What is the best bar length to use with a .404" saw chain?

Choosing the Best Bar Length

1. Wide Compatibility: .404" saw chains are commonly used with 16-36 inch bar lengths, meeting the diverse cutting needs of lumber mills and mechanized logging machines.
2. Matching Chain Pitch: The bar length is marked on the chain pitch. .404'' is a common specification; ensure the selected bar length matches the chain pitch.
3. Based on Machine Power: For higher-powered handheld or mechanical chainsaws, a medium-length bar length of 20-30 inches is recommended to balance cutting speed and stability. For lower-powered, lightweight models, a shorter bar length of 16-20 inches can be chosen to reduce vibration and extend chain life.
4. On-Site Adjustment: Before actual operation, check the chain tension and ensure the bolts at both ends of the bar are tight under no-load conditions. If necessary, fine-tune the bar length to match the working environment.

How to Sharpen a .404 Saw Chain Properly?

Correct .404 Saw Chain Sharpening Procedure:

1. Tool Preparation and Safety Precautions
Use a dedicated 30°–35° angle chain file (or corresponding whetstone) and a depth gauge to check the depth limit of each cutting tooth.
Wear protective gloves and goggles, and ensure the chain maintains proper tension in the tensioner to prevent slippage during grinding.
2. Positioning the Cutting Teeth and Setting the Angle
Place the file at the leading edge of the cutting tooth, maintaining a fixed tilt angle (approximately 30°), and smoothly push and pull along the chain's direction of movement to ensure even grinding of each cutting tooth's edge.
For .063'' and .080'' gauges on .404" saw chains, select the appropriate file width based on the thickness to avoid excessively thinning the guide plate contact surface.
3. Check Depth and Remove Excess Material
Use a depth gauge to measure the bottom height of each cutting tooth. If it is close to the manufacturer's indicated cutting tooth limit line, stop further grinding to prevent chain breakage.
Simultaneously check the guide plate thickness (gauge) to ensure that the guide plate has not been excessively worn during grinding.
4. Lubrication and Reset
After grinding all cutting teeth, readjust the chain tension so that the chain is slightly loose on the guide plate but does not slip.
Add an appropriate amount of chain lubricant to keep the cutting teeth smooth during operation, improving cutting efficiency and extending service life.