Our top chainsaw bar oil is Oregon Chainsaw Bar and Chain Oil, which is an all-season oil that is tacky enough to reduce sling—splatters of oil spraying off the chainsaw while it’s in use—and contains additives that help cut down on the buildup of sap, resin, and tree gum on the chain. Here, the best chainsaw bar oils to buy. Price at time of publish: $7 per quart This uncolored oil is suited to all types of chainsaws in any season, and it has high tackiness to reduce sling and drips. To maximize effectiveness and prevent gunk, the manufacturer directs you to clear your chainsaw of any petroleum-based blade oil before using this formula. Price at time of publish: $47 per gallon Price at time of publish: $6 per quart Price at time of publish: $20 per gallon Price at time of publish: $24 per gallon Price at time of publish: $23 per gallon Price at time of publish: $7 per quart Price at time of publish: $19 per quart
Oil Weight
Similar to motor oil, chainsaw bar oil is available in various weights. The lightest oil is a 10W formula, while thicker oil may be up to 50W. A 30W chainsaw bar oil is generally considered standard for warm weather usage. However, you’ll notice that most chainsaw bar oil manufacturers don’t categorize oil according to weight. Instead, you’ll see chainsaw bar oil formulas listed as “Winter,” “Summer,” or “All-Season.” Chainsaw bar oil for winter is usually 10W. Very hot temperatures may call for a thicker chainsaw oil, in the 40W to 50W range.
Additives
Most formulas of chainsaw oil contain additives. These additives may have a variety of functions, but they’re most commonly used to prevent rust and corrosion and to increase tackiness, which reduces sling so you don’t have to refill the oil reservoir as often. Other additives keep the oil ‘slippery’ enough to prevent sap and debris from accumulating in the chain.
Color
Some chainsaw bar oils are colored, usually red, to make it easier to see how thoroughly your chain is coated, as well as the remaining level of oil in the reservoir. Without added color, these oils are a light-to-dark brown.
Size
Chainsaw bar oil is typically sold in quart-size or gallon-size bottles. When deciding which size to buy, keep in mind that you’ll need to regularly use the oil as you operate your chainsaw. Unlike engine oil that lasts for an extended period of time, chainsaw bar oil requires frequent re-application.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Michelle Ullman is the home improvement/tool expert for The Spruce. She has extensive experience not only in writing about all things related to the home, but also in carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs around the house and yard. For this roundup, Michelle considered dozens of chainsaw bar oils, evaluating each for effectiveness, weight, versatility, helpful additives, and overall value. She also considered feedback from customers, both positive and negative, and received further input and advice from Deane Biermeier, a licensed contractor, carpenter, and member of The Spruce’s Home Improvement Review Board.
