Best Chainsaw Sharpeners Review Guide For 2023-2024

Best Chainsaw Sharpeners Review Guide For 2023-2024 – Tired of buying a new chain every time your chainsaw blades get dull? Why not try a chainsaw sharpener? They can quickly and easily restore your chainsaw’s cutting edge while saving you time and money.

Chainsaw sharpeners have come a long way since the old days of chainsaw files. Today, you can choose from hand-powered or electric, bar-mounted or wall-mounted, and manual or hydraulic assist. The options are endless.

To help you narrow the field and choose the best chainsaw sharpener for you, we’ve researched dozens of models to create a buyer’s guide and our top 10 picks. To find out even more keep reading our Best Chainsaw Sharpeners Review Guide For 2023-2024.

Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Amazon’s Choice

The Buffalo Tools ECSS electric chainsaw sharpener is powerful, easy to use, and affordable. This unit can be mounted on a bench, a wall, or a vise. It delivers 120 volts of power for a maximum speed of 4,200 rpm, making sharpening fast and efficient. The ECSS fits most popular chain designs.

About This Product:

• Keep your chain in top condition and save money by sharpening your own saw
• Mounts to bench, wall or vise for easy access and stability
• Adjusts to most popular chain designs
• 4200 RPM grinding speed, 60 Hz, 85-watt, plugs into a standard 120-volt wall outlet
• Uses a 4-1/4-Inch x 1/8-Inch grinding wheel with 7/8-Inch arbor

Specifications:

• Power: 120 volts
• Max speed: 4,200 rpm
• Mounting options: Bench, wall, or vise
• Pitch compatibility: 5 pitch options
• Chain clamp: Manual

Pros:

• Powerful 120V motor
• Adjusts to most popular chain designs
• Versatile mounting system

Cons:

• Some reviewers complain that the instructions are difficult to understand
• Some reports of difficulty adjusting to smaller chain sizes

Legendary-Yes Electric Saw Chain Grinder

The Legendary-Yes electric chainsaw sharpener provides near-professional quality at an affordable price. Its sturdy design includes a large, side safety guard for protection and chain rotation rollers to easily advance links. It also has adjustable height and scale positioning. The multi-functional mounting design allows you to mount the unit on a bench, wall, or vise.

About This Product:

• Bench Sharpener

Specifications:

• Power: 120 volts
• Max speed: 4,200 rpm
• Mounting options: Bench, wall, or vise
• Pitch compatibility: All pitches
• Chain clamp: Manual

Pros:

• Chain rotation rollers to easily advance links
• Precise angle adjustment
• Large side guard for safety

Cons:

• Some users report difficulty mounting
• Some complaints that overload protection causes the motor to bog down when pressure is applied

Oregon 310-120 Compact Mini Bench Grinder

The Oregon 310-120 is a universal chainsaw sharpener with a compact design and full-sized power. Its space-saving size makes it a great alternative to bulkier options. This unit mounts to any benchtop and includes two grinding wheels for sharpening 1/4 inch, 3/8-inch Low Profile, .325 inch, 3/8 inch and .404 inch pitch chains. This makes it a perfect fit for almost all chainsaw chains, including popular brands like Timberline, Stihl, and Husqvarna.

About This Product:

• Bench mounted mini grinder: Compact alternative to a full-size saw chain sharpener; perfect for occasional users. Space-saving saw chain sharpener is ideal for smaller volumes of chain
• Save time & money: Sharpen your own chainsaw chains. Grinder easily mounts to a bench with two included bolts – ideal for a workshop or garage
• Universal sharpener: Sharpens up to .404” pitch chain. Sharpen almost saw any chain from manufacturers such as Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, and others
• One-way motor rotation: Provides greater operator safety and comes with a manual chain clamping vice
• Includes: Grinder, a dressing brick and profile guide, operator instructions plus two grinding wheels (3.2mm & 4.7mm)

Specifications:

• Power: 120 volts
• Max speed: 5,000 rpm
• Mounting options: Bench
• Pitch compatibility: 5 pitch options
• Chain clamp: Manual

Pros:

• 5,000 rpm grinding speed for quick chainsaw sharpening
• One-way motor for safe sharpening
• Includes grinder, two grinding wheels, a dressing brick, and quick template

Cons:

• Not suitable for extended use
• Some complaints that it takes off too much metal if not used carefully

Katzco Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit Amazon’s Choice

The Katzco Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit is a manual chainsaw sharpener. It has round files for 5/32 inch, 3/16 inch, and 7/32 inch chain pitches and a hardwood handle that attaches to them. It also includes a flat file and a depth gauge for precision sharpening.

While it may not have the power of an electric chainsaw sharpener, it’s a portable sharpening tool that you can easily bring with you into the woods for on-the-go sharpening.

About This Product:

• CONVENIENCE – Katzco complete chainsaw file kit contains every field tool you could possibly need to get your chainsaw back into its optimal condition. The roll-up tool pouch keeps everything you need in one location and allows for great portability so you can bring it wherever and whenever needed
• VARIETY – This kit comes with a range of different files to meet any of your chainsaw sharpening needs. The premium fine tooth flat and round files is made for Fast filing and cutting. The round files come in the sizes of: 5/32”, 3/16”, and 7/32”. The hardwood handle can attach to any of the files and the depth-gauge tool as well and can be used on any chainsaw.
• QUALITY – These fine-tooth chainsaw files with the stained and finished wood handle allows for comfortable grip when using and will keep the chain sharp to allow for faster, safer work so you can get the most out of your chainsaw.
• GETS THE JOB DONE – AFFORDABLE other chainsaw sharpening kits don’t include as many accessories or are made of cheap material and result in poorer performance. However, these tools will never fail you and will get the job done for you each and every time. Not only is the Katzco chainsaw sharpening kit convenient and affordable, but it does the same job as more expensive kits if not better.
• SET OF 8 IN ONE PACK – Set Includes as Following – (1) 3/8” Hardwood stain & finish handle – (1) 6” Flat fine tooth file – (1) Filing guide – (1) Tool Pouch – (1) Depth-gauge tool – and three(3) round fine tooth files in the following sizes: 5/32”, 3/16”, and 7/32”

Specifications:

• Power: Manual
• Max speed: Manual
• Mounting options: Handheld
• Pitch compatibility: 3 pitch options
• Chain clamp: None

Pros:

• Can be used anywhere
• Quick and easy to use
• Includes a tool pouch for convenient carrying

Cons:

• Some reviewers complain that the file guide is not sturdy enough and can slip
• Handheld nature makes consistency difficult

Timber Tuff CS – BWM Electric Sharpener

The Timber Tuff CS-BWM electric sharpener is perfect for safe, easy, and precise sharpening. It has a see-through safety shield and a work light to ensure safety and accuracy. The 110-volt motor produces grinding speeds of 3,600 rpm. The easy-to-read adjustment guides are ideal for consistency. It works with six pitch sizes from ¼ inch to ¾ inch.

About This Product:

• 110V/60 Hz motor with an input power of 230 watts and a motor speed of 3600 rpm for a very powerful motor that will keep your chains working like new; ETL and CETL approved
• Sharpens chains from ¼” to ¾” with easy and accurate sharpening; mounts to most work surfaces to provide a secure sharpening station.Maximum speed: 5800 rpm
• Easy-to-read adjustment guides make it easier to consistently sharpen your chains; see-through safety shield and 15 watt work light gives you good visibility while sharpening
• Includes thermo-overload protection for your safety; comes with 3 grinding wheels, 1/8”, 3/16”, and ¼”
• Gives you longer lasting chains with even cuts and even saves on the chain saw bar; 1 year limited Manufacturer’s warranty

Specifications:

• Power: 110 volts
• Max speed: 3,600 rpm
• Mounting options: Bench or wall
• Pitch compatibility: 5 pitch options
• Chain clamp: Manual

Pros:

• Built-in work light
• Includes 3 grinding wheels

Cons:

• Does not include bolts and screws for mounting
• Many reviewers complain about poor instructions, difficulty assembling
• Overload protection for safety

Husqvarna 653000035 SharpForce Chain Sharpener 3/16″

The Husqvarna 653000035 is another hand-powered sharpening tool. This chain sharpener uses two files that allow you to sharpen your chain and maintain the height of your depth gauge in one smooth motion. You won’t even need to remove the chain from the bar to get your dull chain into top shape.

The tool includes one round file and one depth gauge file. While this unit is built for filing 3/16 inch chains, the SharpForce chain sharpener also comes in four other sizes.

About This Product:

• None at this time

Specifications:

• Power: Manual
• Max speed: Manual
• Mounting options: Handheld
• Pitch compatibility: 1 pitch included, 4 other options available
• Chain clamp: None

Pros:

• Quick and accurate with no power source required
• Does not require removal of chain
• Built-in angles and guides for proper sharpening

Cons:

• Requires disassembly and reassembly to reverse files for sharpening the other side of the chain
• Some reports that the instructions are difficult to understand

Oregon 620-120 Professional 120V Bench Grinder Amazon’s Choice

The Oregon 620-120 is the most professional-grade sharpener on our list. The heavy-duty design makes this an ideal option for large volumes of chain sharpening. It can be mounted on a bench, wall, vise, or tripod and delivers a consistent 3,400 rpm grinding speed.

It also features a hydraulically assisted chain clamp for automatic, hands-free vise clamping of the chain. This unit includes three grinding wheels, a dressing brick, and a profile guide.

About This Product:

• Professional chainsaw chain grinder: Powerful performance with hydraulic assistance. Provides fast, hands-free, automatic vice clamping on the chain
• One-way motor rotation: For greater operator safety. Built in light for better visibility in dim conditions
• Universal sharpener: Sharpens up to .404″ pitch chain. Sharpen almost saw any chain from manufacturers such as Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, and others
• Heavy duty: Professional chain grinder ideal for large volumes of chain sharpening – such as loggers and arborists, as well as shops that offer chainsaw grinding
• Includes: Grinder, a dressing brick and profile guide, operator instructions plus two grinding wheels (3.2mm & 4.7mm) and a 6.0mm flat profile disc for depth gauge maintenance

Specifications:

• Power: 120 volts
• Max speed: 3,400 rpm
• Mounting options: Bench, wall, or vise
• Pitch compatibility: All pitches
• Chain clamp: Hydraulic assist

Pros:

• Hydraulically assisted chain clamp
• Adjusts to all chain designs
• Built-in work light

Cons:

• Some reviewers complain that the included grinding wheels are fragile
• Expensive

Granberg G-106B Bar-Mount Sharpener

This hand-powered chainsaw sharpener mounts directly to the guide bar of the chainsaw. This allows you to sharpen the chain without removing it from the bar while also providing the stability for a consistent sharpening motion.

The guide bar is compatible with all file sizes for standard chain pitches and lowering depth gauges. The cast aluminum design gives it durability and the calibrated swivel guide markings ensure the correct sharpening angle.

About This Product:

• Proudly made in California, USA
• Quickly and easily sharpen any chain
• Mounts to any saw with any file size
• Made of cast aluminum and zinc-plated steel
• FILES NOT INCLUDED

Specifications:

• Power: Manual
• Max speed: Manual
• Mounting options: Bar-mount
• Pitch compatibility: 5 pitch options
• Chain clamp: Manual

Pros:

• Powerful 120V motor
• Adjusts to all chain designs
• Versatile mounting system

Cons:

• Does not include any files, must be purchased separately
• Some reports of fragile parts indicating poor quality control

Oregon 520-120 120V Bench Mounted Grinder

The 520-120 is another strong entry from Oregon. This sharpener is designed for both commercial and personal use, combining a heavy-duty design with at-home convenience. It uses a self-centering chain vise, mounts to most benchtops, and delivers grinding speeds of 3,400 rpm.

It also features a built-in light for visibility and a one-way motor rotation for safety. This sharpener comes with two grinding wheels, one wheel for depth gauge maintenance, a dressing brick, and a quick template.

About This Product:

• Power source type: Corded Electric

Specifications:

• Power: 120 volts
• Max speed: 3,400 rpm
• Mounting options: Bench
• Pitch compatibility: 5 pitch options
• Chain clamp: Manual, with self-centering

Pros:

• Built-in light for visibility
• Includes 2 grinding wheels, 1 wheel for depth gauge maintenance, a dressing brick, and a quick template
• Self-centering chain vise

Cons:

• Can be difficult to set up
• Strong motor can result in over-grinding if used improperly

Tecomec Jolly EVO Chain Grinder

This chainsaw sharpener comes with three grinding wheels, two hex wrenches, a dressing brick, and a template. Tecomec also makes a high-end sharpener, the Super Jolly model, with hydraulic assist and an even more powerful motor.

About This Product:

• Chain Grinder, Electric

Specifications:

• Power: 120 volts
• Max speed: 3,150 rpm
• Mounting options: Bench, wall, or vise
• Pitch compatibility: 5 pitch options
• Chain clamp: Manual, with self-centering

Pros:

• Versatile mounting system
• Self-centering chain vise
• Includes 3 grinding wheels, 2 hex wrenches, a dressing brick, and a template

Cons:

• Some reviewers complain that self-centering chain vise is inconsistent
• Some complaints that the built in depth stop is inferior to comparable models

Best Chainsaw Sharpeners Buying Guide For 2023-2024

There are a few very important things to know when it comes to selecting the right sharpener for your chainsaw(s). You’ll need to know the pitch of the chain (or chains) you plan to sharpen, decide if you want an electric or a hand-powered sharpener, consider how you’ll mount your sharpener, and figure out if you want a sharpener with some of the more advanced bells and whistles.

If you’re new to sharpening chainsaws, there’s a lot to learn — such as what is the pitch of the chain? In our Buyers Guide we will explain how the sharpening process works, define some key terms, and examine some of the key decisions you’ll face when selecting a chainsaw sharpener:

How It Works:

A saw chain, and how it works to cut wood, is more complicated than it looks. A chainsaw uses a series of different chain links and components, including drive links, tie straps, rivets, and cutters.

The cutters, which are the most important to understand when it comes to sharpening, include a depth gauge (also known as a raker), a gullet, and a working corner (usually a chisel cutter).

The depth gauge is essential in determining how much bite the cutter takes. The working corner is the sharp point of the cutter that actually does the cutting work. A chainsaw sharpener is used to maintain the working corner and the depth gauge.

This video gives a great explanation of the anatomy of a saw chain:

Pitch Compatibility:

The pitch of a chainsaw chain is a measure of distance along the chain. It’s half the distance between any three consecutive rivets on the saw chain. There are six pitch sizes: ¼”, ⅜” low profile, .325”, ⅜”, .404”, and ¾”. The most common sizes are ⅜” and ⅜” low profile. The pitch of the chain is usually listed right on the bar of the chainsaw.

When it comes to sharpening your chain, you’ll need to make sure that your sharpener is compatible with the pitch of your saw chain. Most electric sharpeners are compatible with at least two sizes, while some can handle five or six. Hand-powered sharpeners will typically require a different file for each size.

Manual vs. Electric:

Chainsaw sharpeners are either hand-powered or electric.

Manual chainsaw sharpeners typically use a round file for sharpening the working corner and a flat-file for grinding down the depth gauge. Some hand sharpeners use a system that allows you to grind with both files in a single pass.

Manual sharpeners are quick, convenient, portable, and can typically be used without removing the chain from the saw. They’re great for sharpening one chain size and can easily be used out in the woods to refresh a saw while on the job.

Electric sharpeners are much better for those who need to sharpen multiple different chain sizes. They are powerful, precise, and can handle large volumes of chain sharpening. Most of them use a chain vise to hold the chain in place and a grinding wheel that is lowered onto the cutter or raker.

Some are handheld, but most electric sharpeners are mounted. Maximum rotation speeds for electric sharpeners usually range from 3000 to 4200 RPMs.

Mounting Options:

There are a few different mounting options depending on the type of sharpener you choose.

Electric sharpeners mount to a bench, wall, vise, or tripod. Bench and vise mounting are most common. Tripod mounting will require you to purchase a tripod. Wall mounting saves space and allows you to set the sharpener closer to eye level for more precise cutting.

There are even handheld electric sharpeners. While most manual sharpeners are handheld, there are some that are mounted directly to the bar of the chainsaw, making them more stable and precise.

Hydraulic Assist, Automatic Advancement, and Other Options
Modern electric sharpeners offer some advanced options to choose from.

Hydraulic assistance is when the chain vise automatically clamps onto the chain as the grinding wheel is lowered.

Automatic advancement is when the chain vise automatically advances the chain links for a much faster and more convenient sharpening process.

There are also heavy-duty sharpeners that use digital technology to measure sharpening angles or have a completely automated sharpening process. These are advanced options and are mostly found in professional settings.

FAQs About Chainsaw Sharpeners

1. Is it worth sharpening a chainsaw?

Yes. Most chainsaw chains can be sharpened four to six times before needing to be changed, which saves you money in the long run.

It’s also beneficial to be able to sharpen your chain with a hand file or handheld electric sharpener if your chain becomes dull while out on a job.

Sharpening your own chain is quick and convenient once you get the hang of it.

2. How often should you sharpen your chainsaw?

Saw chains can typically be sharpened four to six times during the life of the chain. The amount of time between sharpenings will vary depending on how often you’re using the saw, what type of wood you’re cutting, and the cutting conditions.

You will be able to tell when a saw is getting too dull because it will take much longer to make cuts and will produce a fine powder when cutting instead of larger chips.

3. Why does my chainsaw get dull so fast?

There are a few factors that can accelerate the dulling of a chain. Dirt will dull the chain, so cutting dirty trees or making contact with the ground will cause your chain to dull faster.

Your saw chain will also dull faster if the cutters are positioned at too steep of an angle or if your rakers are too low. You could also be using a dull file when sharpening, need to use a dressing brick to remove debris from your grinding wheel, or need a new grinding wheel altogether.

Conclusion:

There’s a lot to know when choosing a chainsaw sharpener. With our list and buying guide, you’re ready to cut to the point and get the best chainsaw sharpener for you.

Or if you find all this chainsaw talk dull, you can call a tree trimming crew near you and let them worry about cutters and depth gauges. Thanks for taking the time to read our Best Chainsaw Sharpeners Review Guide For 2023-2024.