operating a pole saw. Wear appropriate PPE and follow all safety guidelines.

By following these steps, you can unlock the full potential of your Stihl Kombi pole saw and significantly improve your efficiency and productivity in wood processing and firewood preparation. Remember that safety is paramount, and continuous learning is key to mastering the art of chainsaw operation and wood processing.

Stihl Kombi Pole Saw Chain Options (3 Pro Swaps)