Chainsaws are high performance, precision wood cutting machines. When you consider the power output of these machines, and the volume of timber they can cut, it's my opinion that no other type of saw comes close to the performance of a chainsaw.

Other power tools can be 'just sharp' - 'a little bit under powered' - 'if you force them they're up to the job'. There's no compromise with chainsaws. The motor must be running at full power and speed. The saw chain must be 'pin' sharp and filed at the correct angles at all times.

A chain is either 'right or rubbish' - there is no in-between.

See also how to look after your chain, information on depth gauges, anad when to get your chain professionally sharpened.