How to Sharpen Cutters On a Chain Saw Chain

Is your chain saw just not biting into the wood? Been there! The cutter edges loose their edge fairly quickly after which cutting down a tree is just painful.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Round metal file
• Gloves
• Oil

1. 
    

   When sharpening the cutters on the chain it is good to have the chain on the saw and the guard on so that the chain will move freely. Sit down on the ground with the chain saw between your legs... chain pointing away from you. Put on your protective gloves.

2. 
    

   Now place the round metal file in the groove under the cutting edge. The round file needs to be the same size as the chain. Otherwise you will file off the edge rather than sharpen it.
   
   Some files have metal frame to help keep it level and at the right angle. Definately worth the extra expense.

3. 
    

   Make sure the file is always at level so you get a straight edge. Also note that the cutting edge in at an angle, so stick to the angle when filing.
   
   You might want to apply some oil on the chain to ease the filing.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch out for sharp edges.

[besesitos]

on 9/10/2009 Great Article! Good tips! Thanks! Hugs

[rhoula]

on 8/27/2009 Great article, It would have been even better if you added some pictures to it.
Thank you for sharing