Chainsaw Chain for Battery Powered Chainsaws— What You Need to Know
Chainsaw Chain for Battery Powered Chainsaws — Complete Australia Guide
Battery chainsaws have transformed how Australians tackle firewood, property maintenance, and arborist work. But what chainsaw chain do you actually need for a battery powered chainsaw? And is there a difference between battery chainsaw chain and petrol chainsaw chain?
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about chainsaw chains for battery chainsaws — including Stihl battery chainsaws, Makita, Milwaukee, DeWalt, and other popular brands.
Do Battery Chainsaws Use Different Chain?
Short answer: Battery chainsaws use the same chain types as petrol chainsaws — but they typically use smaller pitch and gauge combinations.
Most battery powered chainsaws run 3/8 LP (low-profile) or 3/8 pitch chain in .043 or .050 gauge. This is the same chain used on small petrol chainsaws like the Stihl MS170 or MS180.
The key difference is that battery chainsaws are more sensitive to chain condition. A dull chain on a battery saw:
Drains the battery faster
Reduces cuts per charge significantly
Makes the motor work harder (reducing lifespan)
Creates more heat in the bar and chain
Keeping your chain sharp is even more important on battery chainsaws than petrol saws.
Chainsaw Chain for Stihl Battery Chainsaws
Stihl's battery chainsaw range (MSA series) has become extremely popular for homeowners and professionals who want cordless convenience without sacrificing Stihl quality.
Stihl MSA 120 C, MSA 140 C, MSA 160 C, MSA 200 C
| Model | Bar Length | Chain Pitch | Chain Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSA 120 C | 12" | 3/8 LP (PM3) | .043 | 44DL |
| MSA 140 C | 12" | 3/8 LP (PM3) | .043 | 44DL |
| MSA 160 C | 12" | 3/8 LP (PM3) | .043 | 44DL |
| MSA 200 C | 14" | 3/8 LP (PM3) | .043 | 50DL |
Stihl battery chainsaw chains use the same chain as the MS170/MS180 range — 3/8 low-profile pitch in .043 gauge.
Stihl MSA 220 C, MSA 300 C (Pro Range)
The professional Stihl battery chainsaws use slightly different configurations. Check your bar marking for the exact specification.
Chainsaw Chain for Makita Battery Chainsaws
Makita battery chainsaws — particularly the 36V (twin 18V) models — are popular for their power and reliability.
Makita DUC353, UC3551A, DUC254
| Model | Bar Length | Chain Pitch | Chain Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DUC353 | 14" | 3/8 LP | .043 | 52DL |
| UC3551A | 14" | 3/8 | .043 | 52DL |
| DUC254 | 10" | 3/8 | .043 | 40DL |
Makita 36V chainsaws typically use 3/8 pitch in .043 gauge — the same as Stihl small saws.
Chainsaw Chain for Milwaukee Battery Chainsaws
Milwaukee M18 FUEL chainsaws are increasingly popular with tradies and arborists who are already in the M18 battery system.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Chainsaw
| Model | Bar Length | Chain Pitch | Chain Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M18 FUEL 16" | 16" | 3/8 LP | .043 | 56DL |
| M18 FUEL Top Handle | 14" | .325 | .043 | 59DL |
Note: The Milwaukee top handle chainsaw uses .325 pitch — different from most battery chainsaws. Make sure you order the correct chain.
Chainsaw Chain for DeWalt Battery Chainsaws
DeWalt's FLEXVOLT and 20V MAX chainsaws are popular for site work and property maintenance.
DeWalt DCM 565, DCCS620, DCCS670
| Model | Bar Length | Chain Pitch | Chain Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCM 565-XE | 12" | 3/8 | .043 | 45DL |
| DCCS620 | 12" | 3/8 LP | .043 | 44DL |
| DCCS670 | 16" | 3/8 LP | .050 | 56DL |
DeWalt DCM 565-XE note: This model uses 45 drive links (not 44DL) — it has an extra joiner link. Make sure you order the correct count.
Should You Use Tungsten Carbide Chain on a Battery Chainsaw?
Yes — and here's why it makes even more sense on battery saws.
Tungsten carbide chainsaw chain stays sharp significantly longer than standard steel chain. On a battery chainsaw, this means:
✅ More cuts per charge — sharp chain cuts efficiently ✅ Less battery drain — less motor strain from dull cutters ✅ Longer intervals between sharpening — fewer interruptions ✅ Better performance in dirty conditions — where standard chain dulls fast
If you're using your battery chainsaw for firewood (often dirty, on the ground) or property cleanup (gritty, sandy conditions), tungsten carbide chain is worth the investment.
How to Find Your Battery Chainsaw Chain Size
Not sure what chain your battery chainsaw needs? Here's how to check:
Method 1: Check the Bar
Look at the guide bar. Most bars have the specifications stamped on them:
Pitch (3/8, 3/8 LP, .325)
Gauge (.043, .050)
Length (12", 14", 16")
Method 2: Count the Drive Links
Remove your existing chain and count the drive links (the pointed teeth on the bottom that sit in the bar groove). This gives you the exact drive link count.
Method 3: Check the Manual
Your chainsaw manual will list the chain specification. Most battery chainsaw manufacturers also list this on their websites.
Method 4: Contact Us
Not sure? Call us on 0431 183 421 with your chainsaw model and we'll confirm the correct chain.
Shop Chainsaw Chain for Battery Chainsaws
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Chainsaw bar & chain combos | how to choose the right chainsaw chain
Chainsaw Sharpening Wheels — Extend chain life
Questions about chainsaw chain for your battery saw? 📞 Call us: Aaron 0431 183 421