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.
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CONS
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- Comes with a guide
- Has a strong handle
- Easy to use
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- Some complained the wooden handle doesn’t have a curve to it
- There were some complaints about the files bending.
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| VERDICT
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| A product that will ensure your chainsaw will get at least another year worth of work, it will definitely improve your work performance |
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
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CONS
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- Easy to use and beginner friendly
- Lots of accessories for a customized use
- Works with any chain brand
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- Some complained about it not working with other chainsaws brands
- It doesn’t include a file grip
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| VERDICT
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| The perfect tool for keeping your chainsaw in top shape, it is easy to use, beginner friendly, coming with several accessories for you to use. |
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
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CONS
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- Easy design for better control
- Lightweight, beginner friendly design
- Easy to use the guide lines on the sides
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- Comes with a specific size
- There were some complaints about the file sizes not being interchangeable
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| VERDICT
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| It offers you the possibility of using a simple design to sharpen your chainsaw with a quick, easy and simple method |
Cataumet Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
4. Cataumet Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit
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.
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CONS
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- A full kit for DIY projects
- Space and storage convenience
- Great quality for a great price
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- Some complained about the sewing from the bag
- There were some complaints about how quickly the files dull
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| VERDICT
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| 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. |
Katzco 8 Piece Chainsaw Kit
5. Katzco 8 Piece Chainsaw Kit
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
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CONS
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- Several accessories for a customized experience
- Higher portability and less storage space
- Offers high quality with an affordable price
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- Some complained about the files bending easily
- There were some complaints regarding the lack of precise instructions
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| VERDICT
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| 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. |
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 chose 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.
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