For homeowners and professionals who regularly engage in tree cutting, a chainsaw proves to be an invaluable tool.
Chainsaw bars are components included in a saw to support the chain that cuts through trees.
Since most trees differ in size and shape, it is vital that you buy the chainsaw bar with the best length, pitch, gauge, and weight combination for optimal results.
In our detailed review of top 10 chainsaw bars and buying guide, we look at the market’s top models and help you choose the ideal one for all you tree cutting applications.
In this post:
- Important Things To Check Before Buying Chainsaw Bar
- 10 Best Chainsaw Bars Reviewed
- 1. Stihl 3003 008 6821 (Best Overall)
- 2. Husqvarna 531300440 (High-Performance)
- 3. Husqvarna 531300447 (Best Budget)
- 4. Forester S205072X (Best Chainsaw Bar and Chain Combo)
- 5. Oregon 105671 (Best Replacement Chainsaw Bar for Stihl)
- 6. Oregon 105670 (Best Light-duty)
- 7. Oregon 105667 (Chainsaw Bar and Chain Combo for Home Use)
- 8. Husqvarna 531300438 (Lightweight Chainsaw Bar)
- 9. Oregon 510124 (Smooth and Efficient Cutting)
- 10. Forester HJ185072X (Superior Drive Links)
- Conclusion
Important Things To Check Before Buying Chainsaw Bar
1. Type of Your Chainsaw
Chainsaw and guide bar compatibility are priority considerations you should make when shopping for bars.
Some bars are compatible with specific chainsaw models only. For instance, we saw some bars from brands such as Husqvarna and Stihl being compatible with specific chainsaw models.
Large bars work well with chainsaws equipped with powerful motors that are capable of supporting the bars’ weight and length.
2. Types of Bars
There are 3 main types of chainsaw bars: solid bars, solid bars with replacement tips, and laminated bars with nose wheels. Read further to learn the differences between them.
– Solid Bars
Solid chainsaw bars are suited for use on hard timber species, thick barks, and in sooty, dusty, and sandy conditions.
These bars may also be coated to prevent them from corroding or rusting.
– Solid Bars with Replacement Tips
Some chainsaw bars, especially long ones, have replaceable tips. This design is intended to minimize the load on the bar tips by transferring it to the high-performance roller bearing.
These bars may also be coasted for protection against corrosion and scratching.
– Laminated Bars with Nose Wheel
These chainsaw bars are designed to minimize kickback risk while ensuring optimal cutting control. To achieve these goals, they have a gentle curve and a small nose radius.
A laminate coating is also applied to these bars to prevent corrosion and scratching.
3. Bar Length
The length of your chainsaw bar will determine the size (in diameter) of the tree you can cut. Length also affects the speed of your chainsaw.
Short bars, with lengths between 12 inches and 18 inches, are great for cutting short trees and bushes.
If you’re looking to cut large trees or hardwoods, go for bars with lengths of 20 inches and above.
4. Safety
Safety is a key consideration for many chainsaw owners. When choosing a bar for your saw, you want one that minimized chainsaw kickback and vibration.
Chainsaw kickback can cause serious injuries. Hence, go for a bar that meets the ANSI standard for low kickback performance.
Also, a bar with vibration reduction features will go a long way in enhancing saw safety.
5. Weight
The weight of your chainsaw bar contributes to the overall weight of the saw. Thus, it’s best to choose a chainsaw bar that is lightweight.
Most of the bars we reviewed have weights in the range of 1-4 pounds. Even though a 1-pound bar will do good to minimize your saw’s weight, it may compromise the length.
You can try to balance between bar weight and length depending on its intended use.
10 Best Chainsaw Bars Reviewed
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Stihl 3003 008 6821 (Best Overall) |
|
 | 2. Husqvarna 531300440 (High-performance) |
|
 | 3. Husqvarna 531300447 (Best Budget) |
|
 | 4. Forester S205072X (Best Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo) |
|
 | 5. Oregon 105671 (Best Replacement for Stihl) |
|
 | 6. Oregon 105670 (Best Light-duty) |
|
 | 7. Oregon 105667 (Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo for Home Use) |
|
 | 8. Husqvarna 531300438 (Lightweight) |
|
 | 9. Oregon 510124 (For Smooth & Efficient Cutting) |
|
 | 10. Forester HJ185072X (With Superior Drive Links) |
|
1. Stihl 3003 008 6821 (Best Overall)
Photo: Stihl
- Bar Length: 20 inches
- Pitch: 0.325 inches
- Gauge: 0.063 inches
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
Stihl 3003 008 6821 stands out as the best overall chainsaw bar on our list because of its excellent build quality and suitability for a variety of applications.
It is suited for a wide range of applications including occasion, mid-range, and regular professional projects in tree-cutting.
To excel in so many diverse applications, the bar is made of high-grade durable steel. It retains its strength and rigidity even when constantly subjected to the toughest cutting tasks.
This top-rated chainsaw bar is unlike any other we’ve reviewed in that it features 3-spot laminated welding, which adds to the bar’s overall sturdiness and durability.
At 20 inches in length, and with a superior gauge of 0.063 inches, this bar is capable of executing heavy-duty cutting that other smaller bars struggle or fail to accomplish.
The only issue we noted with the Stihl 3003 008 6821 all-round chainsaw bar is its high prices, which makes this model the most expensive on our list.
Pros:
- Ideal for mid-range, and regular professional uses
- Made of high-grade steel
- Feature 3-spot laminated welding
- Superior length and gauge
Cons:
- Pricey
2. Husqvarna 531300440 (High-Performance)
Photo: Husqvarna
- Bar Length: 20 inches
- Pitch: 0.375 inches
- Gauge: 0.050 inches
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
Husqvarna 531300440 is a high-performance chainsaw bar that combines superior length and a wide pitch to excel in demanding tree-cutting applications.
The bar measures 20 inches in length with a 0.375-inch pitch, which is the highest in the pack. Large pitches are great for more aggressive cutting than that produced by smaller-pitch bars.
It is compatible with a number of Husqvarna chainsaw models, including 55Rancher, 257, 261, 262XP, 357XP, 359, 455Rancher and 460. You can be confident that this bar will fit the most common Husqvarna models.
Professionals will love this model because it delivers on even the most demanding tree-cutting tasks especially given its superior length.
This high-performance bar also reduces chain vibrations to achieve efficient cutting and minimize injury risks.
We did note, however, that its paint coating tends to wear off shortly after you start cutting especially when there’s a lot of friction between it and the tree it’s cutting.
Pros:
- Superior length and pitch combination
- Compatible with selected Husqvarna chainsaw models
- Great for professional applications
- Reduces chain vibrations
Cons:
- Paint may wear off unexpectedly fast
3. Husqvarna 531300447 (Best Budget)
Photo: Husqvarna
- Bar Length: 12 inches (also available in 16, 18, and 20-inch lengths)
- Pitch: 0.375 inches
- Gauge: 0.050 inches
- Weight: 0.9 pounds
Husqvarna 531300447 is the best budget chainsaw bar on our list. Its reasonable pricing makes it the most accessible to potential buyers.
It is the original replacement blade for 325P4, 326P4, 326P5X, 334T, 335XPT and 338XPT models of Husqvarna chainsaws.
This chainsaw bar is a great companion for professional users who work in demanding environments. Its design is optimized to increase saw capacity while reducing vibration significantly
Another feature you’ll love about this budget chainsaw bar is its low weight of 0.9 pounds, which also enhances your chainsaw’s portability by reducing its overall weight.
An issue we noted with the Husqvarna 531300447 chainsaw bar is its short length of 12 inches, which limits the size (diameter) of trees you can cut with it.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced and affordable
- Performs well in demanding tasks
- Designed to increase saw capacity and reduce vibrations
- Lightweight to support portability
Cons:
- Short bar length
4. Forester S205072X (Best Chainsaw Bar and Chain Combo)
Photo: Forester
- Bar Length: 20 inches
- Pitch: 0.375 inches
- Gauge: 0.050 inches
- Weight: 3.6 pounds
Forester S205072X is the best chainsaw bar and chain combo on our list. You get a high-quality bar and chain with your purchase of this model.
This bar and chain combo are compatible with many Stihl chainsaw models including 024, 026, 028, 029, Farmboss, 030, 031, 032, 034, 036, 038, 040, 041, 042, 044, and several others.
You are also getting a superior bar length of 20 inches, which combines well with a pitch of 0.375 inches and a standard gauge of 0.050 to support the heavy-duty cutting of thick trees and barks.
Another impressive feature of this chainsaw bar is its ability to support extended usage over several hours without collapsing or becoming dulls.
The only issue we noted with the Forester S205072X is its weight of 3.6 pounds, which could contribute to the entire chainsaw feeling heavy in the hand.
Pros:
- High-quality bar and chain combo
- Compatible with many Stihl chainsaws
- Superior bar length and pitch
- Runs for extended periods
Cons:
- Heavy
5. Oregon 105671 (Best Replacement Chainsaw Bar for Stihl)
Photo: Oregon
- Bar Length: 20 inches
- Pitch: 0.325 inches
- Gauge: 0.063 inches
- Weight: 3.38 pounds
Oregon 105671 is the best replacement chainsaw bar for Stihl given it supports the largest number of models from this brand.
You can use this bar to replace Stihl 024, 026, 026P, 028, 029, 030, 031, 032, 034, 036, MS 260, MS 270, MS 271, MS 280, MS 290, and other bars.
To prolong the life of your chainsaw bar, this model is equipped with the LubriTec system that keeps the chain and guide bar constantly oiled to minimize friction.
This bar meets ANSI standards for low kickback performance. This feature is especially important because it helps prevent common chainsaw injuries resulting from kickback.
Also, at 20 inches, this is one of the longest bars you can buy today. This length makes it ideal for cutting trees with large diameters. It is great for hardwood trees.
A potential downside of the Oregon 105671 chainsaw bar is its weight of 3.38 pounds, which is one of the highest we have recorded. The bar’s weight will contribute to that of the entire chainsaw, which can feel heavy in the hand.
Pros:
- Replaces bars on many Stihl models
- Superior lubrication system
- Approved for low kickback performance
- Long chainsaw bar
Cons:
- Its weight may make chainsaw heavy
6. Oregon 105670 (Best Light-duty)
Photo: Oregon
- Bar Length: 18 inches
- Pitch: 0.325 inches
- Gauge: 0.063 inches
- Weight: 3.2 pounds
Oregon 105670 is the best light-duty chainsaw bar on our list. It is ideal for the occasional cutting of tree limbs and for professionals who do landscaping work.
It is able to deliver exceptional results on light-duty tasks because of its smooth cutting with each movement of the chain.
Because this chainsaw bar is designed for light-duty tasks, it is easy to maintain and tends to last longer than other models constantly subjected to demanding tasks.
This bar comes with a multi-rivet nose that enhances the tool’s durability. LubriTec is also present in this bar to minimize friction and prolong its life.
An issue to note, however, is that at 3.2 pounds, the weight of the Oregon 105670 bar is capable of contributing to the overall heaviness of the chainsaw.
Pros:
- Smooth cutting for light-duty tasks
- Easy to maintain
- Multi-rivet nose for durability
- LubriTec system to reduce friction
Cons:
- Can make chainsaw heavy
7. Oregon 105667 (Chainsaw Bar and Chain Combo for Home Use)
Photo: Oregon
- Bar Length: 14 inches
- Pitch: 0.375 inches
- Gauge: 0.050 inches
- Weight: 1.55 pounds
Oregon 105667 is a great chainsaw bar and chain combo for homeowners who use the tool occasionally.
The single rivet guide bar has a small-radius node that helps reduce chainsaw kickback. This bar combines well with small gas and electric chainsaws for small tree-cutting projects at home.
Oregon AdvanceCut chainsaw chain is the second component of this combo. It is designed to be reliable and durable while ensuring ease of maintenance.
This chain features Oregon’s LubriTec oiling system, which keeps it and the guide bar constantly oil to minimize friction while extending the components’ life.
Additionally, this chain comes with hardened rivets and chrome-plated cutters that are well-built and durable.
A potential shortcoming of the Oregon 105667 chainsaw and bar combo is the bar’s length of 14 inches, which many may consider short compared to longer 20-inch ones.
Pros:
- Bar and chain combo ideal for home use
- Designed to reduce chainsaw kickback
- Superior oiling system to reduce friction
- High-quality chain
Cons:
- The bar could be longer
8. Husqvarna 531300438 (Lightweight Chainsaw Bar)
Photo: Husqvarna
- Bar Length: 18 inches
- Pitch: 0.0325 inches
- Gauge: 0.050 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
If you’re looking for a lightweight chainsaw bar that will minimize the overall weight of your chainsaw, then Husqvarna 531300438 is a great pick.
The bar weighs only 1 pound, which makes it one of the lightest you can buy. When you add it to your chainsaw, you can count on it maintaining the tool’s overall weight at the minimal.
It is a great replacement bar for many Husqvarna models including 41, 45, 49, 51, 55, 336, 339XP, 340, 345, 346 XP, 350, 351, 353, 435, 440, 445 and 450e.
This bar will do a good job of supporting professionals who work in demanding tree-cutting conditions.
The bar’s designed is optimized to minimize chain vibrations while maintaining high chainsaw performance. It also has a sealed bearing on the end, eliminating the grease port present in the older model. You never have to worry about lubricating your bar again.
We did note, however, that with the Husqvarna 531300438, the absence of a grease hole on the sprocket may take getting used to.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Compatible with many Husqvarna chainsaw models
- Suited for professional and demanding tasks
- Reduces chain vibration
Cons:
- Absent grease hole takes getting used to
9. Oregon 510124 (Smooth and Efficient Cutting)
Photo: Oregon
- Bar Length: 20 inches
- Pitch: 0.375 inches
- Gauge: 0.050 inches
- Weight: 2.78 pounds
Oregon 510124 is a chainsaw replacement bar designed for smooth and efficient tree cutting.
The bar measures 20 inches in length and is great for cutting large trees and bucks within your home or garden.
Made using a high-quality metal construction and finish, the bar is designed to fit Husqvarna models 55 Rancher, 455 Rancher and 359.
Because of its durability, it simplifies cutting work through increased efficiency.
This bar works great as a brush cutter and trimmer attachment, thus achieving a level of versatility that we haven’t seen in the other models we’ve reviewed.
We did note, however, that the Oregon 510124 replacement chainsaw bar is compatible with very few Husqvarna models. Also, its cost is on the higher side.
Pros:
- Optimized for smooth and efficient cutting
- High-quality metal finish
- Simplifies cutting tasks
- Also works as a brush cutting and trimmer attachment
Cons:
- Compatible with few models
- Pricey
10. Forester HJ185072X (Superior Drive Links)
Photo: Forester
- Bar Length: 18 inches
- Pitch: 0.325 inches
- Gauge: 0.050 inches
- Weight: 2.95 pounds
Forester HJ185072X is a replacement chainsaw bar that boasts of having 72 drive links for maximum compatibility with a variety of chainsaw models.
This bar is compatible with over 20 Husqvarna chainsaw models 133, 136, 137, 1400, 140S, 141, 142, 154, 1600, 234, 238, 240, 242, 242XP, 243, 246, 254, 254XP, 257, 261, 262, and many others.
You can also try fitting it on other selected chainsaw models of brands such as Alpina, Craftsman, Dolmar, Echo, and Homelite, among others.
It comes with a high-quality chain to complement the bar. This combination is great especially if you were looking to replace both your chainsaw’s bar and chain. You won’t have to incur additional costs.
Also, it performs consistently well even for extended periods.
An issue we noted with the Forester HJ185072X is that its chain comes rather dull and you may need to sharpen it to achieve efficient cutting.
Pros:
- 72 drive links enhance bar and chainsaw compatibility
- Fits on many Husqvarna and other chainsaw models
- Comes with a high-quality chain
- Consistent over extended periods
Cons:
- The chain may prove dull
Conclusion
We’ve covered chainsaw bars and their many useful features extensively to help you decide on the best model for you.
Remember to confirm if the guide bar you’re buying is compatible with the chainsaw model you own. The type of bar you need should also be high on your list of priorities.
Then, confirm that its length and weight are ideal for its intended applications.
You can always refer to our top 10 chainsaw bar reviews and buying guides to help you pick the ideal model for your wood cutting needs.