20" Guide Bar

Features

  • Laminated body design
  • Lightweight and maneuverable
  • Constructed from chromoly steel for strength
  • Tough rails to reduce wear and chipping
  • Oil-retaining feature for improved lubrication

Specifications

Guide Bar Length 20"
Pitch 3/8"
Gauge .050"
Drive Links 72
Bar Mount K095
Bar Style SNL
Shipping Weight 2.3 lbs.
Upc Code 088381-552936

This is a commercial guide bar with a laminated body, designed for use with low profile chains to enhance cutting efficiency. It is lightweight and offers improved maneuverability. The guide bar is constructed from chromoly steel for increased durability and has tough rails that help to minimize wear and chipping. An oil-retaining barrier in the groove aids in lubrication for the bar and chain.

Model Number: E-00131

Makita 20" Guide Bar Review

5.0 out of 5

When it comes to chainsaws, the guide bar is a critical component that can significantly impact performance and user experience. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out the Makita 20" Guide Bar (model E-00131), and I must say, it left a lasting impression on me. This review will cover my experience with the guide bar, highlighting its features, performance, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The Makita 20" Guide Bar boasts a laminated body design, which immediately caught my attention. The lamination not only adds to the bar's durability but also contributes to its lightweight nature. This is a significant advantage, especially for extended use, as it reduces fatigue and makes handling much more manageable.

Constructed from chromoly steel, the guide bar feels robust and well-crafted. Chromoly steel is known for its strength and resistance to wear, and this bar is no exception. The tough rails on the guide bar are designed to minimize wear and chipping, ensuring that the bar remains in good condition even after extensive use.

One feature that stands out is the oil-retaining barrier in the groove. This design element helps improve lubrication for both the bar and the chain, which is crucial for maintaining performance and extending the lifespan of the tool. Proper lubrication reduces friction and heat, preventing premature wear and tear.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Makita 20" Guide Bar exceeded my expectations. The laminated design and lightweight construction made maneuvering the chainsaw significantly easier. Whether I was cutting through thick logs or trimming branches, the guide bar provided excellent control and precision.

The bar's compatibility with low profile chains further enhances its cutting efficiency. Low profile chains are designed to reduce kickback and provide smoother cuts, which is particularly beneficial for less experienced users. I found that the combination of the guide bar and low profile chain resulted in a seamless cutting experience, with minimal resistance and effort required.

The chromoly steel construction and tough rails played a crucial role in maintaining the bar's integrity. Even after several hours of use, there were no signs of significant wear or chipping. The guide bar remained straight and true, ensuring consistent performance throughout my tasks.

Ease of Use

One of the most notable aspects of the Makita 20" Guide Bar is its user-friendliness. The lightweight design makes it easy to handle, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. This is particularly important for professional users who rely on their chainsaws for extended periods.

The oil-retaining barrier in the groove is another feature that enhances ease of use. By improving lubrication, it reduces the need for frequent maintenance and ensures that the bar and chain operate smoothly. This is a significant advantage, as it allows users to focus on their tasks without constant interruptions for maintenance.

Durability

Durability is a critical factor when it comes to guide bars, and the Makita 20" Guide Bar does not disappoint. The chromoly steel construction and tough rails ensure that the bar can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use. I subjected the bar to various cutting tasks, including hardwood and softwood, and it held up remarkably well.

The laminated body design also contributes to the bar's durability. Lamination helps protect the bar from environmental factors such as moisture and temperature changes, which can cause warping or corrosion over time. The Makita 20" Guide Bar showed no signs of such issues, even after exposure to different weather conditions.

Value for Money

Considering its features and performance, the Makita 20" Guide Bar offers excellent value for money. Its competitive price makes it an attractive option for both professional and amateur users. The combination of durability, ease of use, and cutting efficiency makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a reliable guide bar.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Makita 20" Guide Bar (model E-00131) is a well-crafted and highly efficient tool that delivers on its promises. Its laminated body design, lightweight construction, and chromoly steel build make it a durable and user-friendly option for a wide range of cutting tasks. The tough rails and oil-retaining barrier further enhance its performance and longevity, ensuring that users can rely on it for years to come.

I would highly recommend the Makita 20" Guide Bar to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient guide bar for their chainsaw. Whether you're a professional logger or a DIY enthusiast, this guide bar offers the durability and performance needed to tackle various cutting tasks with ease. Its competitive price and excellent value for money make it a smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade their chainsaw's performance.


Project Ideas

Business

Custom Furniture Business

Start a business specializing in custom-made wooden furniture. Use the guide bar to create unique, high-quality pieces that can be marketed to interior designers, homeowners, and boutique stores.


Wood Sculpture Commission

Offer commissioned wood sculptures for clients looking for bespoke art pieces. Use the guide bar to create detailed, custom carvings based on client specifications.


Mobile Treehouse Building Service

Launch a mobile service that builds custom treehouses on-site. Travel to clients' locations and use the guide bar to craft unique treehouses, offering both design and construction services.


Specialty Outdoor Structures

Create and sell specialty outdoor structures like pergolas, gazebos, and garden arches. Use the guide bar to ensure precise cuts and durable construction, appealing to customers looking to enhance their outdoor spaces.


Woodworking Workshops

Offer workshops and classes on woodworking techniques using the guide bar. Teach participants how to safely and effectively use the tool to create their own projects, providing both education and materials.

Creative

Chainsaw Carvings

Use the guide bar to perform intricate chainsaw carvings on wood. Create sculptures, totem poles, or custom furniture pieces that can be sold at art fairs or online.


DIY Outdoor Furniture

Craft rustic outdoor furniture such as benches, tables, and chairs. The guide bar's precision can help create clean cuts and detailed designs, making the furniture both functional and aesthetically pleasing.


Treehouse Construction

Design and build custom treehouses using the guide bar for cutting lumber. Offer unique, handcrafted treehouses for children or as adult retreats, incorporating personalized touches.


Log Cabin Construction

Use the guide bar to cut and shape logs for building small log cabins or sheds. These can be sold as kits or fully assembled structures for recreational use or as charming garden features.


Wooden Sign Making

Craft custom wooden signs for homes, businesses, or events. The guide bar allows for detailed cuts and designs, creating professional-looking signage with a personal touch.