ripping chain

[steve phillips]

howdy all
i have no clue about ripping chains , im just getting into the milling fever .
i always like to buy american products , what do you look for in a ripping chain, and sharpen
any info will be great    ty    steve

[Shellbark]

Hi steve,I use my saws  to rip locust post alot.Most dealers will have ripping chains on hand,but if not,just get a full chisel chain and file the cutters at about a 12 degree angle,and file lower in the tooth than you normally would.also file the rakers down a bit more than normal.A good 68-80 cc saw can be a rippin monster with the right chain.

[Kevin]

I buy factory Oregon ripping chain,  it's RA.

[hamish]

Oregon or Baileys WoodlandPro, they both have ripping chain available with a 5degree top plate angle.  It is much easier to sharpen a consistant cutter profile vesus the Granberg and Laser 20-20-0 combination.
If you use a standard chain use a semi chiesel and gradually reduce the angle to 5-10 degrees.
There is little difference in the speed when milling using regular vs ripping chain, the only difference is in the finish.  Try with regular chain first so you have something to compare to.