Master links and tie straps Questions

[Backtroller]

I'm dumping my 24" bars and I would like to use the unused chains for other saws. Here's my plan, I want to take 2 of the 24" 3/8 .050 (84 dl) chains shorten them and make them into 20" (72 dl) chains.

I also have enough additional links cutters to make a 93 dl chain adding to one of the 84 dl chains for a new 28" bar I picked up. However that chain would have two master links in it. Can that be done?

Local shops around here want $7 each chain to shorten them. I'm not sure if they will even lengthen them. I don't have a proper tool, but I've peend a few ugly links with good results. I'd like to do it myself if possible.

Finally, are all master links and tie straps the same quality. I only need a few.

So is this idea foolish?

 

[mdavlee]

If the chains are still pretty new I'd do it. The links are somewhat brand specific. The links are around $1 each and you get 25 with a roll of chain.

 

[Backtroller]

Thanks. I will be on the lookout for some Oregon ones then.

 

[67L36Driver]

$7 to shorten a chain is a rip. Tells me the place don't want to be bothered with it.

 

[Jon1212]

Bailey's has a pretty good selection of presets, and tie straps for most brands, and configurations(pitch and gauge). The per piece pricing is fairly reasonable, as well. They will also ship them in a little padded envelope for around two bucks. Get 10 or 12 of each, as it's always good to have spares on hand.

 

[Backtroller]

Thanks to all of the helpful people I have it figured out. Thanks everyone.

 

[CR888]

Proper safe practice is important, so advising the reuse of components is not 'proper practice' however I would resize these loops with the tie straps and links that are already there. I have a breaker/spinner but have done many with a file, punch and hammer. Never had one come apart and done it many times. Just don't mix parts from different brands.

 

[old guy]

I always reuse the ones I punch out, while I don't do this very often none have come apart yet.
I have a 40 year old vice grip chain breaker-spinner.

John