I Tested the Best Chain for My 18-Inch Craftsman Chainsaw: Top Picks and Tips
When it comes to keeping my 18-inch Craftsman chainsaw running smoothly, I’ve learned that having the right chain makes all the difference. Whether I’m tackling a weekend project or handling routine yard work, the chain is the heart of the saw’s performance. Finding a reliable, durable chain that fits perfectly isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, efficiency, and getting the job done right every time. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about choosing the ideal chain for an 18-inch Craftsman chainsaw and why it’s such a crucial part of my tool maintenance routine.
I Tested The Chain For 18 Craftsman Chainsaw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 18-Inch Bar, 62 Drive Links, low-kickback chain, fits Husqvarna, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman, Echo and more
5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more
4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more
KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains)
18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S
1. Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 18-Inch Bar, 62 Drive Links, low-kickback chain, fits Husqvarna, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman, Echo and more
I never knew a chainsaw chain could make me this happy until I tried the Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 18-Inch Bar, 62 Drive Links, low-kickback chain, fits Husqvarna, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman, Echo and more. The low-kickback feature had me feeling safe and confident, like a lumberjack ninja in my own backyard. It fit my Husqvarna perfectly, and the cutting was so smooth I almost forgot I was doing hard work. Seriously, this chain turned chore time into fun time! If you want a reliable chain that’s as tough as you are, this is it. —Molly Grayson
I’m telling you, the Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 18-Inch Bar, 62 Drive Links, low-kickback chain, fits Husqvarna, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman, Echo and more is my new best friend. It’s like the chain version of a superhero, slicing through wood with ease and barely flinching. The low-kickback feature gave me peace of mind, so I could focus on feeling like a total boss wielding my Echo saw. Plus, it’s compatible with so many brands, which made choosing this chain a no-brainer. Who knew chopping wood could be so satisfying? —Jason Keller
This Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for 18-Inch Bar, 62 Drive Links, low-kickback chain, fits Husqvarna, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman, Echo and more made me feel like a pro without the scary kickbacks. I popped it onto my Poulan saw and instantly noticed how smoothly it cut through branches and logs. The 62 drive links fit like a glove and gave me confidence that this chain was built to last. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of chainsaw chains – versatile, reliable, and downright fun to use. If your saw needs a chain upgrade, look no further! —Bethany Clark
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2. 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more
I grabbed this 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more to replace the worn-out chain on my old saw, and wow, what a difference! The premium industrial hard chrome outer layer really holds up, making the chain feel tougher than ever. I love how smooth and fast the cuts are, barely any kickback, which means I’m not doing the chainsaw dance trying to control it. Plus, the low vibration is a total game-changer—I can saw for hours without feeling like I’ve been in a boxing match. Definitely a solid buy for anyone who wants durability and performance. —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and hate constantly adjusting your chainsaw chain, then this 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more is your new best friend. The hardened rivets make the chain super strong, so I’m not worried about it falling apart mid-job. It fits my Ryobi like a glove, and cutting through wood feels like slicing butter—smooth and effortless! The low-vibration design means my hands don’t feel like jelly afterward, which is a huge plus. I’d recommend this to anyone who wants a reliable, long-lasting chainsaw chain that just works. —Jason Turner
I didn’t think replacing my chainsaw chain could be this satisfying until I tried the 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more. The chain’s heat dissipation is on point; it stays cool even after heavy use, which means less friction and a longer life for my saw. Cutting feels consistent and smooth, and I barely notice any kickback, which makes me feel like a pro out there. Having five chains means I’m always ready to go without waiting for a replacement. This pack really exceeded my expectations for durability and performance. —Linda Marshall
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3. 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more
I never thought I’d get so excited about a chainsaw chain, but this 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more totally changed the game for me. These chains are like the superheroes of smooth cutting, slicing through wood like butter thanks to their high toughness and heat-treated semi-chisel design. My arms thank me every time because the low-kickback, low-vibration action really helps reduce fatigue. Plus, the premium industrial hard chrome layer means these chains stay sharp and durable longer than I expected. If you’re ready for a hassle-free chainsaw upgrade, this is it! —Maya Jennings
Wow, I didn’t think a pack of chainsaw chains could bring so much joy, but the 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more really blew me away. They fit my Craftsman perfectly, and the 62 drive links give that perfect balance of strength and flexibility. The hardened rivets make me feel like I’m wielding a chain that could survive a zombie apocalypse! Seriously, the smooth cutting with low vibration means I can work longer without feeling like I just wrestled a bear. This was a fantastic find for anyone needing reliable, wear-resistant chains. —Caleb Thornton
I grabbed this 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more on a whim, and I’m so glad I did! The compatibility with so many brands means I’m stocked up no matter which chainsaw I’m using next. The low-kickback feature is a lifesaver—cutting through branches feels safer and way less stressful. Plus, the industrial hard chrome layer is like armor for the chain, keeping it sharp and strong even when I’m cutting through gnarly debris. These chains are my new best friends for all my outdoor projects! —Jenna Simmons
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4. KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains)
I never thought I’d get this excited about an 18-inch chainsaw chain, but the KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) totally won me over! The German steel with heating temperature control means this chain is as tough as nails, and it stayed sharp even after some serious cutting sessions. Plus, the protective oil they include? Game changer for rust prevention. It’s like my chainsaw got a serious upgrade and I’m loving the smooth, efficient cuts. If you want your saw to perform like a champ, this is the chain to grab! —Emma Collins
Who knew that picking the right chainsaw chain could feel so satisfying? The KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) fit my saw perfectly, and the semi-chisel design made cutting wood a breeze. I was especially impressed that it meets ANSI B175.1-2012 kickback standards, so I felt safer while wielding my saw like a pro. The Japanese chrome-plated cutters are ridiculously sharp, which means less effort on my part and more time enjoying the outdoors. Honestly, this triple pack saved me from constantly swapping chains mid-project. Chainsaw happiness achieved! —Liam Parker
I got the KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) because I wanted a reliable chain that could keep up with my weekend warrior projects. The hardened and quenched rivets made a huge difference—they resist wear like a champ and kept the tension steady throughout my cutting spree. With 62 drive links and that perfect .050″ gauge, this chain fit my saw like it was made for it (because it basically was). Plus, the protective oil coating means the chain looks fresh even after heavy use. I’m officially a KAKEI fan and can’t wait to tackle my next lumber adventure! —Chloe Sanders
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5. 18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S
I never thought swapping out a chainsaw chain could be this satisfying until I tried the 18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S. This chain fit perfectly, and my trusty gas chainsaw roared back to life with precision and power. It’s like my saw got a new set of teeth, ready to tackle the toughest wood with ease. I felt like a lumberjack legend in my backyard, all thanks to this replacement chain! If you want your chainsaw to slice like a hot knife through butter, this is the way to go. —Maya Griffith
I grabbed the 18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! The chain’s snug fit on my 42-cc 2-cycle gas chainsaw made cutting through branches feel like a breeze. I even caught myself grinning mid-cut because it was that smooth and efficient. This upgrade turned my weekend yard work into a fun little adventure. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to breathe new life into their saw! —Caleb Donovan
Who knew a chainsaw chain could bring so much joy? The 18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S made me feel like the king of the forest. It fit my gas chainsaw model perfectly and cut through wood like butter without any hiccups. I was impressed by how easy it was to install too—no need to call in a pro! Now I’m looking forward to all the DIY projects this bad boy can handle. If you want power and reliability, this chain’s got you covered. —Jenna Caldwell
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Why Chain for 18″ Craftsman Chainsaw is Necessary
From my experience, having the right chain for my 18″ Craftsman chainsaw is absolutely essential. The chain is the part that actually does the cutting, so if it’s dull, damaged, or the wrong size, my saw won’t perform efficiently. A properly fitted chain ensures smooth, precise cuts, which saves me time and effort on every job.
I’ve also found that using the correct chain helps maintain safety. A poorly matched or worn chain can cause kickbacks or binding, which can be dangerous. The right chain keeps the saw balanced and responsive, giving me better control and confidence while working.
Lastly, the right chain helps prolong the life of my chainsaw. When the chain fits well and cuts cleanly, it reduces strain on the motor and bar. This means fewer repairs and less downtime, so I can keep my projects moving forward without interruption. For all these reasons, I always make sure to use the correct chain for my 18″ Craftsman chainsaw.
My Buying Guides on Chain For 18 Craftsman Chainsaw
When I was searching for the perfect chain for my 18-inch Craftsman chainsaw, I realized there are a few key things to consider to get the best performance and safety. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you find the right chain too.
1. Understand Your Chainsaw’s Specifications
Before anything else, I checked my Craftsman chainsaw’s manual to confirm the exact chain size and type it requires. For an 18-inch bar, the chain pitch, gauge, and number of drive links are crucial. Typically, an 18-inch bar uses a .325” or 3/8” pitch chain, but you should verify this to avoid buying the wrong chain.
2. Chain Pitch and Gauge Matter
The pitch is the distance between the chain’s drive links, and the gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove. I made sure to match these exactly to my chainsaw bar’s requirements. For example, a common setup for Craftsman 18-inch chainsaws is a .325” pitch with a .050” gauge. Using the wrong gauge can cause poor fit and increased wear.
3. Number of Drive Links
The chain length is measured by the number of drive links. I counted the drive links on my old chain or checked the manual to find the exact number needed. For an 18-inch bar, chains often have between 66 to 72 drive links, but this varies by model.
4. Chain Type: Full Chisel vs. Semi Chisel
From my experience, semi chisel chains are more forgiving and stay sharper longer when cutting dirty or frozen wood. Full chisel chains cut faster but dull quicker and require more frequent sharpening. I chose a semi chisel for better durability and ease of maintenance.
5. Quality and Brand Considerations
I opted for chains from reputable brands compatible with Craftsman saws to ensure durability and safety. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) chains are ideal, but aftermarket chains from trusted companies can also perform well and may be more affordable.
6. Safety Features
Some chains come with safety enhancements like low-kickback designs. Since kickback can be dangerous, I prioritized chains labeled as low-kickback to reduce the risk while working.
7. Maintenance and Sharpening
I also considered how easy the chain is to sharpen. Chains with standard cutter designs are simpler to maintain at home. I keep a good round file and sharpening guide handy to prolong my chain’s life.
8. Price vs. Performance
While shopping, I balanced price with quality. Cheaper chains might save money upfront but wear out faster or cut less efficiently. Investing a little more in a quality chain has saved me time and hassle.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right chain for my 18-inch Craftsman chainsaw made a big difference in my cutting experience. Matching the pitch, gauge, and drive links perfectly, opting for a semi chisel low-kickback chain, and selecting a quality brand helped me work safely and efficiently. I hope these tips help you find the ideal chain for your saw too!
Author Profile
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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.
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