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Anna Ryan is a writer, copywriter and editor. She has a wide range of knowledge and, because of this, has been able to contribute to a variety of different genres, including article and blog writing.
As an editor, she has polished and perfected an array of pieces for diverse readerships and audiences.
Briana is a plant and ecology enthusiast who is happiest when she’s working on a project. She has spent over ten years learning about and working with sustainable agriculture, both on research plots, in educational labs, and on commercial farms. She currently spends time growing vegetables in her market garden.
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If you spend a lot of time outdoors cutting down trees or working with lumber, you know the importance of having a sharp chainsaw. But have you discovered the best chainsaw sharpener to use with your machine? Having a chainsaw sharpener on hand means you can work more consistently and accurately because you’ll never have to worry about dull blades.
Additionally, you’ll extend the longevity of your chain and save a lot of money in the long run. Most people make the mistake of throwing their chainsaw blade away and buying a new one, but this is extremely costly and wasteful. By simply investing in the best chainsaw sharpener, you’ll spend more time working instead of seeking out new chains.
Never heard of one before? That’s okay! Check out our best chainsaw sharpener reviews for basic uses, extra features, and the differences between manual chainsaw sharpeners and electrically operated ones. We’ll give you a list of the 10 best chainsaw sharpeners on the market!
If you’re still stuck, our handy buyer’s guide should help you find you find the best overall chainsaw sharpener for your needs.
Find the perfect tool, whatever your sharpening process.
Not all chainsaw blade teeth are the same size or shape. No matter what type of sharpener you choose, it’s important to match the sharpener to your specific chain. Your chainsaw blade should have numbers engraved on the side indicating the pitch, aka distance between links. Match this number with your sharpener.
View the Best Chainsaw Sharpener for the Money, Below.
Warblers 10-piece Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
Oregon Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit
STIHL 2 IN 1 EASY FILE Chainsaw Sharpener
Oregon 25894 Chainsaw Chain File
Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
Husqvarna 531300081 Saw Chain Filing Kit
Timber Tuff CS-BWM Benchtop Sharpener
1. Warblers 10-piece Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
Great value 10 piece Chain Sharpening Kit
The filing guide helps you maintain the correct angle when sharpening your chain, while the depth gauge ensures that you don't remove too much material from the chain. Everything is neatly packed away in a material case! It's easy to see why this chainsaw sharpener is one of our top picks.
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Chain Saw Chains and Blades
2. Oregon 410-120 Chain Grinder
Best Wall or Bench Mount Chain Grinder
The Oregon 420-120 chain grinder can be either wall or bench mounted for stability. It'll fit on any surface using only two bolts. The grinder makes sharpening your chainsaw chains effortless. This garage universal saw chain sharpener will sharpen up to a .404 pitch chain. It's a great pick if you use different types of saws; you can use this model for a wide number of brands such as Oregon, Stihl, Dewalt, and Husqvarna.
This chainsaw grinder features one-way motor rotation rollers for optimum operator safety. The device also has a manual chain vise to hold the chain in the correction position. The kit comes with all the parts you need to get started. It includes the chain saw grinder, two grinding wheels (3.2 mm and 4.7 mm), a flat 6.0 profile disc, a grinding template, and a dressing brick and profile guide. It also comes with operation information, so you can get jump right in straight away.
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Perfect for the bench, wall, or vise
Includes only two bolts for mounting efficiency
Sharpens saws up to a .404 pitch chains
One-way motor chain rotation rollers for safety
Chain holder is not very sturdy
3. Oregon Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit
An 8 piece Chainsaw Chain Sharpener
The Oregon Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit comes with everything you need to ensure your saw chain stays remarkably sharp. This handy kit contains two 5/32” and 3/16” round fine tooth files and a 7/32” round saw.
This chainsaw teeth sharpener has all the accessories you need. It comes with three 5/32”, 3/16”, 7/32” round saw chain files, a 6” flat file, a file guide, and a universal file handle. If you're unsure how to use these files, the kit comes with instructions. You'll find them in the handle pocket of the pouch for reference. Whatever your sharpening process, this manual sharpener will see you through all sharpening jobs.
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Complete a do-it-yourself kit for precision sharpening
Contains all files needed for a standard chainsaw
Includes a kit compartment to keep everything accessible and compartmentalized
Made of durable materials for optimum chainsaw performance
Contains only one wooden handle
Chainsaw Chain Tooth Files
Some sharpeners automatically advance the chain after sharpening a link while others require manual advancement. Additionally, some sharpeners use hydraulics to automatically hold the chain in place while others have a manual knob. Of course, automation is faster, but it also comes with less control and a higher price tag.
4. STIHL 2 IN 1 EASY FILE Chainsaw Sharpener
Best Sharpener for Transportation
The STIHL 2 in 1 Easy File Chainsaw Sharpener is a great tool for anyone who finds themselves frequently working on projects in remote, outdoor, or limited power access areas. The tool is expertly made with a small and compact design, allowing you to transport it easily from place to place. Additionally, thanks to how lightweight it is, you can carry this STIHL chainsaw sharpener without fatigue. As a result, you can complete your sharpening job quickly and get back to the work at hand.
This unit is one of the best options for people who work on the go. If you need a reliable tool that you can transport without problems, this one's for you. It's a small device; it's only about 8 inches long, weighing about 12 ounces. Others may be too bulky. With this chainsaw sharpener, you’ll be able to focus more on the job instead of worrying about maintaining your tools.
We recommend this tool to anyone who needs a reliable cutter sharpener. This one doesn’t weigh too much and is easy to transport from place to place. You’ll love the consistency and accuracy of this device, ensuring sharp blades whenever you need them. Sharpen your chainsaw properly with the Stihl chainsaw brand.
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Is small and easy to transport
Ideal for occasional users
Is great for people who work in the field or areas that don’t have a readily available power source
Can be fit into a pocket
Not as effective as getting a new chain
1/4 inch - 3/8 inch
5. Granberg Bar-Mount Sharpener
Best Tool on a Budget
The Granberg is the best chainsaw chain sharpener for people who need a fast and reliable tool to take with them on the job. The design is thoughtfully made, featuring simple ingenuity and durability. It makes light work of sharpening any dull chainsaw.
This chainsaw sharpening tool is perfect for people who frequently work with chainsaws, either in construction or something else. You’ll be able to transport the device with minimum effort. Rest easy knowing you can quickly, safely, and accurately sharpen the cutters on your chain.
The Granberg bar-mount chain saw sharpener enables you to focus more on your work instead of tool maintenance. You can easily use the device on your nose blade and file down your chainsaw teeth to perfect sharpness. The design is good for any standard pitch chain size, helping you get your cutters to the proper depth gauge. It features swivel guide markings to help you find the right angle.
The Granberg manual sharpener is also made of cast aluminum. This strong, durable material goes the distance without weighing you down. As a result, you’ll hardly notice it's there with you. Keep your machinery in tip-top shape no matter where you go with this chainsaw sharpening tool.
The Granberg Bar Mount Saw Chain Sharpener is an excellent machine for anyone looking to make a budget buy with all the quality and productivity of a top-tier device. If you're worried about your chainsaw sharpener price tag, rest easy with this purchase. The innovative design allows you to sharpen the cutters on any standard-sized chain pitch, helping you file all cutters down at the same angle and sharpness every time. It's the top choice for anyone looking for a great tool on a budget.
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Works quickly and efficiently
Adjust to any standard chain pitches
Perfect for people who work outdoors or on different locations during their workday
Not as effective as more pricier options
6. Oregon 25894 Chainsaw Chain File
Single Chainsaw Sharpener with Easy-to-Hold Grip
The Oregon 25894 chainsaw file is one of the best chainsaw sharpening tools on our list. It's super easy to use and features a file guide for effortless grip. The grip helps you reach the depths needed when sharpening a chainsaw chain, helping you achieve the correct sharpness. Engraved lines on the file's guide frame help you align the file every time with utmost precision and consistency.
When assembled, the device measure 5/32 inches, including the file and the hardwood handle. The hand file fits firmly in the grip for ideal sharpening efficiency. This round file easily fits between the teeth of the chainsaw chain to sharpen the blade to a point, creating optimum precision for a superb cut every time.
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Comes with a file guide grip made from wood for easy gripping
The device measures an acceptable 5/32 inches.
Engraved lines on the file guide's frame for correct alignment
Manufactured from the finest steel.
Kit contains only the single file and grip - often not enough to meet the sharpening needs of your chainsaw's chain
7. Oregon 575214 Handheld Chainsaw Chain Sharpener/Grinder
Best for Charging On-the-Go
The Oregon 575214 Handheld Chainsaw Sharpener includes a 12-volt car adapter. It's a great option if you need portability. You can charge your sharpener on the go if you're working in the woods cutting up trees. Sharpen your saw chain anywhere by charging the grinder. Charging is effortless - you can also use alligator clips to charge the saw chain grinder using your car or truck battery.
The kit includes 5/32, 3/16, and 7/32 inch sharpening stones along with a collet wrench. There's also an easy-to-adjust guide for optimum accuracy. Each sharpening stone will easily sharpen chainsaw models with chains that feature up to a .404" pitch.
The grinder's motor runs at a speed of 25,000 RPM, ensuring great cutting performance and power. That alone makes this system more powerful than most other electric chainsaw sharpener reviews we've given. If you need a model that will pack a punch, you can tackle any device at all angles with this chainsaw sharpening tool.
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Handheld sharpeners are great for on-the-go
Grinder has 25,000 RPM
Comes equipped with 5/32, 3/16, and 7/32 inch sharpening stones
Outlet power adapter for charging on the go
Optional alligator clips for additional charging options
Sharpens chainsaw chains with a pitch of .404
8. Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
Easy to Operate Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
If you're someone who works in a shop, look no further than the Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener. Buffalo has ensured that this model can easily mount onto a workbench, vise, or wall without any issues. It easily adapts to a variety of chain designs.
The chain saw sharpener comes with a 4.5-inch by 1/8-inch grinding wheel and a 7/8-inch arbor. It spins at 4200 RPM.
The sharpener will easily plug into any 120-volt wall outlet. This electric chainsaw sharpener also comes with one grinding wheel. You can replace it when used or worn, or you can purchase additional grinding wheels for different projects. It'll make sharpening chainsaws a breeze, ensuring your saws remain sharp for all your professional or DIY needs. The manufacturer has also included a 90-day warranty! There's a reason we've included this one in our chainsaw sharpening reviews.
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Bench, vise, or wall mounted professional grind
Electric chainsaw sharpener - operates at 4200 RPM
Comes with a 4.5 inch or 1/8 inch grinding wheel
Plugs into 120 volts all outlet
Comes with a single grinding wheel gauge
Adjustable for various chain types
Does not fit all chains
Requires electricity to operate
9. Husqvarna 531300081 Saw Chain Filing Kit
Easiest to Operate Manual Chainsaw Sharpener
Many people prefer old-school manual sharpeners to fix their dull chain. The Husquvarna 531300081 Saw Chain Filing Kit comes complete with all the components you need to file your chainsaw's chain. The small kit includes a file handle for ease of gripping when sharpening the cutting edge.
It has two round files that fit into the teeth of the saw blade. It also comes with one flat-file. Using the combination gauge helps you achieve a correct filing angle for the entire chain filing task. Keeping your chain sharp has never been easier with this manual chainsaw sharpener - it's perfect for any chainsaw user! Your cuts will always stay sharp.
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Comes with a file handle for optimum gripping to sharpen the chain
Two round, durable files to fit into the chainsaw teeth
Combination gauge for correct angling
Poorly written instructions make the sharpening kit difficult to use
Plastic handle easily breaks when sharpening
Does not fit all chains
10. Timber Tuff CS-BWM Benchtop Sharpener
Best Tool for Versatility
The Timber Tuff CS-BWM Benchtop Chainsaw Sharpener is a great product for chainsaw users working in a studio, as it requires an electric power source. The device works quickly and accurately, allowing for precision and excellent functionality in all tasks. Sharpen the cutters on your chain faster than you ever thought possible and resume work in record time.
This electric chainsaw blade sharpener works well for garages, workshops, or studios due to its compact design. But keep in mind that you won't be able to take it into the woods!
You won’t have to struggle to find space for this tool. It's powered by an impressive 110-volt motor and has an input power of 230 watts! This powerful little motor helps it attain speeds of up to 3,600 RPM, making it a lot faster than other chainsaws sharpeners. It's guaranteed to keep your cutters in pristine condition with minimal effort on your part.
The Timber Tuff CS-BWM is also super versatile. You’ll be able to use the machine on three different chain sizes - ⅛ inch, 3/16 inch, and ¼ inch pitch sizes. This means you can work with a variety of chain pitch sizes without having to switch filing tools.
This chain saw sharpener also comes with a small, built-in light for visibility, so you can work safely. You'll clearly see any adjustments you need to make to get your cutters in top condition.
This sharpener features adjustment guides to help you attain perfect sharpness. In addition, you’ll never have to worry about the machine overloading, thanks to the thermo-overload protection technology built into the device.
This chain saw sharpener is an excellent tool for any craftsman. Electric sharpeners enable you to spend more time working and less time maintaining your tools.
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Works quickly and accurately
Has a powerful 110-volt motor
Has a built-in overhead light
Is able to sharpen three different chain pitch sizes
Comes with thermo-overload protection technology
Can attain speeds of up to 3,600 RPM
Won't be able to take it to the woods
1/4 inch - 3/4 inch
If you often use your chainsaw for long periods of time away from home, a hand sharpener will allow you to keep your chain sharp. However, if you come home between projects, you’ll be able to make use of a benchtop sharpener that requires electricity.
Chainsaw Sharpener Buyers Guide
Chainsaws are intimidating machines, especially when it comes to maintenance. Many people have concerns about cleaning or repairing their chainsaw chain, but these processes are fairly simple, especially after a bit of practice. This is especially true when it comes to the most intimidating maintenance prospect – sharpening saw chains. There are a lot of factors to consider.
That’s why we’ve compiled the best chainsaw chain sharpener reviews above, to help you find the right sharpener for you.
How do you Sharpen a Chainsaw?
This guide will show you how easy it is to sharpen your chainsaw, even if you have no prior experience.
It’s easy to see when your saw needs sharpening – just look to see if the edges of the teeth are rounded. Many people make the mistake of buying new chainsaw blades when their chainsaw becomes dull and stops cutting through wood properly. However, even the best chainsaws become dull over time, and using a good sharpener will save lots of money in the future!
To start, you’ll need a pair of thick and durable gloves. These will protect your hands from cuts while you sharpen the saw. Next, you’ll need to engage the chain brake. The chain won’t move, and clamping the bar nose securely means you can use both hands to work. (Click here for our full guide on how.)
The method and motion you use will depend on the type of kit you have. We’ve included all types of kits in our chainsaw sharpeners reviews above.
If you have a manual chainsaw sharpener, you’ll need to place the guide that comes with the kit down on the chain’s rivets. The arrows on the guide should face downwards towards the nose of the bar. Now take the file in the kit and follow the angle that’s directed by the guide. It should only take a few strokes until you see a shiny silver gleam on the metal and are ready to move on to the next cutter.
If you’re using a bench grinder or sharpener, you’ll need to set the chainsaw up underneath the device and simply turn the motor on. Then, after the bench sharpener has filed down enough of the cutter, turn the motor off, adjust the chain, and turn the device back on.
Complete this process repeatedly until you’ve managed to sharpen all the cutters on the chain. If you’re working with a handheld electric sharpener, you’ll need to use the guide to get the right angle on the cutters.
Since it’s handheld, it’s less exact than the bench sharpener and will require a bit more effort to keep the angle consistent – which you’ll need if you want the greatest results from your saw. (Check out our review on best track saw) Once you’ve completed the section you’re working with, you’ll need to set down your tool, disengage the chain brake, move the chain forward, and repeat the process. When you’ve completed one entire side of the chainsaw, you’ll need to turn the chainsaw around to sharpen the other side of the cutters.
Now that you’ve completed these steps, you’re almost done. The next thing you need to do is find a depth gauge. Good depth gauges will help readjust the height of your cutters. It should come with the kit. Next, hold the depth gauge up to your cutters to make sure they’re the correct height.
If any of them are too high above the gauge, you’ll need to use the tool to file them back down to their proper height. Otherwise, they won’t be able to reach the wood, and you’ll have an ineffective tool.
That’s it! Your chainsaw should be good to go. To make sure the blades stay sharp for as long as possible, avoid getting dirt on the cutters. Doing this will improve the longevity of the cutters and save on costs later on.
How does a Chainsaw Sharpener Work?
There are several different types of chainsaw sharpeners, all of which work very effectively. However, using an electric chainsaw sharpener has proven to be super useful. They work more accurately and extend the longevity of the blade life on your chain. In contrast, manual chainsaw sharpeners work by providing you with a guide that shows you the correct angle to file the cutters. You then move the file across the guide to sharpen them.
Electric chainsaw sharpeners work differently. There are two types of electric chainsaw sharpeners – bench and handheld. They both work in the ways you’d expect. The bench sharpener is stationary (normally on a work spot like a bench), and you operate a handheld sharpener by holding the device in your hand and moving it to sharpen the cutters.
However, there are a few other things you should know. Bench sharpeners are more accurate because they allow you to sharpen cutters when stationary, giving you more control. To work a bench sharpener, simply set up and secure your chainsaw. Next, turn the motor on to file the cutters. Then, turn the motor off, adjust the chain on the chainsaw, and repeat the process.
It’s a fairly straightforward process, but you’ll need to ensure you don’t file the cutters down too low. Doing this could ruin your chain or make it dangerous to operate. Handheld sharpeners work by using a spinning disc to file down chainsaw teeth, using a guide to help you keep an accurate angle.
However, since this is a handheld device, you’ll need to give this task your full concentration to complete your task correctly. Filing the cutters down at the wrong angle will mess with the device’s accuracy and capability, so you’ll want to try to avoid this issue.
What is the Angle for Sharpening a Stihl Chainsaw?
If you’re sharpening a Stihl chainsaw, you’ll need to be precise and accurate with your technique. To properly sharpen a Stihl chainsaw blade, hold the file at a perfect right angle (90 degrees) and guide the file across the cutters at a 30-degree angle. This is parallel to the Stihl service mark on their brand of cutters and will give you the best results.
What is the Best Professional Chainsaw Sharpener?
There are a lot of great professional chainsaw sharpening tools on the market.
But in our opinion, the best chainsaw sharpener for professionals is small, light, compact, and easy to transport. A portable chainsaw sharpener is perfect when you’re working in remote locations. With the quick turn of a handle, you’ll return the cutter blades on your tool to perfect sharpness and be ready to get back to work in a matter of minutes!
Manual sharpeners are perfect for portability, whereas electric sharpeners are more suited for the shop. This is because you’ll always need a room with an electrical outlet.
We’ve featured both the best manual chainsaw sharpeners and the best electric chainsaw sharpeners in our reviews, but the best one for you will depend on your sharpening process and needs.
How Tight Should a Chainsaw Chain Be?
Chainsaws naturally loosen as you use them throughout the workday. Although it’s normal, you need to be aware of it and take measures to adjust your chainsaw chain whenever it gets too loose. Forgetting this could lead the chain to fall off the bar nose and create a safety hazard.
Checking to see if a chainsaw has the proper tension is a fairly easy process. Simply pull at the chain to test how it reacts. If the chain is loose enough to be pulled up but tight enough that the drive links remain engaged in the chainsaw bar nose, you’ve got perfect chain tension!
However, if the chain is too tight to move, or if it disengages the drive links, you’ll need to readjust the tension. This step will make sure you’re safe when you operate the machine. Safe chainsaw chaps can also help!
How do you Tighten the Chain on a Chainsaw?
Most chainsaw chains need adjusting from time to time. But, don’t worry – tightening your own chainsaw chains doesn’t have to be a hassle. If you’ve tested the chain on your saw and found that you need to readjust the tension, you’re in the right place. You just need the correct setup.
You’ll need to start by loosening the nut on the guide bar side panel. If your chainsaw has the brake attached to the side panel, you’ll need to unlock it before this step.
Once you’ve accomplished that, find the tensioning screws. You’ll find them on the side of the guide bars. Once you find them, you can make the necessary adjustments to the saw tension. Adjust the settings if the chain tension is too loose by turning the screws to the right. This will tighten the chain.
If the chain tension is too tight, turn the screws to the left. Once you’ve made your adjustments, check the tension again. If you’ve corrected the tension, you can work on tightening the nut on the side panel again. If not, work to adjust the screws until you’ve fixed the problem.
You’ll also want to be careful when tightening the side panel nut. You must lift the nose of your chainsaw while you tighten the side panel nut. Failing to do this could damage your machine and cause a safety hazard.
There are so many sharpening options on the market. Remember, compatibility is important. Always make sure the kind of sharpener you buy can sharpen your chainsaw. Some sharpeners will sharpen any size chain pitches, whereas others will sharpen only certain ones. We hope our chainsaw sharpener reviews have helped you find the perfect tool!
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