The ALDI Ferrex 20V pruning saw is notorious for a drive-link split β some units need a 27DL chain, others 28DL, depending on the manufacturing batch. Getting it wrong by even one link prevents proper tensioning, so always confirm your exact count before ordering rather than assuming from the model name alone.
The ALDI FERREX 20V Cordless Pruning Saw is an excellent entry point for home gardening, but its performance is strictly limited by its cutting attachment. At Alpine Chain Co., we believe in building a foundation of quality. To maximise the life of your tool and the efficiency of your work, transitioning to a high-performance chain is the most cost-effective upgrade available.
The 27DL vs. 28DL Conflict: Navigating the Confusion
One of the primary friction points for FERREX owners is determining the correct chain length. Depending on the manufacturing batch or the specific bar supplied with your unit, the required drive link (DL) count may vary.
The Problem: Some units require a 27DL chain, while others require a 28DL. Using the wrong size β even by a single link β can prevent the chain from tensioning correctly or, worse, prevent it from fitting the bar entirely. This model confuses users because the chain also has a different pitch depending on the model, which can be decoded by counting the drive links.
The Alpine Solution: We eliminate guesswork through our Search by Chainsaw and Search by Bar Stamp functions. By verifying your drive link count (the individual "teeth" that ride inside the guide bar) before ordering, you ensure a perfect mechanical fit. This precision prevents unnecessary strain on the 20V motor and ensures your tensioning screw remains within its functional range.
The Alpine Edge: Metallurgy Over Marketing
Many retail chains are manufactured for low-cost mass consumption, leading to rapid wear and frequent replacement. Alpine Chain Co. focuses on value through durability.
Superior Heat Treatment
While many aftermarket brands claim to be "pre-stretched," we prioritise the integrity of the steel itself. Alpine chains are engineered from high-carbon industrial steel and undergo a rigorous heat-treatment process. This enhances the elastic limit of the metal, meaning that once your chain is properly "seated" after its initial break-in period, it maintains its tension and sharpness far longer than standard consumer-grade alternatives.
Efficiency and Battery Longevity
A sharper, higher-quality chain reduces the friction coefficient during the cut. For a cordless tool like the FERREX, less friction equals less amperage draw from the battery.
Faster Cuts: High-performance tooth geometry severs wood fibers cleanly.
Extended Runtime: Your 20V battery works less to achieve the same result.
Tool Longevity: Reducing the load on the motor prevents overheating and premature internal wear.
Professional Advice: The "Break-In" Period
Because Alpine chains are built for long-term resilience rather than short-term convenience, they require a brief seating period.
Initial Tensioning: Fit your new Alpine chain and run it at half-throttle for 30 seconds.
Adjust: Stop the tool and re-tension. Because the chain is not pre-stretched, the rivets will "set" into the drive links during the first few minutes of use.
Monitor: Check tension frequently during the first 10 minutes. Once seated, the superior metallurgy of an Alpine chain will provide a stable, high-performance edge that outlasts the competition.
Resilience Through Rotation
For the best gardening experience, we recommend a two-chain rotation. By swapping between two Alpine chains, you ensure you never "force" a dull saw through a limb β a practice that is the leading cause of failure for small cordless pruners. (More on this in our chain rotation strategy guide.)
ALDI Ferrex 20V Chain β FAQ
Does the ALDI Ferrex 20V pruning saw take a 27 or 28 drive link chain?
It varies by manufacturing batch. Some units need 27DL, others 28DL. Count the drive links on your existing chain or use Search by Bar Stamp to confirm before ordering.
What happens if I order the wrong drive-link count for my Ferrex?
The chain either won't tension correctly or won't fit the bar at all, even when it's off by just one link.
How often should I rotate chains on a Ferrex pruning saw?
A two-chain rotation is recommended, so you're never forcing a dulling saw through a limb, which is the leading cause of small cordless pruner failure.
Is your FERREX ready for an upgrade? The Ferrex is the exact saw where the drive-link count catches people out β so don't guess. Enter your saw in our Search by Chainsaw tool, or Search by Bar Stamp after counting your drive links, and we'll get you the exact 27DL or 28DL loop your unit needs.
Get the exact chain for your saw
Enter your make and model and we'll match the right chain β or read the specs off your bar to search directly. Every chain is backed by our Guaranteed Fit promise, checked against your bar stamp before it ships.