How to Sharpen Stihl Chainsaw Chains – Easy Guide!

If you own a Stihl chainsaw, you know that keeping its chainsaw chain sharp is essential to ensure efficient and safe operation. Over time, chainsaw chains can become dull and even damaged, affecting their cutting performance and putting the user at risk.

Therefore, it’s essential to learn how to sharpen your Stihl chainsaw chain properly.

In this article, we’ll provide you with an easy guide on how to sharpen Stihl chainsaw chains, including the tools you need, the steps to follow, and some tips to keep in mind.

Tools needed

Before we get started, let’s go over the tools you’ll need to sharpen your Stihl chainsaw chain.

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• Round file
• Depth gauge
• File guide
• Tabletop or stump vise

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Inspect the chainsaw chain

Before you start sharpening, you must inspect the chainsaw chain to determine its condition. You should look for signs of wear and tear, such as chips, dents, or cracks. If the chain is damaged, you’ll need to replace it instead of sharpening it.

Also, check the blade’s tooth angle, as different chains require different angles.

Secure the chainsaw chain

The next step is to secure the chainsaw chain in a tabletop clamp or vise to prevent it from moving while sharpening. It’s essential to position the chain correctly to ensure you sharpen each tooth evenly.

To do this, place the chainsaw bar in a right-angle position and make sure that the chain is held firmly in place.

Set the file guide

The file guide is an essential tool that helps you sharpen the chainsaw chain at the correct angle. Most Stihl chains have a tooth angle of 30 degrees, but you should check your chainsaw’s user manual for the right angle.

Once you’ve determined the angle, set the file guide to the correct angle, and attach it to the chain.

Sharpen the chainsaw chain

Now that everything is set up correctly, it’s time to sharpen the chainsaw chain. Hold the round file in the file guide and start filing each tooth, using a forward stroke motion.

You should file each tooth for the same amount of time, ensuring you don’t remove too much material. Keep filing until all teeth have been sharpened.

Check the depth gauge

The depth gauge is responsible for setting the depth of the cut made by each tooth. Over time, the depth gauge can become worn, affecting the chain’s cutting performance. Therefore, it’s essential to check the depth gauge and file it down to the correct height.

The correct height depends on the chainsaw and can be found in the user manual.

Repeat on the other side

Once you’ve finished sharpening one side of the chainsaw chain, repeat the process on the other side. You should ensure that you file each tooth the same amount of times, and that the depth gauge is correctly filed down.

Test the chainsaw chain

After you’ve finished sharpening the chainsaw chain, it’s time to test it to ensure it’s cutting correctly. You can do this by cutting through a piece of wood and observing the chain’s performance.

If the chain is still not cutting correctly, you may need to repeat the process or seek professional help.

Tips to keep in mind

• Always wear protective gloves and glasses while sharpening a chainsaw chain.
• Avoid removing too much material from the chainsaw chain, as this can affect its performance.
• Follow the user manual’s instructions for your Stihl chainsaw to ensure the correct file size, tooth angle, and depth gauge height.
• Regularly inspect your chainsaw chain for signs of wear and tear and sharpen it when needed to maintain its performance and ensure safe operation.
• Consider purchasing an easy file or other sharpening tool to simplify the sharpening process and ensure consistent results.
• Avoid using a chainsaw with a dull or damaged chain, as this can cause kickback and other safety hazards.

Now that you know how to sharpen your Stihl chainsaw chain, you can maintain its cutting performance and ensure safe operation. Remember to inspect your chain regularly for signs of wear and tear and sharpen it when needed, following the steps and tips we’ve provided.

By taking proper care of your chainsaw, you can enjoy its benefits for many years to come.

Using an Electric Bench Grinder to Sharpen Stihl Chainsaw Chains

While using a round file and file guide is the recommended method for sharpening a Stihl chainsaw chain, some users prefer to use an electric bench grinder. Using a grinder can be faster and easier than using a file, but it requires more precision to avoid removing too much material from the chain.

Here are the steps to follow when using an electric bench grinder to sharpen your Stihl chainsaw chain:

1. Inspect the chainsaw chain: Before sharpening, inspect the chain for wear and tear, and determine the correct angle for the teeth.
2. Secure the chain: Clamp the chainsaw chain to the bench grinder, making sure it’s held firmly in place.
3. Adjust the grinder: Adjust the grinder to the correct angle for your chainsaw chain. It’s best to consult your user manual for the correct angle.
4. Grind each tooth: Grind each tooth evenly, ensuring you don’t remove too much material. It’s best to use light pressure and a slow, steady motion to avoid overheating the chain.
5. Check the depth gauge: Check and file the depth gauge to the correct height after grinding each tooth.
6. Repeat on the other side: After grinding one side of the chain, repeat the process on the other side.
7. Test the chain: Test the chain’s cutting performance by cutting through a piece of wood. If the chain is still not cutting correctly, you may need to repeat the process or seek professional help.

When using an electric bench grinder, it’s essential to take extra precautions to avoid injury. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the grinder.

It’s also important to use a steady hand and light pressure when grinding the chain to avoid overheating and removing too much material.

Wrapping Up

Sharpening a Stihl chainsaw chain can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and steps, it’s easy to do yourself. By following our guide and tips, you can maintain your chainsaw’s performance and ensure safe operation.

Remember to always wear protective gear, follow the user manual’s instructions, and inspect your chain regularly for signs of wear and tear.

Thanks for reading. Have a great day and be safe out there.

Steven R.

FAQs

How do you sharpen a chainsaw chain Stihl?

To sharpen a Stihl chainsaw chain, you’ll need a round file, depth gauge, file guide, and tabletop clamp or vise. First, inspect the chain for wear and tear and secure it in the clamp or vise.

Set the file guide to the correct angle and start filing each tooth with a forward stroke motion. Check and file the depth gauge to the correct height and repeat on the other side.

How many times can you sharpen a Stihl chainsaw chain?

There is no set number of times you can sharpen a Stihl chainsaw chain. It depends on the chain’s condition and how much material you need to remove.

You should sharpen the chain as needed to maintain its performance and ensure safe operation.

What is the best way to sharpen a chainsaw chain?

The best way to sharpen a chainsaw chain is to use a round file, depth gauge, file guide, and tabletop clamp or vise. Follow the user manual’s instructions for the correct file size, tooth angle, and depth gauge height.

Inspect the chain for wear and tear, and sharpen each tooth evenly, ensuring you don’t remove too much material.

How do you sharpen a chainsaw chain by hand?

To sharpen a chainsaw chain by hand, you’ll need a round file, depth gauge, and a guide to help maintain the correct angle. Secure the chain in a vise or clamp and set the file guide to the correct angle.

Start filing each tooth with a forward stroke motion, ensuring you file each tooth evenly and don’t remove too much material.

What is a depth gauge on a chainsaw chain?

A depth gauge on a chainsaw chain is responsible for setting the depth of the cut made by each tooth. Over time, the depth gauge can become worn, affecting the chain’s cutting performance.

It’s essential to check and file the depth gauge to the correct height to maintain the chain’s performance.

What is a file guide for a chainsaw chain?

A file guide for a chainsaw chain is a tool that helps you sharpen the chain at the correct angle. It attaches to the chain and helps you maintain the correct file angle while sharpening each tooth evenly.

What is an easy file for a chainsaw chain?

An easy file for a chainsaw chain is a tool that simplifies the sharpening process and ensures consistent results. It usually comes with a built-in file guide and depth gauge, making it easier for users to sharpen their chainsaw chain correctly.

Where can I purchase chainsaw chain sharpening tools?

You can purchase chainsaw chain sharpening tools at hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers such as Amazon. Be sure to purchase the right size and type of file, file guide, and depth gauge for your chainsaw model.

Can I sharpen my chainsaw chain with a Dremel tool?

While a Dremel tool can be used to sharpen a chainsaw chain, it’s not recommended. A Dremel tool can remove too much material from the chain, affecting its performance and lifespan.

It’s best to use a round file and file guide to sharpen the chain correctly.

How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain?

The frequency of sharpening your chainsaw chain depends on how often you use it and the type of wood you’re cutting. Generally, if you use your chainsaw regularly, you should sharpen it after every 3 to 5 hours of use.

However, if you notice that the chain is dull or not cutting correctly, you should sharpen it immediately.