Like any cutting surface, chainsaw chains become dull after repeated uses. To ensure your chainsaw continues to operate well, it will eventually be necessary to sharpen the chain. Keeping the chain on your chainsaw sharp makes cutting safer, puts less strain on the chainsaw motor, and makes the chainsaw last longer.
Cutting with a dull chain stresses the powerhead, sprocket, guide bar, and of course the chain itself with an increased amount of wear and tear. It also takes a tole on the chainsaw operator, since dull chains are harder to cut with, and can make the saw more difficult to use with safely.
When To Sharpen Your Chainsaw
Chains are coated with industrial chrome, which wears off as the chains encounter dirt, grit, and other debris found on and around wood. When the chrome starts to wear off, the cutting edge will look shiny and the chain will need to be sharpened. Some of the obvious signs that chain needs sharpened include:
- The chain stops self-feeding and you need to push on the saw to make it cut.
- The chainsaw expels wood dust instead of wood chips.
- The saw doesn’t cut straight.
How To Sharpen
Chainsaws can be sharpened using a round file or a chainsaw sharpening jig. The article How to Sharpen a Chainsaw Chain: 3 Methods covers three sharpening methods using these tools in detail. The article has pictures to accompany how-to instructions and a brief introduction to the basics of chainsaw sharpening.
When sharpening a chainsaw, there are two angles on the chainsaw teeth that are important. The top plate angle is usually between 15º and 35º, and the tilt angle is usually 0º, though it can have an angle up to about 10º. Information about the top plate angle and tilt angle which your chainsaw requires can be found in the manufacturer’s information.
If sharpening with a round file, you may want to invest in a filing guide. This will make your filing more accurate and save time. For a nice sharp chain, you want filing strokes to be consistent, and a guide will help ensure that happens.
Professional Sharpening
Though you can sharpen at home, Stihl’s chainsaw guide recommends that all brands of chain should only be sharpened about five times before being taken to a service professional. Sharpening by a qualified service professional ensures that the cutting angles are being filed properly and that the chain will last longer.
Sharpening the chain should be part of regular chainsaw maintenance. Keeping the chain sharp will make it easier and safer for you to cut with the chainsaw. Sharpening the chain will also minimize wear and tear on other parts of the chainsaw, which will help prevent the need for repairs and extend the life of your chainsaw.
