{"id":1828,"date":"2019-12-17T22:45:55","date_gmt":"2019-12-17T22:45:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gardendad.co.uk\/?p=1828"},"modified":"2019-12-17T23:11:12","modified_gmt":"2019-12-17T23:11:12","slug":"best-chainsaw-sharpener","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gardendad.co.uk\/best-chainsaw-sharpener\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Choose The Best Chainsaw Sharpener?"},"content":{"rendered":"

A sure-fire way to tell that your chainsaw blades are getting dull is if you take longer to cut through wood and you feel tired quicker. You may also notice that the chainsaw is throwing up fine dust rather than the usual coarse chips when you are cutting.<\/p>\n

Sharp blades are, however, not just important for cutting performance and ease of use. They also reduce the risk of injury from a chainsaw kickback.<\/p>\n

A dull chainsaw can also result in bad cuts, and even your brand new safety helmet<\/a> may not help you! \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n

You can take your chainsaw for professional sharpening when the blades get dull. This keeps your chain in good working order but the costs add up quickly especially if you use it often.<\/p>\n

Some people replace the chain altogether, an even more expensive solution.<\/p>\n

A better and cheaper idea is to sharpen the chainsaw yourself. A good quality chainsaw sharpener won\u2019t cost you much and with a little practice, you\u2019ll find it easy to keep your chainsaw razor sharp.<\/p>\n

In this buying guide, I review and compare the best chainsaw sharpeners, both electric and manual.<\/p>\n

But first, here\u2019s how to make sure you choose the right chainsaw sharpener for your needs.<\/p>\n

What to Consider When Choosing a Chainsaw Sharpener<\/h2>\n

a) Manual vs. Electric<\/h3>\n

The first thing to decide is whether you want a manual or electric chainsaw sharpener.<\/p>\n

A manual sharpening kit, which typically consists of 2-3 types of files, is cheaper and can be used in any environment since it doesn\u2019t need a power connection. This makes a manual sharpener ideal for use when you are outdoors.<\/p>\n

An electric sharpener is more suited to your workshop. Most electric chainsaw sharpeners are designed to be clamped onto a workbench, though there are smaller portable ones as well.<\/p>\n

It takes less time and effort to sharpen with an electric sharpener. But it costs more compared to a simple manual file.<\/p>\n

b) Type of File<\/h3>\n

The two main types of files are round and flat.<\/p>\n

A round file is used to sharpen the side plate and top plate of the cutter while a flat file is used, along with a gauge, to shorten the rakers.<\/p>\n

c) Size and Pitch<\/h3>\n

When you are sharpening the cutting edge of the cutter, it is essential that you use the right file size. Two types of sizes need to match between the chainsaw and file: pitch and tooth diameter.<\/p>\n

Pitch is the distance between any three rivets divided by two. Most chainsaws have the pitch indicated on the side of the cutter or in the manual.<\/p>\n

Make sure you pick a chainsaw sharpener that\u2019s designed your cutters\u2019 pitch. Most manufacturers will indicate which pitches the file is compatible with.<\/p>\n

The other size to check is diameter. The diameter of the cutter should match that of the round file.<\/p>\n

Note: <\/strong>One advantage of going with an electric chainsaw sharpener is that you don\u2019t need to concern yourself with buying the right size. Electric sharpeners can be adjusted to fit any chain size.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

d) Portability<\/h3>\n

If you do most of your cutting at home or a wood yard, portability is not that important. You can get a heavy electric chainsaw sharpener and bolt it to your workshop bench.<\/p>\n

But if you travel a lot with your chainsaw, you\u2019ll need something more portable.<\/p>\n

A manual file kit is the most portable option. It\u2019s light, compact and doesn\u2019t need any power or batteries.<\/p>\n

We recommend buying a chainsaw filing vice to make it easier to sharpen your chainsaw wherever you are.<\/p>\n

There are also some smaller electric sharpeners designed for portability. You can usually connect it to a battery or a car cigarette lighter.<\/p>\n

How to Use a Chainsaw Sharpener<\/h2>\n

Whether you are using a manual or electric sharpener, you have to sharpen the cutters one by one.<\/p>\n

Because left and right cutters are angled differently, you\u2019ll only sharpen every other cutter until you loop around the entire chain. Then angle the chainsaw the other way and sharpening the remaining cutters.<\/p>\n

With an electric chainsaw sharpener, you\u2019ll need to adjust various components to make sure the grinding plate sharpens at the right angle and depth. The sharpening angle for most files is 30 degrees.<\/p>\n

With a manual file, you\u2019ll need to use a file guide \u2013 usually included in the kit \u2013 to make sure you cut at the right angle.<\/p>\n

Here are some additional tips for using a chainsaw sharpener.<\/p>\n