Quick Comparison Table

BestEquip

CO-Z

Buffalo Tools ECSS

Timberline

Katzco

TruePower

Husqvarna

Timber Tuff CS-12V

STIHL 5605 007 1027

Oregon 520-120

Price $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
Dimensions 18 x 12.5 x 10 inches. 17.2 x 11.5 x 8.8 inches. 13.5 x 9.5 x 6.2 inches. 6 x 4.2 x 4 inches. 3 x 1 x 2 inches. 7 x 10 x 14 inches. 1.2 x 5.2 x 16.5 inches. 10.8 x 5 x 1.6 inches. 1.1 x 11.4 x 0.2 inches. 10.1 x 11.7 x 14.9 inches.
Weight 17.3 pounds. 12.8 pounds. 7 pounds. 1.1 pounds. 8 ounces. 6.5 pounds. 7 ounces. 2.2 pounds. 8.8 ounces. 19.2 pounds.
Warranty 1 year warranty. N/A. 90 day warranty. Lifetime warranty. N/A. N/A. N/A. 1 year warranty. N/A. 1 year warranty.
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How to Select the Best Chainsaw Chain Sharpener?


In order to get the most use out of your chainsaw chains, it pays to invest in a chain sharpener. There are so many different kinds of chain sharpeners on the market – all aimed at making the experience easy and manageable.

However, choosing the best chainsaw chain sharpener for the money can all depend on how often you use your saw, whether you’re a homeowner or professional, and your level of expertise.

In this buying guide we will show you several different options at varying prices. Each has its pros and cons. The aim is to allow you to make an informed decision on the best sharpener for the job.

 

Work Type

The type of chainsaw chain sharpener you purchase can almost solely depend on how often you use your chainsaw, and for how long.

It can also depend on whether you’re a homeowner with small trees or a professional who undertakes a variety of work with a commercial grade saw. Are you cutting hard wood? Or soft wood? The work type is a very important part of the decision making process.

 

Space Requirements

Some people just don’t have the space for many power tools, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Your space requirements also play an important part as you would need plenty of bench space for an electric sharpener, but minimal space for a manual handheld sharpener.

 

Portability

Many professionals who operate commercial grade saws out in the field may find themselves with a dull chain when they didn’t expect it. It’s all well and good to carry around an extra chain, but there will be days you forget to.

That is why it’s important to carry around a file that suits your chain. An electric chain sharpener, in this case, would not be the wisest choice, but it’s certainly the most effective at home. However, for the sake of portability, a manual handheld file would be the better option.

 

Features

Different files have different specs and it can also depend on the manufacturer of that file, the brand or the model. Electric sharpeners also provide different levels of power, safety features and optional extras.

The same can be said for manual files. Many come with handles that allow you to grip better, or in a pack with everything you need to maintain your saw.

 

Budget

Your budget can certainly help you choose which chain sharpening device you will purchase. After all, there is a huge price disparity between a handheld manual file, and an electric sharpening machine.

Let your budget and your needs determine how much you are willing to spend. It may also pay to look at each sharpening device’s specs within this buying guide to make sure you’re getting the best deal on the market.

 

Available Electric Chainsaw Chain Sharpener Types on the Market


#1 Hand-Held File

Hand-held files are a great option for all chainsaw users – regardless of your industry. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional, you are sure to appreciate the convenience of carrying around a filing kit for when and if you need it.

A filing kit usually contains four essential items:

  • Depth gauge guide.
  • Round file.
  • Flat file.
  • File guide.

The round file is used to sharpen the teeth whilst the file guide holds the file at the right depth. The flat file and gauge helps to occasionally reset the depth gauges.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are easy to carry with your chainsaw at all times.
  • They are lightweight and compact to fit in a carry case with your saw.
  • They are inexpensive to buy.

Cons:

  • They are not as effective as an electric chain sharpening device as there’s a lot of room for human error.
  • They are more labor intensive.

Applications

Manual files are easy to use anywhere you go. All you need is either a flat surface or a file guide to ensure the chain remains flat and immobile for the duration of your sharpening time. They are also easy to pack into a kit and can be used in the garden shed or out in the field.

Features

Chainsaw files are shaped to fit flush against the cutting edge of your chainsaw’s teeth. Most files are round, however they can also have diamond, square or rectangular sections depending on the chain being sharpened.

Chainsaw files are also blunt which allows users to grip the end without worrying about slipping or getting cut. They are available with gauges from 7/32 inches to ¼ inches.

Storage

The most convenient thing about a file kit is the ability for it to be stored almost anywhere. Because they are small and compact, you can keep it in a carry case with your chainsaw, or in a drawer in the garage. They take up minimal room and that suits many chainsaw users who don’t have a lot of space.

 

#2 Bar Mounted File

A bar mounted file is the next step up for chainsaw users who don’t have the know-how to accurately use a manual file. You simply install it on the bar with the chain in place and get a better, more accurate and consistent sharpening experience.

It has adjustable filing angles and it creates an even sharpening pattern not easily achieved by handheld files. The majority of bar mounted files hold all file sizes for standard chain pitches and depth gauges.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are more accurate than a manual handheld file.
  • You can achieve more consistent sharpening.
  • They don’t take up a lot of room in a tool shed.
  • They are relatively inexpensive to purchase.
  • They are produced by many leading chainsaw brands which means you can get one to suit your particular chainsaw with ease.

Cons:

  • They are not that convenient for using out in the field as they have too many small pieces that can get lost.
  • It may take a bit of practice for new chainsaw users to get the hang of installation.
  • They are not as cost effective as a manual file.

Applications

Bar mounted chainsaw files are best used in tool sheds or garages where the majority of chainsaw maintenance is completed. There are small screws that can be easily lost outside. This makes it less than ideal to be packed up and moved from job to job.

Features

Many bar mounted chainsaw guides are made of cast aluminum and zinc-plated steel. This allows it to be of a solid construction with minimal concern for rust or breakages.

Many also have calibrated swivel guide markings which help to set and hold the sharpening angle. You can also set the file height and tooth length with ease.

Storage

Although not as easy to store as the smaller, handheld files, bar mounted files are still relatively easily to stow away. You just need to ensure all screws and bolts are tightened in place to avoid losing any vital parts.

It should then be put somewhere out of the way where it can’t be knocked loose. Bar mounted files can generally be an odd shape to store away nicely so some people choose to hang them on tool walls within garages for safety.

 

#3 Electric Chainsaw Sharpener

If you’ve got no time to spare as a professional or hobbyist chainsaw user, there’s every reason to look at electric sharpening machines. Electric chain sharpeners take all the hard work out of chain sharpening, leaving you more time for other essential chores.

Although features vary for each machine, the majority are easy to use, and some are portable for use out in the field.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They sharpen a full chain in just a few minutes.
  • They come in a variety of sizes.
  • There are portable ones for use away from home.

Cons:

  • They can be expensive to buy.
  • Many take up large amounts of space in the shed.
  • They require electricity or batteries.

Applications

The majority of electric blade sharpeners on the market are for use inside a homeowner’s garage or tool shed. They generally take up quite a bit of space and need a stable bench or a place to mount it to the wall. They are best used at home but there are also portable options on the market to be taken out into the field.

Features

Features of electric chain sharpening machines vary from one machine to another. However, many boast similar easy-to-use features that make chainsaw chain maintenance a whole lot easier. This can include flexibility with enabling different chainsaw pitches, adjustable angle measurements and a brake lock for securing the chain for sharpening.

Storage

Storage for a heavy duty electric blade sharpener can vary for each machine. However, for the larger commercial grade machines, storage can be quite difficult. It’s best to find a permanent home within your garage for it.

This could include being fixed to a bench, or wall-mounted so it’s out of the way but can still be used. For the smaller, portable devices, these can be carried in your chainsaw gear bag for whenever you’re out in the field with your saw.

 

Top 10 Manual & Electric Chainsaw Chain Sharpeners Reviews


1

BestEquip

BestEquip Saw Chain Grinder

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s made of quality cast aluminum with reinforced hinges for better performance.
  • It has a work light and safety guards for safety and accuracy.
  • It has a large handle which makes it easier to operate.
  • It sharpens a chain within a few minutes.

Cons:

  • They are one of the more expensive models on the market.
  • It takes up quite a lot of space.
  • It can’t be taken with you on jobs in the field.

What’s included

  • Electric chainsaw sharpener.
  • 2 grinding wheels – ⅛ inch and 3/16 inch.
  • 4mm and 5mm wrenches.
  • Operator manual.
  • 1 year warranty.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 18 x 12.5 x 10 inches.
  • Weight: 17.3 pounds.
  • Warranty: 1 year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat’s the size of the grinding wheel?

A5 ½ inches diameter.


QWhat size pitch can it cater for?

A¼ inch, .325 inch, ⅜ inch, .404 inch.


QHow fast can this sharpener work?

AAt 3,000RPM.


QCan it be mounted to the wall?

AYes.

Overview

Even though this chainsaw blade sharpener cannot be taken into the field, it’s a great addition to any workshop for accurate and consistent sharpening.

It comes with plenty of accessories to allow flexibility in different chains being sharpened, and it also has plenty of safety features for the user’s peace of mind.

It has a mid to high price tag but this is a reflection of the quality that’s on offer. Overall, it’s one of the best chainsaw sharpeners for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read BestEquip chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

2

CO-Z

CO-Z

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It can accommodate semi-chisel and chisel cutters.
  • The grinding wheels are long-lasting, and it comes with two of them.
  • It has a worklight and safety guard to sharpen the chain safer and with more precision.
  • It has an adjustable angle.
  • It has a big handle to make operation easier.

Cons:

  • At full price it’s quite expensive.
  • It’s not portable for use in the field.
  • It can be difficult to contact the manufacturer to find parts.

What’s included

  • Electric chainsaw sharpener.
  • 2 grinding wheels – ⅛ inch and 3/16 inch.
  • 4Operator manual.
  • Allen wrench.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 17.2 x 11.5 x 8.8 inches.
  • Weight: 12.8 pounds.
  • Warranty: N/A.

FAQ

QWhat’s the size of the grinding wheel?

A5 ½ inches diameter.


QWhat size pitch can it cater for?

AUp to ⅜ inches.


QHow fast can this sharpener work?

AAt 3,000RPM.


QCan it be mounted to the wall?

AYes.

Overview

Aside from the poor instructions which make assembly difficult, this chain sharpening machine is well loved by many who have purchased it.

It provides accurate measurements, consistency in sharpening, and even comes with two grinding wheels to give you variety depending on the chain being sharpened.

To get the best deal, you are best to purchase it on Amazon as it’s often on sale. Due to its speed, effectiveness and price, it’s easily one of the best chainsaw sharpeners for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read CO-Z chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

3

Buffalo Tools ECSS

Buffalo Tools ECSS

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It sharpens chains very quickly.
  • It can be wall or bench mounted.
  • It caters to a wide variety of chainsaws.
  • It’s very affordable.
  • It’s lightweight.

Cons:

  • The cutting wheel can often feel unstable and wobbles.
  • The chain holder, to some users, feels unreliable.
  • The instructions weren’t very clear.
  • Some parts are made of cheap plastic.

What’s included

  • Electric chain sharpener.
  • 4 ¼ inch grinding wheel.
  • 90 day warranty.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 13.5 x 9.5 x 6.2 inches.
  • Weight: 7 pounds.
  • Warranty: 90 day warranty.

FAQ

QWhat’s the size of the grinding wheel?

A4 ¼ inch x ⅛ inch grinding wheel with ⅞ inch arbor.


QWhat size pitch can it cater for?

AUp to ⅜ inches.


QHow fast can this sharpener work?

AAt 4,200RPM.


QCan it be mounted to the wall?

AYes.

Overview

If you’re after a cost effective, lightweight and easy-to-use blade sharpener, this is the tool for the job. In comparison to some other brands and models for sale, it’s very easy to use and assemble.

It also sharpens a variety of chains within a matter of minutes. It’s versatile in the respect that it can be either bench or wall mounted, and it also works at higher revs than some other models manufacturers produce. Overall it’s one of the best chainsaw sharpeners for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Buffalo Tools ECSS chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

4

Timberline

TimberLine

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It can sharpen each tooth in seconds.
  • All teeth are sharpened to the same length and angle.
  • It’s constructed of high quality aluminum.
  • It’s portable so can be taken out in the field with ease.
  • It’s small and compact to fit in carry cases alongside your chainsaw.
  • It has a lifetime warranty – most manufacturers don’t offer this.

Cons:

  • Considering its size, it’s not very affordable.
  • Some users say it doesn’t sharpen the teeth all the same.
  • The carbide is quite brittle.

What’s included

  • Chainsaw sharpener.
  • 3/16 inch carbide cutter.
  • Lifetime warranty.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 6 x 4.2 x 4 inches.
  • Weight: 1.1 pounds.
  • Warranty: Lifetime warranty.

FAQ

QWhere is it made?

AIdaho.


QDoes it come with a carrying case?

AYes, a soft case.


QWhat size pitch can it cater for?

A.325 inch pitch.


QIs it portable?

AYes.

Overview

The first of many great features about this chainsaw sharpener is its lifetime warranty. TimberLine is so confident about its product that it’s willing to provide users with ample opportunity to return it if it has any faults or breaks where it shouldn’t. This is a rarity with any manufacturer, and certainly not standard practice for small products such as this one.

This blade sharpener fills the gap in the market for a small, compact, lightweight sharpener which can be taken anywhere your chainsaw goes. It has a wind-up handle to effectively and accurately sharpen your chains. It comes in a case and can cater to most chainsaws.

The only true downside to this product is its price. It’s very unaffordable for the general populace – considering both electric and manual sharpeners offer cheaper alternatives. On price alone it would not be considered the best deal, or the best chainsaw sharpener for the money. It is, however, an excellent tool that many professionals and homeowners own out of pure convenience.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Timberline chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

5

Katzco

Katzco

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s priced very well considering the amount of products within the one tool kit.
  • It’s lightweight for ease of carrying with your chainsaw.
  • The pouch rolls up to a nice size for transportation.
  • It has a range of different file sizes.

Cons:

  • The handle comes off the tools easily.
  • The angle guide doesn’t stay locked in place which makes it difficult to sharpen all the teeth the same way.
  • Instructions for use are poor.
  • The file quality is poor according to some users.

What’s included

  • ⅜ inch handle.
  • 6 inch flat fine tooth file.
  • Filing guide.
  • Tool pouch.
  • Depth gauge tool.
  • 3 round fine tooth files – 5/32 inch, 3/16 inch, 7/32 inch.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 3 x 1 x 2 inches.
  • Weight: 8 ounces.
  • Warranty: N/A.

FAQ

QWhat size round files does it come with?

A5/32 inch, 3/16 inch, 7/32 inch.


QDoes it come with flat files?

AOne 6 inch flat fine tooth file.


QDoes it sharpen at .325 inches and ⅜ inch?

AYes. The file holder has the angles on the back when you are filing.

Overview

Although this file kit is contained within a handy roll-up tool pouch which can be taken anywhere, it lacks quality design. Many users note the components are either held together poorly, or are constructed of low quality materials.

Many users also note the files bend easily which makes them unable to be used. However, many users have reviewed the product as one that gets the job done perfectly fine for homeowners who don’t need to worry about time constraints.

It’s just not suitable for professionals in need of a highly effective and accurately sharpened chain.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Katzco chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

6

TruePower

TruePower 01-0854

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It has a large safety guard.
  • It has chain rotation rollers for a faster setup.
  • It has a powerful 8.5 amp motor.
  • It’s very affordable.
  • It can sharpen most, if not all, chainsaw blades.

Cons:

  • The instructions aren’t very clear.
  • It doesn’t come pre-assembled.

What’s included

  • Electric chainsaw sharpener.
  • 4 ¼ x ⅛ inch grinding wheel.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 7 x 10 x 14 inches.
  • Weight: 6.5 pounds.
  • Warranty: N/A.

FAQ

QWhat’s the size of the grinding wheel?

A4 ¼ inch x ⅛ inch with ⅞ inch arbor.


QWhat size pitch can it cater for?

AAll. The vise adjusts to fit all chain designs and pitches.


QHow fast can this sharpener work?

AAt 4,200RPM.


QCan it be mounted to the wall?

AYes.

Overview

Taking just approximately 10 minutes to revitalise a chain, this electric blade sharpener is a must-have in any chainsaw operator’s workshop. It can be mounted on a bench or a wall and can be set to cater to a wide variety of chains.

Although it only come with one grinding wheel, they are very affordable to purchase online, as is the actual sharpener itself. For the cost of this machine you would expect low quality, but that’s not the case. You get a professional finish with each chain, all for a very low cost. Overall this is easily one of the best chainsaw sharpeners for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read TruePower chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

7

Husqvarna

Husqvarna 531300082

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are quality made.
  • They are lightweight and compact for easy storage and use in the field.
  • They suit a huge range of Husqvarna chainsaws.
  • They are affordable.

Cons:

  • They are only suitable for Husqvarna chainsaws.
  • The directions are vague which makes it difficult for beginners.

What’s included

  • File handle.
  • Combination filing gauge.
  • 2 round files.
  • 1 flat file for depth gauges.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 1.2 x 5.2 x 16.5 inches.
  • Weight: 7 ounces.
  • Warranty: N/A.

FAQ

QWhat size round files does it come with?

A3/16 inch.


QWhat models does this kit suit?

AHusqvarna 340, 345, 346XP, 350, 351 and 353.


QWhat chain pitch is it suitable for?

AChains with a .325 pitch.

Overview

It may take a beginner a little practice, but once they have the hang of it this kit becomes a chainsaw user’s best friend. It’s easy to use, is compact, lightweight and can go anywhere your chainsaw does.

A beginner may have to watch and read tutorials due to the poor instruction guide, but aside from this, there’s very few negatives to this product. It’s for sale online at a really affordable price, and it suits many owners of Husqvarna chainsaws. This is certainly a top rated blade sharpener available in many stores and online.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Husqvarna chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

8

Timber Tuff CS-12V

Timber Tuff CS-12V

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s portable.
  • It has a high-speed motor.
  • It can sharpen chains quickly and accurately.
  • It’s very easy to use once you have used it a few times.
  • It’s affordable.

Cons:

  • You need to either adapt it to run from a cigarette lighter, or run off a car or similar battery.
  • It can be fiddly to use out in the field.
  • Instructions are poor.

What’s included

  • Battery powered chainsaw sharpener.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 10.8 x 5 x 1.6 inches.
  • Weight: 2.2 pounds.
  • Warranty: 1 year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat kind of angle guide does it have?

A20-25-30 degree angle guide.


QWhat’s it made out of?

AHigh impact polypropylene.


QHow many volts is it?

A12 volts.

Overview

When you’re out on a large cutting job it can be inconvenient to manually sharpen your chain. Not only does it take a lot of time, but you’re not guaranteed to get each tooth exactly the same.

This sharpener fills the gap in the market for a small, portable device which sharpens your chain accurately and without the need for you to grab a file. It hooks up to your car battery and within minutes your chain will be as good as new.

This also comes with a one year warranty and it’s for sale online for a very affordable price. Overall this is easily considered one of the best chain sharpeners for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Timber Tuff CS-12V chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

9

STIHL 5605 007 1027

STIHL 5605 007 1027

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • All products are well made.
  • The files come in a handy tool pouch.
  • They effectively and easily sharpen chains.

Cons:

  • They are only suitable for select STIHL saws.
  • It can take some time to accurately sharpen each tooth in comparison to an electric blade sharpener.
  • They are quite expensive for being a manual product.

What’s included

  • Filing guide.
  • Round file with handle.
  • Depth gauge tool.
  • Flat file with handle.
  • Tool pouch.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 1.1 x 11.4 x 0.2 inches.
  • Weight: 8.8 ounces.
  • Warranty: N/A.

FAQ

QWhat size files does it come with?

A5/32 inches.


QWhat chainsaws is it suitable for?

ASTIHL Picco ¼ inch or ⅜ inch.


QDoes it come with a tool pouch?

AYes.

Overview

STIHL chainsaw users will delight in a quality file set which can accurately and easily sharpen your chainsaw’s chain. Although, being manual, it can take some time to achieve a sharp chain, users can still do it without files or handles breaking.

This is a high quality set which very rarely lets users down. Although it’s not top rated, it’s still one of the best chainsaw sharpeners for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read STIHL chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

10

Oregon 520-120

Oregon 520-120

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It has top plate and down angle settings.
  • It has a self-centering chain vise.
  • It has a customizable vise handle positioning system.
  • The work light enables better visuals when in use.

Cons:

  • Some of the parts feel cheap.
  • Instructions aren’t well written.
  • It’s very unaffordable.

What’s included

  • Electric chainsaw sharpener.
  • Dressing brick.
  • Quick-check grinding template.
  • Three grinding wheels.
  • 1 year warranty.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 10.1 x 11.7 x 14.9 inches.
  • Weight: 19.2 pounds.
  • Warranty: 1 year warranty.

FAQ

QWhat chains can it sharpen?

A¼ inch, ⅜ inch low profile, 0.325 inch, full profile ⅜ inch and .404 inch pitch chains.


QWhat horsepower does it have?

A0.4HP.


QHow fast can this sharpener work?

AAt 3,400RPM.

Overview

This Oregon chainsaw chain sharpener is one of the more expensive sharpeners on the market, yet it’s not without its flaws. For the price some users note the parts feeling cheap and don’t offer confidence to the user. The instructions for assembly are also poorly written.

However, it sharpens chains very effectively and comes with a one year warranty. It’s not the best chainsaw chain sharpener for the money but it’s of a high quality construction in comparison to others on the market.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Oregon chainsaw chain sharpener reviews.

 

Where to Buy Chainsaw Chain Sharpeners?

Top rated chainsaw chain sharpeners can be purchased in any leading hardware stores. However, in order to get the best deal, you are best to purchase them online from websites such as Amazon. They can often be for sale at a much more affordable price.

 

Leading Chainsaw Sharpener Brands and Manufacturers

    • Oregon
    • STIHL
    • Husqvarna
    • Timberline
    • Timber Tuff
    • BestEquip
    • CO-Z
    • Buffalo Tools
    • Katzco
    • TruePower

 

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