12 Volt Rotary Chain Grinders - Recommendations?

[SteveSr]

Hello,

My ancient C.A. 1996 Oregon triangular shaped chain grinder is on its last legs. The cheap plastic nose is cracking in multiple places. I am now looking for a replacement.

I know that Oregon still makes a newer version and then there is the Granberg / Stihl grinder. I am not crazy about the Granburg setup as it requires proprietary threaded grinding stones and am not really thrilled about the relatively little (homeowner) use I got out of my older Oregon grinder.

Are there any others out there that you would recommend?


Thanks,

Steve

 

[Philbert]

Not sure how many choices you have. I think that Granberg made some of the other ones (?); they have 3 or 4 different models. The current Oregon one is made in China, but only about $30 locally; it has a nice feature that lets you run it off of the cigarette lighter socket in your car, as well as the battery clamps. Northern Tool sells a version that feels even cheaper.

The other alternative is to use a Dremel tool.

Whatever you choose, check out the new ABN stones that Grande Dog is selling. These cut aggressively, and keep their shape.
http://www.arboristsite.com/community/threads/grandberg-type-sharpening-stones.285808/#post-5564145

http://granberg.com/category/catalo...rpeners/electric-chain-saw-sharpeners-12-volt
http://www.oregonproducts.com/pro/products/accessories/ElectricSureSharp.htm
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200623963_200623963

Philbert

 

[SteveSr]

The current Oregon one is made in China, but only about $30 locally; it has a nice feature that lets you run it off of the cigarette lighter socket in your car, as well as the battery clamps. Northern Tool sells a version that feels even cheaper.
Philbert

Can't tell from the photos if the NT and Oregon are actually one and the same or if the NT is an even cheaper clone. One of the issues with the Oregon is that there is insufficient clearance around the collet for the wrench and you end up hitting the guide plate with its anchor in flimsy plastic.

The other alternative is to use a Dremel tool.
Philbert

I tried the Dremel chainsaw attachment and couldn't make it work. It appears they got the design BACKWARDS i.e when used the stone rotates TOWARDS (instead of AWAY) from the cutting edge and has a nasty tendency to grab and "hop over" and ruin your freshly sharpened edge!

Whatever you choose, check out the new ABN stones that Grande Dog is selling. These cut aggressively, and keep their shape.
http://www.arboristsite.com/community/threads/grandberg-type-sharpening-stones.285808/#post-5564145
Philbert

I read the post but it doesn't appear that these ever became a product. They are NOT on the LCS web site that I could find. I left a reply we'll see what happens.

 

[Philbert]

I think that the STIHL rotary grinders were made by Granberg. The Northern Tool grinders are definitely a cheaper clone - appear to also be sold under the 'Timber Tuff' brand name, and likely, a few others. The Craftsman grinders are NLA, but might be available used on eBay.

I played with these a few years back, and understand how they can be nice for field sharpening, but the wear on the stones was always a concern.

Couple more related threads with some comments:
http://www.arboristsite.com/community/threads/rotary-chain-grinders-dremel-granberg-etc.286936/

http://www.arboristsite.com/community/threads/who-sharpens-chain-with-rotary-tool.275711/


Philbert

 

[Evan]

Free hand with a dremel. Kinda like free hand with a file. Makes you learn the cutter.

Get a fileaplate to set rakers