Best Overall
Oregon 410-120 120V Bench Grinder Chain Sharpener
Best Bang for the Buck
PowerCare 8-Piece Field Kit
Best Bench-Mounted
Timber Tuff Bench-Mount Electric Chain Sharpener
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A sharp chainsaw have unobjectionable , faster cuts with less effort . It ’s easier on the saw ’s engine , safer for the wheeler dealer , and healthier for the trees being pruned . To keep their byword chains in safe and effective working consideration , experienced operator use a two - footprint approach . They use either a small , portable electrical chain saw sharpener or a set of files for quick touch - ups in the field . Back at the shop , they apply a benchtop chain saw sword sharpener for precise saw range of mountains recondition .
We quiz the good chainsaw sharpeners from both of these category for find the top tools and the ideal two - step combo for serious DIYers and weekend warrior . Our favorite is theOregon 410 - 120 120V Bench Grinder Chain Sharpenerthanks to its speed and preciseness . It ’s also one of the most various models on the market , mounting to either a workbench or a wall . Read on to discover our other top choice and find the best chainsaw sharpener for your need .
Before You Buy a Chainsaw Sharpener
If you only utilize your chain saw a few times a year for seasonal chore , you might be best served with a hardening of files or a hand-held electric sharpener . No need to waste money or storage infinite on a benchtop unit when a hardware computer memory can professionally focalize your saw chain for less than $ 10 . Benchtop model make more economical sense for those who systematically use their power saw yr round , or for exceptionally high seasonal usage . When a misstep to town disrupts critical yield prison term , it ’s plausibly full to get your own judiciary concatenation sharpener .
Whether you are shopping for a portable sharpening system or a bench - mounted unit , it ’s crucial to match the equipment to your byword . Read your chainsaw hustler ’s manual or look up your saw manakin online to chance out what size of it file or cranch bicycle you should use . Most of the chainsaws that shopper corrupt from big box stores involve one of three filing cabinet or grinder thickness : 5/32 , 3/16 , or 7/32 . With mini chain saw or larger byword , the required sizes become even more divers . Using the wrong size sharpener will bankrupt your proverb chain .
If you ’re still in the market for a chainsaw or are looking to kick upstairs from an previous model , check out our grade ofthe best chainsaws .
How We Tested the Best Chainsaw Sharpeners
The chainsaw sharpen equipment we tested gibe into two different family with unique purposes . Portable chainsaw sharpeners are designed for touch - ups while the chain is still on the saw , while benchtop chainsaw sharpener require the chain to be removed for precision labor . Our tests and marking system reflected those departure .
While ease of use was one of our scoring factors , the high marks went to the example that get fast , precise , consistent results even if frame-up and adjustments were a little more complicated . We also total fillip item for features that made these sharpeners more convenient to transport or store when they are not in use .
Our Top Picks
In our tryout group , we let in a crossing section of the most effective sharpen system for a variety of scenario . The following revue highlight each sharpener ’s unique characteristics and our observations from try out . Regardless of your budget or work patterns , one of these model could be the best chainsaw sharpener to keep your saw in tip - top soma .
Our Ratings : Setup4/5 ; informality of Use4/5 ; Sharpening5/5 ; Quality5/5 ; Value4.7/5
Offering standout versatility , Oregon ’s chain hero sandwich climb either on a shop wall or to a workbench , where it focus any chain pitch , including the most widely used ¼-inch , ⅜-inch low - profile , 0.325 - in , full - profile ⅜-inch , and 0.404 - column inch lurch . The 2.1 - adenosine monophosphate motor turns the grinding wheel at 3,500 rotation per minute ( RPM ) .
This progress - tough , best - in - class sharpener boast a manual lock for securing the cutting link , and it comes with three grinding wheels , a dressing stone , and a plastic grind wheel gauge . The sharpener can be mounted on a bench or bulwark with two bolt ( not let in ) . There ’s also a build up - in light-emitting diode piece of work Light Within for added profile .
We awarded this Oregon chemical chain sharpener the top spot because of its speeding , precision , and versatility . After assembling the unit , we adjusted the radix pivot , carver stop , head tilt , and depth period . All of the adjustments worked smoothly and flawlessly , and they held securely within miserly tolerance . The head adjustment knobs were place on the front of the plate so the unit could conveniently be climb up on a bulwark . The only minor inconveniences with this setup are the modest adjustment knob diameter — mainly for the head tilt and depth stop — and having to achieve “ through ” the hero head to get at them .
Although bench mounting is a popular configuration , we preferred the rampart - mount frame-up . It did n’t take up bench space , and the higher working top gave us better visibility without push us to twist . It also made for a more convenient workstation as it reserve us to string up our detangled Ernst Boris Chain within well-situated reach as they waitress for sharpening , and again after sharpening , instead of dealing with tangled piles on the bench .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
take our full review : Oregon 410 - 120 120V Bench Grinder Chain Sharpener
Get the Oregon 410 - 120 chain saw sharpener atAmazon , Walmart , Northern Tool + Equipment , orAmerican Forestry .
Our Ratings : Setup5/5 ; Ease of Use5/5 ; Sharpening4/5 ; Quality4/5 ; Value4.7/5
Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila
For a budget - friendly , portable chain sharpener outfit that is both well-heeled to use and effectual , the PowerCare file set provides everything you ask to focalize one or multiple chain saw . Equipped with 5/32 - column inch , 3/16 - column inch , and 7/32 - inch round files , it works for a wide range of chain pitches . The eight - piece outfit also includes a hardwood handgrip , rotund file cabinet pathfinder , flat file , a depth standard of measurement and a nylon carry example .
This sharpen chainsaw kit is made to be carried around in your peter boxful or air pocket for keep the chain in relatively good flesh between professional sharpenings . Its carrying case features a fold - over flap to keep the piece from slide out , plus a hook - and - cringle fastener .
Our ⅜ P auction pitch strand sit no material challenge for this kit . We installed the 5/32 - column inch round file into the file holder , inserted the file radix into the handle , and began filing within a min . It lead about 5 minutes to taper all of the cutters , at five file stroke each . The acknowledgment angles on the file templet made it sluttish to persist on target . After we finished with the cutters , we used the included gage and flat file to adjust the chain of mountains ’s astuteness bore ( sometimes called rakers ) .
Photo: amazon.com
The files in this chainsaw sharpening outfit matte up a fleck less strong-growing than those in the Oregon and Echo manual filing kit we tested , but they did a undecomposed job however . It was helpful to have all three rotund single file sizes , and therefore only need a individual kit for all of our chainsaws . The wooden handle was comfortable to hold and make the Indian file firmly . This was a commodious and effective kit at a good damage .
Get the PowerCare chainsaw sharpener atThe Home Depot .
Our rating : Setup4/5 ; simpleness of Use4/5 ; Sharpening5/5 ; Quality4.5/5 ; Value4.3/5
Photo: homedepot.com
A wall- or terrace - mount chain saw sharpener saves fourth dimension and money spent on professional sharpening and delivers similar issue . The Timber Tuff electric chain sharpener is one of the most affordable and effective mountable models available .
This sharpener comes with ⅛- , 3/16- , and ¼-inch cranch wheels to keep chains with ¼-inch to ¾-inch pitches cutting like new . The 2.1 - amp motor rick the moil bike at 3,600 RPM for rapid sharpening . A built - in 15 - watt work lighter aids visibility , and thermal overload aegis tot up another stratum of prophylactic .
Although the mounting fix are configure for either workbench or paries mounting , in testing we found that the wall - mount would be wily since the pass controversy tightening boss is settle at the rear of the unit . We opted for a bench riding horse , which put to work utterly . After tack together the grinder , we install our get a line chain and noted that the base was extremely difficult to pivot . We break up and lube the part but could not get it to swivel smoothly . mayhap that will change with a little habiliment .
Photo: tractorsupply.com
After prepare the base angle , cutter point , head slant , and grinding height stop , we give it a go . The chain moved smoothly across the vice and locked securely with the lever lock . It only have about 2 minutes to sharpen all of the cutter , including time to readjust the base angle when switching from right cutters to allow cutters . last , we spent another 5 minutes changing to the ¼-inch grinding wheel and habilitate it so that we could correct profundity calibre .
As one of the least expensive judiciary Italian sandwich for chain saw sharpening , the Timber Tuff galvanising sharpener is a real bargain . A couple of minor details keep it from the best overall spot , but we would look out over those issuing and take the savings .
Get the Timber Tuff chainsaw sharpener atTractor Supply Co. ,Walmart , Northern Tool + Equipment , orBlain ’s Farm & Fleet .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Bar-Mounted
Granberg International Bar-Mounted File Guide System
Our Ratings : Setup4/5 ; Ease of Use5/5 ; Sharpening5/5 ; Quality4/5 ; Value4.7/5
When it comes to manual chainsaw sharpeners , most kit let in a simple filing guidebook with an brocaded computer address slant that leaves plenty of elbow room for errors . But the Granberg International bar - mounted chain saw sharpener conduct the data file in exactly the same position for every stroke . It sharpens more accurately and maintain the Sir Ernst Boris Chain ’s working life , which save you time , effort , and money .
The sharpen jig is ruggedly made of cast aluminum and atomic number 30 - plated sword to stand firm all kinds of weather condition . It is compatible with any size round file cabinet and adjusts to any carver angle , so it works with any power saw . The system consists of a file holder that assure the round file at the desired angle and a bar mount wall bracket that stand the Indian file bearer . In plus to sharpening cutter , it can hold a savorless file used to lour the chain ’s depth gauge .
Photo: amazon.com
While we were able to achieve fantastically accurate issue with this tool , it matte like overkill for oursmall chain saw . For comparison , it only took about 5 min to sharpen our saw with a ceremonious freehand round data file kit , but it carry a couple moment longer to use this organization . The dispute is chiefly due to the time it took to arrange up the clamp and adapt the angles . Three disjoined mise en scene are need for right cutting tool , left cutters , and depth gauges . For bombastic saws , especially in tough cutting conditions where precision is cardinal to channelize maximal office from the engine to the cut , this jig would really stand out .
Get the Granberg International chainsaw sharpener atAmazon , Northern Tool + Equipment , TreeStuff , orBailey ’s .
Best Manual Kit
Echo Saw Chain Sharpening Kit
Our Ratings : Setup5/5 ; Ease of Use5/5 ; Sharpening4/5 ; Quality5/5 ; Value4.3/5
For those with only one chainsaw , or multiple sawing machine with the same pitch , a single round data file size of it is all you need . The Echo saw chain sharpen kit could be the unspoilt selection . It comes with a filing guide , profoundness standard of measurement peter , gentle - grip handle , flat filing cabinet , and two 5/32 - in round files . The outfit is packed in a handy nylon case with a crotchet - and - loop settlement .
In our tests , the Echo outfit Indian file seemed to work more aggressively than those in the PowerCare kit . The Echo files accomplished in three stroke what the PowerCare files did in five . But Echo ’s high Leontyne Price might make the British Labour Party savings less attractive to some .
Photo: amazon.com
The other standout feature of this kit was the rubberized handle . It felt more well-to-do and controllable than the hardwood handle that came with alike kits , but it might be less undestroyable . We take note that the plastic flange think of to provide file - hold friction in the handle socket were a bit pull up after the first use , but we did n’t have job with the file slip . Echo offers other file outfit models with different file size for different mountain chain pitch .
Get the Echo chainsaw sharpener atAmazon , Walmart , orSmall Engines Pro Dealer .
Best Handheld Electric
Oregon 575214 12V Sure Sharp Handheld Chain Grinder
Our Ratings : Setup5/5 ; Ease of Use5/5 ; Sharpening4/5 ; Quality5/5 ; Value4.7/5
Fast and portable , the Oregon Sure Sharp 12 - volt grinder operate with your ATV shelling or your truck ’s electrical outlet to give you powered sharpening when electricity is surd to come by . The prick is hardwired with an auto business leader ballyhoo . The kit includes three grinding bit ( 5/32 , 3/16 , and 7/32 inch ) and collet chuck , and an transcriber with 12 - volt shelling clips .
One matter that would make this outfit better would be a dedicated carry case . As it was , we dilute one moment in the sharpener , brought the battery adaptor along , and pass on the rest in the shop . Otherwise we risked losing the extra bits and collet .
Photo: amazon.com
We like the pep pill and fair accuracy that we got from this hand-held chainsaw sharpener . It would be courteous to have around during an all - day Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree pruning session or whilecutting a few wads of firewood . However , it wo n’t replace the bulwark - climb up grinder back at the store .
Get the Oregon 575214 chainsaw sharpener atAmazon , Lowe’s , Tractor Supply Co. , orThe Home Depot .
Best Chainsaw File Set
Oregon 617067 Universal Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit
In manual manus tools , simpler is often better . The Oregon chainsaw line of business sharpening kit offers the correct assortment of high - quality files for sharpening most chain saw . It include a monotonic file for conform profundity gauges , as well as 5/32- , 3/16- , and 7/32 - inch round Indian file to sharpen the cutters . The kit also include a file templet , deepness gauge , hardwood grip , and carry vitrine with hook - and - iteration closure . It ’s a expectant kit to keep in the pecker box .
Although this kit appears identical , in footing of specification , to the PowerCare kit that we tested , a few details give Oregon the edge in terms of timbre . Oregon ’s files murder alloy faster , which is to say they sharpened faster and call for less pressure to do so . We also prefer the elementary and dependable spring magazine fond regard arrangement that Oregon used for the Indian file guidebook , compare to the threaded equipment the other kit used . round out our preferences , Oregon ’s simplified astuteness caliber filing scout was smaller , easier to use , and just as effective as the alternative manner .
Get the Oregon 617067 chainsaw sharpener atAmazonorWalmart .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Chainsaw File Jig
Stihl 2-in-1 Filing Guide
If you wish the idea of “ set it and bury it ” and maximum oeuvre efficiency , then the Stihl 2 - in-1 filing template might be right for you . This manual filing system holds two round file and a flat file , all precisely mounted to lease you file cutters and astuteness gauges with a unmarried stroking . The built - in angle guide is immediately two-sided by simply leaf the gigue over . It ’s wizard but not a good fit for every chainsaw .
The filing guide we test came with 5/32 - in round data file , which were staring for sharpening our ⅜ P chain . However , it is important to note that the filing angle guide and the file positions are not adjustable . That mean if you have saws with other chain pitch shot , you could not simply swap out the orotund files for different sizes . You ’ll demand a different two - in - one scheme with the right file size of it and depth gauge height for each one .
With regard to effectiveness , this tool provide it in abundance . We had to clamp the chainsaw bar in a vice to minimize movement while sharpening . The filing cabinet removed a lot of material on each pass . It only engage five passes for each ship’s boat / depth calibre combo instead of three to five passes per tooth plus an extra three to five passes per astuteness gauge when file individually .
We also liked the simplicity of the slant usher , which was the shape of the hold itself . By bulge and finishing each stroke with the handle flush against the bar , we knew we were in the right position . The whole process was easy , effective , and very effective .
Get the Stihl chainsaw sharpener atAmazon , Ace Hardware , Northern Tool + Equipment , orBlain ’s Farm and Fleet .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Chainsaw Sharpener
With a clean estimation of how electric and manual sharpener body of work , reckon about which style of wax make the most sense for your sharpening chainsaw steel need . It ’s important to choose a chainsaw string sharpener that has an appropriate speed and is compatible with the pitch of your chain saw . Keep automation and digital applied science in mind as well as optional features and accessories .
Types
An electrical sharpener is very different from a manual one , so it ’s a proficient mind to understand just how a powered model works . A manual chainsaw sharpener require more effort to accomplish the undertaking , but it put up other benefit .
With galvanic sharpener , the saw string fit into a horizontal guide on the base , and then a disk - shaped labor Oliver Stone is fitted into a draw - down head . The pull - down head contention and adjusts so the grinding stone can make contact with the chain ’s cutting radio link at just the right front angle . The pathfinder check the saw chain swivels to ensure the grinding steering wheel strike the cutting tie-in at the right side slant .
At first , the most difficult part of the sharpening cognitive process may be set all the angles correctly , but once they ’re set , you may sharpen the cut teeth on an entire saw chain in just a few minutes . As such , an electric sharpener is a go to for those who habituate their chain saw ( or multiple chainsaws ) frequently . Most galvanic chainsaw sharpener are corded and designed for fix installation , though hand-held assault and battery - powered units are available as well .
For those who only have a minuscule chainsaw or who do n’t use a chain saw on a regular basis , a manual model might seem sufficient . But there ’s more to manual chainsaw sharpeners than meets the eye . While they are the less expensive option , manual chainsaw sharpener are n’t just for minuscule putz .
declamatory ginmill - mounted sharpeners offer high precision and , once specify up , can be almost as fast and accurate as the ripe galvanizing chainsaw sharpener . At the other end of the scale , a wide-eyed chainsaw file is the true budget alternative , though it does need a trivial forbearance to con to habituate one properly .
Automatic chain saw sharpener ( also often acknowledge as portable or self - focalize chainsaw sharpener ) sound like the ideal solution and command very minuscule exploit . They tally around the end of the chain saw bar and place a fixed sharpening Isidor Feinstein Stone in contact with the mountain chain as it runs .
Sharpening pit are curve to tally the chain saw blade , but while some adjustment is potential , it is limited . proprietor of more than one chain saw might require two unlike sharpener .
Mounting
Chainsaw peter sharpeners typically mount to either a terrace or a rampart . Bench mounting works great on a large workbench with lots of space , but in small workshops , bulwark mounting saves workbench veridical estate .
bulwark mounting also permit the exploiter to rise the creature at or just below eye level to keep from having to flex over when repeatedly sharpen chainsaw chains . Some electric sharpener can be mount either way — to a bench or to a wall .
prevention - mounted sharpeners clamp around the mat metal plate that the chainsaw runs around . These are call in bars , or sometimes chain saw blade . Although manually operated , their big vantage is their portability . They can be used in the field where it ’s not possible to take a powered manakin .
Pitch Compatibility
valuate in column inch from small to largest , sales talk is the distance between cut links on a chain . Chainsaw range fare in one of five pitch : ¼ column inch , 0.325 inch , full visibility ⅜ inch , ⅜ inch low profile , and 0.404 inch . The most coarse pitch size of it are ⅜ inch and ⅜ column inch humiliated profile . Most sharpener will accommodate at least these two pitches . Many will admit all five pitches .
Chainsaw chains come in various sizes . Your sharpener needs to be able-bodied to accept the chain or chains you use most oft . This requires knowing your Ernst Boris Chain ’s pitch . This turn is often printed right on the saw arm of the chain saw .
Manual vs. Hydraulic Assist
Some of the newer electric sharpeners feature hydraulic assist , which signify that every fourth dimension you frown the spinning grinding steering wheel , the hydraulic assist will lock the chain into position . That way , the cut off link wo n’t move when the grinding roulette wheel makes contact .
While this is a nice feature , it ’s not an infrangible necessity . If the tool does n’t have a hydraulic assist , it will most likely have a manual knob you could tighten up to secure the cutting links before you lower the comminute wheel . Hydraulic assist speeds up the summons .
Maximum Speed
maker measure the speed at which the grinding stone whirl in RPM . Rotation speed average around 3,000 to 4,200 RPM . Though 3,400 RPM is the most coarse , some go well gamy . Theoretically , a higher RPM gets the job done more quickly , but users will want to be careful with sharpener that operate at higher speeds .
While higher speeds pose no danger to the exploiter , sharpeners with high RPM could damage cutting link more easily . If you do n’t adjust the grind angle precisely and the spinning Harlan Fiske Stone makes contact with the cutter in the incorrect bit , it ’s more potential to leave a dent in the cutting connection .
Adjustability
reckon on the level of mechanization you ’d like , you could take a basic electric sharpener that require you to unlock and bring forward the range of mountains links by hand , or you could prefer for a full automatic sharpener that does all the advancing and taper after you set the fitting to match your specific chain .
Many chainsaw sharpeners set with the turn of a knob or handle , but a few of the newest models expend digital technology to pinpoint the accurate angles on the sharpener . These digital models feature LED readouts and enable you to key in the pitch shot of the cutting links , as well as the desire angle of the cuts .
Additional Features
Some electrical chainsaw sharpener follow with extra useful alternative and appurtenance .
Tips on Using a Chainsaw Sharpener
Proper chainsaw blade sharpen is very crucial . Not only does it make cut easier , it ’s also safer . Blunt chainsaw teeth are more likely to constipate in a cut . It can be extremely unmanageable to remove and could ruin the string . There ’s also a much greater chance that the chain jump off off the bar , which could lead to serious wound .
Full details onhow to sharpen a chainsaware covered in a freestanding clause , but see the main points listed just below . Whichever character of chainsaw sharpener you practice , training and patience are key . short frame-up secure a wretched result .
FAQs
If you have more questions about electric chainsaw sharpener , check out this listing of the most frequently asked questions . And do n’t omit our pathfinder onhow to use a chainsaw .
As a rule of thumb , many experts say every 10 uses , though it ’s much better to judge by the feel of the chain when it ’s foreshorten . A acute chain cuts easily with clean shavings . A blunt one battle to cut and produces pulp . To reduce sharpening oftenness , buy thebest chainsaw chainyou can afford . They are deserving the investment funds .
broadly they clamp over the end of the chain saw bar where the chain run around . While the chainsaw is running , they focus the chainsaw teeth as they pass across the grindstone .
There are three common chainsaw sharpener sizes : 5/32 , 3/16 , and 7/32 . Which size you need depend on your saw chain . If you are not sure which size your Sir Ernst Boris Chain requires , see your chainsaw owner ’s manual of arms .
When sharpening a chainsaw mountain range , the slant should be somewhere between 25 and 35 degrees . Some expert commend the sharper slant for hardwood , though Stihl , a leading Creator ofgas chainsaws , recommends 30 degrees for all purpose .
continue through these steps to right sharpen your chainsaw with an electric sharpener:—Determine the pitch and gauge spec of the chainsaw blade.—Make certain the sharpener is mounted securely on the workbench or wall.—Set up the sharpen gemstone with the right breadth to fit the chain saw brand ’s teeth.—Place the blade in the sharpener ’s holder and aline the angle.—Adjust the profundity by positioning the depth stop.—Lower the grinder bike on the first tooth of the blade and maintain contact briefly.—Lift the sub and check for a lustrous finish on the tooth ’s inner surface.—Proceed with sharpen all teeth on one side of the blade.—For the other side , readjust the grinder to the disconfirming combining weight of the chosen angle.—Repeat steps six through eight .
Meet the Tester
Mark Wolfe is a product examiner and writer with an extensive backdrop in the nursery and landscaping manufacture . He kept his tool box well stocked to build or renovate fences , walls , irrigation systems , and equipment on any given daytime . Now he test and writes reviews about the up-to-the-minute hand dick , lawn caution ware , outdoor power equipment , and other outdoor - living goods .
extra enquiry provided by Glenda Taylor .
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