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The Best Chainsaw Chain Sharpeners
A chainsaw can be one of the most important tools in your arsenal, but you need to sharpen it regularly if you want it to perform at its best.
One way to keep your chainsaw razor sharp is to use a chainsaw sharpener. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional arborist, having the right sharpening tool can help improve the performance of your chainsaw and extend its life.
But with so many options on the market, choosing the right chainsaw sharpener can be daunting. If you’re in the market for the best chainsaw sharpener, this guide is for you! We researched and reviewed the best chainsaw chain sharpeners on the market, taking power, type, price, ease of use, and safety features into account, and settled on these 4 chainsaw sharpeners based on community suggestions and the latest consumer sentiment data.
If you don’t want to read the full article, here are the 3 best chainsaw chain sharpeners:
| | 👑 BEST OVERALL | 🛠️ BEST FOR BEGINNER | 🛋️ FOR BUDGET ELECTRIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| | Oregon Universal (410 – 120) | Stihl 2 IN 1 Easy File Chainsaw Sharpener | Sharp Pebble Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Kit |
| |  |  |  |
| TYPE 👩🔬 | Electric Universal | Manual | Electric |
| RPM 🕒 | 3,400 RPM | N/A | 8000~33,000/min |
| WEIGHT ⚖️ | 17 lbs | 12.3 ounces | 1.87 lbs |
| PROS 👍 | Universal sharpener – works with many different chain types | Easy to use with a simple design | Reasonably priced with variable speed |
| CONS 👎 | More expensive than comparable models | Files need frequent replacement | Complaints that bits don’t fit into the collet |
| PRICE 💵 | $220.00 | $46.50 | $39.99 |
Are Chainsaw Sharpeners Worth It?
Absolutely!
The chain of your chainsaw sharpener will grow dull over time, and replacing it can be expensive. Sharpening it is an easier and more affordable option.
Most chainsaw chains can be sharpened four to six times before needing to be replaced. Instead of making a trip to the hardware shop every time you need it sharpened, why not invest in a chainsaw sharpener? Doing so can help you save money down the line.
How Do I Know My Chainsaw Blade Needs Sharpening?
There are many tell-tale signs that your blade needs sharpening. Pay attention to these signs because a blunt blade can pose safety risks. Generally, the following signs may indicate your blade is due for sharpening.
- It’s harder to cut through wood, and more sawdust is being produced
- Crooked or uneven cuts
- The chainsaw is harder to control
- Damaged teeth on the saw
- The chainsaw smokes
How Often Should a Chainsaw Be Sharpened?
Experts recommend four to six times during the life of the chain.
The frequency or time between sharpening should depend on how often you use the chainsaw, the type of wood you cut, and the cutting conditions. Chains that only see light use can go for long periods without being sharpened.
What are the Main Types of Chain Sharpeners?
There are two types of chain sharpeners: Manual and electric.
The sharpening process in both models is fairly the same, but there are some notable differences in how they work.
With manual sharpeners, the user slides the file back and forth along the teeth of the chain. Electric sharpeners take a different approach. With electric sharpeners, a well-positioned rotating grind wheel spins against each tooth, sharpening the blade.
Manual sharpeners require a lot of effort to complete the sharpening as you have to do the grunt work, but they are less expensive than their electric counterparts. On the other hand, electric sharpeners are easier to use as all you have to do is position the rotating grind wheel, and the system will do the rest.
Lastly, electric sharpeners are quicker to use though they may require some setup before starting. They also take up more space than manual sharpeners, which you should consider if you have little space in your shed.
How Much Does a Chainsaw Sharpener Cost?
On average, you can expect to pay around $20 for the manual budget-friendly models and up to $250 for the high-end electric models.
The Best Chainsaw Sharpeners of 2023
Without further ado, here are our picks for the best chainsaw chain sharpeners of 2023.
1. Best Overall: Oregon Universal (410 – 120)
The Oregon Universal Chainsaw Sharpener makes a strong case for being the best chainsaw sharpener on the market and for a reason.
As its name implies, this chainsaw sharpener is universal. It can sharpen almost any chain from top brands, such as Oregon, Husqvarna, Stihl, and others. Plus, it consistently produces sharp raw chains and maintains the overall condition of the equipment.
The Sharpener 410 – 120 can be mounted on a bench or wall using the included bolts. It features a manual handle for securing the cutting links and can sharpen all five chain pitches (0.325-inch, 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch low profile, 3/8-inch full profile, and 0.404-inch pitches) at 3,400 rpm.
The Oregon 410 – 120 doesn’t compromise user safety and comes with a manual chain clamping vice. There’s also a built-in light for added visibility.
Product Specs
- Mount type: Bench
- Wheel size: 5-3/4 inch
- Volts: 120V
- Watts: 300W
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Rated RPM: 3,400 RPM
Pros
- Universal sharpener – works with many different chain types
- Built-in illumination system
- Has a self-centering chain vise
Cons
- More expensive than comparable models
2. Best Budget for Beginners: Stihl 2 IN 1 Easy File Chainsaw Sharpener
If you’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use chainsaw sharpener, the Stihl 2-in-1 Chainsaw Sharpener will not disappoint.
Simple, innovative, and time-saving are some of the terms that can be used to describe this chainsaw chain sharpener. The design is simple, yet it delivers the performance you’d expect from bigger high-end models.
The Stihl Chainsaw Sharpener is constructed from tough high-grade materials, so you can be sure it will last long. It has an adjustable file guide lets you easily adjust the file depth to get the exact sharpness you need.
When it comes to sharpening performance, you can’t really go wrong with the Stihl 2-in-1, as the design of this sharpener helps you align properly and keep that perfect angle while you work. Note that this sharpener comes in various sizes, so pick one that’s right for your particular chainsaw to avoid disappointment.
Product Specs
- Brand: Stihl
- Type: Manual
- Chain pitch: .325″, .404″, 1/4 P, 1/4″ 3/8″ P, 3/8
Pros
- Easy to use with a simple design
- Sharpens and trims depth gauge
- Affordable
Cons
- Files need frequent replacement
3. Best Budget Electric: Sharp Pebble Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Kit
Electric chainsaw sharpeners simplify the process of sharpening your chain, and the Sharp Pebble Electric Chainsaw Kit provides the best value for your money.
At only $39, the Sharp Pebble Electric Chainsaw Kit allows you to sharpen your chainsaw chain without compromising on cost. The kit includes the 120V chainsaw tool, wrench, and 4 file size sharpening wheels which will help you sharpen many different chain types.
You can use this chain sharpener on any standard chain pitch, and it provides variable speeds ranging from 8,000 to 33,000 RPM. It features an ergonomic design that makes it easy for both beginners and professionals and sharpens even the bluntest chainsaw chains in minutes.
Additionally, the cushioned handle makes the tool more comfortable to handle and use, allowing you to give your whole attention to precision. The sharpener has a six-foot power cord, so you can work without being close to a power source.
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Power source: Corded electric
- Maximum speed: 33,000 rpm
- Sharpener weight: 2 pounds
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Variable speed
- Relatively easy to use
Cons
- Complaints that bits don’t fit into the collet
4. Best Budget Manual: Oregon Universal Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit
Oregon is a distinguished leader in the chainsaws industry, having been in the business for over 75 years. The company is well known for its quality, affordable chain saw and accessories and the Oregon Universal Chainsaw Sharpening Kit perpetuates the brand’s legacy.
This manual universal chainsaw sharpening kit from Oregon checks all the boxes for quality, versatility, and price. At only $17 for the kit, you surely won’t find a better deal elsewhere.
This versatile kit includes 1 x 7/32 inch saw chain file, 1 x 3/16 inch saw chain file, 1 x 5/32 inch saw chain file, 1 file guide, 1 x 6 Inch flat file, and 1 x universal file handle.
Oregon has also included a detailed instruction sheet with this model, including a filing chart to help you align the right filing tool to your chain. The kit comes in a compact pouch with inner pockets for each tool and a handy loop closure, perfect for carrying along on the job.
Product Specs
- Brand: Oregon
- Power source: Manual
- Horsepower: 0.75 hp
- Item dimensions: 2 x 10.8 x 2 inches
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- It comes in a compact travel pouch
- Easy to use
Cons
- Some complaints of poor-quality files
Wrapping Up
A chainsaw sharpener is a crucial tool in your arsenal, as it can help you optimize the performance of your chainsaw and save you costs down the line.
If you’re in the market for the best chainsaw sharpener, this guide should help you narrow down your choices to only the options that have been tested and proven to deliver results. We hope this guide will help you make an informed decision. Feel free to comment and share!