triumph79
ArboristSite Operative
I would like to know a basic idea of what size file sharpens what size chain. And what's better sharpening chains by hand or with a sharpener. The files I have are a 5/32,7/32,3/16.
5/32 for 3/8lp
3/16 for .325
7/32 for 3/8
It'll be argued up and down the river about which is better. If you can hand file, or are willing to put in the time to get good at it, then it's a good, inexpensive way to maintain your chains. If not, you can either pay to have them sharpened or you can buy a grinder and grind them. Grinding is pretty standard and most anyone can do it, but you still have to pay attention and you have to know what you're doing.
It depends, but a .325" chain takes a 3/16" file and I think generally that a 3/8" chain takes the 7/32" file. The biggest thing I have found is to buy a Granberg File-N-Joint (or equivalent). Its a jig that clamps on the bar and holds all of the filing angles so that all of the teeth get sharpened the same way. It also keeps the cutter still while you file it. Its the only way I have been able to keep the left hand and right hand cutters the same length, so the chain will cut straight and not curl to one side or the other. The other important thing is to have a supply of sharp files. A brand new file gets the cutter razor sharp. After I've used a file half a dozen times or so, it starts getting dull and quits cutting. Then its time for a new file. I usually buy a box of a dozen files bevery time I get a new chain.
The filing jig and a steady supply of new files is the best combination I've found.
I want to be your dealer....:msp_mellow:
You guys don't like the 13/64 file?
I'm thinking the same thing,I use 13/64
It depends, but a .325" chain takes a 3/16" file and I think generally that a 3/8" chain takes the 7/32" file. The biggest thing I have found is to buy a Granberg File-N-Joint (or equivalent). Its a jig that clamps on the bar and holds all of the filing angles so that all of the teeth get sharpened the same way. It also keeps the cutter still while you file it. Its the only way I have been able to keep the left hand and right hand cutters the same length, so the chain will cut straight and not curl to one side or the other. The other important thing is to have a supply of sharp files. A brand new file gets the cutter razor sharp. After I've used a file half a dozen times or so, it starts getting dull and quits cutting. Then its time for a new file. I usually buy a box of a dozen files bevery time I get a new chain.
The filing jig and a steady supply of new files is the best combination I've found.
13/64" is the file recommended for many Stihl 3/8" chains.
As to the starting with a 7/32" then when at half cutter life going with 13/64"...........ever notice how a cutter gets shorter in height as it is sharpened back? If you keep your gullet clean you can use the same file for the life of your chain.
But then that ole logger up the road gets a new chain and files off the rakers fresh out of the box, buys more av mounts than imaginable and has yet to have a saw last for more than a season before it rattles itself to death.
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