Short answer: Most likely the depth gauges, also called rakers, are set too high. The depth gauge controls how deep each tooth bites, so if it's too high the teeth can't bite into the wood, however sharp they are. Set them to the correct depth for your chain, but don't file them too low, because that can increase the risk of kickback.
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What Phil says
"Most likely it's the depth gauges, or rakers as some people call them. If they're set too high, then this tooth isn't going to bite into the wood, so you need to set those at the correct depth. Don't go too low because you can increase the risk of kickback. Most chainsaw manufacturers make a depth gauge or, say Oregon, they'll have a depth gauge that's set right for the right saw. So just make sure you've got the right gear and set that to the right depth, and you'll be fine."
How to fix it
- Get the right depth gauge tool for your chain. Chain and saw manufacturers make them, set to the right depth for the right saw.
- Check the rakers. If they sit too high, file them down to the correct depth.
- Don't overdo it. Filing them too low can increase the risk of kickback. Filed too low, they can also make the saw stall in the cut and burn the clutch out (why is my chainsaw smoking?).
- Keep both sides even, or the saw will pull to one side (why does my chainsaw cut crooked?).
Kickback and your legs
Rakers set too low can increase the risk of kickback. Set them correctly, and wear leg protection rated for chainsaw work whenever you run a saw: see Clogger's chainsaw pants and chainsaw chaps.
What happens if you file rakers too low?
Two things, both from Phil’s answers in the episode. Filing the depth gauges too low can increase the risk of kickback. And the saw can keep stalling in the cut, which burns the clutch out, one of his three reasons a chainsaw smokes (why is my chainsaw smoking?).
Free one-page checklist
Phil’s chainsaw troubleshooting checklist
Seven common problems, the checks a working arborist runs first, and when it’s a job for the saw shop. Print it and keep it with your saw.
Related questions
- When is a chainsaw chain blunt or worn out?
- Why does my chainsaw cut crooked?
- Why is my chainsaw smoking?
- All 16 chainsaw questions, answered
From Clogger Answers, episode 1. These are Phil's opinions, based on his professional experience. Always follow your saw's manual and wear the right protective gear.
Phil is a professional arborist based in Invercargill, New Zealand, who runs saws every day with his crew. Clogger makes chainsaw pants and chainsaw chaps.