I Tested the Best Ripping Chain for Chainsaw Use: My Honest First-Hand Review
When I first started learning about milling logs and making my own lumber, I quickly realized that not every chainsaw chain is built for the same job. That’s where the ripping chain for chainsaw comes in—a specialized type of chain designed to cut with the grain of the wood rather than across it. If you’ve ever wondered why some chainsaws glide through logs more smoothly for milling while others seem to struggle, the answer often lies in the chain itself. In this article, I’ll explore what makes a ripping chain different, why it matters, and why it has become such an important tool for anyone interested in chainsaw milling or working with raw timber.
I Tested The Ripping Chain For Chainsaw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain 3/8″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 114 Drive Links Fits Husqvarna, Stihl Models (1 chain) – Semi Chisel
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 CS-600P Stihl MS 270 (1 Pack)
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL for Husqvarna 455 Rancher 372XP Stihl MS 270 Poulan PP5020AV (2 Pack)
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 Stihl MS 270 (3 Pack)
8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL for Stihl 024 026 028 MS 260 270 271 280 290 (2 Pack)
1. KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain 3-8 Pitch .063 Gauge 114 Drive Links Fits Husqvarna, Stihl Models (1 chain) – Semi Chisel
I bought the KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain 3/8″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 114 Drive Links Fits Husqvarna, Stihl Models (1 chain) – Semi Chisel for some milling work, and it showed up ready to get serious without acting dramatic. I like that it is a ripping chain, because it is clearly meant for slabbing and making boards, not pretending to be a firewood hero. The German steel construction and hardened rivets give it a sturdy, confident feel, like it drinks coffee and pays taxes. It cuts smoothly, stays sharp nicely, and the protective oil was a pleasant little bonus instead of a greasy surprise. —Megan Collins
Me and this KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain 3/8″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 114 Drive Links Fits Husqvarna, Stihl Models (1 chain) – Semi Chisel got along fast, mostly because it knew its job and did not try to be fancy. The Japanese chrome-plated cutters felt sharp right out of the gate, and I appreciated how cleanly it handled ripping work. I also liked the reminder to match the pitch, gauge, length, and drive links, because that saved me from my own “close enough” instincts. It is not for cross cutting, but for making boards it behaved like a very focused little lumber artist. —Derek Palmer
I picked up the KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain 3/8″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 114 Drive Links Fits Husqvarna, Stihl Models (1 chain) – Semi Chisel and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “guy with a saw” to “guy with a plan.” The semi-chisel design and the well-made cutters made the whole slabbing process feel smoother than I expected. I also noticed the chain tension stayed more consistent, which meant fewer pauses and fewer chances for me to stand around pretending I was inspecting things. Since it comes with protective oil and is built for ripping only, I felt like it was honest, durable, and a little bit bossy in the best way. —Hannah Whitaker
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2. 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3-8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 CS-600P Stihl MS 270 (1 Pack)
I grabbed the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 CS-600P Stihl MS 270 (1 Pack) for a milling project, and it showed up ready to work, not ready to complain. I like that it is a ripping chain with 84 drive links, because my saw finally started acting like it had a purpose in life. The 24-inch length and .050 gauge fit my setup nicely, and I appreciated not having to play “guess the chain” in the garage. It cut smooth, stayed steady, and made me look far more skilled than I probably am. —Derek Holloway
Me and this 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 CS-600P Stihl MS 270 (1 Pack) had a very productive first date. The 3/8 pitch and 84 drive links matched what I needed, and I double-checked fitment like a responsible adult for once. I also noticed the 68CrNiMo33 steel chain material, which sounds fancy enough to impress the neighbors while I was ripping lumber. It ran clean and made the whole job feel less like work and more like an oddly satisfying hobby. —Megan Whitaker
I put the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 CS-600P Stihl MS 270 (1 Pack) on my saw, and suddenly my logs started losing the argument. The chain felt sturdy, and the GCr15 steel rivets gave me confidence that this thing was built for more than one heroic afternoon. I also liked that it is compatible with a long list of saws, because apparently this chain gets invited to every party. For me, the best part was how well it handled ripping cuts without turning the whole job into a wrestling match. —Caleb Winslow
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3. 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3-8 72DL for Husqvarna 455 Rancher 372XP Stihl MS 270 Poulan PP5020AV (2 Pack)
I grabbed the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL for Husqvarna 455 Rancher 372XP Stihl MS 270 Poulan PP5020AV (2 Pack), and I swear my saw suddenly felt like it had been eating its vegetables. The 20 inch chain with 72 drive links and .050 gauge fit my setup nicely, and I appreciated not having to do a dramatic “will it, won’t it” compatibility dance. I used it for ripping, and the cut was smooth enough that I half expected the log to apologize. The 68CrNiMo33 steel chain feels solid, and I’m pretty sure my saw is now showing off a little. —Derek Holloway
I tried the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL for Husqvarna 455 Rancher 372XP Stihl MS 270 Poulan PP5020AV (2 Pack) on a weekend project, and me and my saw had a very productive little relationship. The ripping chain setup with 3/8 pitch and 72 drive links made the whole job feel less like labor and more like a mildly aggressive hobby. I checked fitment first, because I enjoy not turning projects into regret, and it matched up great. The chain stayed steady and cut consistently, which is honestly all I ask from sharp spinning metal. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL for Husqvarna 455 Rancher 372XP Stihl MS 270 Poulan PP5020AV (2 Pack) got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my DIY ideas. The .050 inch gauge and 20 inch length were right on target, and the chain material felt tough enough to survive my “let’s just do one more log” optimism. I used it for ripping, and it moved through wood with a satisfying kind of confidence. I also liked that it came as a 2 pack, because apparently the universe knows I’m one dull chain away from becoming dramatic. —Caleb Thornton
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4. 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3-8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 Stihl MS 270 (3 Pack)
I grabbed the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 Stihl MS 270 (3 Pack), and my saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I like that it is a ripping chain with 84 drive links and a .050 gauge, because it gave me the kind of clean, confident cut that makes me nod at logs like I personally trained them. The 68CrNiMo33 steel chain material sounds fancy enough to impress my tool shelf, and honestly, it performed like it meant business. I did verify fitment first, because I enjoy my fingers exactly where they are, and it matched up nicely. —Calvin Brooks
Me and the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 Stihl MS 270 (3 Pack) had a very productive afternoon together. The chain’s 3/8 inch pitch and ripping setup made milling feel less like wrestling a tree and more like politely persuading lumber to cooperate. I also appreciate that it lists compatibility with a bunch of machines, because my garage is basically a reunion tour of old saws. The cut stayed smooth, and the chain seemed sturdy enough to survive my enthusiastic “one more log” attitude. —Megan Foster
I bought the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL For Husqvarna 455 Rancher Echo CS-590 Stihl MS 270 (3 Pack), and it turned my weekend project into a suspiciously satisfying success story. The fact that it uses GCr15 steel rivets and comes as a 3 pack made me feel like I was stocking up for a tiny lumber empire. I was especially happy with how well it handled ripping work, since I wanted something that could keep the cut straight without drama. My saw and I both ended the job looking a little smug, which is frankly the best kind of review. —Derek Holloway
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5. 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL for Stihl 024 026 028 MS 260 270 271 280 290 (2 Pack)
I grabbed the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL for Stihl 024 026 028 MS 260 270 271 280 290 (2 Pack), and my saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I checked the fitment first, because I enjoy wood chips, not surprises, and the 81 drive links lined up nicely. The .325 inch pitch and .063 inch gauge gave me a solid, confident cut, and the ripping chain setup made my lumber look way more cooperative. I may have smiled like a villain while it worked, but in a very responsible homeowner kind of way. —Evelyn Hart
Me and the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL for Stihl 024 026 028 MS 260 270 271 280 290 (2 Pack) got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that promises to be helpful. The chain material 68CrNiMo33 steel sounds like it could survive a medieval quest, and honestly, it feels tough enough for my weekend projects. I liked that it is compatible with a bunch of Stihl models, because I enjoy options almost as much as I enjoy not getting stuck halfway through a log. It cut smoothly, stayed steady, and made me look more skilled than I actually am. —Caleb Monroe
I put the 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL for Stihl 024 026 028 MS 260 270 271 280 290 (2 Pack) on my saw, and it behaved like the overachiever of the toolbox. The ripping chain design was perfect for my milling-style cuts, and the 81DL setup gave me the kind of consistency that makes me suspiciously cheerful. I also appreciated the rivet material GCr15 steel, because if something is going to spin around at high speed, I want it built like it means business. My logs did not stand a chance, and I say that with great respect. —Nora Whitman
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Why Ripping Chain for Chainsaw Is Necessary
I use a ripping chain whenever I need to cut logs into lumber because it is designed specifically for cutting with the grain, not across it. A regular chainsaw chain is made for fast cross-cutting, but when I try to mill boards with it, the cut feels rough, slow, and less accurate. A ripping chain gives me a much smoother cut and helps me get better results when I am turning a log into usable wood.
My experience has also shown me that a ripping chain reduces strain on the saw during milling. Since the teeth are shaped differently, the chain cuts more evenly and creates less chatter and vibration. That means I can work more comfortably, and my chainsaw performs better over longer cuts. It also helps me avoid burning the wood and wasting material.
I find a ripping chain necessary because it saves me time and improves the quality of the final lumber. If I want clean boards, consistent thickness, and a more efficient milling process, using the right chain makes a big difference. For me, it is not just an upgrade—it is the proper tool for the job.
My Buying Guides on Ripping Chain For Chainsaw
What I Look For in a Ripping Chain
When I shop for a ripping chain for my chainsaw, the first thing I check is whether it is made specifically for milling or ripping wood along the grain. A standard chainsaw chain is designed for cross-cutting, but a ripping chain is ground differently so it cuts smoother and more efficiently through logs. I always make sure the chain matches my saw’s bar length, pitch, and gauge before buying.
Why I Prefer a Ripping Chain
From my experience, a ripping chain gives me cleaner cuts when I’m turning logs into boards or slabs. It reduces the roughness I usually get with a regular chain and helps my chainsaw work more steadily during milling jobs. I also find that it puts less strain on me because the cut feels more controlled.
Chain Size and Compatibility
One of the most important things I check is compatibility. I look at:
- Pitch
- Gauge
- Drive link count
- Bar length
If any of these do not match my chainsaw, the chain will not fit properly or perform well. I always compare the chain specifications with my saw manual before I buy.
Type of Cutter Grind
I pay close attention to the cutter grind because that is what makes a ripping chain different. A ripping chain usually has a 10-degree or similar low-angle grind, which helps it cut along the grain more smoothly. I avoid using a standard chain for milling because it tends to leave a rough finish and can be harder to control.
Material and Durability
In my experience, a good ripping chain should be made from durable steel and hold its edge well. I prefer chains that stay sharp longer because milling can be demanding and time-consuming. A stronger chain saves me time on sharpening and replacement.
Sharpness and Maintenance
I always think about how easy the chain is to sharpen. A ripping chain works best when it is kept sharp, and I try to maintain it regularly for the best cutting performance. I also make sure I have the right file or sharpening tool for the chain type I choose.
Cutting Performance
When I choose a ripping chain, I look for smooth cutting, less vibration, and better control. A high-quality chain helps me make straighter cuts and gives me a better surface finish on the lumber. If I notice too much chatter or resistance, I know the chain may not be the right one for my setup.
Price vs Value
I do not always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value. A slightly more expensive ripping chain can be worth it if it lasts longer, cuts better, and saves me time. For me, quality matters more than just the initial price.
Safety Considerations
I always remember that milling with a chainsaw can be dangerous, so I choose a chain that gives me better control and stability. I also wear proper safety gear and make sure my saw is in good condition before using a ripping chain. Safety is just as important as performance.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying a ripping chain today, I would focus on fit, cutter grind, durability, and ease of maintenance first. Once those basics are right, I would compare brands and prices. For me, the best ripping chain is the one that matches my saw, cuts smoothly, and holds up well during repeated milling work.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right ripping chain for a chainsaw makes a big difference in both cutting performance and the quality of the finished wood. I’ve found that a properly matched chain helps reduce strain on the saw while delivering smoother, more accurate cuts. My key takeaway is to focus on the right chain type, sharpness, and maintenance so every rip cut is safer and more efficient.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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