Chainsaw Care: How to Sharpen a Saw Chain

• Round File (select appropriate size based on chain pitch)
• Flat File (for adjusting depth gauges)
• File Holder Guide (e.g., FF1)
• 2-in-1 EasyFile (simultaneous sharpening & depth gauge adjustment)
• Felt-tip Pen
• Clamps or Vice
• Protective Gloves

A blunt chainsaw is not only more difficult to use but also less safe. Watch for these signs:

• Cutting attachment doesn’t pull itself into the wood; you have to push.
• Produces fine sawdust instead of coarse chips.
• Emits smoke even when properly lubricated and tensioned.
• Cut veers to one side (uneven teeth).
• Chainsaw chatters or bounces, affecting precision.

Preparation

• Secure the guide bar in a vice.
• Clean the saw chain thoroughly.
• Increase chain tension slightly to minimize movement.
• Mark the most worn tooth with a felt-tip pen as reference.

Sharpening the Teeth

• Use the round file to sharpen each tooth to the reference length.
• Maintain a 30° filing angle (25° for Rapid Hexa chains).
• Ensure the file protrudes about 1/4 of its diameter above the top plate.
• Check uniformity with the felt-tip mark.

Adjusting the Depth Gauge

• Check depth gauge height with a filing gauge.
• If too high, file down using a flat file.
• File the top of the depth gauge at an angle parallel to the service mark.
• Do not use a round file for depth gauge adjustment.

Video: How to Sharpen Using the STIHL 2-in-1 EasyFile

Our video instructions show how to sharpen your saw chain and adjust the depth gauge on your STIHL chainsaw using the STIHL 2-in-1 EasyFile.

Final Checks

• Rotate the chain 180° and sharpen the opposite side.
• Ensure all teeth are equal and depth gauges correct.

• Sharpen regularly to prevent excessive wear.
• Count file strokes per tooth for uniformity.
• Use the 2-in-1 EasyFile for efficiency.
• Store chainsaw in a dry place to prevent rust and resin buildup.