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Frequently Asked Questions About GB Bars
We are often asked about GB bars—how long they have been around, where they originate from, and who is behind them. Here are the answers.
The History of GB Bars
Griffiths & Beerens (hence, GB) was founded in 1959 by Tom’s father and his business partner, Jack Griffiths. The company specialized in manufacturing chainsaw guide bars and associated products. In 2005, Tom took full ownership of the business. At that time, the Melbourne factory employed 120 people and produced 300,000 bars annually.
However, the company faced financial challenges, including pressure from banks. Despite successfully suing the banks in court, the difficulties ultimately led to the closure of the factory and a halt in production. However, Tom was determined to continue.
Recognizing China’s potential for cost-effective production, Tom decided not to simply outsource manufacturing but to establish a new facility himself.
“In 2010, I acquired land and built my own factory from the ground up,” said Tom. “In 2015, we finally opened for production. It took that to get a decent product.”
That product was the Titanium-XV bar, engineered with an ultra-high-strength titanium alloy body and promoted as the toughest bar on the market. Customers quickly recognized its quality, leading to a doubling of sales in its first year. Our Extra Long GB Bars are produced using the same methods as GB’s harvester bars, ensuring superior strength and longevity in a chainsaw bar.
“I’m an industrial engineer. I was in the factory, drilling holes in chainsaw bars at ten years old. My entire life has been spent making bars. This is what I do. I know how to make things, and I know a hell of a lot about bars.”
GB ProTop Bars
GB ProTop Bars may not be as sleek as some Japanese equivalents, but they are competitively priced. When asked why customers should choose a GB ProTop Bar, Tom explains:
“To get the best use out of a chainsaw bar, you need to sharpen the chain correctly, reduce the depth gauges, clean and dress the bar, remove any burrs as they form, change the drive rim regularly, ensure the chain is oiling correctly, and observe proper cutting procedures. However, if you are not quite as precise as you should be, a GB bar will be more forgiving compared to other guide bars.”
This is evident in the extremely low number of warranty issues reported with GB bars.
GB Lo Pro Bars
In recent years, we have expanded our Lo Pro cutting options for chainsaw mills. Thanks to Tom and GB Bars, we now have access to custom guide bars designed specifically for milling applications. GB provides not only Lo Pro guide bars for most large chainsaws but also custom bars featuring slots and holes for mounting Panther chainsaw mills. These bars are:
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Lightweight, allowing for maximum cutting speed with minimal kerf wastage.
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Versatile, enabling longer bars to be mounted on the same powerhead.
Research & Development
Tom has now relocated to Scotland, where he continues to focus on research and development while maintaining production at his factory in China. As the market for GB Bars grows, we will continue working with Tom to develop new, custom guide bars—leveraging his expertise and drive to innovate in the chainsaw industry.
rewards
