The chain is the only thing that makes a chainsaw work. If you’re trimming branches, cutting firewood, or felling small trees, this sharp, fast-moving component does all the work. It is essential that you choose the right chain for your saw to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity. Despite the fact that there are many chainsaw bar sizes, the 16-inch model is one of the most popular due to its versatility, balancing power, and maneuverability.
In this guide, we will focus specifically on 16-inch chainsaw chains. We will cover everything from key specifications to different types of chains to proper installation and maintenance. As a result, you will know how to select, use, and care for your 16 chain for a chainsaw confidently by the end of this guide.
What is a 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain?
Chainsaws with a 16-inch bar have a guide bar that can effectively cut 16 inches, not the chain itself. A chainsaw chain measuring 16 inches is made to fit a chainsaw bar measuring 16 inches. Its size is a sweet spot for many users, making it a popular choice for both homeowners and professionals.
You can use a 16 chain saw for a variety of tasks, including:
- Limbing and pruning trees
- Cutting small to medium-sized logs for firewood
- Storm cleanup and branch removal
- General property maintenance
Many popular chainsaw models are compatible with the 16-inch chainsaw due to its versatility.
Key Specifications of a 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain
A 16-inch chainsaw blade must meet three critical specifications: pitch, gauge, and drive links. If you want to buy a chain that fits your saw perfectly, you should understand these terms.
Pitch: It indicates the average distance between two rivets on the chain. The most common pitch is 3/8″ and .325″. The chain pitch must match the drive sprocket and bar tip pitch of your saw.
Gauge: This refers to the thickness of the drive links, which fit in the groove of the guide bar. The most common gauges are .043, .050, and .063. An incorrect gauge results in chains that are too loose and risk derailing, or too tight and cause binding and wear.
Drive Links: Drive links are the total number of links per loop of the chain. A chain’s overall length is determined by this number. Chainsaw chains of 16 inches don’t have a universal drive link count; they vary by model and manufacturer. Your old chain must be counted, or your saw’s manual must be checked for the correct number of links.
These three numbers are usually stamped on the guide bar itself or listed in your chainsaw’s manual. In order to fit Craftsman’s chainsaw chains, for example, the chain would need a 3/8″ pitch and a .050″ gauge, with 56 drive links.
Top 5 Best 16-Inch Chainsaw Chains (Amazon Bestsellers – 2025)
Your saw’s performance and safety depend on finding the right replacement chain. Navigating the market can be challenging, but analyzing current bestsellers provides real-world insight into what users trust. As of November 2025, we have compiled a list of the top 5 best-selling 16-inch chains on Amazon. In this section, we examine each chain’s performance, features, and ideal use, so you can find the best chain for your saw, whether you’re a homeowner clearing brush or a DIYer gathering firewood.
1. Oregon R56 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 16-Inch Bar
The Oregon R56 AdvanceCut is a top seller, recognized for its wide compatibility with major homeowner brands, including Greenworks, Makita, EGO, and DeWalt. It serves as the go-to replacement for many users seeking brand-name reliability at a more affordable price. This chain is designed for general yard maintenance, pruning, and light firewood cutting.
With its semi-chisel design, the tool provides a smooth cutting experience, while Oregon’s Lubri-Tec oiling system keeps the chain and bar lubricated, reducing friction and extending the tool’s life. Despite its durability and ease of sharpening, its semi-chisel cutters may dull more quickly when struck by dirt or heavy debris, as they are less forgiving than full-chisel options. The installation process is typically straightforward, making it a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts. For those who need a reliable chain for everyday use, it’s a great all-arounder.
Main Features:
- Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile
- Gauge: .050″ (1.3mm)
- Drive Links: 56
- Chain Type: Semi-Chisel
- Oiling System: Lubri-Tec continuous lubrication
- Compatibility: Fits Greenworks, Makita, EGO, DeWalt, and more (verify your model)
Pros:
- Delivers a consistently smooth and stable cut.
- Simple and fast to install for most users.
- Offers excellent durability and lifespan for its price.
- Affordable option from a top-tier brand.
Cons:
- Not a universal fit; always check your saw’s required specs.
- The semi-chisel design may dull quickly in dirty cutting conditions.
2. KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch, 3-Pack (.043″ Gauge, 55 Links)
This 3-pack from KAKEI is a bestseller, specifically designed for STIHL users, offering incredible value to owners of popular models like the MS170, MS171, and MS180c. The main draw here is cost-effectiveness without a significant compromise in quality. For homeowners and DIYers who run Stihl saws for firewood, storm cleanup, or property maintenance, having two spare chains on hand is a massive advantage.
Crafted from German steel, these chains are engineered for sharpness and durability from the outset. They come pre-oiled, reducing friction from the first cut and helping to prevent premature wear. These chains also meet specific safety certifications for low kickback, making them a secure choice for less experienced users. The primary drawback, common to many chains in this price bracket, is that they may stretch more than premium options after extended heavy use, requiring more frequent tensioning.
Main Features:
- Package: 3-Pack
- Material: Imported German Steel
- Performance: Designed for enhanced sharpness and durability
- Safety: Certified for low-kickback
- Preparation: Pre-oiled and ready to use
- Compatibility: Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c, and others requiring a 55 drive link, 3/8″ LP, .043″ gauge chain.
Pros:
- Exceptional value with three chains included.
- Maintains a sharp edge well during normal use.
- Meets safety standards for reduced kickback.
- Direct fit for several popular Stihl models.
Cons:
- Not universal; only fits saws with matching specs (especially the .043″ gauge).
- Some users report a tendency to stretch after heavy-duty cutting.
3. KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain, 3-Pack (.050″ Gauge, 56 Links)
This second entry from KAKEI targets the other major segment of the market: non-Stihl saws. This 3-pack is a versatile bestseller for brands like Craftsman, Poulan, Ryobi, Echo, and Greenworks that use the common .050″ gauge standard. Like its Stihl-focused counterpart, the primary advantage is value. Getting three chains at this price point is ideal for homeowners who tackle frequent yard work and prefer replacing a chain over sharpening it.
The chains feature hardened rivets, which contribute to their overall toughness and resistance to wear and tear. This build quality makes them reliable for a wide range of tasks, including trimming branches, felling small trees, and cutting firewood. While generally robust, some users note they may dull more quickly than premium brands when processing dense hardwoods. This is a minor trade-off for the convenience and value of the multi-pack. Always confirm your bar requires a .050″ gauge chain before purchasing.
Main Features:
- Gauge: .050″ (1.3mm)
- Drive Links: 56
- Chain Type: Semi-Chisel
- Construction: Hardened rivets for increased durability
- Package: 3-Pack
- Compatibility: Fits Craftsman, Poulan, Ryobi, Echo, Greenworks, and others (check for 56 drive links, 3/8″ LP, .050″ gauge)
Pros:
- Excellent value, providing multiple replacements in one purchase.
- Broad compatibility with many popular chainsaw brands.
- Tough construction designed to resist wear.
- Easy to install for quick job turnaround.
Cons:
- It may lose its edge faster than premium chains, especially on hardwoods.
- Users must confirm their bar requires a .050″ gauge, not .043″.
4. FUNKYWOO 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain (.043″ Gauge, 55 Links)
For users seeking maximum value, the FUNKYWOO 4-pack leads the bestseller list. This package is aimed squarely at owners of Stihl models like the MS170 and MS180C (matching the .043″ gauge, 55 drive link spec). The semi-chisel design is designed for reliable, all-purpose cutting, emphasizing safety and user comfort.
It features low-vibration characteristics, which reduce operator fatigue during longer tasks, such as clearing a fallen tree or processing a cord of wood. These chains are noted for being exceptionally sharp right out of the package, providing clean and efficient cuts. The low-kickback design adds a layer of safety, making it a great choice for new homeowners or those who use their saw infrequently. While the price for four chains is almost unbeatable, some users have reported occasional fitment or length inconsistencies. It’s crucial to double-check your specs, but for budget-conscious STIHL users, this pack is hard to ignore.
Main Features:
- Package: 4-Pack
- Design: Semi-chisel
- Durability: Plated with industrial hard chrome for wear resistance
- Comfort: Low-vibration design
- Compatibility: Fits Stihl MS170, MS180C, and others using the 3/8″ LP, .043″ gauge, 55 link standard.
Pros:
- Unbeatable price point for a pack of four chains.
- Comes very sharp out of the box.
- Low-kickback and low-vibration design enhances safety and comfort.
- Cuts smoothly for general-purpose yard work.
Cons:
- Not a universal Stihl chain; fit is highly specific.
- Some users have noted potential length or fitment issues.
5. STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain
It’s no surprise that an official STIHL Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) chain is a top seller. This 61PMMC3-55 chain is a specific factory-spec replacement for popular models, such as the MS170 and MS180. This is the benchmark chain that generic brands try to replicate.
It features STIHL’s Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 3 technology, which is engineered for reduced vibration, low kickback, and exceptional cutting performance. For professionals or discerning homeowners who demand reliability and precision, the OEM option guarantees a perfect fit and optimal function. It’s known for its superior sharpness and ability to hold an edge, allowing it to cut quickly and cleanly through limbs and firewood. While it commands a significantly higher price than the multi-pack generics, this chain is for the user who prioritizes perfect compatibility and maximum performance from their Stihl equipment and doesn’t want to compromise.
Main Features:
- Type: Genuine STIHL (OEM) Chain
- Specs: 16-inch, 3/8″ Picco, .043″ (1.1mm) gauge, 55 drive links
- Technology: Picco Micro Mini Comfort 3
- Performance: Designed for low vibration and low kickback
- Compatibility: Specifically for Stihl MS170 and MS180 series saws.
Pros:
- Authentic OEM quality ensures perfect fit and function.
- Reliable and precise performance.
- Superior sharpness and edge retention.
- Fast-cutting and efficient.
Cons:
- Strictly limited to specific STIHL models (MS170/MS180).
- Premium price point compared to generic aftermarket chains.
Types of 16 Inch Chainsaw Chains
Chains are not all created equal. Cutting speed, smoothness, and sharpness are determined by the type of cutter on the chain.
Full Chisel vs. Semi-Chisel vs. Chipper
Full Chisel: Chains with sharp, square-cornered teeth cut through wood fibers quickly and aggressively. While they are the fastest-cutting option, they also dull more quickly, especially in dirty or hardwood conditions. Professionals who work with clean softwood are best suited to use it.
Semi-Chisel: Semi-chisel chains have rounded corners on their cutting teeth, making them more durable than full-chisel chains. It cuts slightly slower, but stays sharper longer and is more forgiving when working with mixed or dirty wood. Most users will find them to be a great all-purpose choice because of this.
Chipper: A variation of the semi-chisel, featuring an even more rounded cutter. Although it is the slowest of the three, it is highly durable and excellent for cutting in dirty conditions.
Standard (Low-Kickback) Chains
Low-kickback chains are most commonly sold to homeowners. Rotational kickback is a dangerous situation in which a saw’s tip catches on wood and rotates back toward the operator due to extra guard links or modified cutter shapes. A low-kickback chain is highly recommended for non-professional users due to safety concerns.
How to Choose the Right 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain
Choosing the right chainsaw chain for your 16-inch chainsaw involves matching the chainsaw’s specifications with your cutting requirements.
The first step is to determine the pitch, gauge, and number of drive links of the chainsaw model. The information provided here is non-negotiable. Chains with incorrect specifications can cause serious damage to your saw and pose a significant safety risk.
Next, think about how you typically use your computer. You should use a low-kickback semi-chisel chain if you occasionally cut firewood and trim branches. Professionals who need to make fast, clean cuts in softwood may prefer a full-chisel chain, provided they are trained to handle the increased kickback risk.
Installation and Maintenance
A 16-inch chain saw blade will last longer and perform more safely if it is installed and maintained properly.
Installation and Replacement
01. Safety First: Make sure the spark plug is disconnected before starting the engine. Protect your hands from the sharp cutters by wearing gloves.
02. Loosen the Bar: Remove the nuts that hold the side cover and guide bar in place. If the chain is too tight, loosen the tensioning screw.
03. Remove the Old Chain: Lift the old chain off the drive sprocket and bar by removing the side cover and sliding the guide bar forward.
04. Install the New Chain: Make sure the cutters on the top of the bar are facing forward when you loop the new 16 chainsaw chain around the sprocket. Ensure that the drive links are seated in the grooves of the bar.
05. Reassemble and Tension: Replace the side cover and tighten the nuts by hand. Pull the chain by hand while holding the nose of the bar up and turning the tensioning screw. Chains that have been properly tensioned should not sag, but you should be able to pull them slightly away from the bar. Lastly, tighten the bar nuts.
Maintenance Tips
Sharpening: Sharp chains cut faster, produce larger wood chips (not sawdust), and are safer to use. Using a round file and guide, or an electric sharpener, you can sharpen your chain. Make sure the file size matches the chain pitch.
Cleaning: Keep the chain, guide bar groove, and oil holes clean regularly to ensure proper lubrication.
Lubrication: Ensure that the oil reservoirs for the bars and chains are always full. Chains that are well-oiled run cooler and last longer.
Replacement Signs: If your chain has damaged or broken cutters, substantial wear on the drive links, or cannot be tensioned correctly, replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chainsaw be fitted with a longer bar?
Technically, it is possible, but generally not recommended. There is a specific range of bar sizes that the engine of a saw can power. An overly long bar on a saw reduces cutting performance, overworks the engine, and creates an unsafe imbalance. Chainsaw bars should always be sized according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Does any 16-inch chain fit any 16-inch chainsaw?
Unfortunately, no. To match your saw’s requirements, you must match the pitch, gauge, and number of drive links. It may not be possible for a chain from one brand to fit a saw from another if these key specifications are different.
How long does a 16-inch chain last?
Depending on usage, maintenance, and the type of wood being cut, the cost can vary significantly. A well-maintained chain used on clean wood can last several years with occasional use. Dirty chains may not last more than a season if they are used frequently. A sharp blade will last a long time if it is sharpened regularly.
Conclusion
The 16-inch chainsaw chain is a crucial component of one of the most valuable tools in your shed.
It is essential that you understand the specifications of your equipment, choose the right type for your needs, and perform regular maintenance in order to maintain its effectiveness and safety.
Ensure your new 16-inch saw chain is compatible before purchasing it, and prioritize safety above all else.
When properly cared for, your 16 chain saw will be ready to tackle any job you can throw its way.
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