Best Chainsaw Chain for Faster Cuts: STIHL Chain Comparison
If you're into chainsaws, you know not all chains are created equal. Some cut faster, some are easier on your saw, and others excel in specific conditions. Today, we're testing two STIHL chains to see which one performs better: the 33RS 84 and the 33RSF 84. Grab your safety gear—let's dig in.
The Chains We're Comparing
Before diving into the tests, here’s a quick rundown of the two chains:
- STIHL 33RS 84: This is your standard rapid super chain. It has 42 cutters on 84 drive links and offers consistent performance in tough materials.
- STIHL 33RSF 84: The "full skip" version features 28 cutters on the same 84 drive links. It’s designed to reduce load on your saw, especially when working with longer guide bars.
Both chains are professional-grade options, but they’re built with different purposes in mind. Let’s see how they stack up.
The Setup
For this test, we used a STIHL MS 462 chainsaw with a 25-inch bar. This saw is built for professional use and has the power to handle demanding jobs. Before starting, we ran a tank of fuel through the saw to make sure it was fully warmed up and properly lubricated.
Our testing material was a pine tree stump, roughly 18 to 20 inches across. Spoiler: it wasn’t your typical soft pine. This stump, packed with sap and tougher-than-normal wood, was a great challenge.
Round 1: Standard Chain (STIHL 33RS 84)
Our first cuts were made using the standard 33RS 84 chain. In the first test cut, the saw pushed through the wood, but it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. The resistance was noticeable, and the wood was tougher than expected.
The second cut with the RS chain felt a bit smoother after adjusting the cutting technique, using the dogs and pivoting for better control. Still, the effort required left room for improvement, especially if you work with this kind of wood regularly.
Round 2: Full Skip Chain (STIHL 33RSF 84)
After switching to the RSF chain, the difference started showing. This chain has fewer cutters, which means less resistance and less strain on the saw.
The first RSF cut felt quicker and lighter, but we’d have to check the clock to confirm. Beyond speed, the reduced workload on the saw could be a big advantage, especially if you’re working with a larger bar.
The second cut with the RSF chain, however, felt a bit slower, though that might’ve been due to the density of the wood. The stump’s sap-heavy and “lighter knot” composition added extra difficulty. Still, the RSF chain handled it without overloading the saw.
Standard vs. Full Skip: Key Observations
So, what did we notice in this test?
- Cutting Speed: The RSF chain felt slightly faster, but the difference might be more noticeable on longer guide bars, like 28 inches or more.
- Saw Load: The RSF’s reduced cutters put less strain on the chainsaw, which could help extend the life of your equipment.
- Maintenance Ease: With fewer teeth, the RSF chain takes less time to sharpen, saving you effort over time.
If you’re running a shorter bar (like the 25-inch we tested), the RS chain can handle most tasks just as effectively. But for longer bars or heavy-duty applications, the RSF chain’s reduced load might help speed up the work while being kinder to your saw.
When to Choose Each Chain
- 33RS 84 (Standard): Perfect for shorter guide bars and general use. If you’re cutting softer wood or don’t want to sacrifice cutting consistency, this chain performs well.
- 33RSF 84 (Full Skip): Better suited for longer guide bars (28 inches and up) or when cutting harder, more resin-heavy wood. The reduced teeth mean less sharpening and strain, making it ideal for pro users looking to maximize efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Both chains have their strengths, and the "best" choice depends on your specific needs. If you value speed, ease of sharpening, and lighter saw load, the RSF chain is a solid upgrade. For general cutting tasks on shorter bars, the RS chain still delivers reliable performance.
Your feedback matters here. Have you used either of these STIHL chains? If so, which worked better for you? Let us know in the comments or reach out—we’d love to hear your experiences.
For more tips on chainsaw chains, bars, and sprockets, check out our related video. And if you’re ready to try these chains or need a new saw, visit our online store for all your chainsaw needs.
Happy cutting and stay safe out there!
Products Discussed In The Video
- Oilomatic STIHL Rapid Super (RS) 33RS 84 Chainsaw chain
- Oilomatic STIHL Rapid Super Full Skip (RSF) 33RSF 84 Chainsaw chain
- STIHL MS 462 Professional gas powered chainsaw
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