X-cut chain

[SpaceBus]

Faster out of the box. Handfiled on both opens a can of worms. Lot of variables there. Lol

I use a granberg file jig and will sharpen a new chain before using it if I'm not in a hurry.

 

[RI Chevy]

I did test cuts a while back. X cut was by far the fastest out of box vs. Stihl RS, Oregon LGX, Oregon EXL, Carlton, and Stihl Square ground chain. I've kept the chain with the same exact test cuts separated for future testing so I haven't had to sharpen them yet.

 

[huskyboy]

I did test cuts a while back. X cut was by far the fastest out of box vs. Stihl RS, Oregon LGX, Oregon EXL, Carlton, and Stihl Square ground chain. I've kept the chain with the same exact test cuts separated for future testing so I haven't had to sharpen them yet.

I found the same to be true. We both know that changes a lot after you hand file chain. It’s hard to keep the factory grind of the xcut chain with handfiling... and it’s relatively easy to make the other chains perform better with a few tricks.

 

[SpaceBus]

I found the same to be true. We both know that changes a lot after you hand file chain. It’s hard to keep the factory grind of the xcut chain with handfiling... and it’s relatively easy to make the other chains perform better with a few tricks.

I saw someone mention they had a way to match the factory grind. What kind of rig does that require?

 

[Philbert]

Could someone convert safety chain to non safety by grinding the bumper flush with the raker?

I think that there is some terminology confusion here. The reduced kickback bumper is supposed to be flush with the depth gauge (‘raker’). This is how it works.

Grinding it flush with the tie strap would eliminate the reduced kickback protection.

If the chain is properly sharpened, this is unnecessary for most users.

Philbert

 

[Philbert]

Philbert

 

[huskyboy]

I saw someone mention they had a way to match the factory grind. What kind of rig does that require?

I’m not sure but someone will chime in hopefully. I don’t own a grinder, handfile all my chains.

 

[Wilhelm]

View attachment 296331

Philbert

On full size 3/8" I will most likely cut off the "bumper tie straps" merely because of "chip clearance" concerns with 20" bars fully buried in turkey oak, oak, beech.
I will not consciously purchase chains featuring this design after having bought TriLink chains with it, but I would not oppose getting them for free or with a saw purchase.
I only have chains with this design on my 3/8" LowProfile chains and on one remaining TriLink loop (Shark Fins), I will not alter the LowProfile loops, I will vigorously alter the last stock TriLink loop though.

I don't mind the "bumper drive links" at all, nor do I notice any difference in bucking performance between LPX and LGX.

I only have Vanguard loops featuring the "special depth gauges" design, they work fine but again I remove the bent over section to counteract chip clearing issues with 20" bars fully buried in hardwoods - there is a noticeable difference.

But that's just me and I don't know much of anything, so don't take my word for it!

 

[FergusonTO35]

So, I suppose I should use the Husky tool set to resharpen my X cut chains? Noticed they have a file kit at TSC that is listed for the SP33G.

 

[RI Chevy]

What is different or unique about the file set?

 

[chiselbit]

Wonder if it’s special. I just put an x-cut on the new 201T and my almost new file just skittered on the teeth

 

[FergusonTO35]

What is different or unique about the file set?

I really don't know. It did have some kind of widget for filing the drivers also.

 

[FergusonTO35]

My loop of SP33G showed up and I hung it on the Echo CS-500P. Hopefully I can try it out here soon. I think I will go ahead and buy the Husky file set for it. Its cheap and my files are pretty old anyway.

 

[huskyboy]

I found the same to be true. We both know that changes a lot after you hand file chain. It’s hard to keep the factory grind of the xcut chain with handfiling... and it’s relatively easy to make the other chains perform better with a few tricks.

Just tested a few chains today.

 

[huskyboy]

RS on top, LGX on bottom

 

[huskyboy]

C85 on top, LGX on bottom

 

[huskyboy]

EXL on top, LGX on bottom

 

[RI Chevy]

Cool test.

 

[huskyboy]

Cool test.

I can see why Julian sold his chains after tests. It isn’t cheap to do them and time consuming too. I’ll just run these and let them make me money. Lol

 

[RI Chevy]

Yes. Run them all and figure out which one makes you the most money.
Then let us know...lol