It is the most common confusion in the chainsaw aisle. You need a new chain. You look at your bar, and it is stamped 3/8". You grab a box labeled 3/8" from the shelf.
But when you try to mount it, the chain hangs loose, or the drive links won't seat in the bar nose.
The Reality: There are two types of 3/8 chain, and they are not interchangeable.
The "3/8" Myth
The number "3/8" refers to the Pitch—the distance between any three rivets divided by two. Technically, both "Low Profile" and "Standard" chains share this measurement.
However, that is where the similarity ends.
The Difference: Chassis Height
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3/8" Low Profile (LP / Picco): Designed for saws under 50cc (e.g., Stihl MS 170, Husqvarna 120, Battery Saws). The cutters are shorter, the drive links are smaller, and the chassis is lightweight. It is designed to cut fast with low horsepower.
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3/8" Standard: Designed for pro saws over 60cc (e.g., Stihl MS 462, Husky 572 XP). The cutters are tall, the steel is thick, and the rivets are heavy-duty to withstand massive torque.
Can You Swap Them?
The Short Answer: NO.
The Technical Answer: Even though the pitch is theoretically the same, the Drive Link Geometry is different.
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The Sprocket Mismatch: A 3/8" LP drive link will not sit deep enough in a 3/8" Standard sprocket. If you force it, you will destroy your drive rim and likely throw the chain.
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The Power Trap:
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Putting Standard Chain on a Small Saw: Your engine lacks the torque to pull the heavy steel. You will burn out your clutch and stall constantly.
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Putting LP Chain on a Big Saw: The high horsepower of a 70cc saw will snap the smaller LP chassis instantly, creating a dangerous projectile.
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How to Identify Your Chain
Look at the Drive Link (the tooth that sits inside the bar groove).
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LP Links: Often look "curved" or smaller.
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Standard Links: Look larger and more robust.
The Golden Rule: Never guess. Check the stamp on your guide bar. If it says Picco, LP, or Low Pro, you must use 3/8" LP.
Unsure what you are running? Consult our Chain Identification Guide or contact us with your saw model, and we will get you the right loop for the job.