Accessories

Best Ripping Chain For Milling 2023 | Reviews & Buying Guide

Are you tired of frequent failures in milling due to the damaged ripping chain? Do you want to purchase the best ripping chain for milling? I bet yes, as only the best chainsaw ripping chain can offer the smoothest & most accurate cuts. 

So, choosing a random chain from the market will be a dumb idea indeed. You have to consider multiple factors like length, pitch, teeth, compatibility, and many more. It certainly requires proper knowledge and detailed research. 

You must be pretty busy, and that’s why in our content, we have picked the six best ripping chains for the chainsaw. We have also included a detailed buying guide and FAQs for the utmost convenience. So, let’s not dilly dally and choose the right milling chain now! 

Our Top Picks: Reason to Choose The Ripping Chain

Are you in a hurry and can’t really go through the whole review? If yes, just go through our Top picks and check out which one suits your needs the most. However, check out our detailed review if you have time. It will assist in choosing the right one indeed. So, let’s start!

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Product Name

Reason to Choose

Price

OREGON 72RD084G 84 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Saw Chain

Best Ripping Chain With Superior Efficiency. It's a highly compatible & efficient milling chain to perform accurate cuts along the grains.

OREGON 72RD072G 72 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Saw Chain

Best Ripping Chain For Speed. If you are looking for a chain to achieve fast cuts, this is indeed the best choice. 

Oregon 72RD114G 114 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Chain

Best Ripping Chain To Ensure Perfect Finish. You will love this unit as it can provide smooth finishing by trimming along with the wood grains.

Archer 36" 3/8-063-114DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Best Ripping Chain With Sharp Cutters. This is a high-class chainsaw with incredible cutters which will remain sharp for a long period indeed.

Archer 24" 3/8-050-84DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Best Ripping Chain For Longevity. It is the fastest chainsaw chain designed with a semi-chisel design to offer sharp performance for a prolonged period.

Archer 18" .325-050-72DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Best Ripping Chain For Durability. The Archer 24-inches chainsaw chain is durable enough to pass through hardwoods smoothly.

Top 6 Best Best Ripping Chain For Milling Reviews In 2022

In this section, we have reviewed the top 6 chainsaw ripping chains in detail. As each of them is pretty awesome in its own way, you can go for either of them as per your preferences now!

1. OREGON 72RD084G 84 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Saw Chain

OREGON 72RD084G 84 Drive Link 38-Inch Ripping Saw Chain

The brand OREGON has come with a 72 RD ripping chain with sufficient pitch and thickness. A user can definitely expect smooth performance as the ripping chain can trim quickly just along the wood grain. It is a perfect device for performing factory grinding and producing planks and dimensional boards. This Oregon 73, 75RD chainsaw chain can reduce kickback to a large extent. However, users might still face kickback leading to serious injuries as it doesn’t exactly feature a low kickback design. Thus, we won’t recommend this one if you are not a professional or have some minimal training. Never use it for any other purposes other than ripping.

Specifications

ManufacturerOregon
OriginUSA
Item model number72RD084G
Item Weight ‎0.96 ounces
Product Dimensions ‎6″ x 1.31″ x 3.31″
Gauge0.050 inches
Pitch 72RD: 3/8-inches

Features

  • The manufacturer Oregon has produced this chainsaw chain with classy chassis and cutter components.
  • Its pitch is around 72rd: 3/8-inches, and the thickness of the drive link is approximately 0.050-inches.
  • They have produced this milling chain, especially for sawmills.
  • This one is not compatible with handheld saws. 
  • Its LubriLink straps are efficient in holding oil wherever required.
  • The Vibe-ban design can minimize vibrations by up to 25%.

What Does The Customer Like? 

This is an efficient Oregon ripping chain with high compatibility with Stithl MS-31, Husky 460, and Granberg Chain Saw. It can perform milling even from water oak. Just sharpen it regularly, and it will serve you for a prolonged time.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

It is not suitable for a 24 inches Husqvarna 460 chainsaw.

2. OREGON 72RD072G 72 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Saw Chain

OREGON 72RD072G 72 Drive Link 38-Inch Ripping Saw Chain

The brand OREGON has come up with a ripping chain of 72 drive links. Its special factory grind feature is designed to perform perfect trims just along the wood grains. Their pitch is around 3/8-Inches and suitable only for ripping trims. So, never utilize them for any other jobs. 

The brand has also equipped special technologies for minimizing kickback energies. However, we won’t recommend it if you are totally a newbie, as the chain can cause severe injury due to the low kickback features.

Specifications

ManufacturerOregon
OriginUSA
Item model number72RD072G
Item Weight‎11.8 ounces
Product Dimensions6″ x 1.31″ x 3.31″
Color‎Limited Edition
Size0
Number Of Pieces1
Gauge0.050 inches
Pitch72RD: 3/8-inches

Features

  • The Oregon ripping chain features a 3/8-inches pitch, 72 drive links, and a gauge of 050-inches.
  • It has a durable chassis made up of standard cutter components. 
  • The ripping chain is compatible with sawmills but not suitable for handheld ones.
  • LubriLink tie straps are responsible for providing oil wherever required.
  • The Vibe-ban technology can minimize vibration by up to 25%.

What Does The Customer Like? 

It’s a fast and efficient chain to perform accurate cuts. You will definitely love its speed as it is faster than cross-cut chains.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

It can provide remarkable kickback when it’s dull.

3. Oregon 72RD114G 114 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Chain

Oregon 72RD114G 114 Drive Link 38-Inch Ripping Chain

Oregon 114 drive link ripping chain can efficiently produce dimensional planks by trimming parallel to the grain. Its ⅜ inches pitch is perfect for ripping with accuracy. However, you can’t utilize it for other jobs indeed.

Even though the chain features a special kickback reduction technology, it might not be enough if you are a total beginner. You must have some special training to handle minimum kickbacks.

Specifications

ManufacturerOregon
OriginUSA
Item model number72RD114G
Item Weight1.18 lbs
Product Dimensions6″ x 1.31″ x 3.31″
Gauge0.050 inches
Pitch72RD: 3/8-inches
Drive Links72

Features

  • The 72 drive link Oregon ripping chain features around 0.050 inches gauge and ⅜-inches pitch.
  • Its standard durable chassis and cutter grinds can ensure fine accurate cuts.
  • Users can install them only on the chainsaw Mills, not on the handheld ones.
  • LubriLink straps ensure proper oiling on the required spaces.
  • Its special Vibe-Ban technology can ensure minimum vibrations of up to 25%.

What Does The Customer Like? 

This Oregon ripping chain can provide the smoothest finish. Moreover, it’s super fast and efficient. It can pass through 34-inch x 20 ft logs within just 8 minutes.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

The chain might get dull over time. So, sharpen it with an electric chain sharpener for the best results.

4. Archer 36″ 3/8-063-114DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Archer 36 38-063-114DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Are you looking for a classy chainsaw chain to rip slabs? If yes, Archer 24″ is a perfect choice. Its right & left semi-chisel cutters show a standard sequence suitable for effective ripping. You can also utilize it for multiple jobs like – sawing, bucking, trimming woods, and many more. Don’t worry about longevity, as semi-chisel chains are quite sharper than the regular chisel ones.

Specifications

ManufacturerPMD International
ASINB07NDJHJXB
Gauge0.063
Pitch⅜ inches
Drive Links114

Features

  • The 114 drive link chainsaw chain features ⅜-inches pitch and 0.063 inches gauge.
  • It can easily replace the A3EP-RP-114E and 75RD114G models.
  • Its semi-chisel right & left cutters are at a 10° angle with the teeth.
  • This unit is compatible with 7/32-inches chain round files for sharpening.

What Does The Customer Like? 

This is an affordable and convenient chainsaw chain featuring superior sharpness. Its teeth are perfect for providing a smooth finish. Moreover, it was pretty easy to understand, even for newbies.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

The chain requires regular maintenance.

5. Archer 24″ 3/8-050-84DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Archer 24 38-050-84DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Archer 24-inches ripping chainsaw has come with a unique semi-chisel chain. Due to its convenient top plate angle, users can expect smooth & easy milling. Other than ripping the sawing slabs, you can use it for felling, cross-cutting, and trimming as well.

Specifications

ManufacturerPMD International
ASINB07N8GVDJP
Item Weight15.5 ounces
Package Dimensions5.39″ x 4.37″ x 0.87″
Gauge0.050 inches
Pitch⅜ inches
Drive Link84

Features

  • Archer chains are manufactured from classy Japanese steel.
  • This 84 drive link chain is suitable for replacing A1EP-RP-84E & 72RD084G models.
  • Its overall pitch is ⅜ inches, and the gauge is 0.050 inches.
  • This chain features a semi-chisel design where the tooth’s top plate angle is 10°.
  • It is suitable for multiple jobs like – Cross-cutting, bucking, sewing, etc.
  • Its sharp design tends to last for a prolonged period.

What Does The Customer Like? 

This is the fastest ripping chain in 2022 indeed. Its sharp long-term performance has amazed almost everyone.

What Does The Customer Dislike?

Some customers have complained about massive gouges.

6. Archer 18″ .325-050-72DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Archer 18 .325-050-72DL Ripping Chainsaw Chain

Archer is well-known worldwide for its unique & innovative saw chain & other accessories. From that line-up, they have produced a high-pitched 72 drive link ripping chainsaw chain. As they have used highly durable Japanese steel, there is no doubt about their quality indeed. Their semi-chisel design is super sharp and won’t wear out early. However, be aware and sharpen it with the 3/6-inches round file to achieve the best results. It’s not a universal unit, so check the size very carefully before you make the purchase.

Specifications

ManufacturerPMD International
ASINB07N6FVN49
Item Weight‎10.5 ounces
Package Dimensions6.34″ x 5.39″ x 0.87″
Gauge0.050 inches
Pitch0.0325 inches

Features

  • It’s a professional ripping chain with 72 drive links, 0.050 gauge, and 0.325 pitch.
  • This unit is compatible with K1C-RP-72E. 
  • Their semi-chisel cutters come with a top plate angle of 10°.
  • It is quite straightforward to understand & use.

What Does The Customer Like? 

Archer has manufactured the 18-inch chainsaw ripping chain, which can pass through the hardwood as if it is slicing through the butter. In terms of speed & smoothness, this unit is far better than the regular chains. Moreover, it’s super handy and effective. Their customer service is supportive as well.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

The chain requires regular maintenance.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Ripping Chain For Milling? 

Are you having a hard time choosing the best ripping chain for milling? If yes, I won’t blame you at all. It’s really a tricky job, even for professionals. A buyer has to consider multiple factors like length, pitch, gauge, drive link, ease of maintenance, and many more. In this segment, we have highlighted the basic points that you shouldn’t ignore before making the purchase. So, let’s get started!

Length

Be very wary about the chain’s length before purchasing the right one for the chainsaw. The ideal length of the milling chain will vary as per the saw’s size. The too long or too short chain might not be safe enough & may even cause serious damage to the chainsaw.

Pitch

By pitch, we basically refer to the gap or interval between the drive links. This measurement helps to determine the durability of a rip chainsaw chain. 

A High pitched chain is more solid than a low-pitched one. Thus, we would advise choosing a high-pitched ripper chain as it has the superior capability of handling rugged jobs.

Gauge

Gauge basically means the drive link’s thickness. So, a high gauge chain is naturally stronger & more efficient than a low gauge one. The high gauge one will also offer superior quality and longevity and will withstand rough beatings indeed.

Drive Links

A user can determine the durability of the chainsaw by the number of the Drive links. A ripping chain with a low drive link is prone to damage. On the contrary, optimum performance is only possible from a chainsaw chain with multiple drive links.

Teeth

Sharp teeth & well-shaped edges of the chainsaw chain can easily perform accurate cuts. A user can’t really expect the same from dull & low-quality teeth. So, be aware and choose the best milling chain with sharp & well-shaped teeth.

Compatibility

High compatibility between the saw and the chainsaw chain is a must. Be very careful as all chainsaws are not compatible with all types of chains. A wrong choice can damage your favorite chainsaw and may even cause severe safety issues.

Vibration

Most chainsaw chains are responsible for creating an immense range of vibrations. It might be too uncomfortable and even dangerous to some extent. So, it would be best to go for a ripping chain for a chainsaw which can minimize vibrations. Thus, it will be comfy to use and won’t cause any inconvenience at all.

Kickback

Kickback is a hazardous phenomenon where the ripping chain snaps back towards the user resulting in severe injuries. I bet everyone wishes to avoid such consequences. So, go for the ripping chains, which are designed to reduce kickback effects to a large extent.

Accuracy

Every carpenter invests in the milling chain to achieve precise cuts. There is no point in purchasing a low-class chain with poor accuracy as it will produce uneven & jagged cuts. Thus, the ripping chain you are going to invest in should have superior accuracy indeed.

Ease Of Installation

The Best Chainsaw ripping chain should be easy to install. So, you can get to work as soon as it is out of the box. It will save time & energy and will save you from unnecessary stress as well.

Durability

A durable ripping chain will definitely last for a prolonged period. In fact, you can expect it to undergo wear & tear easily. So, it’s ideal to choose a chain made up of high-quality, rugged materials. 

Ease Of Maintenance

Just like a chainsaw, ripping chains require frequent sharpening & maintenance to maintain optimum performance. If not, the chain will be dull, and your investments will go in vain indeed. Moreover, it might be pretty frustrating to sharpen the chain if the chain is too complicated. So, be very wise and go for a simple one that is convenient to sharpen. 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Do you need a ripping chain for milling? 

-Yes, a sharp & maintained ripping chain is necessary to perform milling with efficiency, smoothness & utmost safety. In fact, you can expect a smooth finish due to the trim along with the grains. If the chain becomes dull, sharpen or replace it without any delay. That’s because – it will be nearly impossible to achieve the optimum results with a dull chain. 

What chainsaw chain is best for ripping? 

-If you go through the market, you will come across a huge variety of ripping chains. Among them, we have considered Oregon 72RD114G 114 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Chain as best for its durable chassis as well as smoothest finish.

What is the Stihl chain best for ripping?

-The STIHL RMX Ripping Chainsaw is regarded as the best one out there for regular professional use. Its semi-chisel cutter & 10° filing angle can perform tough lumbar processing with elegance.

Final Verdict

Which one Is the best ripping chain for milling? You just can’t go for a random chain, can you? If not, how to choose the best chainsaw chain for ripping logs? I believe you have already found answers to all these queries. As a beginner, it’s natural to be wary. However, trust our reviews as our team has conducted detailed research just to provide the best results. 

Among our recommended milling chains, I loved OREGON 72RD072G 72 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Saw Chain & Oregon 72RD114G 114 Drive Link 3/8-Inch Ripping Chain for their durable design, smooth performance, and accurate finishing. So, are you ready to pick the best one & surprise everyone with your accurate ripping?

David A. Thomas is a passionate researcher in the mechanical tools technology sector from Texas in America. He loves to play hockey and often loves to travel to traditional places. However, he is eagerly interested in passing his time in research work.

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