What is a common sign that a chainsaw chain is dull?

A chainsaw chain is considered dull when it cuts slowly or requires excessive force during operation. This indicates that the cutting edges of the teeth have lost their sharpness and are unable to efficiently slice through wood. A dull chain struggles to penetrate the material, leading the user to apply more pressure or force to achieve cutting, which can also result in fatigue and decreased safety.

While a chain might run quieter than usual, vibrate less, or produce smoke for other reasons, these are not reliable indicators of dullness. A saw producing more smoke, for instance, may signal an issue with the mixture of fuel and oil, and a reduction in vibration may stem from other adjustments or fitness of the chainsaw itself. Therefore, recognizing that slow cutting combined with the need for excessive force is a primary indicator of a dull chain is essential for safe and effective chainsaw operation.