Even when you use a brand new knife for a few days to cut apples, you will notice that it becomes a bit blunt. Chainsaws are no different. In fact, this happens to chainsaws more often. The reason is obvious that’s why you must need the Best Chainsaw Sharpener. Chainsaws deal with more stronger materials and lose its sharpness over time. Furthermore, you may think the material used to make chainsaws are stronger which is true but the friction these materials go through is also rougher. As a result, you will feel that you need a new chainsaw every time your chainsaw becomes blunt.
But, this is like cutting your head off when it aches. You cannot just throw away a recently bought chainsaw just because it got blunt. This is both costly and a great loss. What you can do is sharpen it again. Chainsaws are not meant to be just sharpened once. You can sharpen chainsaw as many times as you want and it will still provide you with the same results as it did when you first bought it. In fact, the end product may even be better than the brand new one. You may know the best chainsaw in the market but you probably do not know the best chainsaw sharpener because very few people do. In order to get the best results, your chainsaw sharpener must be as good as your chainsaw. Or else, there is a possibility that investing in the sharpener will itself be a great headache. So, better be careful and keep a number of things in mind.
Top Ten Best Chainsaw Sharpener
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Electric |
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Manual |
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Manual |
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Manual |
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Electric |
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Electric |
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Manual |
With electricity succeeding and amazing everyone everywhere in its lightning speed, you can expect nothing but an electric chainsaw sharpener to be on our top spot. The Buffalo Tools ECSS electric chainsaw sharpener that keeps the name and pride of the force of electricity intact. You can expect nothing but the best from this sharpener. In fact, it will provide you with everything good you expect from an best electric chainsaw sharpener. Firstly, you can mount it on not just a bench but wall and vise as well. Talk about convenience when working! Furthermore, if you work with various kinds of chainsaws, this chainsaw sharpener is versatile enough to handle most of the popular types! It works with the uniformity and stability that you expect the best electric sharpeners to work with.
You will get your job done super fast as well with this chainsaw sharpener’s 4200 RPM grinding speed as well. Setting it up is convenient as well. You just have to plug it into any of the 120-volt wall outlets. Apart from that, it uses a 4-1/4 X 1/8-inch grinding wheel with a7/8 inch arbor. Although this sharpener works fast, it is best to move slow and wear gloves for safety with it. Some people had trouble using it because of the wheels which they considered too wobbly. Another issue with it may be that the brand does no clearly state what this chainsaw sharpener is compatible with. As a result, people go on using it on any chain they use and get negative outcomes.
For the price, this electric chainsaw sharpener is very efficient and durable on the chains that it is compatible to work on.
Pros
- Mounts on bench, wall, and vise for convenience.
- Can work on a variety of popular chains.
- Quite uniform in its performance.
- Fast
- Affordable.
- Very easy to use.
- Durable when cared for regularly.
Cons
- The compatible chains for it are not stated.
- Instructions are not clear.
- The wheel might be a bit wobbly.
- Not portable.
Do you need a change of view while working? It might be helpful to keep the monotony away. If your equipment were pulling you back from moving then it is high time you got this Granberg sharpener. Then, sharpening time might become the most refreshing and satisfying time when you work with a chainsaw. Apparently, this bar-mounted sharpener is a very portable unit and you can take it anywhere, place it anywhere to work anywhere. It weighs only 20 pounds. Furthermore, you can mount it on almost all sizes of files. So, you do not have to worry about its versatility at all because it can work on almost any chain.
One of the best things about this best chainsaw sharpener is its preciseness. You can manually set it at the perfect angle and it won’t move from that. In fact, guide files to keep it as it is but the sharpener does not come with any guide file itself which many might consider a drawback. It performs with a 3200 RPM motor which provides you with a speed that is not too fast but good enough. Furthermore, it has comfortable handles with grips that make operating it even more convenient. It is made from cast aluminum and zinc-plated steel. While it maybe abrasion-resistant, it is not the most durable in case of material used. The aluminum wears out too quickly or makes the performance rough. However, oiling up the slide bar might smoothen up the process.
Except for the few drawbacks, this sharpener performs really well and comes at a price that you won’t regret buying it at.
Pros
- A very portable, lightweight unit.
- Capable of mounting any file size.
- Quite precise.
- Stable and uniform.
- Moderate speed.
- Smooth performance.
- Comfortable to use.
- Affordable.
Cons
- Does not come with files.
- The aluminum used is not durable enough.
You notice how when you are peeling a potato with a knife, you sometimes peel off too much of the flesh and it feels like such a waste? Sharpening a chainsaw is no different. There will be times you will get rid of some extra chain and it will feel like such a loss. However, this Timberline Chainsaw sharpener promises that it will cause the minimum waste while sharpening the teeth of your chain perfectly.
In fact, it will do so quite accurately as well. You will be satisfied at the angles you can set this sharpener in. Apparently, you get to use its Carbide guides to sharpen and Carbide is a good material for a chainsaw sharpener. However, a few people found the Carbide to be a bit brittle. So, this Carbide guide is fixed at 30 degrees. That is nothing to worry about because you can buy 25 and 35-degree guides separately if you need them.
How do you use Timberline Chainsaw Sharpener
The Timberline sharpener cuts all the teeth at a uniform length and angle. Apart from that, setting and using this sharpener is not Sherlock’s job. In fact, you will figure out how to use it in a few minutes but do take some time to read the instructions to get the best outcomes. It also has high-quality machined aluminum parts which make those parts durable. A few customers still expressed doubts about the durability despite the sharpener costing more than others.
Pros
- Keeps the waste of sharpened tooth minimum to increase chain’s life.
- Fixed at a good angle.
- Sharpens at a uniform length and angle.
- Easy to assemble and use.
- Very accurate.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Sharpens well but slowly.
- Does not seem the most durable.
- Carbide part may seem too brittle.
Let's Watch Video Review
In conclusion, you will enjoy using this best chainsaw sharpener for its accuracy but will need to invest some money and time to get the best results.
If you are a beginner, like a real beginner with no prior knowledge about how to sharpen a chainsaw, you will still find this STIHL chainsaw sharpener simple to crack and use. What makes it so easy to use is its simple design with various helpful instructions etched at the right places. However, it is still best to check out a few tutorials before you use it. Another consideration when you are a beginner is the price. You do not want to spend more on a thing you know almost nothing about. This is a Best Chainsaw sharpener for a beginner because it is not just easy to use but also quite inexpensive. Do not let the low price make you think that this sharpener will not be efficient. It is, in fact, very efficient and accurate.
You will not have to worry about making inconsistent deductions. All you have to do is just keep your measurement alright and the sharpener will do the perfect job for you. Furthermore, you have to use the right file for it. The wrong file will only make it useless and inefficient. You can also carry the sharpener to any place you work at easily because it is very small, compact and lightweight. Although it is made of plastic, it stays and performs well for quite some time and will not fry your brain with any maintenance process.
Pros
- Easy to transport because of its lightweight and compact design.
- Very simple to set and use.
- Accurate performance.
- Directions are etched on the sharpener itself.
- Low maintenance.
Cons
- A few customers claimed that it is not very inexpensive for what it provides.
- The plastic build might not be the most durable.
Are you looking for an easy no-brain-needed kind of sharpening process? Well, we understand, because cutting itself requires so much energy and efforts that the sharpening process should be something during which you let your brain rest for a while. Oregon understood this better than us and created an easy to use bar-mounted sharpener that is really like the simplest sharpener to use! The instructions for using it are clear and simple. You only attach the blunt chain to guide bar, press the tip against a solid surface and cut! Furthermore, the results are quite accurate and consistent because this sharpener has twin guide holes to keep the alignment in place.
You can sharpen your equipment really fast with this sharpener and as you already know very accurately. However, it can’t work on all types of files. The specific files it is compatible with will be mentioned and you should use it only for them to get the best results. Apart from that, although the sharpener is mentioned to be both a sharpener and a cutter, it works best as a sharpener because it is not strong enough to be a cutter. Apparently, a few customers found it lacking enough strength for sharpening as well. So, it is best if you avoid cutting with it being lured in by the description. This sharpener is quite portable as well. And, finally, it won’t break your bank to let you enjoy all these features.
Pros
- Simple to use.
- Quite affordable.
- Offers consistent and accurate sharpening performance.
- Quite portable with its lightweight, compact body.
- Keeps the alignment right.
- Strong enough to handle sharpening.
Cons
- Not a good cutter.
- Not the strongest or most durable as a few customers complained about it breaking.
Do you want to experience motion and stability, both with just one sharpener? Then, this Xtremepower sharpener is the one you should get. It is an electric sharpener which will give you a speed (motion) that almost all chainsaw users will appreciate. Apparently, it runs on a motor with a maximum speed of 4200 RPM. Apart from that, it only shows its speed of electricity where its needed not elsewhere. The chain won’t be able to move when you use this sharpener on them. Because it can hold down the chain with its brake handles. Therefore, you will get the accuracy and the stability to get the chain sharpened uniformly.
You can set the sharpener at a very good angle too. In fact, it has a fixed angle of 35 degrees which you can move left and right. However, it might be a tad bit difficult to place the chain in the right position. The sharpener, in fact, performs quite well for the price it comes at. But, it still does leave a few desires unfulfilled. Although it is quite functional and efficient, some of its delicate parts could be made better. For example, the adjusting screws were a bit loose for some of the customers. Moreover, even though it says it will hold the chain in place, the chain holding mechanism is not very flawless but flimsy. Overall, the sharpener is a bit cheaply made, but for the price, the performance it offers is quite satisfactory. (as long as you get the right product)
Pros
- Features a decent speed as an electric sharpener.
- Keeps the chain in stable position using brakes.
- Sharpens at a constant length.
- Reasonable price.
- Set at a good angle.
- Suitable for most types of chainsaws.
- Great for both professionals and noobs.
Cons
- A bit difficult to set the chain on the sharpener.
- The clamp mechanism is not flawless.
- Cheaply made without adequate attention to details.
- Adjusting screws may be loose.
Using a number of phones with just one charger is tough. But, at times, you come across such chargers that fit all phones. Similarly, when you work with different kinds of woods, you use different kinds of chainsaws. Now, chainsaws will get blunt no matter what and sharpening all of them separately by a professional or with different sharpeners is not really a good option. It will be very costly. So, this Blue Max 5655 is an electric sharpener which is really versatile enough to handle almost all kinds of chains you inflict upon it. In fact, it has a good universal angle of 35-degree which you can set it at and move right or left if you want. For precision and stability, it also features a precision angle adjustment.
This electric sharpener creates a new versatile standard with its versatility. Not only can you adjust it to fit various types of chains but you can mount it anywhere, wall, vise or bench to do its job. This bench mounted sharpener will give you the stable on still base you need to work carefreely as well. What you might have trouble with is the speed. Although it runs on a motor with 4200 RPM, a customer complained that it does its job slowly. Apart from that, it is quite easy to set and handle. However, if by any chance a part malfunctions or you lose a part, it might be hard to find another part to replace it.
Pros
- Versatile enough to deal with a long-range of chainsaws.
- Provides a good angle to work at.
- Capable of mounting on walls, vices, and benches.
- Accurate and stable.
- Affordable.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Might prove to be a bit slow.
- Difficult to find parts that can replace it.
It does not matter if you sharpen your chainsaw occasionally or regularly. What matters is that you may need to sharpen it at any time of the day, you do not know very well how to sharpen it and you need a sharpener that will do the task easier for you but not cost everything you own. The Husqvarna sharpener is such a sharpener that will take care of all the following. Whether you regularly sharpen or not, this sharpener can handle any frequency of usage. Furthermore, it is quite easy to deal with. Even if you have no clue about how to use it you will figure it out easily. However, you will need to check YouTube or other tutorials to get a grip over it because the company itself does not include instructions maybe because it is really easy to use.
It does not matter if you sharpen your chainsaw occasionally or regularly. What matters is that you may need to sharpen it at any time of the day, you do not know very well how to sharpen it and you need a sharpener that will do the task easier for you but not cost everything you own. The Husqvarna sharpener is such a sharpener that will take care of all the following. Whether you regularly sharpen or not, this sharpener can handle any frequency of usage. Furthermore, it is quite easy to deal with. Even if you have no clue about how to use it you will figure it out easily. However, you will need to check YouTube or other tutorials to get a grip over it because the company itself does not include instructions maybe because it is really easy to use.
Apart from that, if your hands shake a lot then this might not be for you as it needs your hands to be stable to give you a stable performance. It cannot be bench-mounted. It will cut the teeth while it files the depth gauges. Therefore, it works quite fast. However, you might need some getting used to this mechanism. The sharpener itself is quite durable and sturdy. Plus, it is very reasonably priced and or the performance and quality it offers, you won’t have to think much while buying it.
Pros
- Good for both frequent and occasional usage.
- A short learning curve.
- Precise cutting performance.
- Adjusts the gauges while it cuts the tooth.
- Lightweight and compact so can be anywhere required.
- Very reasonably priced.
- Strong and durable.
Cons
- Although it is easy to operate initially it might be difficult for a beginner to work with it without the instructions.
- Needs your hands to be stable.
If your hands cause trouble when you try to use a hand-held sharpener and cut uniformly, here is one sharpener that will reduce the strain on your hands. Because you can mount it on any bench, wall or vise easily to get your job done. Apparently, it is an electric sharpener with a grinding speed of 7500 RPM which is the highest among the ones we already reviewed. Therefore, you will be able to do things very fast with it. The sharpener despite its power does not cost much but does more than you expect it too. In fact, it will save money for you. Yes, we know you use a sharpener to save money anyway. But, this sharpener increases the lifetime of your chainsaw by cutting minimal amounts of it. Now, you do not expect that from such a low-cost sharpener now, do you?
It also uses a table or vise angle of 35-degrees which is very suitable and you can also adjust it to the right or left depending on what you need. You will find it quite easy to use, however, not as easy to set up. The unit does not come with adequate instructions was the complaint of a few customers as well. But, once you get it working, and use it on the right chains, you will like what you experience. Furthermore, it is quite safe to use and will keep your chains safe as well. Apparently, it features chain rotation rollers which help minimize damage on those chains.
Pros
- Very convenient to use as it can be mounted anywhere from bench to the wall.
- Quite powerful with its grinding speed of 7500 RPM.
- Cause minimum damage to chains and cuts off as less as it can to sharpen.
- Set at a good angle.
- Easy to use.
- Very efficient and sharpens fast.
Cons
- Does not come with adequate instructions.
When it is about working in the fields, you ever know what you might need. It will be a pain to rush to the workshop or your home to get what you need too. So, what you actually need is a portable solution to every problem that you might face with your chainsaws. Yes, chainsaws in the plural because the Katzco kit is something that has everything to serve your every need. It offers you a number of files to choose from so that you can attend to any blunt chain whenever you need to. In fact, it features round files with the sizes of 5/32”, 3/16”, and 7/32”. Furthermore, it comes with a nice comfortable wooden handle that you can use to do your job conveniently. It works really well. That is, when you sharpen with it you get really good and fast results. It is accurate when you use it well.
The problem with it is that the brand may have focused more on quantity and quality than the performance or functionality. While it works well once you set it right, you cannot always set it right due to various reasons. Many customers did get it right and loved what this kit did. But, if you can is a question that cannot be answered. In fact, this kit lacks the instructions you need to work with it. Furthermore, the angle guide is neither very accurate nor very functional. It pops open or is too flimsy. Although the handle is very comfortable, it won’t be of any use if it tends to fall off, right?
So, this kit works really well if each of the parts is working well. But, if you receive one with faulty parts or flimsy build then you cannot expect a good sharpening result. However, for the price point, it does more than you expect at its best.
Pros
- A single solution or primary aid for any sharpening problem.
- Very portable.
- Contains anything you might need.
- Performs fast and precisely when it works.
- Very comfortable and convenient to use because of the handle.
- The materials used are quite durable.
- Reasonable price.
Cons
- Manufactured cheaply and without precise care, so the parts often fall off.
- Does not come with instructions.
- The angle guide is not efficient.
Best Chainsaw Sharpener Buying Guide
We have provided you with a nice list of the best chainsaw sharpener with each of their reviews. But, you might come across a faulty one at the show or you might not find any among these suitable. You still need to find one best for you, right? Therefore, here is a list of factors that will help you determine a good chainsaw sharpener when you see one and if it will be suitable for your chainsaw.
The type you and your chainsaw prefers
With time and innovation, almost everything is available in a number of types, one of which is ought to suit anyone. Chainsaw sharpeners also have types and we will classify it on the basis of two characteristics. One is based on portability and the other on power.
There are three types of sharpeners that exist and these are:
Handheld Sharpeners:
As you can guess from the name, you can hold these sharpeners in your hands and move it while you work. In these cases, the chainsaw usually remains stable and you yourself move the sharpener on it at a good angle to get it sharpened. This kind will provide you with more control but will not provide you with the best accuracy as your hands and skills will be liable to make the sharpening accurate. In this case, you have to keep the size of the blades you will be sharpening in mind.
Bar-Mounted Sharpener:
This is a sharpener that does not require your hands to control it much. You just have to secure it on the chainsaw’s bar, make a few adjustments like getting it stable at the right angle and then just let the sharpener do its magic. These sharpeners, therefore, will provide you with more accuracy but will also create a mess as it will make the wastes fly while it works.
Electric Sharpener:
Electricity is a blessing everywhere and it is more of a blessing when it comes to chainsaw sharpeners. You can just relax in peace if you have one. It not only provides you with accuracy by working at a uniform length constantly but also makes sharpening a piece of cake for you. If you work with different kinds of the blade then only an electric sharpener can handle the variety. However, these are more expensive than other but for the support and performance these provide, spending extra is totally worth it.
So, what you need to do is decide which of these you can afford and will feel completely comfortable with. Though electric chainsaw sharpener isn’t difficult to use However, you should follow some safety TIPS!
What do you use the chainsaw on and how often do you use it
You never buy a headphone that is incompatible with the phone you want to use it with now, do you? Similarly, when you buy a chainsaw sharpener, you have to track down your needs. What does your chainsaw require from a sharpener? How you will know this is by knowing your chainsaw.
Firstly, what do you cut with your chainsaw? Is it something harder and rougher than usual? Then, it will lose its sharpness sooner. Again, how often? If you use your chainsaw regularly or even multiple times a day on these harder materials then your chainsaw will require sharpening after every use. On the other hand, if you use it rarely in a month then it will require sharpening only at that time.
Based on how much your chainsaw require sharpening, you can decide how expensive your sharpener needs to be. If the chainsaw requires more sharpening then you should invest in good quality, a bit pricey sharpener that can take on the stress. Otherwise, a medium or low ranged one will do.
What material is the sharpener made from?
The blade or teeth of a chainsaw is metallic and no sane person will think of buying a wooden sharpener for it. Therefore, you should choose a sharpener that is made from good quality metal. Another consideration is abrasion-resistance and rust-resistance. It is best if you find a sharpener that has galvanized or anodized metal in its construction. The metal itself should be stronger than the metal of the chainsaw but should be resistant to other kinds of damages as well. So, metal against metal will help you get the perfect sharpened blade at the greatest speed.
What is the best way to sharpen a chainsaw chain?
You cannot always succeed in making a pen stand out of gaps, can you? Similarly, when you sharpen your chainsaw, you have to check that the sharpener you are using can sharpen the way the chainsaw needs to be sharpened. The sharpener should have the proper thickness, the ability to sharpen at the correct angle that the teeth or blade of the chainsaw requires it too. If the sharpener cannot do that, there is no way you will get a good sharpened result from it. Therefore, consider these needs and specifications of the chainsaw well.
Do you want to finish up fast?
If you are like the rest of us, you are low on both time and patience. So, you need the sharpener to do its job fast. The best choice for you will be an electric sharpener in this case as it will require both low effort and time from you. A bar mounted sharpener also gives ample attention to your time and works swiftly. The handheld one, however, takes its time to be accurate and done but may also work fast depending on how skilled you are.
So, the choice is yours.
Do you have gloves and other safety accessories or are you buying them?
Sharpening a chainsaw is not child’s play. It can not only injure you in a deadly way but can even kill you. Even blunt chainsaws and sharpeners are capable of doing so. Therefore, the first things you should wear are safety gloves to prevent anything happening to your hands. Secondly protect your eyes with safety goggles/ glasses too. Apart from that, keep the chainsaw chained to prevent any accidents when it’s not in use. Furthermore, make sure your electric sharpener is also turned off and stored properly.
Does your sharpener come with the necessary accessories?
The sharpener should not stop providing you with only the sharpener. There are a few other accessories that you will need when using it. Therefore, the sharpener should come with them. For example, removable handles, gauge tools, etc.
What price should you target?
As you already know the price varies with the types of sharpeners and also their usage. If you are looking for an electric one, you have to start at a higher price than you generally would with a handheld one. Then, if you want to use your sharpener regularly, you have to invest more in it. But, there is always a sharpener that provides the best value at a very low price. Therefore, you will find any of these good-quality sharpeners at any budget you have. However, if you do not, just move up the price ladder bit by bit and you will definitely come across one.
Benefits of buying the Best Chainsaw Sharpener
You enjoy a lot of benefits from buying a chainsaw itself. In fact, you have complete autonomy around and inside your house with it. So, having a chainsaw sharpener will only multiply the benefits you get from a chainsaw. Because it is what takes care of your chainsaw! A more clear view of the benefits you will be enjoying are:
- Better performance from your chainsaw: No matter how good your chainsaw is, it will get blunt after a few uses. If you have a sharpener at home, you can sharpen the chainsaw at any time you need to. Even if you had no idea it needed sharpening and the most important job of your life was sitting right in front of you to be cut by it, a sharpener at home will have your back.
- Saved time: It is a hassle to go the repair shop or any other professional to get your chainsaw sharpening done. In fact, the chainsaws get blunt so fast and easily that you will prefer using the blunt chains rather than going to the repair shop so often. So, keeping a sharpener at home saves your time and also provides you with what you need immediately.
- Saves money: Professionals you take your chainsaw to will definitely charge money for sharpening it. So, sharpen it for free at home with the best chainsaw sharpener. Apart from that, you get to use all of your chainsaws adequately by sharpening it whenever you need to. It performs like a new chainsaw every time and also its lifetime is increased as you do not throw it away too soon.
- Complete autonomy: With a sharpener at home, you can sharpen the chains in any way you prefer to. This is something that professionals will not always provide you with. They will do what they consider best.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Chainsaw Sharpener
How to know which file size is compatible with my chainsaw?
Answer: You will find files of many sizes and it will seem difficult to find the right file size for your chainsaw. But, the task is quite basic and straightforward. All you have to do is check the number etched on the side of the cutter of the chain. Then, based on this number you have to choose the file size. You may also find code numbers on the depth gauge to find the right file size. Alternatively, you can measure the pitch in inches to find the right file size.
The buying tasks get even more difficult when you are buying something for another thing. Because the new thing must be compatible with the old. Chainsaws themselves have a number of factors that affect their performance and when buying a chainsaw sharpener, you have to consider the chainsaw or chainsaws you are buying it for too. However, if you have enough knowledge about both, you will be able to easily buy a sharpener that not only delights you but offers a good value for the price too. In order to find the best chainsaw sharpener for yourself consider all of the factors well and you will be cutting super fast and long with your chainsaw in no time!
