How To Sharpen A Chain Saw Chain: The Ultimate Guide

Do you need to sharpen your chainsaw chain? Yes, you absolutely do if your saw is cutting slowly, producing sawdust instead of chips, or pulling to one side. Sharpening your chainsaw chain is essential for safety, efficiency, and the longevity of your saw. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about sharpening chainsaw chain, including the tools you need, step-by-step instructions for filing chainsaw chain, and how to use a chainsaw chain sharpener.

Image Source: www.wikihow.com

Why Sharpening Chainsaw Chain Matters

A dull chainsaw is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a safety hazard. A sharp chain bites into the wood cleanly and efficiently, reducing the risk of kickback and making the job easier on both you and your saw. Regular chainsaw chain maintenance, including frequent sharpening, extends the life of your chain and your saw.

Benefits of a Sharp Chain

• Increased Safety: Reduces kickback and improves control.
• Improved Efficiency: Cuts faster and cleaner.
• Reduced Strain: Less stress on the saw’s engine and the operator.
• Longer Lifespan: Extends the life of the chain and saw.

Deciphering Chainsaw Chain Anatomy

Before you start sharpening, it’s important to know the parts of your chainsaw chain. This will help you understand how each part contributes to cutting and where to focus your sharpening efforts.

• Cutter: The part of the chain that does the actual cutting. Each cutter has a top plate, a side plate, and a depth gauge.
• Depth Gauge (Raker): Controls the amount of wood the cutter takes with each pass. It sits slightly lower than the cutter and needs to be properly adjusted during sharpening.
• Tie Straps: Connect the cutters and drive links together.
• Drive Links: Fit into the chainsaw’s bar groove and are driven by the sprocket, pulling the chain around the bar.

Essential Chainsaw Sharpening Tools

Having the right chainsaw sharpening tools makes the job easier and more effective. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Round File: The most common tool for sharpening chainsaw chains. Choose the correct diameter file for your chain’s pitch (see chart below).
• File Holder (Filing Guide): Helps maintain the correct angle for sharpening chainsaw.
• Flat File: Used for adjusting the depth gauges (rakers).
• Depth Gauge Tool (Raker Gauge): A tool to help you file your depth gauges at the correct height
• Vise: Secures the chainsaw bar during sharpening. A bar-mounted vise is convenient.
• Gloves: Protect your hands.
• Eye Protection: Safety glasses are a must.
• Chain Gauge: Helps determine the chain’s pitch and file size.
• Optional: Chainsaw Chain Sharpener (Electric or Manual) Speeds up the sharpening process.

Choosing the Right File Size

The correct file size is crucial for proper chainsaw sharpening. The file diameter must match the chain’s pitch.

Chain Pitch	File Diameter (inches)	File Diameter (mm)
1/4″	5/32″	4.0 mm
.325″	3/16″	4.8 mm
3/8″ Low Profile	5/32″ or 7/32″	4.0 mm or 5.5 mm
3/8″	7/32″	5.5 mm
.404″	13/64″	5.2 mm

Types of Chainsaw Sharpeners

There are several types of chainsaw chain sharpener available:

• Manual File Guides: These guides help you maintain the correct angle and depth when using a round file. They’re affordable and portable.
• Hand Crank Sharpeners: These sharpeners use a grinding wheel that is operated by a hand crank. They require more effort than electric sharpeners, but they offer precision and control.
• Electric Chainsaw Sharpener: These use a grinding wheel powered by an electric motor to sharpen the chain quickly and accurately. They are ideal for frequent sharpening.
• Bar-Mounted Sharpeners: These are attached to the chainsaw bar and allow you to sharpen the chain while it’s still on the saw.
• Bench Mounted Sharpeners: These are the most common type of electric chainsaw sharpeners. They are attached to a workbench and offer stability and precision.

Step-by-Step: Filing Chainsaw Chain Manually

Filing your chainsaw chain manually is a skill every chainsaw owner should learn. It’s a cost-effective way to keep your chain sharp and in good condition. Here’s how to do it:

1. Secure the Chainsaw: Place the chainsaw in a vise, clamping the bar securely. Make sure the chain is free to move along the bar.
2. Identify the Shortest Cutter: Examine the cutters on your chain and find the shortest one. This will be your guide for sharpening all the other cutters.
3. Position the File: Place the round file in the cutter with the file holder, ensuring the correct angle for sharpening chainsaw. The angle is typically marked on the file holder. A common angle is 30 degrees, but consult your chainsaw’s manual for the recommended angle.
4. File the Cutter: Using smooth, even strokes, file the cutter from the inside out. Apply pressure only on the forward stroke. Maintain the correct angle and depth. File each cutter the same number of strokes. Usually, 3-5 strokes are enough.
5. Move to the Next Cutter: Advance the chain and repeat the process for each cutter on one side of the chain.
6. Sharpen the Other Side: Turn the chainsaw around in the vise and sharpen the cutters on the other side of the chain, maintaining the correct angle and number of strokes.
7. Check and Adjust Depth Gauges: Use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (rakers). If they are too high, use a flat file to lower them. File the depth gauges evenly, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct height.
8. Final Check: Ensure all cutters are sharpened to the same length and the depth gauges are properly adjusted.

Fine-Tuning: Adjusting the Angle for Sharpening Chainsaw

The correct angle for sharpening chainsaw is crucial for optimal cutting performance. The top plate angle and the side plate angle both contribute to the chain’s ability to bite into the wood.

• Top Plate Angle: Typically between 25 and 35 degrees. This angle affects how aggressively the chain cuts. A steeper angle (closer to 35 degrees) is more aggressive but dulls faster.
• Side Plate Angle: Usually around 60 degrees. This angle helps the chain clear the wood chips.

Refer to your chainsaw’s manual for the recommended angles for your specific chain. Experimenting slightly with these angles can fine-tune your chain’s performance for different types of wood.

Using an Electric Chainsaw Sharpener

An electric chainsaw chain sharpener can significantly speed up the sharpening process and provide consistent results. Here’s how to use one:

1. Mount the Sharpener: Secure the electric chainsaw sharpener to a workbench or stable surface.
2. Adjust the Settings: Set the correct angle and depth according to your chain’s specifications. Refer to the sharpener’s manual and your chainsaw’s manual for the recommended settings.
3. Position the Chain: Place the chainsaw chain in the sharpener, aligning the cutter with the grinding wheel.
4. Sharpen the Cutter: Lower the grinding wheel onto the cutter and apply light pressure. Follow the sharpener’s instructions for the correct sharpening time.
5. Repeat for Each Cutter: Advance the chain and repeat the process for each cutter on one side of the chain.
6. Sharpen the Other Side: Adjust the sharpener’s settings and sharpen the cutters on the other side of the chain.
7. Check and Adjust Depth Gauges: Use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (rakers). If they are too high, use a flat file to lower them. File the depth gauges evenly, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct height.
8. Final Check: Ensure all cutters are sharpened to the same length and the depth gauges are properly adjusted.

Choosing the Best Chainsaw Sharpener

With so many chainsaw chain sharpeners on the market, choosing the best one can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider:

• Type of Sharpener: Manual, hand-crank, or electric. Choose the type that best suits your needs and budget.
• Accuracy: Look for a sharpener that provides consistent and accurate sharpening results.
• Ease of Use: Choose a sharpener that is easy to set up and operate.
• Durability: Look for a sharpener made from high-quality materials that will last for years.
• Price: Chainsaw sharpeners range in price from affordable manual models to more expensive electric units. Consider your budget and how often you’ll be sharpening your chain.
• User Reviews: Read online reviews to get an idea of other users’ experiences with different chainsaw sharpeners.

Chainsaw Chain Maintenance: Beyond Sharpening

Sharpening is a crucial part of chainsaw chain maintenance, but it’s not the only thing you should do to keep your chain in good condition. Here are some other important maintenance tasks:

• Cleaning: Regularly clean your chainsaw chain with a brush and solvent to remove sawdust, pitch, and oil.
• Lubrication: Keep your chain well-lubricated with chainsaw bar and chain oil. Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed.
• Tensioning: Adjust the chain tension regularly to prevent it from being too loose or too tight. A loose chain can derail, while a tight chain can overheat and break.
• Inspection: Inspect your chain regularly for damage, such as cracks, broken teeth, or worn drive links. Replace the chain if you find any significant damage.
• Storage: When storing your chainsaw, clean and lubricate the chain and store it in a dry place.

Fathoming Common Chainsaw Sharpening Mistakes

Avoiding common chainsaw sharpening mistakes will ensure that your chain is properly sharpened and performs optimally. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the Wrong File Size: Using the wrong file size can damage the cutters and prevent the chain from cutting properly.
• Filing at the Wrong Angle: Filing at the wrong angle can make the chain cut inefficiently or cause it to kick back.
• Not Filing Evenly: Filing each cutter a different amount can cause the chain to cut unevenly.
• Ignoring the Depth Gauges: Neglecting the depth gauges can prevent the chain from taking the correct amount of wood with each pass.
• Using a Dull File: Using a dull file will make the sharpening process more difficult and less effective.
• Over-Sharpening: Removing too much material from the cutters can weaken them and shorten the life of the chain.
• Not Securing the Saw: Failure to secure the saw properly in a vise can lead to inaccurate sharpening and potential injury.

Chainsaw Chain Sharpening Kit: What to Include

A chainsaw chain sharpening kit provides you with all the necessary tools for maintaining your chain. Here’s what a comprehensive kit should include:

• Round files (various sizes to match different chain pitches)
• File holder (filing guide)
• Flat file
• Depth gauge tool (raker gauge)
• Vise (bar-mounted or bench-mounted)
• Gloves
• Eye protection (safety glasses)
• Chain gauge
• Carrying case

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the best way for sharpening chainsaw chain? The best way depends on your skill level, budget, and how often you sharpen. Manual filing is cost-effective and portable, while electric sharpeners offer speed and consistency.
• Can I sharpen my chainsaw chain while it’s on the saw? Yes, you can use a bar-mounted sharpener or file the chain manually while it’s on the saw. However, it’s generally easier and safer to remove the chain and secure it in a vise.
• How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain? Sharpen your chain whenever it becomes dull, which could be after every few uses or more frequently if you’re cutting dirty or abrasive wood.
• What are the signs of a dull chainsaw chain? Signs of a dull chain include slow cutting, producing sawdust instead of chips, pulling to one side, and requiring more force to cut.
• Who is qualified to sharpen my chainsaw chain if I cannot do it myself? A qualified chainsaw repair shop or a professional arborist can sharpen your chain for you.
• How do I know what size file to use for my chainsaw chain? Check your chainsaw’s manual or use a chain gauge to determine the correct file size for your chain’s pitch.
• Is an electric chainsaw sharpener worth it? If you sharpen your chain frequently, an electric chainsaw sharpener can save you time and effort.
• How do I adjust the depth gauges (rakers) on my chainsaw chain? Use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges. If they are too high, use a flat file to lower them evenly.
• What is chain pitch? Chain pitch refers to the size of the chain, measured as the distance between three consecutive rivets divided by two. It is important to match the file size with the chain pitch.
• How does chain maintenance prolong chain life? Regular cleaning, lubrication, tensioning, and inspection prevent wear and tear, extending the life of your chainsaw chain.