How to Use a Chainsaw Sharpener

Chainsaw blades, like any knife or axe, need regular sharpening to do their best work. Not doing so will put a greater strain on the chainsaw's engine, and may eventually lead to a breakdown. Many casual owners of a light chainsaw never take the blades in for sharpening, because it can be expensive. However, sharpening a blade is actually an easy skill to master with a little practice.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Chainsaw file
• Mineral spirits or de-greasing agent
• Old toothbrush
• Rag
• Bar oil

1. Clean the chain up using either mineral spirits or a de-greasing agent with an old toothbrush and a rag.

2. Choose a tooth to start with, and set your chainsaw file into the notch on the front of this tooth.The file should fit the angle of the tooth's blade edge, and the top of the file should be aligned with the top of the tooth.

3. Raise the file to an angle of about 25 degrees. This is standard for most chainsaw blades, but special blades might have a different, flatter angle for sharpening. If you are using a special blade, consult the directions on the box.

4. Run the file across the face of the cutter,twisting as you go to shake away metal filings. Repeat a few times per tooth.

5. Repeat Step 4 for every tooth on the chain facing that direction on one side of the chain.

6. Switch sides and file the unsharpened teeth angled in the opposite direction.

7. Oil the chain when finished.

Tips & Warnings

• Before beginning this process, make sure your chainsaw file matches your chainsaw blade. Chainsaw blades come in different sizes, and the files are sized to match. Inspect your blade before even cleaning the chain. If any teeth are cracked or worn down, you should not bother with sharpening the chain, and should replace it instead.

Resources

• Lowes: Chainsaw Maintenance