Is your chainsaw getting dull due to regular use?
Luckily for you, there’s no need to buy replacement parts or a new chainsaw. Sharpening the teeth is a simple yet effective way to improve its performance. So if you’re looking for one, check out our review of the Stihl 2-in-1 chainsaw sharpener below.
Not all chainsaw sharpeners are built in the same manner. Likewise, manufacturers design them to fulfill a single major purpose. In contrast, the Stihl 2-in-1 File Chainsaw Sharpener does more than keeping your power tool as sharp as ever; it serves as a depth gauge, which is an essential part of sharpening.
The sharpener is applicable to pretty much any type of chainsaw chain. You can use it for the following sizes: ¼”, .325”, ⅜”, and .404”. Of course, the sharpener works whether you have the regular ⅜” chain or the low-profile pitch size. Just check the product manual of your chainsaw if you’re unsure about this.
Best for Occasional Use
The Stihl 2-in-1 File Chainsaw Sharpener is god for use whether you’re new to using a power tool or not. However, this isn’t designed for chainsaws that require frequent or regular sharpening — it’s meant for periodic or occasional use. Otherwise, don’t expect to have this sharpener in top shape for the long run.
So if you’re cutting up multiple trees or logs on a daily or weekly basis, you should look for another sharpener as your go-to model; keep this as your alternative, portable sharpener. You can have this as your main sharpener if you use chainsaws on a casual basis.
Depth Gauge Maintenance
Here’s the thing about depth gauges: The only time one can be sure that they’re set as intended is when the chainsaw is new. Otherwise, you have to practice proper maintenance of these gauges — especially after sharpening the saw teeth. This is because their top section is lowered with each sharpening.
Failure to readjust these gauges is bad for your chainsaw; it won’t cut chips as thick as before. This means having to keep the power tool turned on longer for the same amount of work. If you continue to sharpen the chainsaw without changing the gauges, it could eventually lose its ability to cut any material.
But thanks to the Stihl 2-in-1 File Chainsaw Sharpener, you can lower the depth gauges using the same tool. So even if you may think that the sharpener is more expensive than other models, its dual-purpose design justifies its cost — you’re getting two essential chainsaw accessories in one package.
A Good, Light Package
When it comes to sharpening the chainsaw, you’ll need two types of files: a round file and a flat file. The former takes care of both the side-plate and the top-plate edges. Simply put, the round file is for your sharpening needs. On the other hand, the latter is for the maintenance of the depth gauge.
The Stihl 2-in-1 File Chainsaw Sharpener only has a single flat file but it offers two round files. You also get a file holder to store all the tools in one place. If that wasn’t enough, Stihl included a user guide. This is meant for people who have no experience with using round and flat files whatsoever.
In addition, what makes this sharpener appealing to many people is its portability; you don’t need any other container. Just take the file holder on its own wherever you go. At 11.2 ounces, it’s only more or less a third of a kilogram. Plus, it looks professional with its largely white design with just a bit of orange.
In Need of Better Instructions
While Stihl does provide a guide on how to use the files, they could have made the instructions more specific and easier to understand. Some people found it strange that their 2-in-1 file holder did not include instructions in the English language. Even when they were in English, they weren’t well-written.
There are illustrations in the manual, but they’re not that detailed. In fact, they’re too simple. You can try to figure out how to use the files on your own, but know that there are many tutorial videos available on YouTube — all at no cost. For some people, they only had to watch for 10 minutes to get the hang of it.
Great Sharpening Performance
Once you become familiar with the sharpening process, your chainsaw will look good as new in just 15 minutes or so. However, you must be careful not to sharpen the teeth a second time. To prevent this, place a mark on the first tooth you sharpen. Do this for both sides of the bar.
Also, learn to utilize the markings. These will guide you when you’re looking for the best angle and the right direction to sharpen the chainsaw. Furthermore, this sharpener is relatively safe to handle since it’s a manual type. There are no electrical surges to worry about during and after the procedure.
So once you’re done using the tools, you can easily clean and store the round and flat files. If you use the Stihl 2-in-1 File Chainsaw Sharpener as intended, you can reap the benefits in no time — that means less fine sawdust and more clean, precise wood cuttings.
PROS
– Lightweight, compact design with a clean aesthetic
– Flat file ensures proper adjustment of the depth gauge
– The learning curve for using both files isn’t steep
– Indicators for the correct sharpening angle and direction
– Compatible with all chainsaw pitch sizes
CONS
– Instruction manual not as clear and detailed as expected
– Not ideal for heavy-duty or frequent chainsaw users
How to Use A Chainsaw ?
OVERALL
The Stihl 2-in-1 File Chainsaw Sharpener is proof that bigger does not always mean better. With it, you can sharpen your chainsaw and adjust the depth gauge with ease. So if you use chainsaws on an occasional basis or if you’re looking for a compact variant, this dual-purpose tool is an excellent option.
