1. Katzco 8 Piece Chainsaw Kit
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Katzco 8 Piece Chainsaw Kit
Specifications
- File size: 5/32″ – 4.0 mm
3/16″ – 4.8 mm
7/32″ – 5.5 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories :
This
8-piece file kit contains several accessories for easy use. It has 3 different round file sizes, 5/32, 3/16 and 7/32, and a 6 inches flat fine-tooth file, while the 3/8 inches hardwood stain and finish handle can attach to any file size and to the depth gauge, as well, for an ergonomic and easy grip. Additionally, it offers you
better control and accuracy regarding angles, thanks to its 7.75 inches long file holder that comes with a
filling guide inscribed on it. Minimizing the annual maintenance cost you would, otherwise, have paid for a new chain, all the tools can be carried in one
single roll-up tool pouch for more convenient transport.
PROS
- Several accessories for a customized experience
- Higher portability and less storage space occupied
- Offers high quality with an affordable price
CONS
- Some complained about the files bending easily
- There were some complaints regarding the lack of precise instructions
Verdict
A great set that offers portability, lots of accessories and an easy way to maintain and improve your chainsaw’s lifespan, it is a great addition for both personal and professional use.
2. Cataumet Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
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Cataumet Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
Specifications
- File size: 5/32″ – 4.0 mm
3/16″ – 4.8 mm
7/32″ – 5.5 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories:
A sharpening XL kit that includes premium tools for professional or personal use, it has
3 round files measuring 5/32”- 4.0mm, 3/16”- 4.8mm, 7/32”- 5.5mm,
3 double handle file guides, a 6 inches
flat file, a depth gauge of 0.25inches, a 5.5-inch
felling wedge, a heavy-duty stump vice, a screwdriver, and a 13mm-19mm chainsaw wrench. Additionally, it has a nail head nylon field bag, with 6 exterior storage sleeve pockets and a single end-to-end zipper in which to carry them all. It measures 13 inches in length, 17 inches height and 5 inches in width, thus providing you with lots of storage space and portability. All tools are made with high-quality steel, thus offering you both strength and durability, while the felling wedge is made from high impact ABS plastic and is not intended for splitting wood. Additionally, the chainsaw handle and guides accept same-size file replacements.
PROS
- A full kit for DIY projects
- Space and storage convenience
- Great quality for a great price
CONS
- Some complained about the sewing from the bag
- There were some complaints about how quickly the files dull
Verdict
A great set in aiding your use of chainsaw, it offers you different types of files and several accessories to ease and improve the quality of your work. Additionally, it comes with a bag so you’ll be able to keep all the accessories in one place.
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Specifications
- File size: 3/8″ – 4.0 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories:
It measuring 14.4 inches in height, 3.5 inches in length and 1.7 inches in width, and it weighs 14.4 ounces, as it comes with two types of files:
two rounded files, and one flat. Additionally, it comes with a unique file holder for more accessibility and a filing guide, for more precision, accuracy, and easiness in dealing with your dulled chain. A
2-in-1 design, it simplifies the overall process by completing two functions at once – sharpening the cutters and lowering your depth gauges. It works best for 1/4″ P, 3/8″ P, .325″, 3/8″ and .404″ saw chains with integrated file tolerance. It requires no batteries to work.
PROS
- Easy to use and beginner friendly
- Lots of accessories for a customized use
- Works with any chain brand
CONS
- Some complained about it not working with other chainsaws brands
- It doesn’t include a file grip
Verdict
The perfect tool for keeping your chainsaw in top shape, it is easy to use and beginner friendly. It is a 2-in-1 design, which provides you with two rounded files, a flat one and a case, for quick transport.
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Specifications
- File size: 3/8″ – 4.0 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories:
It measures 13.6 in height, 8 inches in width and 2 inches in-depth, and it can be used right out of the package. Best suited for
3/8″ P and 3/8″ chainsaws with low profile chains, it doesn’t require you to remove the chain while you work on it. It comes with a strong and sturdy file, requiring no more than 4 passes on each saw tooth to sharpen it. Weighing 11.2 ounces, its round file comes with a filling guide for more precision and control over the filling angles.
PROS
- Easy design for better control
- Lightweight, beginner friendly design
- Easy to use the guide lines on the sides
CONS
- Comes with a specific size
- There were some complaints about the file sizes not being interchangeable
Verdict
It offers you the possibility of using a simple design to sharpen your chainsaw with a quick, easy and simple method. Plus, it comes with a filling guide, so you’ll have increased precision when you work.
5. HILASON INTERNATIONAL Mizoova 10-Piece
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HILASON INTERNATIONAL Mizoova 10-Piece
Specifications
- File size: 5/32″ – 4.0 mm
3/16″ – 4.8 mm
7/32″ – 5.5 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories:
This
10-piece set comes with all you need to sharpen your chainsaw in just a few minutes. It has
3 different-sized round files, 5/32”, 3/16”, 7/32”, as well as several flat ones, all made from durable steel, which you can use with a variety of chain types. It comes with an additional
file guide, measuring 7-1/2 inches, which is designed with a quick lock and release mechanism, for increased stability and control while using. It has engraved angles, to provide you with increased precision with alignment when filling.
Furthermore, it comes with a 6-3/4” depth gauge, with inscribed angles on it for easier use, and with a 4” bar groove cleaner. Thanks to its quick check gauge, which measures 4-1/4 inches in length, there will be no more guessing, as it comes with all the necessary indications engraved onto it, while its 4” round, hardwood handle will be able to accustom all file types. All tools will fit nicely inside the traveling pouch it comes with, as it can even fold down while all the items are still inside. It measures 11.02 inches in length and 7.09 inches in width when completely rolled out, while folded it measures 10.02 inches in length, 3.15 inches in width and 1.18 inches in height.
PROS
- Easy to use and store
- Durable and time resistant
- Several accessories
CONS
- There were some complaints about it not matching the saw type
- Some complained about it’s overall time resistance
Verdict
Easy to use, providing you with all the necessary equipment to sharpen your chainsaw, as well as being extremely portable and easy to carry around, the Mizoova 10-Piece set should never miss from your toolset. It comes with several file types, depth, and a filling gauge, to increase your precision and accuracy, while its hardwood handle will be able to fit different types of files.
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Specifications
- File size: 4-1/4 x 1/8 inches
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Electric
- Other accessories:
It measures 9.5 inches in depth, 6 inches in height and 13.5 inches in width, it has a weight of 4.11 pounds, thus it is lightweight and easy to move around or store. It can be placed and
mounted on a bench, wall or, 35 degrees right to left, vise, thus you can easily adjust it according to your working conditions. It can be used with most types of chains, and it comes with a,
4 ¼-inch in diameter and 1/8-inch in thickness, grinding wheel. It has a powerful 85W motor which makes it rotate at 4200 RPM, thus it provides you with an easy way to sharpen your chain. It has a
7/8-inch arbor, and a saw chain pitch of 3/8 inches. It needs 120V and 60 Hz to function properly, and it has a gauge of 0.080” to 0.050”, but it will not work with any 0.043” gauges. Additionally, it comes with a limited 90-day warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Can be mounted to bench, wall or vise
- Fast, 4200RPM
- Can be used with several types of chain
CONS
- There were some complaints about it being difficult to use
- It doesn’t come with a depth gauge
Verdict
Thanks to its powerful motor, and fast-rotating blade, you’ll be able to easily sharpen your chain. It can be used with several types of chains, so you don’t have to worry about it not fitting, but it doesn’t come with a depth gauge, so you’ll have to measure it manually.
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Specifications
- File size: 5/32″ – 4.0 mm
3/16″ – 4.8 mm
7/32″ – 5.5 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories:
This set comes with
3 round files with different sizes: 5/32 inches – 4.0mm with a 3/8-inch LP Pitch, 3/16 inches – 4.8mm with a 3/25-inch Pitch, and 7/32 inches – 5.5mm with a 3/8-inch Pitch. Additionally, it has a 4-inch long attachable hardwood
handle, thus it allows you to use all the tools while keeping an easy and comfortable grip, and a 6-inch long
flat file.
Moreover, it comes with a 7-inch long depth gauge which will help you get a precise and accurate measurement with special engraved numbers, to aid you even more, and the angle guide filing holder will align your file for precise sharpening. It has 2 clips to support the file when snapped on to keep it stable. All tools can be kept in the compact, durable, roll-up, 10.5 inches by 7 inches, tool pouch it comes with, which allow easy storage and transport. The set can be used to sharpen landscaper chainsaws, firewood cutting ones, concrete cutting chainsaws and brushing and slashing saws, and it comes with a lifetime warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Easy storage and transportation
- Several accessories
- Able to adapt to different types of chainsaws
- Uses an ultrasonic humidification method
CONS
- There were some complaints about the instructions not being clear enough
- Some complained about the files
Verdict
A kit that offers portability and easy storage, thanks to the compact, roll-up tool pouch it comes with. Thanks to the depth gauge and filing guide you will easily be able to sharpen your saw, while the files it comes with, are able to match different types of saws: landscapers, firewood cutters, concrete saws and brushing and slashing ones.
8. Chicago Electric HA68221
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Specifications
- File size: 4-1/4 x 1/8 inches
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Electric
- Other accessories:
It can be used with
all types of chain pitches and designs, as it comes with an adjustable chain vise for the cutting angle, as well as
sliding rotation rollers, which allow you to move the chain while sharpening. It allows you to easily mount it either on a bench, on the wall or a vise, and it is lightweight as it weighs only 6.5 pounds. It has a
compact built, it measures 14.2 by 9.8 by 6.7 inches, and it has a 7/8-inch arbor. It has a powerful motor, which allows the
4-1/4-inch diameter and 1/8-inch thick grinding wheel to rotate with 4200 RPM for fast and easy sharpening. Moreover, for increased safety, it comes with a safety guard. It comes with an easy-to-operate design, which allows you to start working as soon as you plug it into any 12V outlet.
PROS
- Can be mounted on a bench, wall or vise
- Strong and fast
- Easy to use and store
CONS
- There were some complaints about the design
- Some complained about its precision
Verdict
Easy to use, all you have to do it plug it into a 12V outlet and begin the sharpening. It can be used with several types of chains, so you don’t have to worry about it not fitting, and it comes with chain rollers to increase your efficiency. Moreover, it is lightweight and has a compact design, thus you can easily mount it on a wall, bench or vise.
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Specifications
- File size: 3/16″ – 4.8 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories:
This
filling kit comes with all the necessary tools and accessories for you to be able to easily sharpen your saw. There are
two types of files in the set: a flat and a round one, each measuring 3/16 inches in diameter. Both of them have easily detachable and interchangeable wood-made handles to provide you with easy use, and a comfortable grip. They best suited for chains which have a
pitch of 0.325-inches and the set comes with a depth gauge tool, as well, to provide you with increased accuracy. It comes with a filling guide, as well as a
tool pouch, which will enable you not only easy storage, as you will be able to keep all items in the same place, but with increased portability, so you can easily take the set with you anywhere you travel.
PROS
- Easy to use
- Higher portability and easy storage
- Works with any chain brand
CONS
- There were some complaints about the handle
- Some complained about the size
Verdict
Thanks to the carry tool pouch the set comes with, you will be easily able to keep all the tools in one place, providing you with increased maneuverability. Additionally, it comes with all the necessary accessories for you to be able to quickly and precisely sharpen your chainsaw, making it a necessary and extremely useful kit to have around.
Specifications
- File size: 4-1/4 x 1/8 inches
- Filling guide included :
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type : Electric
- Other accessories :
Able to
accommodate all types of chains, this electric chainsaw sharpener comes with a precise angle adjustment, which allows you to choose between 0 ° up to 30° left and right according to your needs. Versatile, it enables you to set it up on a bench, wall or vise, by simply tightening the screws until it is firmly attached to the surface. It has a
power of 85W, and a grinding speed of 4200 RPM, making it an excellent choice if you want to prevent losing time sharpening your chain.
It measures 9.5” by 14.4” by 6.7” and it weighs 5.8 pounds, thus it is compact so it won’t take too much space. Additionally, the grinding wheel measures 4 ¼” by 1/8” and comes with a 7/8” arbor, ensuring you’ll be able to easily swivel it for increased precision. It comes with a track which will keep your chain stable, and a brake lever which will keep the chain in place as you sharpen it. It comes with a limited 1-year warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Fast working
- Versatile and simple installation
- Able to accommodate all types of chains
Verdict
Easy to use, as it comes with simple yet extremely versatile installation, you’ll be able to set it up on a bench, wall or vise according to your needs and preferences. Additionally, it can accommodate all types of chains, so you don’t have to worry about the type of chain you have, while its strong and fast motor will make sure there’s no time lost. Even more, you can adjust its angle according to your needs, with just a push of a lever.
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Specifications
- File size: 5/32″ – 4.0 mm
- Filling guide included:
- Depth gauge :
- File handle included :
- Type: Manual
- Other accessories:
It measures 1 and 1/4 inches in height, 3.5 inches in width and 12 inches in length when assembled, the kit comes with a 5/32 round file, a file frame, for more precision and control, and a wooden file handle for a proper and ergonomic grip. It weighs only 0.8 ounces, it is able to fit
1.4 inches and 3/8 inches chainsaws, with a pitch low profile of 0.050 in. ga. chain models. Plus, the guide it comes with will provide you with the correct filling angle according to your chainsaw.
PROS
- Comes with a guide
- Has a strong handle
- Easy to use
CONS
- Some complained the wooden handle doesn’t have a curve to it
- There were some complaints about the files bending.
Verdict
A product that will ensure your chainsaw will get at least another year worth of work, it will definitely improve your work performance.
Types of Chainsaw Sharpeners
The perfect tool for the perfect project will is essential if you want to be able to work without interruptions and unplanned breaks. While there are several types of chainsaws on the market, so are the sharpeners. But you will want the one that fits your chainsaw best and one that offers you only the best sharpening experience. So let’s take a look at their types.
- Rounded File – coming in different sizes, they are usually the cheapest ones to buy. Commonly mixed together, in a kit, with a flat-file and a depth gauge one, they are designed to perfectly fit in the curve of the tooth. Thus, you have to make sure you measure correctly and choose the right one for your tool.
- Manual Bar – providing accurate sharpening, as they go right into the bar of the chainsaw, they are not exactly actual sharpeners. More similar to fixed guides for sharpening using a file built already into the tool, they do not require the chainsaw to be secured in order to be used.
- Electric – portable hand-held tools that do not need to be plugged into the wall, they are usually connected to a 12v battery on your car or working van. Coming with an adjustable gauge, they are much quicker at sharpening than hand files but you have to make sure the chainsaw is secured to avoid any types of injuries.
- Bench – stationary grinder which offers you the quickest and best results when sharpening chains is what you require, they cannot be taken away from home. While unable to be moved, they offer precision, quickness, and accuracy in sharpening any type of chainsaw, regardless if it’s for personal or professional use.
- Electric Drill – designed to fit on drills and multi-tools, they work in a similar way to rounded files. Handheld, but connected to an electric rotary drill or operated as a separate electric tool, they can easily and quickly sharpen your chainsaw. There are also models which are lighter and require a battery to work.
- Electric Professional Self-Sharpening Chainsaw – with this tool you won’t actually need a sharpener. It will automatically sharpen the chain by itself, but its price is not exactly cheap.
How to Sharpen a Chainsaw in 5 Steps
A bit intimidating for beginners, they are fairly easy and simple to use. If you follow certain steps, you will discover the utility of sharpening a chain instead of throwing away and buying a new one. Profitable in the long run, as you will not be forced to buy new chains as often as before, sharpening is easy if you do it right.
Step 1
– Wear protective gear. Your hands need to be protected to avoid any possible injuries, so wear a pair of thick and durable gloves.
Step 2
– Secure the chain. Engage the break so your chain won’t move while you work on it. Tie it securely so it will be fixed and unable to move.
Step 3
– Depending on the kit you have, you should follow the manual it comes with, for a precise and correct way of sharpening the chain. It should only take a few strokes to see a shiny silver gleam on the metal before you move on to the next cutter. You’ll have to repeat the process until you’ve managed to sharpen all the cutters on the chain. Don’t forget to check the right angle before you engage in action.
Step 4
– Find the depth gauge. It should come with the kit, allowing you to readjust the height of your cutters. They have to be perfectly aligned with the gauge to get the best and optimum result. Not having the cutters aligned correctly means that your chainsaw will not reach the wood and thus you’ll have an ineffective tool.
Step 5
– Refuel it. Once you put the fuel back, your tool is ready to go. Be sure to keep the chain sharp and the tool clean of dirt and debris to prolong its lifespan.
To be able to work at full capacity, you need a sharpened chain saw. While you could always throw the chain and buy a new one, you might not always have the money to make a new investment simply because it has dulled a bit. So, a great way to keep your chainsaw sharp, without investing money in it, is to simply sharpen it up.
Best Overall
: Katzco 8 Piece Chainsaw Kit
Katzco 8 Piece Chainsaw Kit comes with anything you might need to keep your tool in great shape. Thanks to its various files there won’t be a chain you won’t be able to sharpen, while thanks to the filling guide, you will have increased precision. Not to mention that it comes with a portable tool pouch that enables you to keep all accessories in one place, always ready to go.
Our Choice
: Cataumet Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
This set comes with a complete arsenal to aid in keeping and maintaining your chainsaw sharp. The versatile file types will be able to accommodate all types of chains, while the depth gauge will make sure you will have constant accuracy. Even more, it comes with a felling wedge, a heavy-duty stump vice, a screwdriver, and a chainsaw wrench to provide a complete working set. Durable, sturdy and resistant, you can keep them all together, as it comes with a traveling nylon bag.
Best Electric Sharpener
: Buffalo Tools ECSS
If you’re tired of wasting precious time manually sharpening your chain, or if you worry your precision is not as accurate as you’d like, Buffalo Tools ECSS is a solution you should consider. Electric, it works fast and precise, sharpening only as much as you want. With a sturdy grinding wheel, it can accommodate several types of chains, and it allows you to set it up on a bench, wall or vise for increased versatility.
Best Manual Chainsaw Sharpener
: Drixet 29510
Drixet 29510 comes with a compact way of storing and transporting your files, ensuring the storing pouch won’t take too much space so you;l be able to take it with you on the site. It comes with a filing guide and a depth gauge which will provide increased precision while the handle include will make switching between the different file types a cinch.