Investing in a chainsaw sharpener is cost-effective compared to purchasing a new chainsaw every time the blade gets dull. A sharp blade ensures you get a clean cut every time you use the chainsaw. Whether you want to purchase a new chainsaw (or) upgrade the old one, you have to consider these 3 key factors.
Power
Whether it is electric or manual-powered sharpeners, you have to consider the power of the sharpener. Different electric models come with different motor sizes, ranging from 75 – 300 watts. An electric watt should have a powerful motor to fasten the sharpening process, whereas a manual is considered cheaper and considered less effective.
Frequency of Use
How often you use the chainsaw will help to decide the right sharpener. If you use chainsaw frequently then prefer electric models, which you need to sharpen frequently. While the handheld models are the best use for people who use chainsaws occasionally and rarely need to sharpen.
Chain Size
Different chainsaws have different chain sizes. If you want to sharpen the chain, select the specific chainsaw sharpener supporting your given chain size. One can find sharpener with sizes like 1/4-inch, 0.325-inch, 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch & 3/4-inch. Check out the chainsaw to get the perfect sharpener for sharpening. Further information is provided clearly in the “Buying Guide”. Consider these details to analyze the products and choose the best one. Using the same information, we have shortlisted the Best Chainsaw sharpeners.
Top Chainsaw Sharpener 2023
Best Chainsaw Sharpener Reviews
1. Oregon 410-120 Bench or Wall Mounted Saw Chain Grinder
Best chainsaw Best gas chainsaws Best electric chainsaws Best cordless chainsaws
Oregon is a highly popular brand that is mainly known for making chainsaws. But it also makes chainsaw sharpener for sharpening their own chainsaws like the one present here. The Oregon 410-120 chainsaw sharpener or grinder is present in the 1st position in this article as it offers a great build quality. It even comes with a 1 year warranty. As per its name, this chainsaw sharpener can be easily mounted on either a bench or on the wall as per your requirements. It offers a chain pitch of up to 0.404 inches that is much better than other electric options out there. And since this is an electric chain grinder, it can be used to quickly and easily sharpen the chain of your chainsaw. While it is a bit on the expensive side, it comes with high quality grinding wheels of different sizes that can be quite handy for sharpening your chainsaw. Best Features:
Up to 0.404-inch chain pitch Electric-type chainsaw sharpener 1 year warranty Comes with high quality grinding wheels Mounts on a wall or a bench Inbuilt one-way motor rotation for safety Simple and easy to use adjustment levers
Components:
Chainsaw sharpener 3 grinding wheels User manual Warranty card
2. Stihl 2 IN 1 EASY FILE CHAINSAW CHAIN SHARPENER
Sihtl is a high rated brand of tools and equipment that is made for using with a chainsaw. You can even find a great chainsaw sharpener from Stihl in this article. This Sihtl chainsaw sharpener is present in the 3rd position in this article as it one of the cheapest options available out there. And even then, it can offer decent performance for allowing you to easily and quickly sharpen the chain of your chainsaw. You get a maximum chain pitch of up to 0.325 inches with this chain sharpener that is quite useful. A great thing about this chainsaw sharpener is that it does not take a lot of space. As a result, you can easily store it in your workshop when not in use without taking up a lot of space. The build quality of this chain grinder is also quite good since it offers metal construction. It can sharpen the teeth and depth gauge in a single step to save your time. Best Features:
Up to 0.325-inch chain pitch Manual type chainsaw sharpener Metal construction Small and compact, easy to store Sharpens teeth and depth gauge in a single step Affordable and a value for money option
Components:
Chainsaw sharpener User manual Warranty card
3. Katzco Chainsaw Sharpener
Katzco is a highly popular brand of files and similar tools that offers a wide range of options out there. And as you would expect, we are here with a chainsaw sharpener option from Katzco. The Katzco chainsaw sharpener is the cheapest option present in this article. And even then, it offers a wide range of accessories since it is a complete kit for easily grinding and sharpening the chain on your chainsaw. As a result, it is a great value for money option for a lot of users. Since you get multiple files in this kit, it offers a maximum chain pitch support of up to 5/32 inches for grinding the chain of your chainsaw. You also get other tools in this kit from Katzco, including a wood handle, depth gauge, filing guide, tool pouch, and much more. All of these things can be quite useful while sharpening and fixing the chain of your chainsaw. Despite the affordable price tag of this kit, all of the included files and accessories offer a decent build quality. Best Features:
Up to 5/32 inch chain pitch Manual type chainsaw sharpener Value for money Easy to use Decent build quality Complete kit for sharpening chains
Components:
Chainsaw sharpener 3 files Hardwood stain and finish handle Flat fine-tooth file Filing guide Tool pouch Depth gauge tool User manual Warranty card
4. BACKRIDGE TOUGH STORE Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
The brand BACKRIDGE TOUGH is started by wood cutting specialists with over 50 years of experience. Their chainsaw sharpener kit is culmination of their expertise in the field. This kit includes multiple file sizes that are suitable for almost any chainsaw in the market. Using these accessories, you can sharpen the chainsaw easily within few minutes. Each file guides come with multiple file angles and the information is engraved on it. High quality materials are used for making these files which ensures durability and longevity. A red pouch is provided to store and organize the components easily. Best Features:
Reliable brand Compatible with most of the chainsaws Multiple file sizes Variety of filing angles Heavy-duty quality construction Easy to use Easy to carry around
Components:
Polished Wooden Handle 2 – Depth Gauge / Bar Cleaner 3 – Flat / Raker File 4 – Filing Guide 5 – 5/32″ (4.0 mm) Round File 6 – 3/16″ (4.8 mm) Round File 7 – 7/32″ (5.5 mm) Round File 8 – Carrying Case
5. Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
As per the name, Buffalo Tools is known to make various tools and equipment related to chainsaws. The Buffalo Tools ECSS electric chainsaw sharpener is one of the cheapest electric options present in this article. Even then, it has a lot of useful features due to which it has a high user rating. You get a 4200 RPM grinding speed in this chainsaw sharpener due to its powerful 85-watt motor. As a result, you can easily and quickly sharpen any chainsaws. This chainsaw sharpener uses a 4 ¼ inch x ⅛ inch grinding wheel with an arbor of ⅞ inches. As a result, it leaves a clean finish while sharpening any chain of a given chainsaw. Since this is an electric chainsaw sharpener, you get an adjustable chain pitch that can be adjusted as per your requirement. You can mount this chainsaw sharpener to either the wall, a bench, or a vise for using it without any issues. Best Features:
Adjustable chain pitch Electric-type chainsaw sharpener 90-day warranty Comes with high quality grinding wheel Mounts on a wall, a vise, or a bench 4200 RPM motor 85-watt motor Adjust to most of the popular chain designs
Components:
Chainsaw sharpener Grinding wheel User manual Warranty card
6. EzzDoo 3 in 1 Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Kit
EzzDoo is a small yet reliable brand that develops power tools accessories by focusing on minute product details. The brand was started with the aim of exploring an easier work style by offering fast and efficient power tool accessories. This is another durable chainsaw sharpener that uses the hardest titanium-plated diamond wheel the brand has ever come up with. This extends the life of the wheels by 20% compared to the conventional ones so that you don’t have to change the wheels frequently. You get 4 different sizes of wheels to sharpen different chains available in the market. This is a highly efficient sharpener and allows you to sharpen even the bluntest chains within a few minutes. Even if you don’t have any prior experience in sharpening chainsaw blades, you can still sharpen the blades at accurate angles and depths with the help of angle attachment feature. Using this, you can prevent wrong-angle damage and make the chain razor-sharp. The chainsaw sharpener kit is backed by a 30 days money-back guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. Best Features
Comes with 4 sizes of wheels Titanium-plated diamond wheels Durable build quality Sharpens the blades within a few minutes Angle attachment feature for accuracy Lightweight and easy to use 30 days money-back guarantee
Components
Sharpening Tool Titanium-plated Sharpening Wheels Angle Adjustment Guide Wrenches Carbon Brushes Quick Guide
7. I-S IMPORT Electric Grinder Chain Saw Bench Sharpener
IS Import is a lesser-known brand of power tools like the chainsaw sharpener present here. It can be another great option if you want an electric chainsaw sharpener without paying a lot of money. As this is an electric chainsaw sharpener, you get an adjustable chain pitch. This allows you to use it with almost any chain of your choice without any issues. Not only that, but its electric motor will enable you to easily and quickly sharpen and grind chainsaw chains. It is much simpler than using similarly priced manual chainsaw sharpeners. Despite the affordable price tag of this chainsaw sharpener, it comes with an included grinding wheel. As a result, it is a value for money option since you do not have to buy a separate grinding wheel. Just like the previous option, this one also has a 4200 RPM motor with a lower power rating of 85 watts. It uses a 4 ¼ inch x ⅛ inch sized ⅞ inch arbor grinding wheel. Best Features:
Adjustable chain pitch Electric-type chainsaw sharpener 4 ¼ inch x ⅛ inch sized ⅞ inch arbor grinding wheel 4200 RPM motor 80 watts motor power Works with various chain designs Mount on a wall, vise, or a bench
Components:
Chainsaw sharpener Grinding wheel User manual Warranty card
Buying Guide for the Best Chainsaw Sharpeners
We are providing the essential information in this guide to let you know how to choose the best sharpener, as per your requirement.
1. Types of Chainsaw Sharpeners:
Generally, there are three main types of chainsaw sharpeners available – electric, handheld file, and bar mounted chainsaw sharpeners. Each type has its own set of pros and cons. Have a look at these types and decide which one suits best for you before buying.
1A. Electric Chainsaw Sharpener:
The electric chainsaw is the fastest, efficient, precise, and widely used by professionals among these three types. This electric sharpener is easy to use, as it won’t require your muscle power while sharpening. You have to clamp the chain in between the guide bar to restrict the chain movements in place and thereby ensure the correct sharpening angle. The wheel starts to move at a constant speed to sharpen the chain with constant length and angles. They are expensive with quite a confusing setup, especially for beginners. It effectively sharpens even a dull saw easily and quickly, which makes it get more beneficial for people who need frequent sharpening. One has to wear safety gear like gloves for hands and goggles for eyes while using this chainsaw sharpener. Some models come with a cord and others with cordless. Advantages:
Easy to use Provides precise, fast, and uniform sharpening. Sharpen the chain with consistent length and angles.
Drawbacks:
Set-up can be a little confusing Expensive
1B. Handheld File Chainsaw Sharpener:
This is the most common and basic type of chainsaw sharpener. It is a file comes in varying diameter used to sharpen various chain sizes. You need to run them over the chain’s tip, which has to be done manually by hand with some muscle power. So, one has to be careful while sharpening, as they won’t disturb the chain’s cutting angle. Here the mobility and low-price range are plus points of this manual chainsaw sharper, whereas removing the chain from the chainsaw when sharpening would be a downside, as it takes some time to remove and adjust. Advantages:
Best to use for people who sharpen chainsaw frequently. Affordable than other types Simple and basic sharpening process
Drawbacks:
Need some muscle power to sharpen the chain It is a slow and time-consuming process.
1C. Bar Mounted Chainsaw Sharpener:
Since they offer a more intensive sharpening process, which makes it lie in between handheld file and electric sharpeners. It needs a stable and flat platform like a worktable to sharpen the chain effectively. They use knobs to set the chainsaw as per the specification of a manufacturer for depth and filling angle. Use a hand crank to set the chain in place (or) to move the chain through a sharpener. They provide precise sharpening with perfect control over the sharpener but you have to take out the chain for sharpening it. Advantages:
Provides more precise sharpening with control over sharpener. Gives faster and efficient results than handheld files.
Drawbacks:
Require a sturdy bench or worktable for mounting. Remove the chain for sharpening.
Verdict – An electric chainsaw sharpener suits best for a seasoned woodworker, who uses chainsaw frequently, while a bar-mounted sharpener or handheld file sharpener suits for occasional chainsaw user, as they cost less but works well.
2. Performance:
Electric chainsaw sharpeners work faster and sharpen the saw more accurately than manual types. So, it is considered powerful in terms of performance.
You have to pick this electric chainsaw sharpener when you have to do high-intensity sharpening. If you sharpen the chainsaw occasionally, then opt for a manual type, as they are effective and works well, but won’t surpass electric ones.
3. Mounting Options:
Typically, the chainsaw sharpeners are mounted either to a wall or bench. Based on your space availability, you can choose either of these options. If your workshop has a large workbench with lots of space, then bench-mounting is a handy option, whereas if your shop is small, then go with the wall-mounting option to save on workbench space. Wall mounting will allow the user to mount the tool at or below eye level to prevent them to bend over while sharpening multiple chains. Most electric sharpeners are mounted either way – to a wall or a bench, whereas most manual sharpeners are handheld, yet a few can be mounted to the bar of the chainsaw directly, which makes it more precise and stable.
4. Pitch Compatibility:
A pitch is defined as the distance between cutting links on a chain, which is measured in inches. Usually, chains come in one of these five pitches – 1/4-inch, .325-inch, full profile 3/8-inch, low profile 3/8-inch, and 0.404-inch (from smallest to largest range). Among them, a 3/8-inch full profile and a 3/8-inch low profile are the most common pitch sizes, and most sharpeners will accommodate these two pitches, while many sharpeners will accommodate all those five pitches. We will notice chainsaw chains in various sizes and their number is printed right on the saw arm of the chainsaw. So, while considering the chain sharpness, you have to ensure that the sharpener is compatible with the pitch of your saw chain. Most electric sharpeners are compatible with at least two sizes, whereas others can easily handle all five. If you are using hand-powered sharpeners, which require a different file for each size. Check it out properly before making its purchase.
5. Manual or Hydraulic Assist:
A chainsaw sharpener tool should have either hydraulic assist or manual knob or automated feature for proper sharpening process. A few newly designed electric sharpeners have this hydraulic assist feature. This will lock the chain in place every time you lower the spinning grinding wheel. Thus, the cutting links don’t move while the grinding wheel makes contact. It is considered a nice feature but not an essential/must-have feature. Some chainsaw sharpeners have an automated operation feature, which let you set the chain into the machine, key the settings and allow the tool to do the rest. It results in an accurate and fast sharpening process, which makes it suitable to use for a wide range of chainsaws. In case, if your chainsaw sharpener won’t have either automated features or hydraulic assist, then it possesses a manual knob that let you tighten to secure the cutting links before lowering the grinding wheels. Here hydraulic assist will speed up the sharpening process.
6. Maximum Speed:
The spinning speed of a grinding stone is measured in rotations per minute (RPM). The average rotation speed will be around 3000 – 4200 RPM, in which 3400 RPM is considered the quite common speed level. So, the higher the RPM value, the more quickly it will perform the job. But be cautious that a sharpener with a higher RPM is more aggressive. So, if you do not adjust the grinding angles precisely and the spinning stone makes contact with the cutter in the wrong spot, and thereby it leaves a gouge in the cutting link. Though there is no potential danger involved to those who use the sharpener, yet the sharpener with higher RPMs has the potential to damage the cutting links.
7. Height and Angle:
This feature is quite useful to first-time users. They should know the height and angle measurement of the blade. Generally, each tooth on the saw blade has a different height that has to be filed to a certain size to properly sharpen the teeth. So, you need to use different types of files to sharpen the blade’s tooth at different heights. Also, you have to sharpen the teeth at a certain angle to grab ultimate sharpness. One can easily check out the saw’s blade angle directly on the blade (or) saw’s packaging. Besides using the right size of the file, one has to ensure that they sharpen the blade at the right tooth angle. We mostly notice that every sharpener comes with angle markings to help with file alignment. But not all models able to handle a wide variety of tooth heights and angles. For instance, disk-based electric models are a bit tricky to use while choosing the right angle. Since these sharpeners can handle every tooth height, they move quickly which makes it easy to remove too much material accidentally from the teeth. Thus, it minimizes the lifespan of the chain, if you choose any wrong angle.
8. Size Compatibility:
Not every sharpener available is as versatile as you think. A few models can able to sharpen different sizes of chains, while others are limited. So, before buying a model, you have to know what size of teeth a sharpener can handle and know its height and angle of teeth that a chainsaw uses. Thus, you can pick the right model that is compatible with the chainsaw or other types of saws. Most electric models are adjusted easily to accommodate different sizes of chains, which makes it the best option for professionals.
9. Portable:
Looking for a sharpener that let you take it along to the workshop, then prefer to choose a manual model. As they are lighter, smaller, and won’t need electricity for its working. Also, in most cases, electric-powered models are considered highly portable. Some models can easily run on a car’s cigarette lighter port, whereas others are battery-powered. So, check out this portability option and choose the one, as per your requirement.
10. Power:
This power or wattage is essential to consider while purchasing an electric model sharpener. So, the more powerful the sharpener, the better & quickly it will sharpen the tool. Different electric sharpener models offer different motor sizes, which range from 50 watts to 300 or 400 watts. So, choose a model with a high-powered motor to generate higher RPM, even though a bit pricier. This will help to speed up the sharpener to quickly sharpen the chainsaw.
11. Durability:
You should choose a sharpener that can withstand heavy-duty use and last longer, without investing in an expensive electric model, which has to quit on you for a couple of months. If you are looking for a model to use daily at your work, then avoid cheap plastic sharpeners and choose a durable and long-lasting sharpener.
12. Usage:
How often you use the chainsaw (or) its usage frequency, will have a big impact on the type of sharpener you want to purchase. An electric model is the best option for those who need to use the chainsaw several times a week. It would be time-consuming to use a manual model, but an electric model saves a lot of time in the workshop, even though it is expensive. In case, if you use the saw less frequently (like once a month or less), then a handheld file is enough, as you won’t have to spend a lot on the sharpener (rarely need to sharpen). Use a bar-mounted one to get a lot of precision and let its sharpness last longer, but requires a workshop to have perfect sharpening.
13. Built-In Lights:
Most of the modern models have these built-in LED lights. It helps you to perform the sharpening and grinding tasks effectively, even in low-light conditions. It illuminates directly on the spot where the grinding stone and the cutting links meet. Also, let you see that you are grinding correctly at the exact angle. This bright LED light will effectively reduce accidents in your workshop and thus improves safety between you and around the machine while using.
14. Digital Readouts:
Looking for the best professional finish, then check out the models having digital readouts. They let the user to key in the right pitch for the cutting links. Also, it allows you to choose the cutting angle to match the saw. This digital readout will offer precise and accurate sharpening of the chainsaw.
15. Grinding Wheel:
It is mainly used to sharpen your saw teeth. One can find stones that are available in different grits and sizes to make it suit for all chainsaw models, which are long-lasting and inexpensive. But ensure that the grinding wheel resembles to the right pitch before starting the sharpening process. You have to separately purchase stone grinding wheels, but for some models, you will get one or more along with the purchase of your sharpener.
16 Grinding – Wheel Gauges:
It is a tiny plastic or metal bar with notches used to check the width of a grinding wheel. This tool will allow you to check whether you are using the proper grinding head for the chainsaw or not. While cutting with the grinding wheel of wrong size will result in an improper finish and premature failure. Thus, it leads to dulling of the chainsaw and its teeth.
17. Dressing Stones:
It is a must to have part of the machine, as it prevents the buildup of dust and debris on the grinding wheel while operating. If debris/dust gets into the saw, and from there to the saw teeth, then it causes an inappropriate finish and may lead to malfunctions during its usage.
18. Handles and Grips:
One has to check out the handle and grip while buying an electric model. It offers you complete control on the grinding head when it is operating. Also, its ergonomically designed handle will reduce the vibration that comes out of the device.
19. Adjustable Chain Vise:
This feature is helpful for those who are using electric models. To stabilize the tool in the cutting process, you have to run the chain over this vise. But ensure that your vise is offering a wide range of motion.
20. Material Design:
Generally, most benchtop sharpening tools have cast or steel bodies, which add some additional weight to the device. This extra weight will provide proper stability to the tool while sharpening the chainsaw.
21. Price:
The chainsaw sharpener’s price will depend on various factors like its type (manual or electric), quality, & construction. Usually, manual sharpeners are less expensive (starts from $15) than electric counterparts. While the price range of electric sharpeners will be $40 – $100. Since these are high-quality tools that sharpen and extend the life of the chainsaw chain. Also, one can find the price of professional-grade tools will be $300 or more. It’s not that costly chainsaw sharpeners provide you with the best. You have to check out its features, the type of material it is made with, and the type of blade it has to sharpen, before making its purchase.
Best Way to Sharpen the Chainsaw Chain:
Whether you are an experienced or normal chainsaw user, you came to know that a dull chainsaw won’t make it use effectively and thereby encourages you to purchase a new chain. Yet it won’t be good to purchase a new chain whenever it gets dull, as it is a waste of money. So, it’s time to try a chainsaw sharpener. Although it would be a daunting task at first, till when you learn how to use it, then it will be an interesting activity. Here are the simple steps that let you know how to sharpen the chainsaw.
Pick the Sharpener – Make sure to decide about the type of sharpener that works best on the chainsaw. Also, check out the shape of the file along with the file guide with the sharpener. Select the Right Sized File – For most products, the manufacturer will specify the file, stone size or right guide to sharpen their chains, which is mentioned in the user manual or packaging (or search online). Usually, for most models, the file size of 3/16-, 5/32-, or 7/32-inches are needed. If you are using an electric one, then set it to these sizes, as needed. Begin the Process at Unique Link – The user has to know where to start and finish the sharpening process. The reason is that they may over sharpen the same spot. So, to prevent this from happening, you have to start sharpening at a special link like not having teeth or having a different color (or) simply mark the starting point for best results and to finish the complete sharpening process. Use Right Motion – It is essential while using a handheld file, where it requires even and firm motions. So, align the file and blade to the same angle, and then apply even pressure throughout while moving to sharpen the chain. For electric, it will run in a pattern to sharpen the chain. Stroke Away from Body – Have outward strokes away from the body with a file at 30 – 35 degree to the bar. Rinse & Repeat – After sharpening the chain completely, you have to rinse the sharpener and chain to remove the metal fillings. Then inspect the chain to determine that it is sharp and if not, repeat the sharpening process once again.
How to Tighten the Chain on a Chainsaw?
If you found the tension has to be readjusted while testing the chain of your chainsaw. So, you should know how to adjust the chain in the saw. Here is the detailed process that let you learn how to tighten or loosen the tension to fix the chain properly in chainsaw.
Firstly, loosen the nut on the guide bar side panel. In case, if you have chainsaw with brake attached to side panel then you have to unlock it before staring the process. Then you will find tensioning screws on the side of the guide bars. Now you’re ready to make essential adjustments to the saw tension. In case, if the tension of the chain is too loose then turn the screws to right to adjust the settings and thereby to tighten the chain. If you found chain tension too tight, then turn the screws to left to loosen the tension. Make sure to check the adjustment of tension, which you have done. If all have done correctly then work on tightening the nut on side panel. In case, if not done properly then again adjust the screws until the tension problem is resolved. Also, one has to be careful while tightening the side panel nut, as you have to lift the nose of the chainsaw while tightening the nut. If not done, it will damage the machine and may be dangerous while operating.
Conclusion
Just like any other power tool, the blade or chain of a chainsaw can wear out over time. As a result, you need to sharpen them again and again, over time using a chain sharpener. Thus, we have mentioned some of the best chain sharpener options in this article. You can also find all of their details along with a detailed buying guide. But if you still can’t choose the perfect chainsaw sharpener for your chain, here are some of our recommendations:
If you want a highly reliable chain sharpener, then you can go with the Oregon 410-120 chain sharpener. While this option is a bit expensive, it offers a 1 year warranty and a great build quality. And since this is an electric chain sharpener, it provides a large chain pitch limit of up to 0.404 inches. You can mount this chain sharpener either on a bench or on the wall as per your needs and requirements. The Granberg Bar Mount G-106B chain sharpener can be another great option if you are on a budget. Despite its affordable price tag, it offers 1 year warranty to the user. And as you would expect from its price, this is a manual chain sharpener. You get a chain pitch limit of up to 0.325 inches that is quite decent for the given price tag. When compared with other options, this chain sharpener is also quite easy to use. But if you are looking for an electric chain sharpener, you can go with the Buffalo Tools ECCS electric chainsaw sharpener. Even though this is an electric option, it is quite affordable and comes with a 90-day warranty. It has a decently powerful motor with a speed of 4200 RPM that allows you to sharpen your chainsaw easily. You also get a ⅞ inch arbor grinding wheel with this chainsaw sharpener for easily sharpening any chainsaw.
Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. You can also post any questions down there if you have any! Comment * Name * Email * Website
Δ
