For cutting just firewood all the time that is down is semi chisel chain the way to go. I never gave it much thought. I have always used full chisel chain. I’m not the best at sharpening and just want to keep the saw running the longest I can between each sharpening of the chain. I have read a couple of threads on here and that’s what got me thinking about the difference in the chain. Just looking at those of you that have used both types and which you liked more. Seems like you can find better deals on the full chisel. That’s why I always have used it. If the semi chisel doesn’t dull as quick Is it worth the extra few buck a loop I’m the long run?
Semi chisel is a bit cheaper for me locally. Yes semi chisel will hold an edge longer and most find it easier to sharpen. Properly setup it cuts plenty fast for a firewood cutter. Give a loop a try and see how you like it.
I like full chisel. I like a sharp chain and I keep it sharp. If I didn't sharpen my own chains or if I cut dirty wood, I'd switch to semi. They both have their place.
I use Stihl 33rm myself although I do have a lot of RS also. Semi will put more wood in the truck every time. When others are "touching up" I'm still cutting. It does take a little more power because the chip is longer so some lesser powered saws do slow down but if you have the power it just keeps eating wood.
I have a question, I'm cutting dirty wood that were previously used to hold bridge mats. They are square or rectangular and mainly oak. I am using a stihl 362 with a 25 inch bar. This is dulling my chain in no time flat, am I best using semi chisel? Looking ofr advice. Thanks in advance.
You could go carbide . But ,it’s $$$ ,and needs a diamond wheel to sharpen ,which most dealers don’t have .The carbide cutter can be knocked off on hard things like stone . Semi chisel would be a better option . You can buy multiple semi chisel chains for the price of one carbide .
I’ve used mostly 72lgx or 75lgx full chisel. I just bought a roll of semi chisel, the wood I’m getting is tops from a select cut and dragging them out of the woods makes for lots of dirt, for me the semi holds up way better for these conditions. Dropping a tree and bucking it in place then the full chisel has its place.
Thanks for everyone’s replies and experience ‘s with it. I’m going to get a couple of loops and give it a try.
If they are like the mats used around here, might be best if you stood them on one of their narrow edges and use an angle grinder with a flap disc to clean your cut line on both sides. Surely would make a big difference.
Mats are a tough one for sure !! The angle grinder is a good idea. Possibly a rather gutsy pressure washer on the cut line??
I appreciate the ideas. I'm glad it's not just me. I've been struggling cutting these. Have been considering the stihl pressure washer, this may push me to purchase it thanks
For me, semi chisel on skidded decked logs & full chisel on clean stuff. Fasted setup is my 660 with a 28" bar & .404 semi chisel. I can get several hours on that even in less than clean conditions.
