I Tested the Stihl 20 Inch Chain: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started exploring the world of chainsaws, the Stihl 20 Inch Chain quickly caught my attention as a standout choice for both professionals and avid DIYers. There’s something about its reputation for durability and performance that makes it a reliable companion for tackling everything from heavy-duty cutting to routine yard work. Whether you’re upgrading your existing saw or just curious about what makes this particular chain so popular, I’ve found that understanding its unique qualities can truly change the way you approach your cutting projects. Join me as I dive into what makes the Stihl 20 Inch Chain a trusted tool in the cutting world.
I Tested The Stihl 20 Inch Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Stihl 33RS-72 Oilomatic Rapid Super Saw Chain, 20″
KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .325″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 81 Drive Links- 26RS 81 Fits Stihl (PRE 2023 .063″ Gauge) MS291, MS271 Farm Boss, MS261-36390050081, V81 (3 Chains)
STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain 20″ Bar .325 pitch .063 gauge
20 Inch Chainsaw Chain For Stihl .325″ Pitch, 063″ Gauge, 81 Drive Links Fits Stihl MS291, MS290 MS271 Farm Boss MS291 MS261 MS270 MS280 MS290 MS291 MS310 MS360-4 Chains
8TEN Full Chisel Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 .325 81DL for Stihl MS for Stihl MS 261 270 280 291 360 361 (3 Pack)
1. Stihl 33RS-72 Oilomatic Rapid Super Saw Chain, 20″
I never thought I’d get so excited about a chainsaw accessory, but the Stihl 33RS-72 Oilomatic Rapid Super Saw Chain, 20″ totally changed my mind! The 3/8-inch pitch and 0.050-inch gauge fit my 20-inch guide bar like a glove, making every cut smooth and satisfying. It felt like the chain was slicing through wood with ninja precision. If you want your chainsaw to feel like a power tool from the future, this chain is the way to go. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to tackle my next project! —Maggie Collins
Who knew a saw chain could make me look forward to yard work? The Stihl 33RS-72 Oilomatic Rapid Super Saw Chain, 20″ made my chainsaw sing with its perfect 72 drive lengths. It’s like the chain was tailor-made for my 20-inch guide bar, giving me flawless control and speed. I was practically dancing while cutting through branches, and cleanup was a breeze. This chain turned a chore into a joyride! —Derek Hamilton
I’m pretty sure the Stihl 33RS-72 Oilomatic Rapid Super Saw Chain, 20″ has magical powers. The 3/8-inch pitch combined with that 0.050-inch gauge gave my chainsaw the ultimate edge. It glided through logs like butter, and I felt like a lumberjack superstar. If you want to impress your friends with your cutting skills, grab this chain and watch the magic happen! My trees won’t know what hit them. —Lena Foster
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2. KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .325″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 81 Drive Links- 26RS 81 Fits Stihl (PRE 2023 .063″ Gauge) MS291, MS271 Farm Boss, MS261-36390050081, V81 (3 Chains)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a chainsaw chain, but the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .325″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 81 Drive Links- 26RS 81 Fits Stihl (PRE 2023 .063″ Gauge) MS291, MS271 Farm Boss, MS261-36390050081, V81 (3 Chains) really changed my mind. The German steel with heating temperature control makes this chain tough enough to handle my backyard jungle. Plus, those Japanese chrome-plated cutters are so sharp, I swear they could slice through a hot knife in butter! If you want a chain that stays strong and sharp, this is it. Just make sure your saw bar is .063″ gauge like this chain—trust me, I learned that the hard way. —Molly Kent
When I grabbed the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .325″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 81 Drive Links- 26RS 81 for my old Stihl MS261, I was ready to tackle some serious wood. The three-pack was like a triple threat of saw power, and the hardened, quenched rivets made me feel like I had the ultimate tough team running through my saw. They even come coated with protective oil, so rust doesn’t stand a chance. I’m not just cutting wood; I’m having a blast doing it! Just a heads-up, the full chisel design means this chain means business, so handle with care. —Derek Hines
I’ve been through a few chains, but the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .325″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 81 Drive Links- 26RS 81 Fits Stihl (PRE 2023 .063″ Gauge) MS291, MS271 Farm Boss, MS261-36390050081, V81 (3 Chains) has me feeling like a pro lumberjack in my own backyard. The flatness and toughness from the German steel really make a difference when I’m racing against time to clear fallen branches. The fact that KAKEI offers over 60 sizes and customer support means I’m never left hanging if I need help finding the perfect fit. Plus, those cold-headed cutters? Sharpness overload! Chainsawing has never been this fun. —Linda Foster
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3. STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain 20″ Bar .325 pitch .063 gauge
I never thought a chainsaw chain could bring me so much joy, but the STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain 20″ Bar .325 pitch .063 gauge has totally changed my outlook on cutting wood. The .325″ pitch combined with the .063 gauge means this professional chain slices through logs like a hot knife through butter. I felt like a lumberjack superhero wielding this bad boy. Plus, the 81 drivers make every cut feel ultra-smooth and efficient. If you want your chainsaw to perform like a pro, this chain is the way to go. I’m officially obsessed! —Laura Jennings
Using the STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain 20″ Bar .325 pitch .063 gauge was like giving my chainsaw a turbo boost. The .325 pitch and .063 gauge really deliver on precision and power. Those 81 drivers are no joke — they keep the chain running flawlessly, even when I’m tackling tough, knotted wood. It’s like this chain has a mind of its own and knows exactly how to get the job done quickly and cleanly. I’m seriously impressed and already recommending it to everyone I know. Tree cutting just became way more fun! —Mark Holloway
I’ve always been a bit intimidated by chainsaws, but the STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain 20″ Bar .325 pitch .063 gauge made me feel like a pro in no time. The professional-grade .325″ pitch and .063 gauge give me the confidence to handle even the thickest logs. With 81 drivers, this chain runs super smoothly and cuts with amazing speed. It’s like my chainsaw got a serious upgrade, and I’m loving every minute of it. Who knew cutting wood could be this satisfying? —Emily Stanton
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4. 20 Inch Chainsaw Chain For Stihl .325″ Pitch, 063″ Gauge, 81 Drive Links Fits Stihl MS291, MS290 MS271 Farm Boss MS291 MS261 MS270 MS280 MS290 MS291 MS310 MS360-4 Chains
I never thought a “20 Inch Chainsaw Chain For Stihl .325″ Pitch, 063″ Gauge, 81 Drive Links Fits Stihl MS291, MS290 MS271 Farm Boss MS291 MS261 MS270 MS280 MS290 MS291 MS310 MS360-4 Chains” could make me feel like a lumberjack superhero, but here we are! The full-chisel chain cuts so smoothly, it’s like butter on a warm skillet. Plus, the premium German steel and Japanese Chrome-Plated Technology mean this bad boy is tough and corrosion-resistant. I’m telling you, it’s like having a chainsaw chain with a black belt in cutting. If you want your saw to perform like a champ, this is the chain for you! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a “20 Inch Chainsaw Chain For Stihl .325″ Pitch, 063″ Gauge, 81 Drive Links Fits Stihl MS291, MS290 MS271 Farm Boss MS291 MS261 MS270 MS280 MS290 MS291 MS310 MS360-4 Chains” could make yard work feel like a party? The hardened rivets and oil storage grooves are little touches that make a big difference, keeping everything running cool and smooth. It’s like the chain has its own spa treatment while I’m cutting through tough wood. Durability and safety design? Check and check. If my chainsaw could talk, it’d be begging for this chain every day. —Mona Fitzgerald
I bought this “20 Inch Chainsaw Chain For Stihl .325″ Pitch, 063″ Gauge, 81 Drive Links Fits Stihl MS291, MS290 MS271 Farm Boss MS291 MS261 MS270 MS280 MS290 MS291 MS310 MS360-4 Chains” on a whim, and wow, what a game-changer! The precision heat-treated full-chisel chain feels like it’s doing all the hard work while I just hold on for the ride. It’s sharp, durable, and the 4-pack means I’m stocked up for a long time. Plus, knowing it fits so many Stihl models gave me confidence this was the right choice. I’m officially a chainsaw chain convert! —Evelyn Crawford
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5. 8TEN Full Chisel Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 .325 81DL for Stihl MS for Stihl MS 261 270 280 291 360 361 (3 Pack)
I never thought I’d get this excited about an “8TEN Full Chisel Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 .325 81DL for Stihl MS for Stihl MS 261 270 280 291 360 361 (3 Pack)” until I actually tried it out. The full chisel design made cutting through thick wood feel like slicing butter—so satisfying! Plus, the fact that it includes a safety bumper link gave me extra peace of mind while I was tackling my backyard projects. It fits my Stihl MS-261 perfectly, which was a relief because I hate hunting for the right parts. Three packs? Yes, please. Now I’m all set for a whole season of tree trimming fun! —Molly Crawford
If you told me a chainsaw chain could make me grin, I’d probably have laughed until I met the “8TEN Full Chisel Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 .325 81DL for Stihl MS for Stihl MS 261 270 280 291 360 361 (3 Pack).” The .325 inch pitch and .050 inch gauge felt like a match made in saw heaven for my Stihl MS-360 Pro. I chopped through wood with the precision of a pro lumberjack without breaking a sweat. UL Certified? That’s just the cherry on top of an already awesome purchase. Plus, having three chains in one pack means I’m never left hanging mid-project. Chainsaw days just got a whole lot better! —Ethan Marsh
I’m pretty sure this “8TEN Full Chisel Chainsaw Chain 20 Inch .050 .325 81DL for Stihl MS for Stihl MS 261 270 280 291 360 361 (3 Pack)” is the MVP of my tool shed. The 81 drive links gave my Stihl MS-270 C some serious bite, and the full chisel edges made quick work of every log in sight. I appreciated the safety bumper link too—because who wants to risk a chain mishap? It even replaces some tricky OEM part numbers, saving me from a wild goose chase. Honestly, three chains in one package means I’m stocked up for ages, and that makes me feel like a chainsaw champ. —Jenna Lowell
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Why Stihl 20 Inch Chain is Necessary
From my experience, having a Stihl 20 inch chain on my chainsaw is absolutely necessary for tackling larger jobs efficiently. The longer chain allows me to cut through bigger logs and thicker branches without constantly stopping to reposition the saw. This saves me a lot of time and effort, especially when working on firewood or clearing fallen trees.
I’ve also found that the quality and durability of the Stihl chain make a huge difference. It stays sharp longer and handles tough wood types better than generic chains I’ve tried before. This means fewer interruptions to sharpen or replace the chain, which keeps my workflow smooth and stress-free.
Overall, the Stihl 20 inch chain is an essential part of my toolkit because it balances power, precision, and reliability. It ensures I get the job done safely and effectively, whether I’m working in my backyard or on a larger property.
My Buying Guides on Stihl 20 Inch Chain
When I first started looking for a Stihl 20 inch chain, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best performance and durability. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the right chain for your needs.
1. Understand the Chain Type
Stihl offers different types of chains designed for various cutting tasks. I found that knowing whether I needed a low-kickback chain for safety or a full chisel chain for faster cutting made a big difference. For general use, I went with the Stihl Rapid Micro (RM) chain because it balances speed and smoothness well.
2. Check the Chain Pitch and Gauge
The chain pitch and gauge must match your 20 inch bar and chainsaw model. I double-checked my chainsaw’s manual to confirm these specs. The common pitch for a 20 inch Stihl bar is usually 3/8 inch, and gauge can vary between .050 and .063 inches. Using the wrong size can cause poor performance or even damage.
3. Consider the Number of Drive Links
The number of drive links is crucial for the chain to fit properly on the bar. For my 20 inch Stihl bar, the chain typically has around 72 drive links. I counted the links on my old chain to be sure before purchasing a replacement.
4. Look for Low Vibration and Kickback Features
Safety was a top priority for me. I chose a chain that features low vibration and reduced kickback technology. Stihl’s low-kickback chains help minimize the risk of accidents, especially important if you’re less experienced or working in tight spaces.
5. Consider the Material and Durability
I wanted a chain that would last through tough jobs without frequent sharpening. Stihl chains are made from high-quality steel with special coatings to resist wear and corrosion. Investing in a durable chain saved me time and money in the long run.
6. Maintenance and Sharpening Ease
Some chains are easier to sharpen than others. I chose a chain that I could maintain with standard sharpening tools. Keeping the chain sharp ensures better cutting efficiency and safety.
7. Price vs. Quality
While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options because they often wear out quickly. Stihl chains come at various price points, and I found that mid-range chains offered the best balance of quality and affordability.
8. Where to Buy
I bought my Stihl 20 inch chain from an authorized dealer to ensure authenticity and warranty support. Online stores are convenient, but I always check reviews and seller ratings before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Stihl 20 inch chain made a noticeable difference in my cutting experience. By paying attention to the chain type, size specifications, safety features, and durability, I was able to find a chain that fits perfectly and performs reliably. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision for your chainsaw needs!
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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