How To Sharpen Your Chainsaw

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Sharpening a chainsaw is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and ensuring safe operation, make sure whenever you use your chainsaw you use the key safety equipment. In short, you’ll know if you have sharpened your chainsaw correctly by seeing it produce wood chips rather than chainsaw dust.

Here are 5 methods for sharpening a chainsaw

Using a Round File:

• One of the most common methods is using a round chainsaw file along with a filing guide.
• Secure the guide to the chainsaw bar, and follow the manufacturer’s recommended angles to maintain proper chain tooth geometry.
• Maintain a consistent filing angle, usually around 25-30 degrees. File in one direction, following the original cutting edge angle of the tooth. Repeat the process for each tooth until they are uniformly sharp.
• File each tooth individually, ensuring consistent strokes for uniform sharpness.
• We highly recommend this Chainsaw Guide on Amazon

Chainsaw Sharpening Kit:

• Chainsaw sharpening kits often include a variety of tools, such as files, guides, and depth gauges, we found this one to be sufficient at a reasonable price!
• These comprehensive kits provide all the necessary components for a thorough sharpening session.
• Follow the included instructions to achieve optimal results.

Dremel or Rotary Tool:

• Using a Dremel or rotary tool with a chainsaw sharpening attachment is a precise method – Our favourite kit here.
• This approach is suitable for touch-up sharpening or fixing specific damaged teeth.
• Exercise caution to avoid removing too much material and altering the chain’s integrity.

Electric Chainsaw Sharpener:

• An electric chainsaw sharpener is a convenient tool for quick and precise sharpening.
• Mount the chainsaw on the sharpener, and adjust the settings to match the chain specifications.
• We have found a great deal on a ‘Wolf’ electric sharpener if this is the way you’d like to sharpen your chainsaw. (~£30!)

Finally, if you don’t want a DIY method, check out your local Professional Sharpening Service:

• If you’re not comfortable or experienced in sharpening a chainsaw, consider professional sharpening services.
• Local hardware stores or specialized chainsaw shops often offer this service.
• Professionals can ensure that the chain is sharpened accurately and maintains its balance.

Remember to wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, while sharpening a chainsaw. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific chainsaw model you are working with to achieve optimal results and maintain safety standards.

Our Step By Step Guide To DIY Sharpening Your Chainsaw

Sharpening a chainsaw is a crucial maintenance task to ensure optimal performance and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sharpen a chainsaw using the manual file and guide method:

Tools Needed:

• Round chainsaw file (matching your chain’s specifications)
• Filing guide (ensures correct filing angles)
• Flat file (for depth gauge adjustment)

The 10-step Procedure:

1. Secure the Chainsaw:
   • Before starting, ensure the chainsaw is firmly secured in a vice or another stable mounting device. This provides a safe and stable working environment.
2. Identify the Master Link:
   • Locate the master link on the chainsaw chain. This link typically has different markings or colours. It’s essential to start the sharpening process from this point.
3. Check Chain Tension:
   • Ensure the chainsaw chain is properly tensioned. A loose chain can hinder the sharpening process and lead to uneven sharpening.
4. Use the Filing Guide:
   • Place the filing guide over the chainsaw chain, ensuring it rests on the master link.
   • The filing guide will have angle markings. Match these angles to the specifications provided by the chainsaw manufacturer. Common angles are 30 degrees for the horizontal cutters and 10 degrees for the depth gauges.
5. File the Cutters:
   • Insert the round chainsaw file into the guide and position it on the first cutter.
   • Apply steady and even pressure as you push the file across the cutter.
   • File each cutter individually, maintaining the correct filing angles.
6. Maintain Consistent Angles:
   • Consistency is key. Ensure that you file each cutter the same number of strokes to maintain uniform sharpness.
7. Adjust Depth Gauges:
   • Use a flat file to adjust the depth gauges (rakers). These should be slightly lower than the cutters to prevent aggressive cutting and kickback.
   • Follow the manufacturer’s specifications for the proper depth gauge setting.
8. Rotate the Chain:
   • Once one side of the chainsaw chain is sharpened, release the chainsaw from the vice and rotate it to access the other side of the chain.
   • Repeat the filing process for the cutters on this side.
9. Check Tension and Lubrication:
   • After sharpening, recheck the chain tension and lubrication. Adjust as needed.
10. Test the Chainsaw:

• Before putting the chainsaw back into regular use, make a few test cuts to ensure smooth and efficient operation.

Regular chainsaw maintenance, including proper sharpening, enhances cutting performance, extends the chain’s lifespan, and promotes safer operation. Always refer to your chainsaw’s manual for specific guidelines and recommendations.

Why Do You Need to Sharpen a Chainsaw?

Regularly sharpening your chainsaw is essential for optimal cutting performance, safety, and overall efficiency. A sharp chainsaw not only ensures clean and precise cuts but also enhances fuel efficiency and reduces strain on the motor, contributing to an extended tool lifespan.

Safety is paramount, as a dull chain increases the risk of kickbacks and accidents, while a sharp chain promotes smoother operation. Additionally, maintaining a sharp chain minimizes overheating, lowers the physical strain on the operator, and fosters consistent and reliable performance.

Whether you’re engaged in professional forestry or occasional wood processing work for your woodburner, the benefits of sharpening your chainsaw extend to improved productivity, reduced maintenance costs, and an overall safer cutting experience.

How Often Should You Sharpen a Chainsaw?

The frequency of sharpening your chainsaw largely depends on usage and the type of wood being cut.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to check the chain sharpness after every 2-3 hours of cutting time. However, if you’re working in harsh conditions, such as cutting through dirty or sandy wood, you may need to sharpen more frequently.

Signs that your chainsaw needs sharpening include slower cutting speeds, increased vibration, and the need for more force to make cuts. Keeping an eye on the quality of the cut and the appearance of sawdust can also provide cues.

Regular maintenance, including filing the chain, ensures optimal performance, extends the lifespan of the chain, and promotes safer operation. Additionally, a well-maintained chainsaw contributes to fuel efficiency and overall productivity, making it a worthwhile investment of your time and effort.