A chainsaw sharpener is an essential tool in order to facilitate proper chainsaw operation and maintenance. This accessory is basically used for virtually all chainsaw types, ranging from the small electric to the big petrol chainsaws. The chains of a chainsaw must be sharpened on a regular basis, ensuring they remain sharp, while enjoying a safe and effective tool at the same time.
Keep in mind that blunt blades might snag and could become dangerous during the operation. Hence, maintaining a sharpened chainsaw makes every task easier, faster, and more efficient. Properly maintained chainsaw blades also allow for a reduced wear and tear, prolonging the lifespan of such tool as a chainsaw could be a lifetime investment.
Today, there are different types, models, and brands of chainsaw sharpeners on the market, each having its own advantages over the other. So, without so much ado, here are the Best Chainsaw Sharpener reviews that have been rated by actual users.
Best Chainsaw Sharpener Reviews
1. Buffalo Tools ECSS
- 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
First off is the top-rated Buffalo Tools ECSS, which is the best electric chainsaw sharpener that gives every chainsaw owner the chance of sharpening his equipment right at the comfort of his home or his workplace. With this device, there is no need to haste towards the hardware store for sharpening your chainsaw.
This Pro-Series sharpener is very easy to use, mounting it to a bench, vise, or wall, while adjusting the most renowned chain designs. It has a grinding wheel measuring at 4-1/4-Inch by 1/8 Inch that is highly capable of spinning at 4200 RPM. This capacity allows for good and sharp teeth at all times.
This benchtop chainsaw sharpener requires only the standard 120-volt outlet for its amazing power. Hence, it provides optimal versatility as you can use it anywhere as long as there is a power outlet. This is perfect for homeowners and the serious tradesmen who do not want to waste a lot of money on chain sharpening systems but still get an effective device to complete every task.
READ: How to Use a Chainsaw Safely?
The Buffalo Tools ECSS may not be the most heavy-duty electric chain saw sharpener, but it is worth the money, provided that you perform proper care and maintenance without any abuse. Its reasonable price tag never breaks any bank account, unlike other sharpener brands.
All in all, the Buffalo Tools ECSS saves you money, keeps your chainsaw in tip-top condition, and allows for stability and easy access as it can be mounted to a bench, vise, or wall. The 4200 RPM grinding speed of this device makes it the most affordable in its class, based on chain saw sharpener reviews. Read our detailed Buffalo Tools ECSS Review.
2. Oregon Chain Saw Sharpener
- Professional grinder: Perfect for professional users. Ideal for frequent, high volume chain sharpening. Can be bench or wall mounted.
- Save time & money: Sharpen your own chainsaw chains. Grinder easily mounts to a bench or wall with two included bolts - ideal for a workshop or garage
- Universal sharpener: Sharpens up to .404” pitch chain. Sharpen almost any chain from manufacturers such as Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, and more
- Accurate Sharpening: Multiple adjustment points for sharpening accuracy and built in light for better visibility.
- Includes: Professional rinder, 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
Next up is the Oregon, which is a 12-volt sharpener, offering sure sharpness every after sharpening. It garners an average rating of 4.4 stars because similar to the previous model, this one too is easy to use. It works either through a power converter for home usage or from a 12-volt battery as well, allowing for a portable device, which is perfect for in-field or on-the-job sharpening needs.
The Oregon chainsaw sharpener comes with two sharpening stones, including a quick-adjust sharpening guide in order to achieve uniformly ground cutters. This model of sharpener also boasts an internal depth gauge and a high-impact motor housing, which helps the device in keeping cool during use.
Contrary to some reviews, the Oregon’s instructional guide is easy to understand and figure out. This is evident through the existence of happy customers saying that the Oregon 30846 makes chainsaw sharpening faster and easier, compared to a manual filing that requires excessive effort, thereby, causing a lot of pains and user fatigue.
A credible Oregon chainsaw sharpener review will tell you that this product is of exceptional quality, making it perfect for homeowners and DIYers who only need a chainsaw once a year or so. The operation of the Oregon Sure Sharp is simplicity itself, although keeping the device at its correct angle for the chain is necessary.
It should be perpendicular to the bar and it will take a few minutes to sharpen it like brand new.
Read our Oregon 30846 Review.
3. Oregon 511AX
- Motor and Electrical Specifications: Single phase, 115V-Ac, 60 HZ, 3 amp, 285 watt, 3400 RPM direct-drive motor, .038 horsepower
- Sharpens 1/4-Inch, .325-Inch, 3/8-Inch, 1/2-Inch, and 3/4-Inch pitch chains
- The grinder comes with three grinding wheel with the thickness of 1/4-Inch, 1/8-Inch, and 3/16-Inch
- Includes a wheel-dressing brick and a template for: depth-gauge setting, and wheel contour
- Allows for equal grind angles without adjustment and new adjustment capabilitities for accurate grinds as the wheel wears
Meanwhile, the Oregon 511AXOregon 511AX garners an average customer rating of 4.6 stars. Oregon chain sharpener reviews indicate that this saw chain bench sharpener/grinder is a durable machine that is built with quality in mind, while offering all the necessary features for frequent and high-volume sharpening needs.
This model of sharpener boasts a powerful motor, including user-friendly controls. It also provides exceptional safety features like no other. It is lightweight with wheel dressing brick, while allowing template for wheel contour, depth gauge setting, and pitch.
READ: Jigsaw or Circular Saw – Which One to Choose?
The Oregon 511AX has 3 wheels, unlike any other sharpener. It is among the chainsaw sharpeners that allows for identical grind angles without any adjustment. However, it features new adjustment capabilities for more precise grinds as the wheels wear. It is a single-direction grinder and is said to be the most versatile grinder from Oregon. It also comes with a self-centering vise, which results in equal grind angles.
While the manual is said to be lousy, some users experience frustrations during the assembly. This is more especially among the first-time users. But, after figuring out the real deal, you will be more than happy buying this sharpener brand.
With high-grade materials, this sharpener is expected to last a lifetime, enduring usage and abuse as well as the test of time. The casual chainsaw users can definitely rely on the OREGON 511AX for its professional grade. After all, this could be the best chainsaw sharpener, considering its hefty price over others. Read our Oregon 511AX detailed review.
4. Timberline Chainsaw Sharpener
- Easily resharpens chainsaw teeth in seconds. High quality CNC ground carbide cutter designed to last.
- Compatible with Timberline Chainsaw Sharpener as well as off-brand chainsaw sharpening jigs.
Moreover, the Timberline Chainsaw Sharpener deserves its 5-Star rating due to its additional 7/32″ Carbide Cutter. It is a newly patented device, taking accuracy and precision to a higher level. Many Timberline chainsaw sharpener reviews will also tell you that this machine is highly capable of sharpening each tooth within seconds.
The high-quality tungsten carbide cutter allows for manual turning through the handle. This sharpener tends to remove a minimal amount of material from each tooth, thus, it results in longer chain life. The universal carbide guides are fixed at a 30-degree angle, while 35 and 25-degree guides are sold separately.
The Timberline sharpener can sharpen every tooth precisely, more likely to an identical length and angle. It is also a portable, professional chainsaw sharpener that you can use anytime, anywhere.
In fact, chainsaw chain sharpener reviews say that anyone can use this machine to achieve professional results. Thus, this claim has been obvious in several customer reviews and feedback. Many actual users say that the Timberline can complete any job beautifully without spending too much time.
Hence, this sharpener works through the back of the tooth as its reference point for the sharpened state of every tooth. It tends to remove only the shortest available length or the littlest amount of material. This sharpener is highly recommended by many users, allowing faster and more efficient sharpening than hand filing, while providing portability and durability simultaneously. Read our Timberline Sharpener Review too!
READ: Bosch JS470E 120-Volt 7.0-Amp Top-Handle Jigsaw Review
5. Granberg G-106B
- CHAINSAW TOOTH SHARPENER - Industry standard for sharpening all chainsaw chains. Bar-mounted sharpener/file holder to accurately sharpen teeth to the same length consistently.
- QUALITY WITH CONTROL - Enalbes user to obtain like-new quality. Extremely effective in getting all chain teeth to the exact same length. Fully adjustable for all angles & depths for all kinds of teeth. Get the razor sharp edge every time you sharpen.
- CAST ALUMINUM & ZINC PLATED STEEL - Crafted with high-quality USA cast aluminum and zinc-plated steel to give it a long lasting life-span. Industry standard for durability. Able to withstand all weather conditions.
- PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA - All Granberg mills are very proudly both made and assembled in America. We are a family-owned and run business that use our own products. We are passionate about what we make. Granberg has all your milling needs.
- SUPPORT AND ADVICE AVAILABLE - Whether you're a professional arborist, weekend hobbyist, or new wood worker; we have videos available to show you how to use Granberg products. Our support team are experts in their craft and can help you out.
The last item on the list is the 4.0-star-rated Granberg G-106B, which is a bar-mount sharpener. This model of Granberg chainsaw sharpener has been designed by the famous Elof Granberg way back 35 years. Also the founder of the File-N-Joint company, Granberg set the industry standards for durability and accuracy, now this is recognized as the top best chainsaw for cutting trees
Since then, the Granberg brand has been renowned for such product characteristics. With a universal chain pitch, this device offers premium sharpening for all the main saw chain pitches. This could be the best chainsaw sharpener today as it allows you to match the angles of the chain manufacturer in a perfect manner.
This machine lets you attach it to the guide bar within seconds, allowing you to work quick and conveniently. It also boasts the ability to lower the depth gauge accurately, although the file is not included in the kit. It is mainly because the file size is identified through the gauge and pitch of your chain.
Based on chainsaw sharpeners reviews, the Granberg is a solidly built sharpener with an all-metal construction. It also offers easy-to-read dials as well as thick sidewalls, compared to other models that have a thin wall construction, plastic filing frame, and non-readable dials.
The Granberg sharpener has captivated a lot of customers, claiming that it is the complete solution for all chains that are used on hand-held saws. The Granberg sharpener is a highly recommended item due to the benefits that most users have enjoyed. Read our Granberg Sharpener Review here!
Chainsaw Sharpener Buying Guide
There are many things that you should consider when shopping for the best chainsaw sharpener. Some of the most important things are listed below, giving you additional information so as to make an informed decision later on.
There are 3 major types of chainsaw sharpeners, including the hand-held, bench-mounted, and the electric sharpener. Each of the types is described below, allowing you to compare the available devices on the market.
Hand-held
The handheld type of sharpener has a round file of various diameters. Once the chainsaw is secured, the file is run over the tip of the chainsaw. At times, calipers are used in measuring the teeth for uniformity. When using this device, wearing safety gears are necessary. The hand-held sharpener is considered as the cheapest among the types of sharpeners but allows for a relatively simple process and is perfect for infrequent users.
The files of this sharpener type require precise control, cutting at a similar angle as the blade’s front edge in order not to cause damage to the chain. Finally, the hand-held sharpener requires more time than other methods or types.
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Bench-mounted
The bench-mounted sharpener allows for a secure guide to bar of the chainsaw. This machine can be set to specifications as well as the filing angle. Due to shavings that might fly off, it is also important to make use of protective gear during the use of this device.
A bench-mounted chainsaw sharper needs less for precise control as it is more efficient and quicker than any hand file. Most of the common designs include pivoting heads as well as clamps for aligning and securing the chain in its position.
There are also scales and depth limiters, which enable a more precise measurement. Before using such device, the chain must be detached. Keep in mind that without depth limiters, too much of the material may be removed. All in all, bench-mounted sharpeners need a sturdy bench for mounting.
Electric
Chain sharpeners are also available in their electric form, meaning that these devices require power outlet for them to work, like most of the products reviewed above. The method involves clamping the chain between the guide bars in order to ensure an accurate sharpening angle.
The engine tends to turn the wheel in a constant speed for better efficiency. This type is the fastest and most efficient sharpening method, which allows easy setup and operation. An angle adjustment and a chain guide are also provided, ensuring the most precise sharpening angle and depth.
The electric chainsaw sharpening tools allow you to set the grinding angle for different chains and are available in a wide array of models and brands. These are more expensive than the other types and also require a sturdy bench for mounting.
Choosing Chainsaw Sharpeners
Chainsaw blades are composed of cutters that are equivalent to the teeth, which perform the actual cutting of materials, whereas, the rakers are ones responsible for controlling the depth. These are the essential components that make a cutting process consistent and smooth. While the rakers need to be filed from time to time, the cutters are the ones that need regular maintenance.
Surely, sharpening a chainsaw is possible manually, making use of a round hand file, although this method can become very laborious and is less effective than making use of an electric chain saw sharpener.
The electric bench-mounted sharpeners are said to be the fastest and most efficient way of keeping those cutters sharp as possible. These machines are somewhat small rotating saws, featuring grinding discs, instead of saw blades. The disc can be adjustable based on specifications and also to obtain the proper or necessary angle.
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Before buying any of these tools, it is important to check the blade of your saw to ensure compatibility, although most sharpeners are suitable for many chainsaw models. Considering a model that can be clipped into the guide bar of the chainsaw is also a great option, allowing you to manually draw the chain through, while it sharpens.
But, with this model, you are the one responsible for the power by turning a crank. When compared to a hand file, this unit has a strictly maintained sharpening angle by the tool itself. It is also considered to be less efficient, while involving more effort than the electric counterpart. Nonetheless, this particular unit allows for optimal portability.
Care and Maintenance
The care and maintenance of chainsaw blade sharpeners vary from one model to the other. The process also depends on the type of chainsaw, considering gasoline-powered machines that make use of oil and gasoline blends that may contribute to immediate wear and tear and damages to the blade.
When it comes to the proper care and maintenance of sharpeners, the manufacturer usually provides an instructional guideline in order to keep this machine up and running. The maintenance is most special for the frequent users of chainsaws as they always need a sharp tool throughout their trade, whether for residential or industrial use.
It is also sensible to search online, gathering more information about proper care and maintenance procedures. These are available in different forums and blogs, relying on experienced chainsaw users as well as the first-hand users of certain chainsaw sharpener models.
When shopping for chainsaw sharpeners, it is important to rely on credible product reviews, ratings, and customer feedback. This will ensure that the products involved and offered are genuine, getting your money’s worth as much as possible. It is also crucial to consider all the factors presented in this article, narrowing down your choices based on the types, designs, and features of each sharpener model, although the basic style of your chainsaw plays a vital part throughout your decision-making.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, electric chain saw sharpeners are highly recommended by chainsaw professionals and first-hand chainsaw users due to their efficiency, although they may cost more than other sharpener types. Electric sharpeners are the fastest way to achieve a sharp saw, working like brand new, allowing all users to maximize the sharpness and efficiency of their chainsaws.
Anyone with a chainsaw should consider buying a portable chainsaw sharpener that allows for more savings over time, rather than going to hardware shops for sharpening purposes. The same tool also helps in saving time and effort. After all, an electric chainsaw chain sharpener could be a lifetime investment for every user or owner of chainsaw.