A saw chain is a metal loop which swings from underneath the saw to the operator's hand. It is made of three main elements: drive links, segments, and teeth. Each segment contains a pair of beveled cutting edges. In addition, there are rivets, or small round pegs that hold the segments together.
The chain must be periodically sharpened or lubricated. If not maintained properly, the chain may become blunt or snap. This can cause an injury to the operator.

Some chains are designed to reduce the reactive force called kickback. These include the Hexa chain, which is very efficient.
Chainsaw chains have also come a long way since the early days. They are now more reliable and offer a lot more safety features. However, it is important to follow manufacturer's instructions when using these tools.

One of the most common accidents is when the chain tooth catches on a piece of wood. This can result in a serious injury or even death. To protect the user, most saw chains have fail-safe components.
Some of the modern designs have a centrifugal clutch that engages the chain when the engine speeds up. It can then stop when it reaches idle speed.

A chainsaw chain is also made of materials that are more resistant to dirt and grime. Some chains are specially hardened with tungsten carbide to make clean cuts in soil.
Choosing the right chain depends on the type of wood you are cutting. Choosing the right chain for your saw can help you to produce longer shavings and a smoother finish.