How To Sharpen Chainsaws (Midwest Hardwood Tips For Beginners)

Understanding Your Chainsaw: A Foundation for Sharpening

Before we even touch a file, it’s crucial to understand the anatomy of your chainsaw chain and how it interacts with wood. This knowledge will not only make sharpening easier but also improve your overall chainsaw operation and safety.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: Midwest Hardwoods

The Midwest is renowned for its hardwoods: oak, maple, hickory, and ash. These species present unique challenges compared to softer woods like pine or fir. Their density and intricate grain patterns require a sharper, more precise cutting edge.

Density: Hardwoods have a higher density, often exceeding 600 kg/m3 (kilograms per cubic meter). For comparison, softwoods typically range from 350-500 kg/m3. This density directly impacts the force required to cut through the wood and, consequently, how quickly your chain dulls.
Grain Structure: The interlocking grain patterns of hardwoods increase resistance to splitting and cutting. This is why a dull chain tends to “bounce” or “kick back” when encountering these patterns, increasing the risk of accidents.
Moisture Content: The moisture content of wood profoundly affects its cutting characteristics. “Green” wood (freshly cut) can have a moisture content of over 100% (dry weight basis). This high moisture content makes the wood softer and easier to cut, but it also causes the chain to dull faster due to increased friction and sap buildup. Seasoned wood (air-dried to around 20% moisture content) is harder and requires a sharper chain.

Chainsaw Chain Anatomy

A chainsaw chain isn’t just a loop of metal; it’s a complex assembly of cutting teeth, depth gauges, and tie straps, each playing a crucial role in the cutting process.

Cutting Teeth (Cutters): These are the heart of the chain, responsible for slicing through the wood fibers. Each cutter has two main surfaces:
- Top Plate: The horizontal surface that shears the wood fibers.
- Side Plate: The vertical surface that widens the cut, preventing the chain from binding.
Depth Gauges (Rakers): These small projections in front of each cutter control the amount of wood the cutter takes with each pass. Think of them as the “bite limiter.” If the depth gauges are too high, the cutter won’t take enough wood, resulting in slow cutting. If they’re too low, the cutter will grab too much, causing the chain to bog down and increase the risk of kickback.
Tie Straps: These connect the cutters and depth gauges, forming the continuous loop of the chain.
Drive Links: These fit into the chainsaw’s drive sprocket, transmitting power from the engine to the chain.

Understanding Chain Types

Different chain types are designed for different purposes. Choosing the right chain for your wood and cutting style is essential for efficient and safe operation.

Full Chisel Chains: These chains have square-cornered cutters that are very aggressive and fast-cutting. They are ideal for clean wood and experienced users. However, they dull quickly in dirty or frozen wood.
Semi-Chisel Chains: These chains have rounded corners on the cutters, making them more durable and forgiving than full chisel chains. They are a good all-around choice for general-purpose cutting and are more resistant to dulling in dirty conditions.
Low-Profile Chains: These chains have a smaller cutter design and a lower kickback potential. They are often used on smaller chainsaws and are a good choice for beginners.
Specialty Chains: These include ripping chains (designed for cutting wood lengthwise, along the grain) and carbide-tipped chains (extremely durable and suitable for cutting abrasive materials like dirty wood or roots).

Essential Tools for Chainsaw Sharpening

Having the right tools is half the battle. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools you’ll need for sharpening your chainsaw:

Chainsaw File: This is the primary tool for sharpening the cutters. Choose a file size that matches the pitch of your chain (the distance between three consecutive rivets). Your chainsaw manual will specify the correct file size.
File Guide: A file guide helps you maintain the correct filing angle and depth, ensuring consistent sharpening. There are various types of file guides available, from simple clip-on guides to more sophisticated roller guides.
Depth Gauge Tool: This tool is used to check and adjust the height of the depth gauges. It typically consists of a flat metal gauge with slots or markings indicating the correct depth gauge setting for your chain type.
Flat File: A flat file is used to lower the depth gauges to the correct height.
Vise or Clamp: A vise or clamp is essential for holding the chainsaw bar securely while you sharpen the chain. This allows you to work safely and efficiently.
Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and metal filings.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield are crucial for protecting your eyes from flying debris.
Cleaning Brush: A stiff brush is useful for removing sawdust and debris from the chain and bar.

Choosing the Right File: A Matter of Precision

The chainsaw file is arguably the most critical tool in your sharpening kit. Selecting the correct file size and type is essential for achieving a sharp, consistent edge.

File Size: As mentioned earlier, the file size must match the chain pitch. Common file sizes include 5/32″, 3/16″, 7/32″, and 13/64″. Consult your chainsaw manual or measure the chain pitch to determine the correct file size.
File Type: Chainsaw files are typically round, but some specialized files are available for specific chain types. Ensure you choose a file specifically designed for chainsaw chains.
File Quality: Invest in high-quality files from reputable manufacturers. Cheap files will dull quickly and produce inconsistent results. Brands like Oregon, Stihl, and Pferd are known for their quality chainsaw files.

File Guides: Your Path to Consistent Sharpening

File guides are invaluable for beginners and experienced users alike. They help maintain the correct filing angle, depth, and consistency, resulting in a sharper, more efficient chain.

Clip-On File Guides: These simple guides clip onto the chain and provide a visual reference for the filing angle. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, but they may not be as precise as more sophisticated guides.
Roller File Guides: These guides feature rollers that ride along the chain, ensuring a consistent filing angle and depth. They are more expensive than clip-on guides but offer greater precision and control.
All-In-One Sharpening Tools: Some tools combine a file guide with a depth gauge tool, providing a convenient all-in-one solution.

Step-by-Step Guide to Chainsaw Sharpening

Now that you understand the fundamentals and have the necessary tools, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of sharpening your chainsaw.

Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success

Before you start sharpening, take the time to prepare your workspace and chainsaw.

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Secure the Chainsaw: Clamp the chainsaw bar in a vise or clamp, ensuring the chain is easily accessible.
Clean the Chain: Use a stiff brush to remove sawdust and debris from the chain and bar. This will help you see the cutters more clearly and prevent the file from becoming clogged.
Identify the Shortest Cutter: Examine the cutters and identify the shortest one. This will be your reference point for sharpening all the other cutters. You want to sharpen all the cutters to the same length to maintain a balanced chain.
Mark Your Starting Point: Use a marker to mark the first cutter you sharpen. This will help you keep track of your progress and ensure you sharpen every cutter.

Sharpening the Cutters: The Art of the Edge

This is the core of the sharpening process. Follow these steps carefully to achieve a sharp, consistent edge on each cutter.

Position the File: Insert the file into the cutter at the correct angle. The correct angle is typically marked on the file guide or can be found in your chainsaw manual. A general guideline is 25-35 degrees for the top plate angle and 60-70 degrees for the side plate angle.
File with Smooth, Even Strokes: Using a firm, steady pressure, file the cutter from the inside out, following the curve of the cutter. Maintain the correct angle and depth throughout the stroke.
Count Your Strokes: Count the number of strokes you take on the first cutter. This will be your reference for sharpening all the other cutters. Aim for consistency in the number of strokes to ensure all cutters are sharpened equally.
Sharpen Each Cutter: Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each cutter on the chain, maintaining the same angle, depth, and number of strokes. Work your way around the chain, sharpening each cutter in turn.
Sharpen the Opposite Side: Once you’ve sharpened all the cutters on one side of the chain, loosen the vise and rotate the chainsaw to sharpen the cutters on the opposite side. Remember to maintain the same angle, depth, and number of strokes as you did on the first side.

Adjusting the Depth Gauges: Fine-Tuning the Bite

After sharpening the cutters, it’s essential to check and adjust the depth gauges. As the cutters are sharpened, they become shorter, and the depth gauges need to be lowered to maintain the correct “bite.”

Check the Depth Gauge Height: Place the depth gauge tool on the chain, aligning it with the depth gauge you want to check. The tool will indicate whether the depth gauge is too high, too low, or at the correct height.
Lower the Depth Gauges (if necessary): If the depth gauge is too high, use a flat file to carefully lower it to the correct height. File the top of the depth gauge until it is flush with the depth gauge tool.
Round the Front of the Depth Gauges: After filing the depth gauges, use the flat file to round the front edge of each depth gauge slightly. This will help prevent the depth gauges from catching on the wood and causing the chain to chatter.
Repeat for All Depth Gauges: Repeat steps 1-3 for all the depth gauges on the chain.

Final Touches: Ensuring Optimal Performance

After sharpening the cutters and adjusting the depth gauges, perform these final touches to ensure optimal chainsaw performance.

Clean the Chain and Bar: Use a stiff brush to remove any remaining metal filings or debris from the chain and bar.
Lubricate the Chain: Apply chainsaw bar and chain oil to the chain, ensuring it is well-lubricated. This will reduce friction and wear, extending the life of your chain and bar.
Check Chain Tension: Adjust the chain tension according to your chainsaw manual. The chain should be snug on the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.
Test the Chain: Start the chainsaw and test the chain on a piece of wood. The chain should cut smoothly and efficiently, without bogging down or kicking back.

Advanced Sharpening Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basic sharpening techniques, you can explore some advanced techniques to further improve your chainsaw’s performance.

Using a Chainsaw Grinder

A chainsaw grinder is a power tool that uses a grinding wheel to sharpen chainsaw chains. It offers several advantages over manual filing, including:

Speed: A grinder can sharpen a chain much faster than manual filing.
Precision: A grinder can maintain very precise angles and depths, resulting in a sharper, more consistent edge.
Ease of Use: Once you’ve learned how to use a grinder, it can be easier and less tiring than manual filing.

However, grinders also have some disadvantages:

Cost: Grinders are more expensive than manual filing tools.
Learning Curve: There is a learning curve associated with using a grinder correctly.
Potential for Damage: If used incorrectly, a grinder can damage the chain.

If you sharpen chainsaws frequently, a grinder can be a worthwhile investment. However, for occasional users, manual filing may be sufficient.

Raker Grinding

Raker grinding involves using a specialized grinder to precisely lower and shape the depth gauges. This technique is typically used by professional loggers and chainsaw mechanics to optimize chain performance for specific cutting conditions.

Troubleshooting Common Sharpening Problems

Even with the best techniques, you may encounter some common sharpening problems. Here are some tips for troubleshooting these issues:

Chain Cuts Unevenly: This is often caused by inconsistent sharpening. Ensure you are maintaining the same angle, depth, and number of strokes on each cutter.
Chain Bogs Down: This can be caused by dull cutters, high depth gauges, or a dull chain. Resharpen the chain and adjust the depth gauges as needed.
Chain Kicks Back: This can be caused by low depth gauges, an aggressive chain, or improper cutting technique. Adjust the depth gauges and use a more cautious cutting technique.
Chain Dulls Quickly: This can be caused by cutting dirty wood, using the wrong chain type, or improper sharpening. Use a more durable chain type and ensure you are sharpening the chain correctly.

Chainsaw Maintenance: Beyond Sharpening

Sharpening is just one aspect of chainsaw maintenance. To keep your chainsaw running smoothly and safely, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance tasks.

Bar Maintenance

The chainsaw bar is the metal blade that guides the chain. Proper bar maintenance is essential for preventing premature wear and ensuring safe operation.

Clean the Bar Regularly: Remove sawdust and debris from the bar using a stiff brush.
Check the Bar Rails: Inspect the bar rails for wear and damage. If the rails are worn or uneven, use a bar rail dressing tool to restore them to their original shape.
Lubricate the Bar: Ensure the bar is properly lubricated with chainsaw bar and chain oil.
Flip the Bar: Periodically flip the bar over to distribute wear evenly.

Chain Maintenance

In addition to sharpening, other chain maintenance tasks include:

Cleaning the Chain: Remove sawdust and debris from the chain using a stiff brush.
Checking for Damage: Inspect the chain for damaged or missing cutters, tie straps, or drive links. Replace the chain if it is severely damaged.
Lubricating the Chain: Ensure the chain is properly lubricated with chainsaw bar and chain oil.

Chainsaw Engine Maintenance

The chainsaw engine requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Check the Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter regularly to prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine.
Check the Spark Plug: Inspect the spark plug for wear and fouling. Clean or replace the spark plug as needed.
Check the Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter regularly to prevent dirt and debris from entering the carburetor.
Use Fresh Fuel: Use fresh, high-quality fuel with the correct oil mixture.
Store the Chainsaw Properly: When storing the chainsaw for extended periods, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls to prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor.

Safety Considerations

Chainsaw operation and maintenance can be dangerous. Always follow these safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.

Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear when operating or maintaining a chainsaw.
Read the Chainsaw Manual: Familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s operating instructions and safety precautions.
Inspect the Chainsaw Before Use: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw for any damage or defects.
Use the Chainsaw Properly: Use the chainsaw only for its intended purpose and follow safe cutting techniques.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid cutting in hazardous conditions.
Never Cut Above Your Head: Avoid cutting above your head, as this increases the risk of kickback.
Keep a Firm Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands.
Never Work Alone: Always work with a partner in case of an accident.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Store the Chainsaw Safely: Store the chainsaw in a safe place, out of reach of children and unauthorized users.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Once you’ve felled and processed your trees, proper firewood seasoning is crucial for maximizing heat output and minimizing smoke.

The Science of Seasoning

Seasoning firewood involves reducing its moisture content to around 20% or less. This process makes the wood easier to ignite, burn hotter, and produce less smoke.

Moisture Content and BTU Output: Green wood can have a moisture content of over 100% (dry weight basis), which significantly reduces its BTU (British Thermal Unit) output. Seasoned wood, with a moisture content of around 20%, can have up to 50% more BTU output than green wood.
Reduced Smoke and Creosote Buildup: Burning green wood produces more smoke and creosote, a flammable substance that can build up in chimneys and increase the risk of chimney fires. Seasoned wood produces significantly less smoke and creosote.
Faster Ignition: Seasoned wood ignites more easily than green wood, making it easier to start and maintain a fire.

Seasoning Methods

The most common method of seasoning firewood is air-drying. This involves stacking the wood in a way that allows air to circulate freely, promoting evaporation.

Stacking Techniques: Proper stacking is essential for effective air-drying.
- Elevate the Wood: Stack the wood on pallets or sleepers to keep it off the ground and allow air to circulate underneath.
- Stack in Rows: Stack the wood in rows, leaving gaps between the rows to allow air to circulate.
- Crisscross the Ends: Crisscross the ends of the rows to create a stable stack.
- Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp or roof to protect the wood from rain and snow.
Location: Choose a sunny, windy location for your woodpile. This will maximize evaporation and reduce the drying time.
Drying Time: The drying time for firewood varies depending on the wood species, climate, and stacking method. Generally, hardwoods require at least 6-12 months of seasoning, while softwoods may dry faster.

Kiln Drying

Kiln drying is a faster method of seasoning firewood that involves heating the wood in a kiln to remove moisture. Kiln-dried firewood is typically more expensive than air-dried firewood but offers several advantages:

Faster Drying Time: Kiln drying can reduce the moisture content of firewood in a matter of days, compared to months for air-drying.
Consistent Moisture Content: Kiln drying ensures a consistent moisture content throughout the wood.
Reduced Pest Infestation: Kiln drying can kill insects and other pests that may be present in the wood.

Moisture Meters

A moisture meter is a useful tool for determining the moisture content of firewood. Simply insert the probes of the meter into a split piece of wood and read the moisture content on the display. Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning.

Firewood Safety Considerations

Stacking Safety: Stack firewood in a stable manner to prevent it from falling over and causing injury.
Pest Control: Be aware of potential pest infestations in your woodpile. Store firewood away from your home to prevent pests from entering your house.
Carbon Monoxide Safety: Never burn firewood in an enclosed space without proper ventilation. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to alert you to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
Chimney Maintenance: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly to prevent creosote buildup and reduce the risk of chimney fires.

Project Planning and Execution

Planning is the key to any successful wood processing or firewood preparation project.

Assessing Your Needs

Before you start cutting, consider your needs and goals.

What type of wood do you need? (Firewood, lumber, etc.)
How much wood do you need?
What is your budget?
What equipment do you have available?
What is your skill level?

Site Preparation

Prepare the site where you will be working.

Clear the Area: Remove any obstacles, such as rocks, branches, or debris.
Level the Ground: Level the ground to provide a stable working surface.
Establish a Safe Zone: Establish a safe zone around the work area to prevent accidents.
Plan Your Cuts: Plan your cuts carefully to maximize yield and minimize waste.
Felling Techniques: Use proper felling techniques to ensure the tree falls in a safe direction.
Limbing and Bucking: Limb and buck the tree into manageable sections.
Splitting Firewood: Split firewood into appropriate sizes for your stove or fireplace.
Stacking and Seasoning: Stack and season the firewood properly to ensure it dries effectively.
Cleanup: Clean up the work area after you are finished.

Case Studies

Small-Scale Firewood Operation: A small-scale firewood operation in Wisconsin used a combination of manual felling, a hydraulic splitter, and air-drying to produce firewood for local customers. The operation focused on sustainable harvesting practices and provided a valuable service to the community.
Urban Tree Removal and Wood Recycling: A tree service in Chicago partnered with a local woodworking shop to recycle trees removed from urban areas. The wood was used to create furniture and other products, reducing waste and providing a valuable resource.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Chainsaw Sharpening and Wood Processing

Sharpening a chainsaw is a skill that requires practice and patience, but it’s essential for anyone who works with wood. By understanding the anatomy of your chain, using the right tools, and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your chainsaw cutting smoothly and safely. Remember to prioritize safety and perform regular maintenance to ensure your chainsaw operates at its best. Wood processing, from felling to firewood, requires careful planning, proper techniques, and a commitment to safety. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can tackle your wood processing projects with confidence and efficiency.

Now, grab your file, head to the woods, and put these tips into practice. You’ll be amazed at the difference a sharp chain can make. And remember, the best way to learn is by doing, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Happy cutting!