Selecting a Stihl chainsaw chain is made challenging by the sheer number chains you have to choose from: at least 19 types, 11 pitch\u2013gauge combinations and more than 20 lengths are currently available. The model names are also heavy in Stihl-specific jargon like Rapid<\/em>, Picco<\/em>, Super<\/em> and PMM3<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This article explains<\/strong> the Stihl chain models, sizes and coding in plain language. The first table shows you which chain models are compatible with your saw if you know the proper pitch and gauge; the sizes and types are explained further down. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pitch<\/strong> means the length of the links in the chain; gauge<\/strong> is thickness of the shark fins on the drive links. The main thing: the chain pitch and gauge must match your saw and guide bar.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stihl uses 6 different pitches<\/strong> (1\/4P, 1\/4″, 3\/8P, .325″, 3\/8″, .404″) and 4 gauges<\/strong> (.043″, .050″, .058″, .063″) in its normal chains. According to my counting, these are used in 11 different combinations in 2021, all mutually incompatible<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n