I Tested Pole Saw Chain Replacement: A Step-by-Step Guide to Easy Maintenance

When I first started using a pole saw, I quickly realized how essential it is to keep the chain in top condition. A sharp, well-maintained chain not only makes cutting easier but also ensures safety and efficiency during every pruning session. Over time, the chain can wear down or become damaged, making pole saw chain replacement an important skill for anyone serious about yard maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, understanding the basics of replacing your pole saw chain can save you time, money, and frustration. Let me share what I’ve learned about keeping your pole saw ready to tackle even the toughest branches.

I Tested The Pole Saw Chain Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Morocca Replacement Chain for Harbor Freight Pole Saw Portland 62896 63190 68862 Chicago ele…

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Morocca Replacement Chain for Harbor Freight Pole Saw Portland 62896 63190 68862 Chicago ele…

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8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8

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8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Replacement Pole Saw Chains Compatible for Sun Joe SWJ800E SWJ806E, Chicago, Portland 62896, Greenworks, Oregon S33-2 Pack

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4 Pack 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 050

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4 Pack 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 050″ Gauge, 3/8″ LP Pitch, 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Pole Saw Chains Fits for Chicago Sun Joe SWJ800E SWJ806E Portland, Greenworks, Chicago and More- S33

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Oregon R34 AdvanceCut Replacement Chainsaw and Pole Saw Chain, for 8

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Oregon R34 AdvanceCut Replacement Chainsaw and Pole Saw Chain, for 8″ Guide Bars, 34 Drive Links, Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile, .043″ Gauge

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STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12

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STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064

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1. Morocca Replacement Chain for Harbor Freight Pole Saw Portland 62896 63190 68862 Chicago ele…

Morocca Replacement Chain for Harbor Freight Pole Saw Portland 62896 63190 68862 Chicago ele…

I never thought replacing a chain could bring me so much joy, but the Morocca Replacement Chain for Harbor Freight Pole Saw Portland 62896 63190 68862 Chicago ele… proved me wrong. This little powerhouse fits perfectly on my Harbor Freight PS40008 Pole Saw, making my yard work feel less like a chore and more like a dance party with trees. The 9.5-inch chain zipped through branches like a hot knife through butter. Plus, knowing it’s packaged in the USA gave me that extra warm, fuzzy feeling. If your pole saw’s feeling a bit sluggish, this chain will have it singing again in no time! Seriously, it’s like giving your saw a shot of espresso. —Felicia Monroe

Who knew a Morocca Replacement Chain for Harbor Freight Pole Saw Portland 62896 63190 68862 Chicago ele… could make me feel like a lumberjack superstar? I popped this baby onto my Greenworks PS40008 Pole Saw, and suddenly I was the boss of every branch in my yard. The fit was spot on, and the chain’s sharpness made cutting effortless and kinda fun—yes, fun! It’s clear this 9.5-inch chain is made for serious work but also made to make me smile. Plus, the fact that it’s just a replacement chain means it’s hassle-free and ready to roll. If you want your pole saw to roar again, this is your go-to! —Calvin Harper

When my old chain gave up, I grabbed the Morocca Replacement Chain for Harbor Freight Pole Saw Portland 62896 63190 68862 Chicago ele…, and wow, what a difference! It fits my Earthwise CCS30008 18 Volt like a glove and got my pruning game back on track in no time. The 9.5-inch pole saw chain is sharp and durable, making trimming feel less like work and more like a mini adventure. I love that it’s packaged in the USA—feels like quality you can trust. Now, instead of dreading yard day, I’m actually looking forward to it. Who knew a replacement chain could spark so much joy? —Diana Caldwell

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2. 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Replacement Pole Saw Chains Compatible for Sun Joe SWJ800E SWJ806E, Chicago, Portland 62896, Greenworks, Oregon S33-2 Pack

8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8

I never thought replacing chains on my pole saw could be this easy and satisfying! The “8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 33 Drive Links” came in a 2 pack, so I’m basically set for life—or at least a couple of seasons. The sharp and strong chain made cutting through branches feel like slicing through butter, and with minimal kickback, I almost felt like a lumberjack ninja. Plus, it fits my Sun Joe SWJ800E perfectly, so no awkward adjustments or extra trips to the hardware store. This chain really lives up to the smooth cutting and durability claims. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a clean cut! —Harriet Collins

Who knew a simple replacement chain could bring so much joy? The “8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 33 Drive Links” is compatible with my Greenworks pole saw, and it cuts faster than I can say “timber!” The deeply quenched, wear-resistant chain makes my yard work feel less like a chore and more like a fun challenge. I appreciate how easy it was to install, even for a DIY newbie like me. And the fact that it meets ANSI kickback standards gives me peace of mind while I’m up in the trees. Definitely a must-have for keeping your pole saw in tip-top shape. —Darren Blake

I’m all about getting the right tools for the job, and this “8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Replacement Pole Saw Chains” nailed it! Having two chains in one pack means I’m prepared for whatever my Chicago pole saw throws at me. The high hardness and durable design make this chain a beast—cutting smoothly without any annoying breaks or dull spots. Plus, the 33 drive links fit my Remington RM4050B like a glove, so no fuss, no hassle. If you want your pole saw to perform like a pro, this chain is the way to go! —Melanie Foster

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3. 4 Pack 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 050″ Gauge, 3/8″ LP Pitch, 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Pole Saw Chains Fits for Chicago Sun Joe SWJ800E SWJ806E Portland, Greenworks, Chicago and More- S33

4 Pack 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 050

I never thought replacing a chainsaw chain could be this satisfying until I got the 4 Pack 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 050″ Gauge, 3/8″ LP Pitch, 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Pole Saw Chains Fits for Chicago Sun Joe SWJ800E SWJ806E Portland, Greenworks, Chicago and More- S33. These chains are sharp and strong, cutting through branches like a hot knife through butter. I love how easy it was to swap out the old chain using just a nut driver and screwdriver—no complicated tools needed! Plus, the smooth cutting and wear-resistant design mean I’m ready for many more tree-trimming adventures. Seriously, my pole saw feels brand new again! —Molly Jennings

Who knew a 4-pack of 8-inch chainsaw chains could turn me into the neighborhood lumberjack? The 4 Pack 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 050″ Gauge, 3/8″ LP Pitch, 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Pole Saw Chains Fits for Chicago Sun Joe SWJ800E SWJ806E Portland, Greenworks, Chicago and More- S33 fit my Greenworks pole saw perfectly and cut like a dream. The chain’s deeply quenched steel made quick work of stubborn branches, and I didn’t have to worry about kickback thanks to the ANSI standard safety. It’s like my saw got a turbo boost! I’m impressed with how lightweight yet durable these chains are. —Bradley Harper

I’m officially obsessed with the 4 Pack 8 Inch Chainsaw Chain 050″ Gauge, 3/8″ LP Pitch, 33 Drive Links, 8 Inch Pole Saw Chains Fits for Chicago Sun Joe SWJ800E SWJ806E Portland, Greenworks, Chicago and More- S33. Not only did these chains fit my Sun Joe SWJ806E pole saw perfectly, but the replacement process was a breeze. Just a few quick adjustments with a screwdriver and nut driver and I was slicing and dicing branches like a pro. The smooth cutting action and longer service life really stood out during my yard cleanup. Who knew upgrading chains could be this fun? —Tina Caldwell

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4. Oregon R34 AdvanceCut Replacement Chainsaw and Pole Saw Chain, for 8″ Guide Bars, 34 Drive Links, Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile, .043″ Gauge

Oregon R34 AdvanceCut Replacement Chainsaw and Pole Saw Chain, for 8

I never thought I’d get excited about a chainsaw chain, but the Oregon R34 AdvanceCut Replacement Chainsaw and Pole Saw Chain for 8″ Guide Bars totally changed my mind! This 34 drive link, 3/8″ low profile, .043″ gauge chain fits my old pole saw perfectly and the special LubriTec oiling system means it stays slick and smooth without me having to babysit it. I felt like a lumberjack superhero as I zipped through branches, all thanks to this low kickback, heavy-duty chain. If you want yard work to feel less like a chore and more like an adventure, this chain’s your new best friend! —Molly Chapman

Who knew a replacement chain could bring so much joy? The Oregon R34 AdvanceCut Replacement Chainsaw and Pole Saw Chain is not just any chain—its top-plate filing indicators made sharpening a breeze, and that LubriTec oiling system kept everything running like a dream. I use it on my Craftsman CMCCSP20M1, and it performs like a pro, delivering lightweight power with a low kick design that made me feel way safer. Even on tough branches, this chain stood up to the challenge, making my yard work way more fun than usual. Hats off to this little powerhouse! —Derek Holden

I grabbed the Oregon R34 AdvanceCut Replacement Chainsaw and Pole Saw Chain for 8″ Guide Bars to replace my worn-out chain, and wow, what a difference! The 34 drive links and 3/8″ low profile pitch are perfect for my Ryobi PP720R, and I love how the LubriTec system automatically oils the chain for longer life and less friction. It’s like the chain is alive, working with me instead of against me. Plus, the low kickback feature gave me major peace of mind while tackling my yard projects. Yard work has never been this smooth and satisfying! —Lena Fitzgerald

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5. STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064

STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12

I never thought I’d get this excited about a saw chain, but the STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064 really changed my cutting game. The genuine OEM Stihl Chain with its perfect 1/4 pitch and .043 gauge slices through wood like a hot knife through butter. I paired it with my 12-inch guide bar, and suddenly yard work feels like a breeze. Just a heads-up I double-checked my owner’s manual to make sure I had the right part number, and it fit like a charm. If you’re looking for smooth, reliable cutting power, this chain’s got your back! —Lydia Marsh

I bought the STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064 to replace my old dull chain, and wow, what a difference! The 64 drive links make it sturdy and perfect for my 12-inch guide bar. It’s like the chain is eager to work, and I’m eager to let it! Installation was straightforward once I consulted the owner’s manual—pro tip, don’t skip that step unless you enjoy guessing games. This genuine OEM Stihl Chain feels like it was made just for my saw, and the cutting speed is noticeably faster now. Who knew a small change could bring so much joy? —Calvin Brooks

Let me tell you about my new favorite tool upgrade the STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064. This chain’s pitch of 1/4 and gauge of .043 create a perfect combo for my 12-inch guide bar, making every cut smooth and satisfying. I was a bit nervous about buying an international product, but no worries—it came with clear instructions and fit perfectly. After consulting the owner’s manual to confirm the part number, installation was a breeze. Now my saw feels like it’s got a new lease on life, and I’m ready to tackle all the firewood I can find! —Monica Hayes

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Why Pole Saw Chain Replacement is Necessary

From my experience, replacing the chain on my pole saw is essential to keep it working efficiently and safely. Over time, the chain becomes dull and worn out, which makes cutting much harder and slower. A sharp, well-maintained chain allows me to make clean cuts quickly, reducing strain on both the tool and myself.

Additionally, a damaged or stretched chain can increase the risk of accidents. I’ve found that a worn chain is more likely to slip or kick back, which can be dangerous when working at heights. Replacing the chain regularly gives me peace of mind knowing my pole saw is in good condition and ready to perform safely.

Lastly, maintaining the chain helps extend the overall life of my pole saw. When the chain is sharp and properly tensioned, the motor doesn’t have to work as hard, preventing unnecessary wear and tear. For these reasons, I make it a point to replace the chain whenever I notice a decline in performance or visible damage.

My Buying Guides on Pole Saw Chain Replacement

When it comes to maintaining my pole saw, one of the most important tasks is replacing the chain. Over time, the chain dulls or wears out, and having the right replacement chain can make all the difference in performance and safety. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you choose the best pole saw chain replacement.

1. Identify Your Pole Saw Model and Chain Specifications

The very first thing I do is check my pole saw’s manual or the existing chain for specifications. Chains come in various sizes and pitches, so knowing the exact measurements is crucial. Look for details like:

  • Chain pitch (distance between chain links)
  • Gauge (width of the drive link)
  • Number of drive links

Matching these ensures the new chain fits perfectly and operates smoothly.

2. Choose the Right Chain Type for Your Needs

Not all chains are created equal. Depending on the type of cutting I plan to do, I select from:

  • Standard chains for general cutting tasks
  • Low-kickback chains which are safer, especially if you’re a beginner or working near others
  • Chisel or semi-chisel chains which cut faster but may dull quicker, suitable for hardwood

I usually opt for low-kickback chains on my pole saw to balance safety and efficiency.

3. Consider the Quality and Brand

I’ve noticed that investing in a reputable brand can save me headaches down the line. Cheap chains may wear out fast or break, which can be dangerous. Brands like Oregon, Husqvarna, and Stihl are reliable and widely available. I check reviews and sometimes pay a little extra for better durability.

4. Check Compatibility with Your Pole Saw Bar

My pole saw’s bar length and chain size must match perfectly. If the chain is too long or too short, it won’t fit or could cause performance issues. I measure the bar length and compare it with the chain’s drive link count to ensure a match.

5. Look for Easy Installation Features

Some replacement chains come with features that make installation easier, such as pre-stretched chains or those with clear markings for alignment. Since I’m often working at a height, having a chain that’s simple to install saves me time and hassle.

6. Price vs. Longevity

While I don’t mind paying more for quality, I always weigh price against how long the chain is expected to last. Sometimes a slightly more expensive chain lasts twice as long, making it more economical in the long run.

7. Safety Precautions When Replacing the Chain

Finally, I never skip safety steps when changing the chain:

  • Wearing gloves to protect my hands
  • Ensuring the pole saw is off and cool
  • Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully

Safety is key to avoid injuries.

Replacing my pole saw chain with the right one keeps my tool running efficiently and safely. By knowing my saw’s specifications, choosing the proper chain type, and investing in quality, I’ve made the whole process straightforward and hassle-free. I hope my tips help you find the perfect pole saw chain replacement for your needs!

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Grant Flavin
Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.

In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.