Mistakes To Avoid When Sharpening A Chainsaw With A File

No one likes dullness, and that especially pertains to home improvement tools whose effectiveness heavily relies on their sharpness. Like the other gardening tools you should sharpen regularly, frequent use of your chainsaw can lead to dulling of the teeth on the chain. Fortunately, sharpening it doesn't take much effort. Even if you use the top tools to sharpen your chainsaw like a professional, there are some common mistakes you'll need to avoid, specifically when you use a file. These include using an incorrect file size, not cleaning the chain before sharpening, filing at the wrong angle, and even sharpening too much. 

These errors not only reduce your chainsaw's efficiency, but they can also cost you more in replacements over time. It's wise to remember to avoid these so you can prevent your chainsaw's quality from deteriorating further. You sharpen a chainsaw to help improve your cutting efficiency, after all, and not to make things much worse.

One of the usual mistakes in sharpening a chainsaw chain is using an incorrect file size. A file refers to the tool that goes in direct contact with the chainsaw teeth. Remember that chainsaw teeth come in various sizes. The pitch of your chain, the measurement between rivets divided in half, is what determines the specific file size you'll need to use. It is best to read your chainsaw's manual or its specifications to ensure you're using the correct file size to prevent damaging your tool. 

Next, it's time to look at the present state of your chainsaw. Is it dirty? If yes, it's time to clean it thoroughly. You can use a wire brush to remove any debris from the chainsaw teeth and nearby parts. For tougher grime, wet the brush and use a mild degreaser. If you spot any rust, try one of the 10 hacks to remove rust from your garden tools.  

Another mistake to avoid is failing to maintain the correct angle while sharpening with a file. Check your tool's manual, but most chainsaws require an angle between 25 and 35 degrees. Push the file forward along the tooth face in a consistent motion. Start from one end and work your way across the entire stretch of the chainsaw. This consistent pressure is important to ensure that each tooth is sharpened equally. Lastly, resist over-filing since you run the risk of removing too much material from each tooth, which could in turn lead to a shortened lifespan. Just file enough to restore the sharp edge to improve the cutting quality of the chainsaw.