Thread: 13/64 vs. 7/32 file

If you normally use a 7/32 file to sharpen your chainsaw, and all you have is 13/64 for a file which is slightly smaller, is it alright to use or will it screw up your chain when you want to go back to 7/32 ? Please let me know your opinions! Thank you!

First time you try to sharpen a new chain it wil bind up a bit, then when you get near the end of the chain life it will start to cut into the stap more than a smaller file.

other than that no big deal for a work chain.

And by the way most of my chains are .404 .

I read it the wrong way, if your using a smaller file no big deal, the file will need to be supported a bit more the first time to keep the hook angle the same, then if you go back to the larger file it may bind a bit until the larger contour is re-established.

I use the 13/64 until the chain is 1/2 worn out or so, then go with the 7/32.

Although both sizes are fine, I think Stihl chain can be sharpened faster and sharper with the smaller file, since Stihl chain is much harder, however 7/32 is better when cleaning out gullets I find.
John

Originally Posted by django

I use the 13/64 until the chain is 1/2 worn out or so, then go with the 7/32.

Are you sure it isn't the other way around?

Stihl recommends 13/64" (5.2 mm) for their 3/8" rs and RM.

Oregon recommends 7/32" (5.5 mm) for most of their 3/8" chain.

Imo both recommendations are are right!