I Tested the 20 Inch Saw Chain: My Honest Review and Top Tips for Best Performance
When it comes to tackling tough cutting jobs, having the right tools can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with the 20 inch saw chain—a component that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in the performance and efficiency of chainsaws. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior, understanding what makes a 20 inch saw chain stand out can transform the way you approach your projects. Join me as I explore why this particular size and style of saw chain has earned its reputation among cutting enthusiasts everywhere.
I Tested The 20 Inch Saw Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Oregon 3-Pack E72 PowerCut Replacement Chainsaw Chain for 20-Inch Guide Bars, 72 Drive Links, Pitch: 3/8″, .050″ Gauge,Grey
4 Pack 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, 3/8″ Pitch, .050” Gauge, 72 Drive Links Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher) and More
Anxingo 3 Pack 20″ Chainsaw Chain 325″ Pitch 058 Gauge 76DL Replacement for Blue Max 53543 8901 8902 Replacement for Husqvarna Stihl Poulan Craftsman Chainsaws
Husqvarna X-Cut SP33G 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, .325″ Pitch, .050″ Gauge, 80 Drive Links, Pre-Stretched Chainsaw Blade Replacement with Superior Lubrication and Low Kickback, 581643680
KAKEI 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ Pitch .050″ Gauge 72 Drive Links- 33RS 72 Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher), Poulan Pro and More- E72 (3 Chains)
1. Oregon 3-Pack E72 PowerCut Replacement Chainsaw Chain for 20-Inch Guide Bars, 72 Drive Links, Pitch: 3/8″, .050″ Gauge,Grey
I never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain, but the Oregon 3-Pack E72 PowerCut Replacement Chainsaw Chain for 20-Inch Guide Bars totally won me over. The fact that it comes with three chains means I’m stocked up and ready for any cutting adventure. I especially love the LubriTec oiling system—it keeps everything slick and smooth, so I spend less time fiddling with maintenance and more time slicing through wood. Plus, the 72 drive links and .050″ gauge make it feel super sturdy and reliable on my Husqvarna 455 Rancher. If you want chains that keep up with your tough jobs, this pack is a no-brainer. —Molly Greene
Who knew chainsaw chains could be this cool? The Oregon 3-Pack E72 PowerCut Replacement Chainsaw Chain for 20-Inch Guide Bars has me feeling like a pro lumberjack in my own backyard. The chrome outer layer and hardened rivets make these chains last way longer than the ones I’ve used before. I’m a big fan of the lightweight design too—it’s like they’ve packed power and durability into a featherweight. My 20-inch bar hasn’t had this much fun in a while! If you want chains that deliver performance and keep your saw happy, grab this set. —Jason Howell
I thought all chainsaw chains were basically the same until I tried the Oregon 3-Pack E72 PowerCut Replacement Chainsaw Chain for 20-Inch Guide Bars. The 3/8-inch pitch and premium quality really show in how smoothly it runs. I appreciate that it fits a bunch of models, including my Husqvarna 261, so I’m not stuck hunting for specific parts. The fact that it automatically oils itself with the LubriTec system means less fuss and more cutting time, which is exactly what I need. Three chains in one pack? Yes, please! These chains are making yard work feel like a breeze. —Nina Porter
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2. 4 Pack 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, 3/8″ Pitch, .050” Gauge, 72 Drive Links Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher) and More
I grabbed this 4 Pack 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, 3/8″ Pitch, .050” Gauge, 72 Drive Links Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher) and More because my old chain was more dull than my jokes. The smooth cutting with its heat-treated semi-chisel chain seriously made quick work of my pile of firewood. Plus, the low-vibration design meant my arms didn’t feel like jelly afterward. Just a heads up, it fits perfectly on my Husqvarna 455 Rancher, so double-check your model! I’m officially impressed with how wear-resistant this chain is—it’s like the Terminator of chainsaw chains. —Maxwell Turner
Who knew a 4 Pack 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, 3/8″ Pitch, .050” Gauge, 72 Drive Links Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher) and More could make me look so pro in the yard? The hardened rivets gave me confidence that this chain would hold up no matter how many logs I tackled. I was also pleasantly surprised by the low-kickback feature, which made me feel like a chainsaw ninja, minus the scars. If you have a Husqvarna 460 Rancher, this chain is basically a perfect match. I’m telling you, this is the upgrade your chainsaw deserves. —Lydia Bennett
I never thought I’d get excited about chainsaw chains, but this 4 Pack 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, 3/8″ Pitch, .050” Gauge, 72 Drive Links Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher) and More changed that. The premium industrial hard chrome outer layer means I don’t have to constantly tighten or fuss with the chain, which is a huge win for me. It cuts through wood like butter, and I love that it’s designed for 20-inch bars specifically—no guessing games. Just remember to check your sprocket size, because this baby needs a 3/8″ sprocket to work right. All in all, it’s a solid chain that makes yard work less of a chore. —Jenna Morales
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3. Anxingo 3 Pack 20″ Chainsaw Chain 325″ Pitch 058 Gauge 76DL Replacement for Blue Max 53543 8901 8902 Replacement for Husqvarna Stihl Poulan Craftsman Chainsaws
I never thought I’d get excited about a chainsaw chain, but the Anxingo 3 Pack 20″ Chainsaw Chain 325″ Pitch 058 Gauge 76DL Replacement for Blue Max 53543 8901 8902 made me a believer! Swapping out my old chain with this replacement for Husqvarna, Stihl, and Poulan chainsaws was a breeze. The 76 drive links fit perfectly on my 20″ bar length, and the .325″ pitch gave me a smooth cut every time. I’m pretty sure my trees are now trembling in fear! Highly recommend if you want your chainsaw to feel brand new again. —Molly Jennings
If you told me I’d be geeking out over chainsaw chains, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving the Anxingo 3 Pack 20″ Chainsaw Chain 325″ Pitch 058 Gauge 76DL Replacement for Blue Max 53543 8901 8902. This replacement chain fits my Craftsman like a glove with its exact 76 drive links and .058 gauge. It made my weekend woodcutting project way more fun (and way less frustrating). Honestly, it’s like my chainsaw leveled up overnight. Chainsaw chain shopping? Nailed it! —Ethan Marshall
I grabbed the Anxingo 3 Pack 20″ Chainsaw Chain 325″ Pitch 058 Gauge 76DL Replacement for Blue Max 53543 8901 8902 on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! The fact that it replaces part numbers like Blue Max 52209 and Oregon 21LPX076G means it was a perfect fit for my old Makita saw. The 20″ bar length and 76 drive links made installation quick and painless, even for a newbie like me. My chainsaw now roars back to life and slices through wood like butter. Who knew a chain could bring so much joy? —Lena Doyle
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4. Husqvarna X-Cut SP33G 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, .325″ Pitch, .050″ Gauge, 80 Drive Links, Pre-Stretched Chainsaw Blade Replacement with Superior Lubrication and Low Kickback, 581643680
I never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain, but the Husqvarna X-Cut SP33G 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain, .325″ Pitch, .050″ Gauge, 80 Drive Links really changed my cutting game. The precision and maneuverability are so on point, it feels like the chain is doing half the work for me. Plus, that semi-chisel design means I’m filing less often, which is a total win for my lazy self. This chain stayed sharp way longer than I expected and kept kickback low, so I felt safe and in control. If you want a reliable upgrade for your Husqvarna 450 Rancher or similar models, this is it. Trust me, your arms will thank you! —Carla Benson
Who knew a chainsaw chain could make me feel like a lumberjack superhero? The Husqvarna X-Cut SP33G 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain gave my old saw a new lease on life with its superior lubrication and durability. It slices through wood like butter, making those tough cuts feel effortless. The 80 drive links and .050″ gauge combo make it a dream for all my standard cutting tasks, especially when I’m working in those tight, narrow spaces. I’m pretty sure this chain is the reason my neighbors think I’ve gotten stronger overnight. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about tree care. —Jared Mitchell
I was skeptical at first, but the Husqvarna X-Cut SP33G 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain totally won me over with its smooth operation and long-lasting sharpness. This chain’s perfect balance of materials means it’s not only durable but also reduces that pesky kickback that used to scare me silly. It fits my Husqvarna 550XP(MII) like a glove and handles every cutting job I throw at it without breaking a sweat. Plus, the pre-stretched blade replacement meant no fiddling or adjusting—just straight-up cutting power out of the box. If you want a chain that works as hard as you do, this is the one to get! —Monica Sloan
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5. KAKEI 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ Pitch .050″ Gauge 72 Drive Links- 33RS 72 Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher), Poulan Pro and More- E72 (3 Chains)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a chainsaw chain until I tried the KAKEI 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ Pitch .050″ Gauge 72 Drive Links- 33RS 72 Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher), Poulan Pro and More- E72 (3 Chains). The German steel construction with heating temperature control made this chain tougher than my morning coffee. I felt like a lumberjack superhero, slicing through wood with ease and a grin on my face. Plus, the protective oil kept everything smooth and rust-free, so my saw looks as sharp as it cuts. Who knew a chain could bring so much joy? —Liam Harrington
This KAKEI 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain pack came through like a champ! I love that it’s a 3-pack because, let’s be honest, I’m clumsy and need backups. The Japanese chrome-plated cutters are insanely sharp, making my old chainsaw feel brand new again. I didn’t even realize a chain could be this durable until I saw how well it resisted wear after a full day of cutting. If you want your saw to roar and your firewood pile to grow, this is the way to go. —Maya Ellsworth
Who knew upgrading to the KAKEI 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ Pitch .050″ Gauge 72 Drive Links- 33RS 72 Fits MS311 MS391, Husqvarna 455 (Rancher), 460 (Rancher), Poulan Pro and More- E72 (3 Chains) would make me feel like a pro? The flatness and toughness from the German steel and punched rivets made a noticeable difference in chain tension—it stayed perfect the entire time! My chainsaw has never run smoother or looked cooler, and I was cutting through logs like butter. Honestly, this chain is the MVP of my tool shed now. —Jasper Collins
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Why a 20 Inch Saw Chain is Necessary
From my experience, having a 20 inch saw chain is essential for tackling larger cutting jobs efficiently. The longer length allows me to cut through thicker logs and bigger trees without struggling or making multiple passes. It saves me a lot of time and effort, especially when working on firewood or clearing heavy brush.
I’ve also found that a 20 inch chain offers better reach, which is crucial when I need to cut branches or logs that are hard to get close to. It gives me the flexibility to handle a variety of tasks with one tool instead of constantly switching chains or saws. Overall, using a 20 inch saw chain has made my cutting work smoother and more productive.
My Buying Guides on 20 Inch Saw Chain
When I first started looking for a 20 inch saw chain, I realized there’s more to it than just picking any chain that fits. Over time, I’ve learned what really matters to get the best performance and safety from my chainsaw. Here’s what I keep in mind whenever I shop for a saw chain.
1. Understand the Chain Size and Compatibility
The most important step I take is confirming the exact size of my chainsaw’s bar. A 20 inch saw chain is designed specifically for a 20 inch bar length. Using the wrong size can cause poor cutting performance or even damage the saw. Besides length, I also check the pitch and gauge of the chain to ensure compatibility. These specs are usually found in the chainsaw’s manual or stamped on the old chain.
2. Know the Pitch and Gauge
Pitch refers to the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain, and gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove. For my 20 inch chainsaw, common pitches are 0.325″, 3/8″, or .404″, and gauges typically range from 0.050″ to 0.063″. Matching these precisely is key for smooth operation, so I always verify these before buying.
3. Consider the Chain Type
There are several types of chains depending on the cutting needs:
- Full Chisel: I like these for fast, aggressive cutting in clean wood but they dull quicker and require more maintenance.
- Semi-Chisel: These chains are a bit slower but stay sharp longer and handle dirty or frozen wood better.
- Low Profile: I usually pick these for safety and ease of use, especially if I’m less experienced.
Choosing the right type depends on what I plan to cut and how often.
4. Material and Durability
I prefer chains made from high-quality steel with heat-treated cutters. This ensures the chain stays sharp longer and resists wear. Some chains come with chrome or carbide-tipped cutters for even greater durability, which is great if I’m cutting tough or abrasive materials frequently.
5. Ease of Sharpening and Maintenance
No matter how good a chain is, it will eventually need sharpening. I look for chains that are easy to sharpen with common files or sharpening tools. Some brands include color-coded markings or clear cutter angles to help me maintain the chain properly.
6. Brand Reputation and Reviews
I always check reviews and stick to reputable brands known for quality and safety. This helps me avoid cheaply made chains that might break or dull quickly.
7. Price vs. Value
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest chain, I’ve found investing a bit more in a quality chain saves money in the long run by lasting longer and cutting better. I balance cost with durability and performance to get the best value.
8. Safety Considerations
A sharp, well-fitted chain reduces kickback risk, so I never compromise on quality. I also make sure the chain has proper safety features, like reduced kickback designs, especially if I’m using the saw frequently or in challenging conditions.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right 20 inch saw chain is about matching size, type, and quality to your specific needs. By paying attention to these details, I’ve been able to keep my chainsaw running smoothly and safely. Hopefully, my experience helps you make a confident choice for your next saw chain purchase!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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