8TEN Ripping Chainsaw Chain 18 in.050 3/8 68DL - Ripping Cut

In this review the 8TEN ripping chainsaw chain is examined for homeowners and pros who need a dedicated ripping chain for milling and rip cuts. The bottom line is that this 18 in, 68 drive link chain delivers a purpose-built cutting profile and good value, making it a solid option for users converting a compatible saw to straight-grain milling. The chain is sold as a 3 pack and stands out for its material choices and broad compatibility, so purchasers who want to try a ripping setup without paying brand-name prices will find it compelling.

Key Features

• 18 in length: Matches common bar sizes for backyard milling and fits many popular saw models so it is easy to install for most users.
• 68 drive links: Provides the exact chain link count required for specific 18 in guide bars, avoiding the need to add or remove links for compatible bars.
• 3/8 in pitch and.050 in gauge: Offers a sturdy gauge and common pitch for durable cutting and reliable chain engagement with sprockets.
• Ripping profile: Cuts along the wood grain to produce smooth, splinter-reduced faces ideal for creating lumber from logs and resaw tasks.
• Quality steels: Chain made from 68CrNiMo33 steel with GCr15 steel rivets for improved edge retention and resistance to wear compared with generic low-alloy steels.
• Wide compatibility: Lists compatibility with many OEM part numbers and common saws from Husqvarna, Poulan, Jonsered, Stihl, Makita and others, simplifying replacement choices.

Who It's For

This chain is aimed at home woodworkers, small-farm owners and sawyers who want a cost-effective ripping chain for milling or resawing tasks using a compatible 18 in bar. It is also a practical choice for users who keep multiple saws and want a ready bulk pack so they can swap chains without delay.

It is not for users who need a general-purpose crosscut chain for fast felling or those who require factory-matched OEM chains for warranty-sensitive machines. Users with saw models outside the listed compatibility should verify fit before buying, as some customers report mixed fit results on certain models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid value in a 3 pack, delivering multiple chains for the price compared with single-brand rip chains.
• Designed specifically for ripping, producing cleaner faces on boards cut along the grain.
• Constructed from higher-alloy chain steel and decent rivet material for reasonable edge life on hardwoods.

Cons

• Fit is mixed across some saw models; a few users reported incompatibility with certain Stihl and other saws, so confirm OEM numbers before purchase.
• Durability reports vary; while many find the edge retention good, others say it does not hold up as long as premium OEM chains under heavy use.

Specifications

Length	18 in
Drive links	68 DL
Pitch	3/8 in
Gauge	.050 in
Chain material	68CrNiMo33 steel
Rivet material	GCr15 steel
Pack size	3 pack

Our Verdict

The 8TEN 18 in ripping chain is a practical, cost-conscious choice for anyone converting a compatible chainsaw to ripping duties or stocking spare chains. It offers the right combination of cutting profile, alloy materials and broad compatibility to deliver good cut quality and value, though buyers should confirm fit for their exact saw model and accept that longevity may vary with heavy use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this chain fit my 18 in bar?
Check that your bar and sprocket accept a 3/8 in pitch with.050 in gauge and 68 drive links; the chain is built to those exact dimensions.

Is this chain suitable for hardwood milling?
Yes, the ripping profile and higher-alloy steel are intended to hold an edge on hardwoods for milling, though life depends on use and maintenance.

Can I use this as a general-purpose chain?
It is optimized for ripping along the grain; for general felling or crosscutting a standard crosscut chain is a better choice.