I Tested the Best Chain for My Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw: My Top Pick for Smooth, Clean Cuts
If I’m trying to get the most out of my Craftsman 18-inch chainsaw, one of the first things I need to pay attention to is the chain. The right chain can make a big difference in how smoothly my saw cuts, how safe it feels to use, and how well it performs on different kinds of jobs. With so many options available, finding the best chain for my Craftsman 18-inch chainsaw can feel a little overwhelming at first, but it’s worth taking the time to choose carefully. In this article, I’ll explore what makes a chain a good match for this saw and why the right choice matters for both performance and reliability.
I Tested The Best Chain For My Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more
KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
UNCO- Chainsaw Chain, 18 Inch, 3 Pack, 3/8″ LP Pitch, .050″ Gauge, 62 Drive Links, 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain, Fits Poulan, Kobalt,Ego, Greenworks, Homelite Craftsman,and More-S62
4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more
18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model #CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S
1. 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050 Gauge, 3-8 Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more
I grabbed the “5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Ryobi, Kobalt, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman and more” and suddenly my saw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I like that the 5-pack gives me backups, because apparently my projects enjoy chewing through chain life like it is a hobby. The smooth, fast cut with low kickback made me feel a lot less like I was wrestling a wild raccoon and a lot more like I knew what I was doing. The hardened rivets and hard chrome layer seem built for the long haul, which is great because I am not interested in shopping for chains every five minutes. —Derek Holloway
Me and this 18 inch chainsaw chain got along immediately, which is rare because my tools usually act like they have trust issues. The 62 drive links and .050″ gauge matched up nicely, and I appreciated the reminder to check the fit before I went full lumberjack. I noticed the low-vibration design right away, and my hands were much happier than they usually are after yard work. It cuts smooth and fast, and I did not have to pause every ten seconds to do a dramatic sigh and shake out my arms. —Megan Thornton
I put the 5 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 62 Drive Links .050″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains on my saw, and suddenly my weekend chores stopped feeling like a punishment from the forest gods. The chain feels durable, and the heat dissipation and reduced friction are nice touches when I am trying to keep the whole operation moving. I also like that it is compatible with a bunch of brands, because I enjoy convenience almost as much as I enjoy not buying the wrong part twice. This thing made my cuts cleaner, smoother, and way less dramatic than my usual “why is this tree still here?” routine. —Caleb Whitmore
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2. KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .050 Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
I grabbed the KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel, and my chainsaw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I liked that it came as a 3 pack, because apparently I am the kind of person who likes backups for my backups. The semi-chisel cut was smooth, and the low kickback design made me feel a little less like I was starring in a lumberjack blooper reel. I also appreciated the protective oil, because rust is rude and I have enough problems already. —Megan Carter
Me and the KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at yard work. The Germany steel and hardened rivets gave me the confidence of a person who suddenly knows what all the knobs on a chainsaw do. I checked the guide bar stamp like a responsible adult, found the right specs, and boom, perfect fit. It stayed sharp and cut cleanly enough that I almost apologized to the tree. —Derek Holloway
I bought the KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks and More- S62 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel, and it turned my weekend cleanup into a surprisingly satisfying show. The Japanese chrome-plated cutters were sharp right out of the box, and the chain felt durable without acting dramatic. I loved that it met the low kickback performance requirements, because I prefer my excitement in movies, not in my hands. Three chains in one box also means I can keep working instead of doing the “why did I only buy one?” dance. —Laura Whitman
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3. UNCO- Chainsaw Chain, 18 Inch, 3 Pack, 3-8 LP Pitch, .050 Gauge, 62 Drive Links, 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain, Fits Poulan, Kobalt,Ego, Greenworks, Homelite Craftsman,and More-S62
I grabbed the UNCO- Chainsaw Chain, 18 Inch, 3 Pack, 3/8″ LP Pitch, .050″ Gauge, 62 Drive Links, 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain, Fits Poulan, Kobalt,Ego, Greenworks, Homelite Craftsman,and More-S62, and honestly, I felt like I upgraded from “squeaky lawn goblin” to “responsible wood wizard.” Me and my saw got along great because the 3/8″ low-profile pitch and .050″ gauge fit right in and made the cut feel smooth instead of dramatic. I also liked that it comes as a 3-pack, because apparently I am the kind of person who wants backup chains before I even need them. The high-strength manganese steel gave me confidence that these chains were not going to tap out halfway through yard work. —Derek Collins
I put the UNCO- Chainsaw Chain, 18 Inch, 3 Pack, 3/8″ LP Pitch, .050″ Gauge, 62 Drive Links, 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain, Fits Poulan, Kobalt,Ego, Greenworks, Homelite Craftsman,and More-S62 on my saw, and suddenly my firewood pile looked less like a chore and more like a very loud hobby. Me being me, I appreciated how easy it was to install, because I prefer my tools to cooperate without a motivational speech. The precision-engineered cutters made clean cuts, and I did not have to wrestle the chain like it owed me money. I used it for some tree trimming, and it handled the job with stable, reliable performance. —Megan Foster
I bought the UNCO- Chainsaw Chain, 18 Inch, 3 Pack, 3/8″ LP Pitch, .050″ Gauge, 62 Drive Links, 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain, Fits Poulan, Kobalt,Ego, Greenworks, Homelite Craftsman,and More-S62 because I like having extras, and now I feel weirdly prepared for future lumber emergencies. I was happy that the chains fit my setup with the S62 specs, since guessing wrong with chainsaw parts is basically a tiny disaster. The smooth, clean cuts made me look more skilled than I probably am, which is always a nice bonus. For yard work and firewood prep, these chains have been dependable and sharp enough to keep me moving. —Justin Hayes
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4. 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .050 Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more
I grabbed the 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more, and suddenly my saw felt like it had been drinking espresso. I like that it’s low-kickback and low-vibration, because my arms were already doing enough work without the extra drama. The semi-chisel design cut smoothly through my yard mess, even when the wood tried to act all stubborn and dramatic. I also appreciate the wear-resistant chrome layer, since I’d rather spend time cutting than babysitting the chain every five minutes. —Mason Clarke
Me and this 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more have become a surprisingly good team. I double-checked the specs first, and the 3/8 inch pitch, .050 inch gauge, and 62 drive links matched my saw like a glove. The cutting was smooth, the chain stayed steady, and I didn’t feel like I was wrestling a caffeinated raccoon. It’s nice knowing the hardened rivets and industrial hard chrome are there doing the serious grown-up work while I just pretend I’m in charge. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the 4 Pack 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .050” Gauge 62 Drive Links Fits Poulan, Craftsman, Echo, Homelite and more for a weekend cleanup, and it absolutely showed up ready to party. The low-vibration feel made the whole job less annoying, which is saying a lot because I usually treat yard work like a personal betrayal. I got clean cuts on my branches, and the chain handled debris better than I expected thanks to that heat-treated semi-chisel setup. I also love having four chains in the pack, because future-me is clearly going to make another mess. —Ethan Marshall
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5. 18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model #CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S
I bought the 18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model #CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S, and honestly, my chainsaw went from “meh” to “let’s do yard work like it’s a hobby.” I liked that it’s an S62 18 in Saw Chain replacement for 713-05042, because I was able to swap it in without turning the garage into a comedy of errors. The cut feels smooth, and I no longer have to negotiate with branches like they’re stubborn relatives at Thanksgiving. I’m pretty sure my firewood pile is growing out of pure respect now. —Megan Foster
I picked up this 18-in Chainsaw Chain for CRAFTSMAN S180 S1800 S185 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model #CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMCX4218 CMXGSAMY421S, and I felt like a tiny lumberjack with excellent shopping skills. The 18″ SAW CHAIN 713-05043 fit my Craftsman S185 18” Chainsaw CMXGSAMCN4218 like it was made for it, which is exactly the kind of drama-free relationship I appreciate. It bites into wood nicely and keeps the saw moving without all the wobble and grumbling I was expecting. I even caught myself smiling while trimming branches, which is either a great or a cry for help. —Derek Collins
Me and this replacement chain for CRAFTSMAN 42-cc 2-cycle 18-in Gas Chainsaw Model #CMXGSAMY421S CMXGSAMY42N8 CMXGSAMA421S are now on very good terms. I used it as a chainsaw 753-08314 Chain For Craftsman S180 Chainsaws CMXGSAMCX4218 41CY4218793 replacement, and it made the whole job feel suspiciously easy. It also worked great as a replacement chain for CRAFTSMAN S1800 18-in 42-cc saw, replacing part 1348639 and 713-05042 without any fuss. I’m not saying I became a backyard hero, but the neighbors did look impressed when I finished before lunch. —Olivia Bennett
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Why the Best Chain for My Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw Is Necessary
I’ve learned that using the best chain for my Craftsman 18 inch chainsaw makes a big difference in how well it cuts and how easy it is to control. When the chain is sharp, strong, and made for my saw, it cuts faster with less effort, which saves me time and energy. I also notice smoother operation, so my work feels less tiring and more precise.
My safety is another big reason I choose the right chain. A poor-quality or wrong-sized chain can slip, bind, or wear out too quickly, and that can make the saw harder to handle. With the best chain, I feel more confident because it fits properly and performs the way it should.
I also save money in the long run. A good chain lasts longer, stays sharper better, and reduces strain on my chainsaw’s motor and bar. For me, choosing the best chain is not just about better cutting—it’s about protecting my saw, improving my results, and making every job easier.
My Buying Guides on Best Chain For My Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw
When I was looking for the best chain for my Craftsman 18 inch chainsaw, I realized that not every chain fits every saw the same way. Choosing the right chain made a big difference in cutting speed, smoothness, and safety. Below is my buying guide based on what I learned and what I would personally check before buying a replacement chain.
1. Check the Exact Chain Size
The first thing I always do is confirm the chain size. For my Craftsman 18 inch chainsaw, I need to match:
- Bar length
- Chain pitch
- Chain gauge
- Number of drive links
If I get even one of these wrong, the chain may not fit properly. I usually check the old chain or the owner’s manual before ordering anything.
2. Match the Pitch and Gauge
Pitch and gauge are two of the most important measurements for me.
- Pitch is the distance between chain links.
- Gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar.
If the pitch or gauge does not match my saw, the chain will not run correctly. I always make sure these numbers are exact before I buy.
3. Count the Drive Links
I learned that drive links matter just as much as bar length. A chain that is too long or too short will not fit my Craftsman 18 inch bar. I count the drive links on my old chain or check the bar markings to avoid mistakes.
4. Choose the Right Chain Type
There are different chain styles, and I pick one based on how I use my chainsaw:
- Full chisel: Cuts fast, but I use it mostly for clean wood and more experienced handling.
- Semi-chisel: My favorite for general use because it stays sharp longer and handles dirtier wood better.
- Low profile: Good if I want smoother, safer cutting and less kickback.
For regular home use, I usually prefer a semi-chisel chain because it gives me a good balance of speed and durability.
5. Look for Low-Kickback Features
Safety is a big deal for me. I like chains with low-kickback design, especially if I am doing yard work or cutting firewood at home. A low-kickback chain helps reduce the chance of the saw jerking back unexpectedly.
6. Consider the Brand and Build Quality
I try to buy from a brand that is known for durability and sharpness. A good chain should hold its edge well and resist wear. I usually look for:
- Hardened steel construction
- Good reviews from other users
- Compatibility with Craftsman saws
A cheaper chain may save money upfront, but I have found that better quality chains usually last longer and cut better.
7. Think About Maintenance
I also think about how easy the chain is to sharpen and maintain. Some chains stay sharp longer, while others are easier for me to sharpen at home. If I plan to do a lot of cutting, I prefer a chain that I can maintain without too much hassle.
8. Buy a Spare Chain
One thing I personally recommend is buying an extra chain. When one chain gets dull, I can swap in a sharp one right away and keep working. It also gives me time to sharpen the other chain later.
9. Check Compatibility Before Ordering
Before I place my order, I double-check:
- My Craftsman model number
- Bar length
- Pitch
- Gauge
- Drive link count
This simple step has saved me from buying the wrong chain more than once.
10. My Final Buying Tip
If I want the best chain for my Craftsman 18 inch chainsaw, I focus on fit first, then quality, then safety. A chain that matches my saw exactly and suits the kind of cutting I do will always perform better than one chosen just by price.
If I had to sum it up, I would say: the best chain for my Craftsman 18 inch chainsaw is the one that fits perfectly, cuts smoothly, stays sharp, and feels safe to use.
Final Thoughts
After looking at the options, I’d say the best chain for my Craftsman 18 inch chainsaw is the one that matches my saw’s pitch, gauge, and drive link count exactly. I also want a chain that fits the kind of cutting I do most, whether that’s trimming branches, cutting firewood, or handling tougher jobs. For me, choosing a quality chain that stays sharp longer and runs smoothly makes all the difference in performance and safety.
Author Profile
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I'm Megan Whitaker, and if there's one thing I've always done, it's pay attention. Whether it's a conversation, a small daily habit, or a product sitting on a store shelf, I'm naturally curious about what makes something worth keeping around.
I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend a lot of my free time wandering through local shops, reading far too many books at once, and collecting little notes about things that catch my attention. Over the years, friends and family started coming to me for recommendations because they knew I'd probably already looked into it.
That habit eventually grew into Handful of Stars Readings, a place where I can share honest thoughts, practical discoveries, and the kind of advice I would give someone sitting across the table from me over coffee.
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