Which chainsaw file to use

Looking for a budget-friendly chainsaw? Here are the best chainsaws below we reviewed. Read next! Search for:. Moment of honesty: If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Read more here. What Is a File Size Chart? What Is a Chainsaw Chain? Chainsaw File Size. Flat File and Gauge. Here are the available sizes: 0.

Gauge Measurement. Chipper or Round Tooth. But you may also wonder why does it even matter what size of file you use? The truth is that file size matters in chain sharpening because the round file profile is partly responsible for giving cutters the right sharpening angles. In chain sharpening, you are supposed keep the file in the same spot, and sharpen the entire cutting edge in a single action.

To be more precise, the file profile determines the blade angle of the cutter top plate. If you use too small a file, the top plate will be sharpened to a very small blade angle, which will make the cutting edge weak. If you use too large files, the top plate cutting edge will be too blunt and will not cut optimally. Measuring the chain is relatively easy and certain way of finding out the pitch.

You can file it with a file and guide. If you need a chin that cuts smoothly, you should consider the chipper cutter; it has a curved end view. The semi-chisel is not as aggressive as the chisel type. A round file with a guide can be used to file it.

It stays sharp for longer periods and tolerates dirt and dust better than any other two cutters. The chisel cutter is a highly aggressive cutter, and you should only use it if you are an experienced sawyer.

The chisel cutter is suitable for commercial timber harvesting. It has a square end view. To file it, you need a file that will fit the square shape of the cutting edge. You cannot use the file with a guide to sharpening the chisel cutter. If the chisel is round-ground, then you can file it with a round file. The chisel cutter dulls faster especially when used in a dusty and or dirty environment.

The chisel is not the best for climbing or brushing because of the risk of kickbacks. To determine the right file size for your chainsaw, you need to read the number marked on the side of the cutter of the chain. You then match that number to the file size that is listed on the file chart. Alternatively, you can measure the pitch of the chain. The pitch is measured in inches. First, you need to measure the distance between three rivets in millimeters.

Measure from the center of the first rivet to the center of the third rivet, then divide that distance by two. Multiply the result by 0. As indicated above, you will need to ensure that you get the correct round file to match the chain you are sharpening.

But how do you know which one is right? You will need to know either the Id number or the pitch of the particular chain being sharpened. The table below will give you some guidance in this regard. The table below gives a general indication of the size of file you will need. Place the file guide holder between the rivets on the chain ensuring that the arrows on the guide are pointing towards the front of the chain.

Unlike that being used in the video, you will find that some guides are like the picture below. After sharpening a couple of cutters release the brake and move the chain along. Then reset the brake and sharpen some more cutters. After all the cutters on one side of the saw have been sharpened, turn the saw around so the cutters on the other side of the chain can be sharpened.