We’re proud to share an exceptional independent review of Rotatech chains by Simon Bowes, England Chair of the Forestry Contracting Association (FCA), featured in the Forestry Journal (January 2017). As a seasoned industry professional with decades of hands-on experience and an outspoken voice in forestry equipment testing, Simon’s review offers invaluable insight, especially coming from someone who admits he didn’t want to like our chains.
"Cheap Chinese Chain… That Cuts the Mustard"
The review, titled "Cheap Chinese Chain… That Cuts the Mustard", begins with Simon’s candid view of budget chainsaw chains and his initial skepticism of Rotatech. He recalls:
"Usual cheap rubbish I thought. I’ve seen it before; I’ve tried it before."
As a self-proclaimed pragmatist, Simon has long relied on well known brands like Stihl, Oregon, and Husqvarna. So when he first encountered Rotatech at the APF show, he didn’t hold back, questioning the quality and value of our chains. But instead of backing down, our team let the product speak for itself.
The Turning Point
Despite his doubts, Simon decided to give Rotatech a try, purchasing a full chisel .325" chain for his Husqvarna 560:
"I was impressed with their confidence… Rather than try to blag some free chain, I paid the £8."
After initially struggling with cutting performance, Simon realized the chain simply needed a proper sharpen. What happened next changed his view entirely:
"The change was incredible. Once sharpened, the Rotatech chain proved superb – fast cutting, smooth and easily as good as the chain we usually use that costs twice as much."
He even passed the saw to a fellow sceptic, unaware it was fitted with Rotatech chain. The feedback? Equally impressed.
A Lasting Impression from a Forestry Veteran
Simon’s extensive follow-up testing on clearfells confirmed Rotatech’s performance was no fluke:
"I’ve since done a lot of felling with the Rotatech chain… I can’t honestly find anything wrong with it."
"It cuts well, sharpens easily… holds its edge even when felling big European larch… it is as good, maybe even better, than the other brands."
His final verdict is a powerful endorsement for Rotatech:
"There just isn’t enough money in forestry to have too much brand loyalty. I’ll be using chain that costs half as much yet performs just as well as other chain that might be more familiar."
Why This Review Matters
Having the Chair of the FCA in England and a respected contributor to Forestry Journal speak so positively about Rotatech chains is a true honour. Simon Bowes’ impartial and professional review backs what many of our customers already know: Rotatech delivers premium performance without the premium price tag.
If you've ever been sceptical of non-OEM or lower priced saw chain, this review is a must-read.
Ready to Try Rotatech?
Join thousands of forestry professionals who trust Rotatech for reliable, British-engineered chains. Whether you’re felling large European larch or managing smaller cuts, our chains are built to perform, backed by professionals who know the job inside out.