How To Sharpen A Chain Saw Blade: Get A Razor Sharp Cut

Sharpening a chainsaw blade means making the teeth on the chain sharp again so your saw cuts wood well. This article provides a complete chainsaw chain sharpening guide, from identifying when your chain needs sharpening to mastering various chainsaw sharpening techniques. We will also discuss different chainsaw sharpener tools and explain how to sharpen a chainsaw with a file. We’ll also cover the best chainsaw sharpening angle for optimal cutting performance. This guide also covers maintaining chainsaw chain to extend its life and improve performance.

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Why Sharpen Your Chainsaw Blade?

A dull chainsaw is more than just annoying; it’s dangerous. A sharp chain bites into the wood, creating smooth, efficient cuts. A dull chain, however, requires more force, causing the saw to bounce and vibrate, increasing the risk of kickback and injury. Here’s why sharpening your chainsaw chain is crucial:

• Safety: A sharp chain reduces the risk of kickback and allows for better control.
• Efficiency: Sharp chains cut faster and require less effort, saving time and energy.
• Saw Longevity: A dull chain puts extra strain on the saw’s engine, potentially shortening its lifespan.
• Cut Quality: A sharp chain produces cleaner, more precise cuts.

Dull Chainsaw Symptoms: Recognize the Signs

Knowing when to sharpen your chainsaw chain is essential. Look for these telltale signs of a dull chainsaw:

• Sawdust Instead of Chips: A sharp chain produces large, uniform chips. A dull chain creates fine sawdust.
• Difficulty Starting Cuts: A sharp chain bites into the wood immediately. A dull chain requires excessive force.
• Saw Bouncing or Vibrating: A dull chain tends to bounce across the wood’s surface.
• Burning Smell: Increased friction from a dull chain can cause a burning smell.
• The Saw Pulls to One Side: Unevenly sharpened teeth can cause the saw to cut crooked.

Tools You’ll Need for Sharpening

Before you start, gather these essential tools for sharpening chainsaw chain:

• Chainsaw File: A round file specifically designed for chainsaw chains. The correct size is crucial. Check your saw’s manual for the recommended file size.
• File Holder (Optional): A file holder helps maintain the correct sharpening angle and depth.
• Flat File: Used for lowering the depth gauges (rakers).
• Depth Gauge Tool: Used to measure and adjust the depth gauges.
• Vise or Chainsaw Filing Jig: Secures the chainsaw bar, making sharpening easier and safer.
• Gloves: Protect your hands.
• Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles are a must.
• Cleaning Brush: To remove sawdust and debris from the chain.
• Chain Gauge: To ensure the chain is correctly tensioned.

Choosing the Right Chainsaw File

Selecting the right file is critical for effective chainsaw sharpening. Files come in different diameters, each suited to a specific chain pitch. Using the wrong size file will result in improper sharpening and damage to the teeth.

Chain Pitch	File Size
1/4″	5/32″ (4.0 mm)
.325″	3/16″ (4.8 mm)
3/8″	5/32″ (4.0 mm) or 7/32″ (5.5 mm)
.404″	7/32″ (5.5 mm)

Note: Always consult your chainsaw’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended file size.

Chainsaw Sharpening Techniques

Several methods exist for sharpening chainsaw blades, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

How to Sharpen a Chainsaw with a File (Manual Sharpening)

This is the most common and affordable method, ideal for occasional sharpening and touch-ups in the field.

1. Secure the Chainsaw: Place the chainsaw in a vise or use a chainsaw filing jig to stabilize the bar.
2. Identify the Sharpest Tooth: Find the tooth that appears the sharpest and use it as a guide for the others.
3. Position the File: Hold the file at the correct angle. The correct angle is crucial for optimal cutting performance. Your chainsaw manual will specify the recommended angle, but typically, it’s between 25 and 35 degrees for the top plate angle and 0 to 10 degrees for the side plate angle. Use a file guide to help maintain the correct angle.
4. File Each Tooth: Using smooth, consistent strokes, file each tooth from the inside out. Apply gentle pressure on the forward stroke and release on the return stroke. Aim for 3-5 strokes per tooth.
5. Maintain Consistency: Sharpen each tooth to the same length and angle as the guide tooth. Rotate the chain and repeat the process for all teeth on one side.
6. Repeat on the Other Side: Reverse the chainsaw in the vise and sharpen the teeth on the opposite side.
7. Lower the Depth Gauges (Rakers): After several sharpenings, the depth gauges (rakers) may need to be lowered. Use a flat file and a depth gauge tool to maintain the correct height.

Using a Chainsaw Sharpener Tool (Electric or Hand-Crank)

A chainsaw sharpener tool offers a more precise and faster sharpening method than manual filing. These tools use a grinding wheel to sharpen the teeth.

1. Choose the Right Sharpener: Select a sharpener that is compatible with your chainsaw’s chain pitch.
2. Mount the Chain: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mount the chain in the sharpener.
3. Set the Angles: Adjust the sharpening angle and depth according to your chainsaw’s specifications.
4. Sharpen Each Tooth: Lower the grinding wheel onto each tooth, using light, consistent pressure. Avoid overheating the teeth.
5. Maintain Consistency: Sharpen each tooth to the same length and angle.
6. Lower the Depth Gauges (Rakers): As with manual sharpening, check and adjust the depth gauges as needed.

On-the-Job Sharpening

For quick touch-ups in the field, a handheld chainsaw sharpener or a file and guide can be used. These tools are compact and easy to carry, allowing you to maintain a sharp chain even when you’re away from your workshop.

Best Chainsaw Sharpening Angle: Optimizing Cutting Performance

The correct sharpening angle is crucial for optimal cutting performance. The best chainsaw sharpening angle depends on the type of chain and the wood you’re cutting.

Angle	Use
25-35 degrees	General purpose cutting
10-15 degrees	Hardwoods
35-40 degrees	Softwoods

Note: Always refer to your chainsaw’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended sharpening angles.

Measuring and Maintaining the Correct Angle

Use a file guide or a chainsaw sharpener tool to accurately measure and maintain the correct sharpening angle. Regular inspection and adjustment of the angles will ensure optimal cutting performance and extend the life of your chain.

Maintaining Chainsaw Chain

Proper maintenance extends the life of your chainsaw chain and improves its performance. Follow these tips for maintaining chainsaw chain:

• Regular Cleaning: Remove sawdust and debris from the chain after each use.
• Proper Lubrication: Use chainsaw bar and chain oil to keep the chain lubricated.
• Correct Tension: Ensure the chain is properly tensioned. A loose chain can derail, while a tight chain can overheat.
• Regular Sharpening: Sharpen the chain whenever it shows signs of dullness.
• Inspect for Damage: Check for damaged or worn teeth and replace the chain if necessary.

DIY Chainsaw Sharpening: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide to DIY chainsaw sharpening:

1. Gather Your Tools: Collect all the necessary tools, including a chainsaw file, file holder (optional), flat file, depth gauge tool, vise or filing jig, gloves, and eye protection.
2. Secure the Chainsaw: Place the chainsaw in a vise or use a filing jig to stabilize the bar.
3. Identify the Sharpest Tooth: Find the tooth that appears the sharpest and use it as a guide.
4. Position the File: Hold the file at the correct angle.
5. File Each Tooth: Using smooth, consistent strokes, file each tooth from the inside out.
6. Maintain Consistency: Sharpen each tooth to the same length and angle as the guide tooth.
7. Repeat on the Other Side: Reverse the chainsaw in the vise and sharpen the teeth on the opposite side.
8. Lower the Depth Gauges (Rakers): Use a flat file and a depth gauge tool to maintain the correct height.
9. Clean and Lubricate: Clean the chain and lubricate it with chainsaw bar and chain oil.
10. Test the Chain: Test the chain on a piece of wood to ensure it cuts smoothly and efficiently.

Troubleshooting Common Sharpening Problems

Even with the best techniques, you may encounter some common chainsaw sharpening problems:

• Uneven Sharpening: Ensure you are sharpening each tooth to the same length and angle.
• Overheating the Teeth: Avoid applying too much pressure or spending too much time on each tooth, as this can overheat and weaken the metal.
• Incorrect Depth Gauge Height: Use a depth gauge tool to maintain the correct height of the depth gauges.
• Damaged Teeth: If teeth are severely damaged, consider replacing the chain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to sharpen a chainsaw blade?
The best way to sharpen a chainsaw blade is by using a round file and maintaining the correct angle. A chainsaw sharpener tool can also be used for more precise results.

Can I use any file to sharpen a chainsaw chain?
No, you should use a round file specifically designed for chainsaw chains. The correct size file is crucial for proper sharpening.

Who is qualified to sharpen a chainsaw?
Anyone can learn to sharpen a chainsaw with the right tools and instructions. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can take it to a professional.

How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain?
Sharpen your chainsaw chain whenever it shows signs of dullness, such as producing sawdust instead of chips or requiring excessive force to cut.

What is the correct angle for sharpening a chainsaw chain?
The correct angle depends on the type of chain and the wood you’re cutting, but typically it’s between 25 and 35 degrees for the top plate angle and 0 to 10 degrees for the side plate angle.

Can a dull chainsaw damage the saw?
Yes, a dull chainsaw can put extra strain on the saw’s engine, potentially shortening its lifespan.

By following this comprehensive chainsaw chain sharpening guide, you can keep your chainsaw cutting like new, ensuring safety, efficiency, and longevity.