How to Sharpen a Stihl Saw Blade

Maintaining sharp cutting edges on your Stihl chain saw will make your work easier and faster. Dull saws also have more of a tendency to catch and kick back, so keeping your saw sharp is also a matter of safety. Chain saw sharpening tools are unique to the particular type of chain on your saw. If you aren't sure of the chain type, take it in to a dealer and ask.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Chain saw sharpening guide
• Chain saw file
• Grease pencil
• Glove

1. Correctly tension the chain per Stihl's instructions. Accurately sharpening a chain is difficult if it is loose.

2. Attach the Stihl filing guide to the bar of your chain saw. This guide will ensure a good file angle against the cutting surface of the chain tooth.

3. Mark the starting tooth with a grease pencil. If your Stihl chain is dirty, you can simply clean this starting tooth very well to easily distinguish it from the other teeth.

4. Place the Stihl file in the guide and make three passes on the tooth. Three to five is usually sufficient. Be sure to make the same number of passes on every tooth to ensure even wear on the chain.

5. Advance the chain to the next tooth that faces the same direction as the first. Sharpen that tooth and repeat the process until all of the teeth in that direction are sharp.

6. Reverse the guide and repeat the process for all of the teeth that face the other direction.

Tips & Warnings

• Have your Stihl chain sharpened professionally after about five home sharpenings. This will ensure that the cutting angles are correct.
• Wear a glove on the hand you use to advance the chain to avoid being cut by the teeth on the bottom of the bar.
• Only use files and guides designed for your particular Stihl chain. Using an incorrect file or guide can result in incorrect angles and cuts on the chain.

References

• Sharp Advice for Chainsaw Owners
• How to Sharpen a Chainsaw
• How to Sharpen a Chainsaw (Video)

Resources

• Chain Saw Accessories