550XP - .325 vs 3/8

[SawTroll]

Seems to me that the narrower kerf of a .325 chain means faster cutting when the saw is in bigger, harder wood because the saw can maintain a higher chain speed.

That is of course one of the factors - when there actually is a difference.

 

[craig71]

A .325 chain on a small speedy lower torque saw will cut faster than a 3/8 chain on the same saw(346/550). However, take the same bar/chain length and put it on a 562/362 and the 3/8th will outcut the .325. I think it comes down to torque vs speed when it comes to chains(.325 vs 3/8) I guess it also depends on wood type, I have found 3/8th to be a better option on my saws for hardwood species and .325 to better for spruce and fir. I primarily run a 357xp or a sthl 361 and both are well suited to either chain type.