The primary difference between semi-skip and full-skip chainsaw chains is in the number of cutting teeth. In a semi-skip chain, half of its teeth are closely spaced like a standard chain, while the other half are spaced out like a full-skip chain. On the other hand, a full-skip chain has gaps between all of its teeth.
The difference in tooth spacing results in unique advantages and disadvantages for each chain type. Semi-skip chains excel in faster cutting as they have fewer teeth to drag through the wood.
However, they tend to generate more vibration and are more prone to causing kickbacks. On the contrary, full-skip chains may cut slower than semi-skip ones, but they offer reduced kickback risks and produce less vibration.