About Chainsaws FAQ
What is a depth gauge and why do I need to maintain depth gauges?
Depth gauges are the metal point in front of each tooth on a saw chain. They determine how large a chip the tooth can pull as it travels across wood. Some are small and pointy and some are large. Depth gauges need to be maintained on a regular basis.
"This little piece of metal is what controls how much bite the tooth takes with
each pass. You need to adjust the height of the depth gauge each time you sharpen your
chain because, if you notice, the teeth of the chain are sloped down as you go back. A
good choice of height is 20 to 30 thousands of one inch. Professional cutters use 35 to 40
thousands of an inch. If the chain is sharp and the lower your depth gauges are the more
it will cut - and I mean fast! But the lower you go the more dangerous it becomes - kick
back/push back. Never exceed .0025 unless you really know what you are doing!"
- Tyson Schultz
See the Tyson Schultz interview - How to Fell a
Tree...
What does the Forestry Board have to say?
More on depth gauges from Madsens...
More on Chainsaws from your About Forestry Guide
