How To Sharpen Chain Saw Chain Like A Pro: Tips & Tricks

How do you sharpen a chainsaw chain like a pro? You can sharpen a chainsaw chain like a professional by using the right tools, maintaining the correct angles, and taking your time. This guide will show you how to keep your chainsaw cutting smoothly and safely.

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Why Chain Saw Sharpening is Important

A dull chainsaw is more than just annoying; it’s dangerous. It requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback. A sharp chain cuts smoothly, efficiently, and safely. Keeping your chain sharp also extends its lifespan and reduces wear and tear on your chainsaw’s engine. Regular chain saw sharpening is a vital part of chainsaw maintenance.

Benefits of a Sharp Chain

• Increased Safety: Reduces the risk of kickback and accidents.
• Improved Efficiency: Cuts faster and requires less effort.
• Extended Chain Life: Prevents excessive wear and tear.
• Reduced Engine Strain: Allows the engine to run more smoothly.
• Cleaner Cuts: Produces smoother, more precise cuts.

When to Sharpen Your Chainsaw Chain

Knowing when to sharpen your chain is just as important as knowing how. Here are some signs that your chainsaw needs sharpening:

• Sawdust instead of Chips: A sharp chain produces large, clean chips. A dull chain produces fine sawdust.
• Hard to Push Through Wood: If you have to force the saw through the wood, the chain is likely dull.
• Burning Smell: A dull chain creates friction, which can cause a burning smell.
• Crooked Cuts: A dull chain may cause the saw to cut unevenly or pull to one side.
• Visible Damage: Look for rounded corners, damaged cutters, or uneven wear on the chain.

Preventative Sharpening

It’s better to sharpen your chain frequently and lightly than to wait until it’s completely dull. Sharpening after every few tanks of gas or after hitting dirt or rocks will keep your chain in optimal condition.

Chain Saw Sharpening Tools: What You Need

Having the right tools is essential for achieving a professional-quality sharpen. Here’s a list of chainsaw chain sharpening tools you should consider:

• Round File: The most common tool for sharpening chainsaw chains. Choose the correct diameter for your chain’s pitch.
• File Holder/Guide: Helps maintain the correct angle and depth while filing.
• Flat File: Used to adjust the depth gauges.
• Depth Gauge Tool: Measures the height of the depth gauges.
• Chain Vise: Secures the chainsaw bar, making sharpening easier and safer.
• Work Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp cutters.
• Eye Protection: Protects your eyes from metal filings.
• Magnifying Glass (Optional): Helps to see small details on the cutters.
• Chainsaw Sharpening Kit: Many kits include all the essential tools in one package.

Choosing the Right File Size

The correct file size depends on the pitch of your chain. Refer to your chainsaw’s manual or the chain manufacturer’s specifications to determine the appropriate file diameter.

Chain Pitch	Recommended File Size
1/4″	5/32″
0.325″	3/16″ or 7/32″
3/8″	5/32″ or 13/64″
0.404″	7/32″

Sharpen Chainsaw Chain At Home: A Step-by-Step Chainsaw Sharpening Guide

Now, let’s dive into the process of how to sharpen a chain saw at home. Following these steps will help you achieve a professional-quality sharpen.

Step 1: Secure the Chainsaw

1. Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection.
2. Engage the Chain Brake: This prevents the chain from moving while you work.
3. Secure the Bar: Use a chain vise to hold the chainsaw bar firmly in place. If you don’t have a vise, you can secure the bar in a bench vise or clamp it to a sturdy surface.

Step 2: Identify the Correct Filing Angle

The angle for sharpening chainsaw chain is crucial for achieving optimal cutting performance. Refer to your chainsaw’s manual or the chain manufacturer’s specifications for the correct angles. Typically, chains have two key angles:

• Top Plate Angle: Usually between 25 and 35 degrees.
• Side Plate Angle: Usually around 60 degrees.

Use a file holder/guide to help maintain these angles consistently.

Step 3: Filing Each Cutter

1. Position the File: Place the round file in the cutter, ensuring it’s at the correct angle. The file holder/guide should align with the top of the cutter.
2. File with Smooth Strokes: Use smooth, even strokes, filing from the inside of the cutter to the outside. Apply slight pressure on the forward stroke and release on the return stroke.
3. Count Your Strokes: Keep track of the number of strokes you use on each cutter. This ensures that all cutters are sharpened equally. Usually, 3-5 strokes are sufficient.
4. Sharpen Every Cutter: Sharpen each cutter on one side of the chain, then release the vise, rotate the saw, and sharpen the cutters on the other side.

Step 4: Checking and Adjusting Depth Gauges

The depth gauges (also known as rakers) control how much wood each cutter takes with each pass. After sharpening the cutters, you may need to adjust the depth gauge setting chainsaw.

1. Use a Depth Gauge Tool: Place the tool over the depth gauge. If the depth gauge protrudes above the tool, it needs to be filed down.
2. File the Depth Gauges: Use a flat file to carefully file down the depth gauges until they are flush with the depth gauge tool.
3. Round Off the Front: After filing, use the flat file to slightly round off the front of each depth gauge. This helps prevent the chain from grabbing or chattering.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Inspect the Chain: Check all cutters and depth gauges to ensure they are uniform and properly sharpened.
2. Lubricate the Chain: Apply bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain before using the chainsaw.
3. Test the Chain: Make a few test cuts to ensure the chain is cutting smoothly and efficiently.

Best Chainsaw Sharpening Method: Manual Filing vs. Electric Sharpeners

There are two primary methods for sharpening chainsaw chains: manual filing and using an electric chainsaw sharpener. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

Manual Filing

• Pros:
  • Affordable: Requires minimal investment in tools.
  • Portable: Can be done anywhere, even in the field.
  • Precise: Allows for fine-tuning of each cutter.
• Cons:
  • Time-Consuming: Can take longer than using an electric sharpener.
  • Requires Skill: Achieving consistent results requires practice.
  • Physically Demanding: Can be tiring, especially for long chains.

Electric Chainsaw Sharpeners

• Pros:
  • Fast: Can sharpen a chain in a fraction of the time compared to manual filing.
  • Consistent: Provides uniform sharpening of all cutters.
  • Easy to Use: Requires less skill and effort than manual filing.
• Cons:
  • Expensive: Requires a significant investment in equipment.
  • Less Portable: Requires a power source.
  • Can Remove Too Much Material: Over-sharpening can shorten the chain’s lifespan.

Choosing the Right Method

The best chainsaw sharpening method depends on your needs and preferences. If you only sharpen your chain occasionally and prefer a more hands-on approach, manual filing may be the best option. If you sharpen chains frequently and value speed and consistency, an electric sharpener may be a better choice.

Tips and Tricks for Professional Chain Saw Sharpening

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you sharpen your chainsaw chain like a pro:

• Use a Guide: Always use a file holder/guide to maintain the correct angles. This is especially important for beginners.
• Clean the Chain: Before sharpening, clean the chain with a wire brush to remove dirt and debris.
• Keep Your Tools Clean: Clean your files with a file card to remove metal filings and prevent clogging.
• Don’t Over-Sharpen: Avoid removing too much material from the cutters. This can weaken the chain and shorten its lifespan.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The more you sharpen your chain, the better you’ll become. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.
• Refer to the Manual: Always refer to your chainsaw’s manual or the chain manufacturer’s specifications for recommended angles and file sizes.
• Consistency is Key: Make sure to use the same number of strokes for each cutter. This ensures that all cutters are sharpened equally.
• Pay Attention to Detail: Take your time and pay attention to the small details. This will help you achieve a professional-quality sharpen.

Maintaining Your Chainsaw for Optimal Performance

Sharpening is just one aspect of chainsaw maintenance. Here are some other important maintenance tasks:

• Keep the Chain Properly Lubricated: Use high-quality bar and chain oil to keep the chain lubricated. Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed.
• Clean the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can reduce engine performance. Clean the air filter regularly with soap and water or compressed air.
• Inspect the Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for wear and tear. Replace it if necessary.
• Check the Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can cause the engine to stall. Replace the fuel filter annually or as needed.
• Tighten Loose Bolts and Screws: Regularly check all bolts and screws and tighten them as needed.
• Store the Chainsaw Properly: When not in use, store the chainsaw in a dry place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Chain Saw Sharpening

• Using the Wrong File Size: Using a file that is too large or too small can damage the cutters.
• Filing at the Wrong Angle: Incorrect angles can reduce cutting efficiency and increase the risk of kickback.
• Not Securing the Chain Properly: A loose chain can be dangerous to sharpen.
• Forgetting to Adjust the Depth Gauges: Incorrect depth gauge settings can cause the chain to grab or chatter.
• Over-Sharpening the Chain: Removing too much material can weaken the chain and shorten its lifespan.

FAQ: Chain Saw Sharpening

• What is the best way to sharpen a chainsaw chain? The best way depends on preference and frequency of use, either manual filing or electric sharpening are viable. The key is maintaining correct angles and consistent strokes.

• Can I use a Dremel to sharpen a chainsaw chain? Yes, but it requires a special attachment and careful technique. It’s easy to overheat the chain, so proceed with caution.

• Who can sharpen my chainsaw chain if I don’t want to do it myself? Local hardware stores, lawnmower repair shops, and chainsaw dealerships often offer chain sharpening services.

• How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain? Sharpen after every few tanks of gas or whenever you notice a decrease in cutting performance.

• Is it possible to over-sharpen a chainsaw chain? Yes, removing too much material can weaken the chain and reduce its lifespan.

• What does a dull chainsaw chain look like? Rounded corners on the cutters, fine sawdust instead of chips, and difficulty cutting through wood are all signs of a dull chain.

By following this comprehensive chainsaw sharpening guide, you can keep your chainsaw cutting smoothly, safely, and efficiently for years to come. Happy cutting!