Best Chainsaw Sharpener: The Ultimate Guide

If you own a chainsaw, you know how important it is to keep the chain sharp. A dull chain can cause the chainsaw to overheat, stall, and even become dangerous to use. That’s why having the best chainsaw sharpener is crucial for maintaining your chainsaw’s performance and prolonging its lifespan. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of chainsaw sharpeners and help you find the best one for your needs.

Chainsaws are versatile and powerful tools that can make cutting and trimming trees an easy and efficient task. However, with regular use, the chainsaw blade can become dull, which can make it difficult to use and even dangerous. This is where a chainsaw sharpener comes in handy.

A chainsaw sharpener is a tool that is designed to sharpen the chainsaw blade. There are different types of chainsaw sharpeners available in the market, including handheld sharpeners, electric sharpeners, and grinding wheels.

Handheld sharpeners are the most affordable and portable option. They are easy to use and can be carried around to sharpen chainsaws on the go. Electric sharpeners are more powerful and efficient than handheld sharpeners. They come with an electric motor that spins the grinding wheel, which makes sharpening the chainsaw blade quicker and easier.

Grinding wheels are the most expensive option, but they are also the most efficient. They are designed to sharpen the chainsaw blade quickly and accurately, which makes them a great option for professional woodworkers and arborists.

Using a chainsaw sharpener is relatively easy, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Typically, the chainsaw blade needs to be secured in place, and the sharpener needs to be adjusted to the correct angle. Once the blade is securely in place, the sharpener can be used to sharpen the blade by moving it across the teeth of the blade.

Regularly sharpening your chainsaw blade with a chainsaw sharpener is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your chainsaw. A sharp chainsaw blade will make cutting and trimming trees easier, quicker, and safer, which can save you time and money in the long run.

A chainsaw sharpener is a tool that is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your chainsaw. There are different types of chainsaw sharpeners available, and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. By regularly sharpening your chainsaw blade, you can ensure that your chainsaw is always ready to use when you need it.

Types of Chainsaw Sharpeners

There are three main types of chainsaw sharpeners: manual, electric, and file. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider which one will work best for you.

Manual Chainsaw Sharpeners:

Manual chainsaw sharpeners are the most affordable and portable option. They consist of a guide that you attach to the chainsaw’s blade and a sharpening stone or file that you manually move along the blade. While they require more effort and skill to use, they allow for more precision and control.

Electric Chainsaw Sharpeners:

Electric chainsaw sharpeners are more expensive and larger than manual sharpeners, but they make up for it in speed and ease of use. They consist of a motorized grinding wheel that sharpens the chain while it’s still attached to the chainsaw. This option is ideal for those who have multiple chainsaws or frequently use their chainsaw.

File Chainsaw Sharpeners:

File chainsaw sharpeners are a hybrid between manual and electric sharpeners. They consist of a guide that attaches to the chainsaw’s blade and a motorized file that sharpens the chain as it spins. They are less expensive than electric sharpeners and easier to use than manual sharpeners, but they are not as precise.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chainsaw Sharpener

When choosing a chainsaw sharpener, there are several factors to consider:

Compatibility: Make sure the sharpener you choose is compatible with your chainsaw’s brand and model.

Type of Chain: Different chainsaw chains have different tooth angles and sizes, so make sure the sharpener you choose can accommodate your chain type.

Speed: If you frequently use your chainsaw, a fast sharpener may be more beneficial to you.

Price: Chainsaw sharpeners can range from under $20 to over $300. Consider your budget and how frequently you’ll be using the sharpener.

Our Top Picks for Best Chainsaw Sharpener

Oregon 620-120 Professional 120V Bench Grinder

This chainsaw sharpener/grinder is basically a beast designed to be operated for long periods of time without needing to be cooled down. It is a universal Saw Chain Sharpener equipped with Hydraulic Clamping Assistance. This tool can basically be used to sharpen almost any chainsaw of any brand or size.

The biggest trait of this product is its automation. It provides an automatic sharpening experience without requiring any effort. The interchangeable grinding wheels (3.2mm & 4.7mm) make it easier to adjust the machine according to the size of the chainsaw. If you are a professional and looking for a heavy-duty sharpener that can be used a large volume of chainsaws at a time, then this is the perfect tool for you.

GOXAWEE Chainsaw Sharpener Kit 180W

The next product on the list is equally suitable for both professionals as well as part-time DYI project-loving home users. It has five-speed adjustments using which you can set your rpm between 8000 to 35000 according to your needs. The lightweight of this tool makes it highly portable. You can basically take it anywhere, plug it and start sharpening those chainsaws right on the bar.

The toolkit comes with a diamond grinding burr and grinding stones along with an angle-adjustment guider. This tool is safe, fast, and very easy to use, making it perfect for average users as well. The biggest problem in home chain sharpening is that it’s very difficult to make all those teeth the same size. But with the help of the included angel guide, all you need to do is adjust angle one and start moving it back n forth to get precisely the same sized teeth every time.

Oregon 310-120 Compact Mini Bench Grinder

This product is designed specifically for those persons who desire professional results but in a compact size. The Oregon 310 is very lightweight as compared to the 620 yet performs all the functionalities. This product has great for use in shops as well as home workshops. Due to its high RPM, it can quickly sharpen a chainsaw of any size regardless of its dullness.

This product is great for home users due to its one-way motor safety feature. The durable material combined with high-power motors ensures fast and precise work. If you have a workshop at home and are looking for a device that saves both time and space, then this is the right tool for you.

Oregon Universal Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit

The main problem with sharpening chainsaws at home is the precision required to keep all the teeth of the same size. If they are not of equal size, then the saw will not cut as effectively as it should. Therefore, this product is equipped with an angle guidance system. All you need to do is adjust the initial angle, and it will automatically adjust all the teeth to the same size and angle. This tool can be easily mounted on any bench or wall and be easily used as a normal bench grinder.

Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener

A dull chainsaw blade means more time, effort, and fuel is required for doing even simple tasks. If you try to cut down a log with a dull blade, the chainsaw will probably overheat and even get damaged. But taking a chainsaw to a store to get it sharpened is also a big hassle. With the buffalo ECSS tool, you can easily sharpen your chainsaw from any brand almost effortlessly. This tool is designed especially for home users.

This product can be easily mounted over a bench or wall and be used according to your needs. The fast-spinning 4200 RPM motor makes it a very fast and enjoyable experience. The holding jaws can be adjusted according to the size of the chain. However, the only drawback of this product is that you don’t get angle guidance as in other tools. If you can adjust to that, then this is by far the most powerful and budget-friendly tool on our list.

Granberg Bar-Mount Chain Saw Sharpener, Model# G-106B

This product is amazing for those who don’t want a bench-mounted grinder. This tool mounts right on your chainsaw and does its job effectively. This tool is extremely portable due to its lightweight and the ability to mount over the blade itself. This tool is very easy to use and offers great safety. This tool is made in California, USA. 

The Granberg designs its products, especially for home-based users who enjoy DIY projects. The build material of this product is aluminum and zinc-plated steel, which makes it highly durable. The files can be easily changed according to the blade size and brand. As it is mounted on the blade, you don’t have to worry about keeping your hand steady while sharpening the blade. In short, if you are looking for a portable device with great precision, then we highly recommend that you check this one out.

Stihl 2 N 1 Easy File Chainsaw Chain Sharpener

This is the best-selling chain sharpening tool on amazon. It is very cheap yet highly effective. The filer is universal and can be used with any chainsaw regardless of its brand. It simplifies the process of chain sharpening as everything is right under your control. It can be used to sharpen the teeth as well as increase the cut depth right on the field.

If you don’t like large electric grinders, then this is the right tool for you. It is very cheap and obviously extremely portable as you can carry it around in your pocket. Though the job requires effort and is time-consuming, it makes any sharpening experience a memorable one. However, this may be a life-saving tool in case of a work emergency. If you are a professional woodcutter, you should have this tool with you all the time as it can fix a dull chain right on the field.

Husqvarna 653000036 SharpForce Chain Sharpener 5/32″

The product is highly portable and can be used anywhere because it requires no electricity for its operation. This tool provides a great sharpening experience while maintaining user safety. This is a grind stone-based handheld sharpener, so you don’t need to worry about precision. All you need to do is insert the chain according to the instructions and gently squeeze the chain. It will sharpen your blade in a matter of minutes. 

This tool is great to carry around with you on the field as it can save your time. If you are a professional who uses a chainsaw on an almost daily basis, then we recommend that you have a look at this product. However, this tool is equally suitable for home usage due to its simple procedure.

Oregon 12-Volt Sure Sharp Chain Saw Sharpener

This amazing tool is very suitable for field usage as it directly connects to a battery and requires only 12V. It is very simple to use and easily sharpens any chainsaw regardless of size and brand; the tools require no bench for its operations and don’t need any specific space making it highly portable.

This product is designed for average users having little to no experience in chainsaw grinding. Thus it offers a lot of simplicity and safety in its work. The grindstone can be easily changed according to the requirement. The durable plastic housing carries a high-impact motor, which ensures precision and time-saving.

Granberg G1012XT PRECISION GRINDER

An amazing chain sharpener that operates on 12V. This product is great for the field as well as home usage. It mounts directly on the chainsaw, and the high-power 24000RPM motor ensures fast and effective grinding. This product can make any dull chain new. The Oregon 30846 was even tested and recommended by the YouTuber “CrazyRussianHacker.” 

The zinc-plated frame covered in carbonated poly plastic ensures durability and comfort when holding. The product is very easy to use and requires no maintenance. It is more of a plug and plays kind of machine. This tool makes any experience fun and a great DIY project in itself. If you love innovated yet effective gadgets, this is a highly recommended one. Be sure to check it out.

How To Sharpen A Chainsaw with Chainsaw Sharpener?

Sharpening a chainsaw with a chainsaw sharpener is a fairly straightforward process, but it does require some attention to detail to ensure that the chainsaw blade is sharpened correctly. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to sharpen your chainsaw blade with a chainsaw sharpener:

Determine the correct file size:

Before you begin sharpening your chainsaw blade, it’s important to determine the correct file size for your chainsaw. You can find this information in your chainsaw’s manual or by contacting the manufacturer. Using the wrong file size can damage the blade and make it unsafe to use.

Secure the chainsaw blade:

Use a vice or clamp to secure the chainsaw blade to a workbench. Make sure the blade is held securely in place and cannot move while you’re sharpening it.

Adjust the chainsaw sharpener:

Adjust the chainsaw sharpener to the correct angle for your chainsaw blade. This angle is usually between 25-30 degrees. Again, consult your chainsaw’s manual or contact the manufacturer for the correct angle.

Sharpen the blade:

Starting at the base of the blade, insert the file into the sharpener and move it along the teeth of the blade in a smooth, even motion. Apply even pressure to the file as you move it along the blade. Be sure to keep the file at the correct angle as you sharpen the blade.

Check your progress:

After you’ve sharpened all of the teeth on one side of the blade, use a marker to mark the teeth you’ve already sharpened. Then, turn the chainsaw blade over and repeat the process on the other side. Once you’ve finished sharpening both sides, check the teeth for consistency. Each tooth should be equally sharp.

Remove burrs:

After sharpening, you may notice small burrs on the blade. Use a file or flat metal object to remove any burrs or sharp edges.

Lubricate the chainsaw:

Once you’ve finished sharpening the chainsaw blade, it’s a good idea to lubricate it with chainsaw oil. This will help prevent rust and keep the blade in good condition.

Sharpening your chainsaw with a chainsaw sharpener is an important task that should be done regularly to maintain the safety and efficiency of your chainsaw. By following these steps, you can ensure that your chainsaw blade is sharpened correctly and is ready to use whenever you need it.

What Are Important Safety Tips to Keep in Mind While Sharpening Your Chainsaw?

Sharpening a chainsaw blade can be a dangerous task if not done properly. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind while sharpening your chainsaw:

Wear protective gear:

Before you begin sharpening your chainsaw blade, make sure you’re wearing appropriate protective gear, including eye and ear protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.

Disconnect the spark plug:

To prevent the chainsaw from accidentally starting while you’re working on the blade, disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.

Secure the chainsaw:

Use a vice or clamp to secure the chainsaw to a workbench or table. Make sure the chainsaw is held securely in place and cannot move while you’re sharpening the blade.

Use the correct file size:

Using the correct file size for your chainsaw is important to ensure that the blade is sharpened correctly. Using the wrong file size can damage the blade and make it unsafe to use.

Maintain the correct angle:

It’s important to maintain the correct angle while sharpening the chainsaw blade. A sharpening guide can be used to ensure that you’re maintaining the correct angle while sharpening.

Use even pressure:

Apply even pressure to the file while sharpening the chainsaw blade. Applying too much pressure can damage the blade, while applying too little pressure can result in an uneven edge.

Check the progress:

After sharpening one side of the blade, mark the teeth that have been sharpened before turning the blade over to sharpen the other side. This will help ensure that each tooth is sharpened equally.

Remove burrs:

After sharpening the chainsaw blade, use a file or flat metal object to remove any burrs or sharp edges. This will help prevent injury when using the chainsaw.

Lubricate the chainsaw:

Once you’ve finished sharpening the chainsaw blade, it’s important to lubricate it with chainsaw oil. This will help prevent rust and keep the blade in good condition.

By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your chainsaw blade is sharpened correctly and safely. Remember to always wear appropriate protective gear and to take your time while sharpening the blade to ensure that the job is done right.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing the best chainsaw sharpener for your needs, there are plenty of options available. Whether you need a professional-grade sharpener for use in a shop or garage, or a portable sharpener for use in the field, there’s a sharpener out there that’s right for you. By considering the features and benefits of each of the sharpeners we’ve discussed here, you can make an informed decision and choose the best chainsaw sharpener for your needs.