Best Ripping Chainsaw Chains for Fast, Clean Slabs
Ripping chainsaw chains are designed to slice through wood with minimal binding, making them ideal for slabs, beams, and rough-cut boards. This guide highlights five top-rated ripping chains compatible with common saws, helping you choose the right length, pitch, and drive link count for your bar. Each option focuses on strong steel construction, reliable rivets, and proven performance in ripping applications. Review the buying guide to compare features and manufacturer recommendations so you pick the right chain for your setup.
| Product | Brand | Length | Drive Links | Pitch | Gauge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 3/8 72DL | 8TEN | 20 Inch | 72DL | 3/8″ | .050″ |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 24 Inch .050 3/8 84DL | 8TEN | 24 Inch | 84DL | 3/8″ | .050″ |
| KAKEI 36 Inch Chainsaw Ripping Chain | KAKEI | 36 Inch | 114 | 3/8″ | .063″ |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch .063 .325 68 DL | 8TEN | 18 Inch | 68DL | .325″ | .063″ |
| 8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .063 .325 81DL | 8TEN | 20 Inch | 81DL | .325″ | .063″ |
Note: Verify fitment with your bar and saw model before purchasing. The chains listed here are designed for ripping tasks and may not meet low-kickback requirements in all jurisdictions or for every bar length.
Below are five top options chosen for relevance to ripping blades and boards, with their key specs, compatibility notes, and what to consider when selecting a chain.
8TEN 20-Inch Ripping Chain
Specifications: 20 Inch length, 72 drive links, pitch 3/8 inch, gauge .050 inch. This ripping chain is designed to maximize straight-through cuts and slab production. Material is specified as 68CrNiMo33 steel with GCr15 rivets. It is compatible with multiple Husqvarna and Stihl OEM end-points, including common 72- and 84-series bars. Fitment should be verified for your specific bar and model to ensure proper operation.
8TEN 24-Inch Ripping Chain
Specifications: 24 Inch length, 84 drive links, pitch 3/8 inch, gauge .050 inch. The chain uses 68CrNiMo33 steel with GCr15 rivets. It lists extensive compatibility with Husqvarna and Stihl OEM part numbers and echoes compatibility with Echo and Oregon chains as well. As with any ripping chain, verify that the bar length and drive link count match your saw for safe, efficient operation.
KAKEI 36 Inch Ripping Chain
Specifications: 36 Inch length, 114 drive links, 3/8 inch pitch, .063 inch gauge. This chain is marketed as a ripping chain with semi-chisel design. It notes that ripping chains are intended for slabbing and board creation rather than cross-cut firewood. It highlights German steel with enhanced toughness and hardening. Fitment guidance is provided to help you match chain length, pitch, and gauge to your bar.
8TEN 18-Inch Ripping Chain
Specifications: 18 Inch length, 68 drive links, pitch .325 inch, gauge .063 inch. The chain uses 68CrNiMo33 steel with GCr15 rivets. Compatibility covers multiple Stihl, Husqvarna, and Oregon OEM numbers, with notes on Echo and TriLink variants. This size is common for mid-sized bars used in ripping tasks and cross-compatibility requires checking part numbers for your saw model.
8TEN 20-Inch Ripping Chain (81DL)
Specifications: 20 Inch length, 81 drive links, pitch .325 inch, gauge .063 inch. The chain is built with 68CrNiMo33 steel and GCr15 rivets, intended for Stihl MS-260-Pro, MS-261, MS-270C models and similar. It lists compatibility with various Husqvarna, Stihl, and Oregon parts. As with other ripping chains, confirm that the bar and bar length match the drive links and pitch specified.
Additional Rip-Chain Options (24 Inch)
Note: The product line includes several 24 Inch ripping chains with 84 drive links and .050 gauge across Husqvarna and Stihl compatibility lists. These variants emphasize compatibility breadth and a consistent ripping design. Always verify the exact drive-link count, pitch, and bar length before purchasing to ensure safe operation with your saw.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a ripping chain include bar length, drive link count, pitch, and gauge. A match for your bar is essential for safe operation and consistent ripping performance. In ripping work, chain geometry (semi-chisel vs. full chisel) affects cut quality, heat buildup, and resistance to pinching. For longer bars (such as 36 inches), ensure the drive-link count aligns with the bar to maintain stability and consistent feed. Material quality, rivet integrity, and compatibility with your saw brand’s OEM parts influence long-term durability. Always consult your saw’s manual and verify chain compatibility with the guide bar stamp to prevent misfits and hazardous kickback risks.
If you plan frequent slab cutting or heavy ripping, consider a chain with a robust gauge and a slightly larger drive-link count to maximize stability and reduce chain tension fluctuations. For mixed-use saws, keep a rip chain on hand for dedicated ripping tasks and switch to a cross-cut chain for general pruning or bucking. Finally, inspect the chain regularly for wear, sharpening needs, and tension to maintain cutting performance and safety across projects.