What safety features are typically built into 3/8" LP pitch chainsaw chain to reduce kickback?

To reduce the risk of kickback, which is a sudden upward or backward movement of the chainsaw bar caused by improper contact with wood, manufacturers integrate several safety features into 3/8" LP pitch chainsaw chains. Here are some of the common safety features designed to minimize kickback:

Low-Profile Cutters:
3/8" LP pitch chainsaw chain typically have low-profile cutters, which reduce the depth of the cut made by the chain. The smaller, shallower teeth help decrease the force exerted during cutting, lowering the risk of a strong kickback.

Bumper Links:
Chains often include bumper drive links or tie straps located between the cutting teeth. These bumper links elevate the front of the cutters, making it less likely for the chain to bite too aggressively into the wood, which could trigger kickback.

Reduced Kickback Guide Bars:
Many chainsaws designed for safety use narrow-tip guide bars, sometimes called reduced-kickback bars. These guide bars limit the exposure of the chain’s “kickback zone” (the upper tip of the bar), reducing the chance of sudden contact that can lead to kickback.

Ramp-Shaped Depth Gauges (Rakers):
The depth gauges or rakers in 3/8" LP pitch chainsaw chains are sometimes shaped like ramps to limit the size of the wood chips that the cutters remove. This prevents the chain from grabbing too much material at once, which reduces the chance of a reactive force that could cause kickback.

Symmetrical Chain Design:
Some chains have a symmetrical design with evenly spaced cutters and depth gauges, helping distribute cutting forces more evenly. This can prevent the chain from “catching” and causing a sudden jolt that leads to kickback.

Anti-Kickback Certifications:
Many modern chains are certified by standards such as ANSI B175.1 or ISO 9518, which require the chain to meet specific kickback reduction performance standards.

Safety Chain Design (Green Label Chains):
Chains classified as low-kickback chains often feature a green label and are specifically designed to minimize the potential for kickback. These chains include additional safety features like ramped depth gauges, bumper links, and optimized cutter geometry for smooth cutting.

Proper Lubrication and Tension:
Though not a direct chain feature, ensuring the chain is properly lubricated and tensioned reduces friction and uneven wear, which can lower the risk of kickback during operation.

These features collectively help reduce the risk of kickback, making 3/8" LP pitch chainsaw chains suitable for both professional and occasional users looking for added safety.