Chainsaw Sharpening

DIXIEDOG · Feb 2, 2010

I just picked up a Stihl 250 with a .325 pitch chain and I was wondering if I could use the same file set up as my Husky 3/8 chain on the .325 chain? The Husky file guide is much better than the Stihl because it files the raker down at the same time so it's quick and maintains the same bite all the time. The Stihl file guide is Ok but it doesn't do the raker so you need to go back and do it separately

The Husky guide I've got is like this one

beenthere · Feb 2, 2010

I've not used the combination jig as shown. Might work if the settings are right and the round file is the right diameter for the chain size. What file size does the Stihl chain call for?

I use the Husky Pferd file jig as shown here. File the rakers separate, as they don't need filing as often as I touch up the chain (at least every tank of fuel).

DIXIEDOG · Feb 2, 2010

I'm not sure which size file the Stihl .325 chains use, they look to be the same as my Husky 3/8 but I guess I'll have to look a bit closer. Those Pferd sharpening jigs work excellent, I like the all in one unit it's quicker for me.

tawilson · Feb 2, 2010

They make one for each size. File size and raker height are both different. I use 5/32" and 7/32" files on mine and have .025 and .030 raker gauges. I've never used the combination setup. I like the idea of giving the rakers a stroke while filing. I haven't been to Bailey's in a while. Time to go shopping.

D7E · Feb 2, 2010

DIXIEDOG said:
I'm not sure which size file the Stihl .325 chains use, they look to be the same as my Husky 3/8 but I guess I'll have to look a bit closer. Those Pferd sharpening jigs work excellent, I like the all in one unit it's quicker for me.

Most use 3/16 for .325 ...and 7/32 for 3/8

studor · Feb 2, 2010

Most times there is a 1/16 difference between the files for a .325 chain versus a 3/8 chain with the caveat that it depends on the chain (low profile chain is usually different). As I remember it both the Stihl and Husky sites will have recommended file sizes for the chains you have. My immediate answer would be you need new files -- check and see if you can find the guide instructions on line and it will probably tell you if it works on different chain sizes.

20 20 · Feb 2, 2010

I have the ms 250 stihl, also have the ms 310, both take a different file. a 3/16th for the 250, and a 7/32nd for the 310

tawilson · Feb 2, 2010

I did order a couple of the file guides from Bailey's. There is one for each size.

DIXIEDOG · Feb 2, 2010

Yep, you guys are right different sizes

I just ordered the new one for my .325 Stihl chain, now I just got to make sure I grab the right one each time

captbluewater · Feb 2, 2010

Dremel makes an attachment to sharpen chainsaws and works pretty good. So if you already have the tool get that attachment

beenthere · Feb 2, 2010

I've been the dremel route..And "pretty good" when sharpening a chain just wasn't good enough (for me). But if satisfied with it, then go with it.

crbr · Feb 2, 2010

DIXIEDOG said:
Yep, you guys are right different sizes I just ordered the new one for my .325 Stihl chain, now I just got to make sure I grab the right one each time

Link?

DIXIEDOG · Feb 3, 2010

crbr said:
Link?

I'm not sure which size you need but here's a link to Bailey's. I don't know if the searches there are linkable or not but if not you need to search "Pferd Chainsharp"

Chainsaws, Outdoor Power Equipment and Tree Care Supplies from Bailey's

alchemysa · Feb 3, 2010

I use one of these EZE-LAP diamond chainsaw sharpeners in my drill. (I use the CSG model with the guide plate). Very fast and easy to use. I hand sharpened my chains for 15 years with a round file in a guide but never got anywhere near the sharpness and accuracy I get with one of these. I just wish they were this cheap ($4.95) in Australia. Over here they cost about $14 as I recall.

EZE-LAP Diamond Products - Chainsaw Sharpeners

20 20 · Feb 3, 2010

captbluewater said:
Dremel makes an attachment to sharpen chainsaws and works pretty good. So if you already have the tool get that attachment

I use my dremel when ever I need a hard sharpening, I can get them sharper then new. I normally hand sharpen but every now and then there are those hidden wonders in wood.

psj12 · Feb 3, 2010

I have used the easy lap also. I found a 12V chain saw sharpner form harbor freight that is really just a 12V dremel type tool. I disposed of the round stone sharpner they provided and substituted the Easy lap. It does work well but doesn't reduce the raker.

DIXIEDOG · Feb 3, 2010

alchemysa said:
I use one of these EZE-LAP diamond chainsaw sharpeners in my drill. (I use the CSG model with the guide plate). Very fast and easy to use. I hand sharpened my chains for 15 years with a round file in a guide but never got anywhere near the sharpness and accuracy I get with one of these. I just wish they were this cheap ($4.95) in Australia. Over here they cost about $14 as I recall.

EZE-LAP Diamond Products - Chainsaw Sharpeners

When you guys use power attachments to sharpen your chain how do you take off equal amounts off each cutting edge? When I file I file each link the same number of strokes at approx. the same pressure so they stay pretty even. I always worried about using a jig with a drill because I thought I might start getting uneven cutting action after a few sharpenings. Is this a non issue?

escavader · Feb 3, 2010

DIXIEDOG said:
When you guys use power attachments to sharpen your chain how do you take off equal amounts off each cutting edge? When I file I file each link the same number of strokes at approx. the same pressure so they stay pretty even. I always worried about using a jig with a drill because I thought I might start getting uneven cutting action after a few sharpenings. Is this a non issue?

It is important to keep both the teeth on opposite sides of a chain the same size or you cant make straight cuts.Youll notice this quick in large wood,the saw wants to cut circles

Isometimes use a measuring caliper to try to keep them even.
ALAN

beenthere · Feb 3, 2010

DIXIEDOG said:
When you guys use power attachments to sharpen your chain how do you take off equal amounts off each cutting edge? When I file I file each link the same number of strokes at approx. the same pressure so they stay pretty even. I always worried about using a jig with a drill because I thought I might start getting uneven cutting action after a few sharpenings. Is this a non issue?

DixieDog
In my opinion and experience, you have it figured out very well.

That is precisely the problem that you don't have stroking with a file.

alchemysa · Feb 3, 2010

DIXIEDOG said:
When you guys use power attachments to sharpen your chain how do you take off equal amounts off each cutting edge? When I file I file each link the same number of strokes at approx. the same pressure so they stay pretty even. I always worried about using a jig with a drill because I thought I might start getting uneven cutting action after a few sharpenings. Is this a non issue?

Theres no jig involved when you use the Eze-lap in a drill. You just hold the rotating file against the tooth. I haven't noticed a problem keeping the edges even as long as I don't press too hard or for too long. This is especially important with a new Eze-lap sharpener because a new one is much coarser than an old one. But personally I find the performance of the chain when sharpened with the Eze-lap is so vastly superior to my old 'hand filed' efforts that concern about uneven sharpening is a bit of a non issue. Of course many of you guys are probably much better 'hand filers' than me so you might not be so impressed with the Eze-lap.

If you buy the Eze-lap I suggest you get the twin pack. If you've been hand filing for years you might be surprised how much 'Eze-lapping' you need to do to get the chain back into shape. Another little point for you guys over there... Eze-lap is a US manufacturer.