Stihl Chainsaw Chain & Bar Size Guide — Find the Right Fit
Need a new chain or bar for your Stihl chainsaw but not sure what fits? You're not alone — it's the question our counter team answers most. The good news: every chain and bar is defined by just three numbers. Find those, and you'll have the right part in minutes.
The 3 Numbers That Determine Chainsaw Chain Fit
1. Pitch — the distance between the chain's drive links (common Stihl pitches: 1/4", 3/8", 3/8" Picco/low-profile, and .325"). 2. Gauge — the thickness of the drive link that rides in the bar groove (commonly .043", .050", or .063"). 3. Drive link count — how many links the loop has, which is set by your bar length and saw. All three must match your bar — a chain with the right length but wrong pitch or gauge won't run.
Where to Find Your Numbers
Check the side of your guide bar near the tail — most Stihl bars stamp the length, pitch, gauge, and drive link count right on the bar. You can also find the chain code on your saw's manual or the old chain's packaging. If the stamping is worn off, just bring the old chain or the saw itself to either of our stores — we'll measure it on the spot.
What the Stihl Chain Codes Mean
Stihl chains use codes like 26RM3, 33RS, or 61PM — the numbers and letters identify the pitch, gauge, and cutter style family. For example, our 61PMM3 50 chain is the 14" loop that fits popular homeowner saws like the MS 170, MS 171, MS 180, and MS 181. Rather than memorize codes, match the three numbers above — or tell us your saw model and bar length and we'll pull the right loop.
Shop Stihl Chains, Bars & Saws
Browse our Stihl chainsaws, chains & guide bars — we stock genuine OEM Stihl loops and bars from 12" to 25" at our Williamstown (08094) and Mullica Hill, NJ stores, plus the full Stihl equipment line. As an authorized Stihl dealer we can also order any chain or bar we don't have on the shelf.
Pro Tips for Longer Chain Life
Buy two chains and rotate them — alternating loops between sharpenings helps chains and bar wear evenly. Flip your bar each time you change chains. Keep the chain oiled and out of the dirt, and bring it to our shop for sharpening when it starts pulling dust instead of chips.
Still not sure? Call (856) 226-3834 or stop by either store with your saw, your old chain, or just the model number — we'll match it while you wait. Serving chainsaw owners, firewood cutters, and tree crews across South Jersey.