Just got a new Husky 359. I was going to order a non cat muffler and a few extra chains. I think the 20" chain that came with it said H80 72G on the box. Should I just order more of the same or is there something better for cutting mostly clean medium sized hardwood? I'm most interested in something that will stay sharp longer.
As for chains, it's really up to you. If your existing Oregon chain (which is what Husqvarna sells as their own) isn't holding an edge long enough for your taste, and assuming you're not at fault - dirt, mud, concrete - then you have two choices:
1. Buy a round-ground chisel chain with a harder/thicker chrome plating, since the chrome is what actually does the cutting. Stihl chain is probably tops, but Carlton (WoodsmanPro) is also highly regarded in this department. Oregon tends to dull faster in my experience, but in exchange for that it is a LOT easier to touch-up by hand. Incidentally, I recently had a surprisingly good experience with some new loops of GB round chisel I tried out. The GB wasn't as fast as some of the others but it held a very good edge for a couple tanks in oak and ash that was sitting in the mud.
2. If you're really looking for even more stay-sharp, why not go to a semi-chisel cutter instead? It will be a slightly slower cutting chain than regular round chisel but will be much more tolerant of dirt and grit. In truly clean, standing hardwood with thin bark I can often get four tanks out of a loop of semi-chisel before the chips start getting smaller.
p.s. I'd like to thank all the people on this board for all their input on saws. There's a lot of varying opinions on saws here but all the different discussions made picking out the right saw for me pretty easy
Yup, there's some good knowledge and information floating around here. Sometimes a bit of filtering might be required, but generally it's good stuff. Welcome to the site, hope you enjoy your stay!
