How to sharpen a chainsaw chain for maximum performance

Using a dull chainsaw is a surefire way to make cutting tasks annoying, slow, and even risky. Whether you’re slicing up firewood or just cleaning up around the yard, you want every cut to be smooth and easy. Luckily, sharpening a chainsaw chain is something you can do yourself, and it can make a world of difference. Follow these steps to keep your chainsaw in tip-top shape and extend its life.

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

The troubleshooting information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Why keeping your chainsaw chain sharp is a big deal

A sharp chainsaw chain is key for making clean, safe cuts. When your chain is dull, you end up putting extra strain on the engine, making it work harder than it needs to. A blunt chain can also cause the saw to jerk or bounce around, which can damage your cuts and even lead to accidents. By keeping that chain sharp, you reduce wear on the moving parts and get more precise, efficient cuts.

Taking care of your chain also helps your chainsaw last longer overall. Instead of having to replace the chain sooner than you’d like, sharpening it lets you get going again without spending a ton of cash. 

Gather the right tools

To sharpen a chainsaw chain, you’ll need the following tools:

• Round file (the correct size for your chain)
• File guide (to maintain the correct angle and depth)
• Flat file (for the depth gauges)
• Chain vise or clamp (optional, but helps hold the chain steady)
• Safety gloves and glasses
• Lubricant (chain oil or honing oil)

Safety precautions before you start

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• If working indoors, make sure there is adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of exhaust fumes. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a serious risk.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Never attempt to service or repair while it is running or when the engine is still warm. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop.
• Exercise extreme caution when working near blades, augers, or any other moving parts. Keep your hands, fingers, and clothing clear of these areas at all times.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any hot parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Empty the gas tank before beginning any work. Refill using fresh fuel. 
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• When not in use, store the machine in a safe and dry location.

Instructions for sharpening

1. Turn off the chainsaw and disconnect the spark plug wire for safety.
2. If you have a chain vise or clamp, secure the chainsaw chain in place, ensuring it’s stable and you can easily rotate it.
3. Check for any damaged or broken teeth. If you find any teeth that are cracked or excessively worn down, they will need to be replaced.
4. Make sure the chain is clean and free of debris before starting the sharpening process.
5. Identify the first tooth: Choose a tooth to start with. Most chainsaw chains have alternate teeth on either side of the chain.
6. Set the file guide: Place the file guide on the first tooth, ensuring that it aligns with the angle of the tooth (usually 30°-35°). The file guide will help maintain a consistent angle while sharpening.
7. File the tooth: Insert the round file into the tooth, positioning it in line with the chain’s angle. Push the file through the tooth in one smooth motion, applying even pressure. Always file in the direction of the cut, not back and forth. Make 2-3 strokes per tooth, checking the sharpness after each pass.
8. Rotate the chain: After sharpening one tooth, rotate the chain to the next tooth on the opposite side. Ensure you are sharpening the alternate teeth (left and right).
9. File all the teeth: Continue sharpening all the teeth, ensuring they are all even and sharp.
10. As you sharpen the teeth, check the height of each tooth to ensure they are all roughly the same size.
11. Use the round file to touch up any teeth that may not be as sharp as others.
12. The depth gauges control how deeply the teeth cut into the wood. If they are too high, the chain won’t cut efficiently.
13. Use the flat file to file the depth gauges down to the correct height.
14. Measure the depth with a depth gauge tool and adjust accordingly. If the gauge is too high, file it down gently until it is at the right level.
15. Check each depth gauge for uniformity to ensure the chain cuts evenly.

After sharpening, apply lubricant or chain oil to the chain to reduce friction while cutting. This will also help the file glide more easily while sharpening.

Test the chain

1. Once you’ve sharpened the chain, reconnect the spark plug wire and test the chainsaw.
2. Run the chainsaw on a small piece of wood to see how well it cuts. If the chain seems to pull in one direction or isn’t cutting as smoothly as it should, check the teeth again for uniformity and sharpness.

Read more: Chainsaw tips to keep you safe while you work

More help

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