Stihl picco vs super rapid

[rowan lee]

The 250 i got a few years ago is supplied with 3/8p picco chain, however ive noticed some chain websites suggest a .325 pitch 'super rapid' chain (semi chisel) instead.

 

As far as i was concerned these were only standard on the pro saws - 240/260 etc. Too me the picco and rapid look pretty similar.

 

Are there any additional benefits to running a rapid vs a picco for the domestic user?

 

The saw alternates between a 14 and 16'' bar and cuts mostly small hardwood thinning.

[minnnt]

Stick with the picco mate, to change to .325 you would need a new sprocket, a new 14 and 16 inch bar, and a new 14 and 16 inch chain. Then also new files for sharpening. Expensive to not really notice any difference mate. The picco is quite a nice chain, narrower kerf so in theory it has less work to do as it's not as wide.

 

hth

[rowan lee]

Cheers Minn,

Does that mean a picco setup on a 260 then would be more efficient as there is less wood to cut, and if so why do they come with .325 as standard then? ( i.e. a thicker kerf stands up to more abuse, domestic vs pro - or are there more reasons?)

[TimberCutterDartmoor]

Never heard of Rapid Super as semi-chisel; rather full chisel innit.

[gensetsteve]

The little picco chain on a 260 would need sharpening more often.

[rowan lee]

Never heard of Rapid Super as semi-chisel; rather full chisel innit.

 

- might explain why its not as standard on a 250 then (i.e. domestic saw). I'm right in thinking that full chisel commands more experience from the user and can deliver more kick back potential then semi chisel?

[Gollum]

Never heard of Rapid Super as semi-chisel; rather full chisel innit.

 

Rapid super is full chisel, Rapid micro is semi chisel,

picco 3/8 is low profile 3/8,

you could use 95 vp 1.3 on your 325 pitch saw with a different bar smaller kerf

[minnnt]

The .325 and 3/8 chains can be more aggressive and hard wearing than a picco chain i think mate, which can be useful for cutting different types of wood and jobs etc. Picco is quite a safe chain to use, less kick back but it can dull faster in harder woods or when cutting full bar etc. If you wanted a .325 setup and you can warrant the cost then go for it. It gives you more options for chain type, stihl RSC is very good but is rock hard when sharpening. Oregon chain is more forgiving when sharpening.

 

I'm not too sure myself mate, but i think thats about it... lol!

[rowan lee]

Cheers Minn - does RS comfort require alot more effort and/or technique then, when you say 'rock hard when sharpening'. Most give it a go on my mates 260 sometime and see if there is much of a difference compared to what i'm used too, and if i can get a similar edge. Thanks for the heads up anyways mate.

[minnnt]

It is highly recomended mate. I have always had oregon chains once the original husky chain worn down on my 346. Recently bought two archers chains off ebay for my 260 and they seem really good! It's similar to oregon type 22 i think. The RSC is harder to sharpen apparently, but don't know if it is because it is harder metal or not. I have never had any experience with it, just what i have read. I'm still learning like you mate.