chainsaw chains

[coolhl7]

what do most here feel about using a file freehand vs using a filing guide.

 

[1bush2hog]

I think the concensus is that freehand sharpening is tough for most people. There are also more popular file guides than others with the Husky style that you can find at Lowes, being one of the better guides out there

 

[Casco1]

Here's a thread I started last year it has a lot of information on this subject

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/related-topics/81754-saw-chain-sharpener.html

 

[jeffinsgf]

I have the Pferd filing guide, and like it alot. It cuts down the rakers at the same time that it files the tooth. That normally works out just fine. However, just the other day, my chain was in pretty bad shape from cutting some logs that had been laying in the mud. I filed the chain more than normal, and the rakers got cut down too much. Now that chain is overly aggressive. Next time I have a lot of tooth to remove, I will take the raker file out of the jig.

 

[coolhl7]

has anyone use this one?
Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices

 

[GaryCrowell]

has anyone use this one?
Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices

It looks to be a copy of the oregon guide that I got from Lowes. It does a good job and was cheaper than the one listed.

 

[rexcramer]

I always file freehand, and then use a guide for the rakers every third or fourth filing.

I use Oregon chains (72LG) with the line on the back of the tooth that indicates the proper angle to file at. Other than that hold the file at about a 5 degree angle to the bar and turn it after each swipe.

I can file a 20" chain in about five minutes if its not super dull or hasn't hit anything.

 

[Mighty Dodge]

Like Rex said. I file freehand and only use a guide every 3rd or 4th time to "true things up".

 

[hockeyhead]

I always file freehand, and then use a guide for the rakers every third or fourth filing.

I do the same thing,

 

[Jstpssng]

what do most here feel about using a file freehand vs using a filing guide.

I think it depends on how much you use the saw, and how much you use a saw. The guides will give you a properly tuned chain, but are very time consuming. After a while you know what is right, and get a feel for when the chain isn't cutting right.


I use a chain guide about 2-3 times over the life of a chain to check the set, and use an 8 inch mill bastard flat file on the rakers as it is a lot quicker, especially with safety chains.
(I also buy about 5 chains per year, or about 10 cords/chain)
A pro who is better at filing probably gets more life out of his chains.