§ How-To
What Size Chainsaw Chain Do I Need? Pitch, Gauge, and Drive Links
Bar length is only the first clue. Match pitch, gauge, and drive-link count before buying a replacement chainsaw chain.
Published · Last updated:
The right replacement chainsaw chain is defined by three specs: pitch, gauge, and drive-link count. Bar length matters, but it is not enough. Two 16 inch bars can use different chains if the pitch, groove width, or number of drive links is different.
Quick answer
Find the chain size in this order:
- Read the stamp near the bar tail.
- Match the pitch, such as
3/8 LP,.325, or3/8. - Match the gauge, such as
.043,.050,.058, or.063. - Match the drive-link count, often marked as
DL. - Confirm the saw model if you are buying a bar and chain combo.
If any one of those specs is wrong, the chain may be too short, too loose, too wide for the groove, or mismatched to the drive sprocket.
Chain size cheat sheet
| Spec | What it means | Common examples | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bar length | Approximate cutting length | 14”, 16”, 18”, 20” | Bar label, manual, product title |
| Pitch | Distance pattern between rivets | 3/8 LP, .325, 3/8 | Bar stamp, old chain box, manual |
| Gauge | Drive-link thickness | .043, .050, .058, .063 | Bar stamp, groove spec, manual |
| Drive links | Number of lower links in the loop | 52DL, 56DL, 62DL, 72DL | Bar stamp or counted from old chain |
Why bar length alone fails
Search results and product listings often start with bar length because it is easy to understand. The problem is that chain loops are not sized by length alone. A “16 inch chainsaw chain” can be 55 drive links, 56 drive links, or more depending on the bar mount and sprocket setup.
That is why Reddit threads about chain replacement usually end with the same advice: look at the bar stamp. A 16 inch label tells you the category. The pitch, gauge, and drive-link count tell you the part to buy.
Where to find the specs
Clean the flat area close to the bar mount. Most bars stamp the size near the slot that bolts to the saw. If the stamp is dirty or faint, wipe it down and hold it under angled light.
You may see something like:
16" 3/8 LP .043 56DLThat means you need a 16 inch loop with 3/8 low-profile pitch, .043 gauge, and 56 drive links.
For a deeper walkthrough, see how to read the stamp on your guide bar.
If the stamp is missing
Use the old chain as the source of truth.
- Count every drive link on the underside of the chain.
- Measure pitch by measuring across three rivets and dividing by two.
- Measure gauge with a caliper if you cannot confirm it from the bar or manual.
- Check the saw model only after those specs are known.
If you also need a replacement bar, use how to measure a chainsaw guide bar before buying a combo.
Buying checklist
Before adding a replacement loop to the cart, confirm:
- Same pitch as the drive sprocket.
- Same gauge as the bar groove.
- Same drive-link count as the bar requires.
- Cutter style fits the work: semi-chisel for dirty wood, full-chisel for clean wood.
- Safety profile matches your saw and experience level.
When in doubt, buy by the complete spec string, not by a broad title like “fits 16 inch saws.” Browse saw chains or start from your saw brand on the Brands page.
FAQ
Can I use a different drive-link count if the bar length is right?
No. A loop with the wrong drive-link count will not tension correctly. It may be too short to install or too long to run safely.
Is 3/8 the same as 3/8 low profile?
No. Standard 3/8 and 3/8 LP are different chain families. Match the exact pitch shown on the bar or manual.
Can I switch from .043 gauge to .050 gauge?
Only if the bar groove is designed for .050. A .050 chain will not ride correctly in a .043 groove, and a .043 chain can wobble in a .050 groove.
Find the right part on Amazon
Check price, stock and fitment — ships direct from Amazon.
§ Parts
