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Best Chainsaw Sharpener 2024 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
As a chainsaw owner, or even an arborist, you must be aware of the fact that the chain of a chainsaw has to be kept quite sharp so that the equipment functions properly. If the said chain is not kept sharpened, then the bar assembly and the chain can overheat which reduces the life of your chainsaw.
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Of course other tools are essential for taking care of your garden or other projects, such as a pruning saw or a reach-extending pole saw, but sometimes a good chainsaw is what you need.
If you can’t cut easily with your chainsaw, it is time you sharpen it. However, instead of making occasional visits to a shop, it is better that you buy the best chainsaw sharpener for yourself. Keep reading to find out which one you should pick!
The types of sharpeners you should buy also depend on the projects you have to complete as an arborist. Here the different types of chainsaw sharpeners you can choose from.
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**Below, you'll find more detailed reviews, but you can also click links above to check current prices and read customer's reviews on Amazon.
The 2017 Essential Guide to the Best Chainsaw Sharpener
Types of Chainsaw Sharpeners1. Files2. Manual Sharpener3. Electric Sharpener4. Battery Powered SharpenersWhat to Look For When Choosing a Chainsaw Sharpener?# Power Source# Portability# Ease of Use# DurabilityHow to Sharpen a Chainsaw
Best Chainsaw Sharpener! The Top 5 Sharpeners# 1 - Stihl 2 in 1 File Chainsaw Sharpener # 2 - Anytime Tools 3/16" Diamond Chainsaw Sharpener # 3 - Timber Tuff CS-12V Portable Electric Chainsaw Sharpener # 4 - Granberg Bar-Mount Chainsaw Sharpener # 5 - Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Which Chainsaw Sharpener is Best for You?
Types of Chainsaw Sharpeners
1. Files
Via Amazon.com
Files can either be flat, rounded or they can be triangular in shape. Generally, files measure 12 inches in length and are made out of metal.
Each file comes with a different diameter. This helps it to fit easily between the chain’s main brace and the cutting edge of the tooth of the chainsaw.
2. Manual Sharpener
Via Amazon.com
Manual sharpeners are just files that are held by either a metal framework or a plastic framework. This structure helps in holding the file against the tooth of the chain at the precise angle so that when the chainsaw is sharpened, the user has the correct pitch.
Generally, chainsaw sharpeners attach to the chainsaw bar. The manual sharpeners have a handle which you can use to turn or rotate the chainsaw sharpener in such a manner that it comes in contact with the chainsaw teeth.
Manual sharpeners permit the user to sharpen the chain without the user having to dislodge it from the saw. They are portable and small which means that it is possible to take them to the woods with you when you have lots of work to do with the trees.
However, experts suggest that as an owner of a chainsaw, you should own not only a manual chainsaw sharpener but also an electric one. This is because both of them together will help you keep the chains sharpened properly.
3. Electric Sharpener
Via Amazon.com
Electric sharpeners come in a number of sizes. You can either purchase an automatic, full-size chainsaw sharpener which can sharpen almost all of the chains. Or, you can buy mini sharpeners that sharpen a maximum of two chain sizes without purchasing any accessories.
When you are choosing an electric sharpener for your chainsaw, you should look at all of the features that the sharpener has and think about the features that will be useful for you. Buying an automatic sharpener which possesses features that are not useful for you makes no sense. It would only mean that you would be paying money for things that you will never need.
Some of the features that are found in almost all of the electric sharpeners are; being mountable on a number of surfaces like vises, walls, and benches, built-in lights, large knobs and handles; they can sharpen various chain sizes, vises that are self-centering so that the chains are held correctly.
Other features include automated chain feeds, tilting vise heads, big safety guards, fixed angle cuts, safety stops, and different sizes of motors so that various amount of power can be created.
Have a look at the kind of saw that you possess and the chain size that you use. Then determine whether an electric sharpener will be able to accommodate the size of the chain you have or not. The next step is to think about the amount of money you are willing to spend on your sharpener.
Via Amazon.com
4. Battery Powered Sharpeners
These are basically qualified as an electric sharpener, however; they have one advantage over the electric ones. It is easier to carry battery powered sharpeners to the woods and then use the battery of your car as a power source.
On the other hand, sharpeners that are powered by batteries don’t have a powerful motor like the one electric sharpeners powered by standard household electricity have. Moreover, electric sharpeners provide a more accurate edge to your chain.
What to Look For When Choosing a Chainsaw Sharpener?
When you’re in the market to buy a chainsaw sharpener, there are a few things you need to look for.
# Power Source
Take note of the sharpeners power source. Is it battery operated or does it need an electrical source? You should buy an electrical sharpener if you’ll be working in an area that doesn’t have an electrical source.
# Portability
The portability of the sharpener is also important. You should be able to take the sharpener wherever you want. It should also be convenient to store. Try and go for a sharpener that is light in weight and easier for you to carry.
# Ease of Use
A chainsaw sharpener should be easy for you to use. The instructions it comes with should be detailed. There’s no need to buy a sharpener that is cumbersome to use and needs a lot of prep-time before you can sharpen your chainsaw.
# Durability
The durability of the sharpener is another important factor. You need to make sure the sharpener will last you long enough to give you’re your money’s worth.
How to Sharpen a Chainsaw
Here are the steps you should follow to sharpen a chainsaw:
Step 1 - The first thing you need to do is check the depth gauge of the chain. You need to make sure that they’re consistent and the height isn’t too much.
Step 2 - Make sure that the chain’s cutting teeth have an equal length. Use the first tooth as a standard to measure the rest of the teeth. It is recommended that you use a caliper.
Step 3 - Once you’ve sharpened a cutter, only then move on to the next and repeat the steps.
Step 4 - Loosen the vice when you come back to the cutter you started. The guide bar needs to be attached in the opposite direction.
You can see the technique in this short video:
Take Note:
- Use smooth strokes to file the cutting tooth. It is recommended that you use two to four strokes.
- The file guide needs to help at a 90 degree angle to chainsaw bar’s flat face. The normal filing angle is usually 25, 30, or even 35 degrees, depending on the manufactured product.
- The found file should be placed in the filing gauge. One of the chain cutters should be visibly marked to make it easier for you to know your starting point.
- Make sure that the chainsaw is secured with a good vice.
- The chain should be free of debris and dust.
- To properly use a gauge tool, place the tool over any two cutting teeth. Ensure that the depth gauge slots perfectly into the tool. You need to file down the depth gauge if it happens to stick out
Best Chainsaw Sharpener! The Top 5 Sharpeners
Mentioned below are the top 5 chainsaw sharpeners you can opt for to find the best one for yourself.
Product Name | Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | $$ | ||
A | $ | ||
A- | $ | ||
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A | $$ |
Via Amazon.com
This chainsaw sharpener by Stihl is a practical tool which you can use to sharpen the depth gauge and the teeth all in one go. This sharpener is for .325 chains and is perfect for those that occasionally want to sharpen their chainsaw.
The 2-in-1 filing guide by Stihl makes sharpening the chainsaw very simple by performing two functions in one go. It lowers the depth gauges and sharpens the chain cutters. This unique product, because of its accuracy and ease, makes it one of the best tools for maintaining your chainsaw.
The Stihl system includes a flat file, two round files, a filing guide, and a one of a kind file holder as well. It is 12.6 ounces in weight, making it easier to carry around. This product works quite well and takes out all the guesswork from sharpening thus, making the job easier. Along with possessing a lot of advantages, this sharpener is relatively cheap as well.
PROS
- Lightweight which makes it easier to carry
- Comparatively cheaper than others
- Works quickly
- Easy to use and durable
- Angled handles and guide bars keep the file at the right sharpening angle
CONS
- Not reliable enough for big projects
- Does not provide enough power
Via Amazon.com
This is a premium quality chainsaw sharpener that has one of the best sharpener burrs. These burrs are studded with diamonds. As a result, the burrs sharpen in a shorter period and will last more than the traditional sharpeners made of steel.
The sharpeners are designed in such a manner that they fit the rotary tools in the perfect way. Diamonds are embedded in the metal on the four burrs. The process of sharpening your chainsaw is so fast that it can be done in the same amount of time it takes to change the chain.
Even after grinding more than five chains with one burr, it is still not anywhere near becoming dull. In fact, this diamond-featuring product is quite better than the other items available in the standard rotary tool kit that is available for sharpening chainsaws.
PROS
- Durable
- Very efficient
- Does not take long
- Sharpens quickly and accurately
- Doesn’t need a replacement for an extended period - lasts long.
CONS
- Not reliable enough for big projects
Via Amazon.com
This 12V chainsaw sharpener can be used at any time and place when you need to sharpen your chainsaw. This is because it only weighs 2.2 pounds which means that it can be carried anywhere with relative ease. Moreover, this electric sharpener needs only 12V to function, so you can easily connect this product to your car battery when you want to use it.
The sharpener is made of a cover which is anti-impact and anti-aging which stays cool when it is being used. The machine also comes with a lock – spindle lock, which helps to change the grinding stones quickly.
This sharpener by Timber Tuff is a must have because not only is it relatively affordable, but it is also very efficient. This sharpener only takes very little steel off thus, making sure that your chain lasts for an extended period. The stone file that comes with the sharpener has a long life.
PROS
- Good grinding ability despite the fact that it is cheap
- Saves time because of how easy it is to use it.
- Lightweight because of which it is portable
CONS
- Changing the bit is tricky
- Comes with poor instructions
- Grinding stones don’t last long
Via Amazon.com
This is a manual chainsaw sharpener that can sharpen the major chainsaw pitches. Granberg Chainsaw permits you to match the manufacturer angle of the chain. Moreover, it lowers the depth gauge, and it attaches to the guide bar in mere seconds.
Perhaps the best thing about this sharpener is that it provides the user the freedom to operate without the need of a power source. Since the device is non-electric, it is easy to transport with relative easy. In the start, it can be a bit tricky to use the machine, however, after a few tries, you will be able to get a precise and smooth performance.
The sharpener’s weight is 2 pounds only, making it easy to take with you to your next project. This cordless non-electric device is also safe to use where visibility is present. The sharpener does not come with a file so you’ll have to purchase it separately.
PROS
- Manual Chainsaw doesn’t require a power source
- Reduces depth gauge
- Can be attached to guide bar in seconds
- Easy to transport because of how lightweight it is.
CONS
- The instructions that come with the sharpener aren’t really helpful
- Difficult to get the hang of the machine
Via Amazon.com
With the Buffalo electric sharpener, you can save a good amount of money by sharpening the chainsaw yourself. In addition, you can also keep your chain in the best shape for as long as possible. The sharpener mounts easily on a number of surfaces like bench, vise, or wall. This allows stability as well as easier access.
The machine can adjust to the most famous designs of chains. Since it needs to be plugged into a 120V outlet and is quite heavy, it isn’t the ideal tool for remote areas. On the other hand, the biggest advantage of this sharpener is that you can save a good amount of time by using it instead of using a manual file.
The product is quite efficient which means that you won’t have to visit the sharpening shop frequently. However, one drawback is the usability. The diagram and the instructions that come with the sharpener are a bit tricky to understand. You’ll need a few practice tries before figuring everything out.
PROS
- Efficient – saves time and money
- Mounts easily and is quite stable
CONS
- Difficult to understand instructions
- Not portable because of its weight.
Which Chainsaw Sharpener is Best for You?
Considering all the benefits of a manual chainsaw sharpener that are mentioned in the previous section, the best chainsaw sharpener amongst these five is the Manual chainsaw sharpener by Granberg. The biggest advantage that this sharpener has over all of the other sharpeners is the fact that it does not require any power source.
This means that regardless of where your next project is located, you can take this sharpener with you. This is facilitated more by the fact that the chainsaw doesn’t weigh much. Therefore, this is one of the must have best chainsaw sharpener for you.
About the Author Laura Bennett
Hello, I’m Laura Bennett. I love nature especially when it comes to flowers and different kinds of plants. I started a very small garden behind my house and I named it Humid Garden. So, I created this blog to provide aspiring and inspiring thoughts about gardening for gardeners and anyone who has the intention of keeping a garden.
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