Bar and Chain replacement

[Clay45]

I suspect this saw has been issued in various configurations to meet the different woods encountered in various regions. According to the manufacturer's website 3/8" is what it comes with today. Husqvarna Chainsaw 455 Rancher

While I don'f find the weight difference between a bar of 18" or 20" significant nor the weight of the additional chain. But swinging one around sure makes a diffference. And I'm pretty much a chicken with these things. Because trees fall or get blown down not to mention some pretty doggone big limbs, and I 've lost a half dozen or so to lightening; it seems like I'm having to cut something all the time. My son and son in-law will fire one up and get to it. Me; I stare at it a long time before I cautiously set the saw on the ground, step in to the handle and carefully start it up. Then I carefully cut whatever I'm going to cut from solid ground. And I prefer to keep the tip clear when cutting so the extra length comes in handy. I don't get around well enough anymore to do it any other way.

 

[motownbrowne]

Not to many that was where I use to live the city had storm damage and it was free wood. A 20" bar it a lot better then a 16"bar!

I have to disagree with you on this. A 20" isn't "better" it's just longer. That's like saying a 100 HP tractor is better than a 35 HP tractor. Yes, it's better for some things, but not all things.

They're just different tools for different jobs.

 

[jack707]

I have to disagree with you on this. A 20" isn't "better" it's just longer. That's like saying a 100 HP tractor is better than a 35 HP tractor. Yes, it's better for some things, but not all things.

They're just different tools for different jobs.

It's a personal choice for me it cuts everything I put it to unlike a 16" bar.

 

[oldpilgrim]

I suspect this saw has been issued in various configurations to meet the different woods encountered in various regions. According to the manufacturer's website 3/8" is what it comes with today. Husqvarna Chainsaw 455 Rancher

While I don't find the weight difference between a bar of 18" or 20" significant nor the weight of the additional chain. But swinging one around sure makes a difference. And I'm pretty much a chicken with these things. Because trees fall or get blown down not to mention some pretty doggone big limbs, and I 've lost a half dozen or so to lightening; it seems like I'm having to cut something all the time. My son and son in-law will fire one up and get to it. Me; I stare at it a long time before I cautiously set the saw on the ground, step in to the handle and carefully start it up. Then I carefully cut whatever I'm going to cut from solid ground. And I prefer to keep the tip clear when cutting so the extra length comes in handy. I don't get around well enough anymore to do it any other way.

that's the saw that I have and also my brother. I bought mine and he was so impressed, he bought one. Both came with 18 inch bars. We've each put hundreds and hundreds of hours on them and they work flawlessly.

 

[prichard]

I love the saw. I often use it then expect to use it soon so I leave with gas in it. Next thing you know I haven't used it in 6 or more months but it starts right up. I've never had a small engine take that kind of abuse and not care.

 

[Will_C]

"...different tools for different jobs...." I couldn't agree more. I have a 461 and a 260 Stihl and I would be without either one. Of course, I'm the guy that has 3 trimmers!

Will

 

[4570Man]

Most of my wood can't be cut in one pass with a 16" bar. I run 20" bars and I have a 28" that sees a far bit of use.

 

[Oldpath05]

I wouldn't give a 16" bar garage space makes my back hurt just thinking about it it it it, makes me stutter too. Most of my trees are 6-12'' so in my case size dont matter, it's the reach, that extra 2'' makes all the difference in my world.

 

[tk tom]

My goto was my 346 then 550 with a 16" bar, but as of late my 543xp with a 13" is really getting more time put on it. I hate long bars, especially if I don't need it. I have a 20, 28, and 36 if needed - but I rarely need them. Bent over is bent over, short bars with fast chains and modified saws, spend less time bent over

 

[prichard]

Thanks for all the great responses. I never thought is learn so much about bars.

Would going from 18 to 16 make any noticeable change in weight or balance?