Keep it Sharp
Perhaps nothing affects your chainsaw’s performance more than chain sharpness. A sharp chain cuts effortlessly, whilst a dull one requires excessive pressure, increases kickback risk, and produces fine sawdust instead of proper wood chips. If you want your chainsaw to perform at its best and keep you working efficiently, understanding chain sharpening is key.
How Often Should You Sharpen?
There’s no fixed schedule for sharpening – it really depends on what you’re cutting and how often you use the saw. However, you should sharpen your chain whenever you notice:
- Fine sawdust instead of proper wood chips
- The saw pulling to one side
- Requiring excessive downward pressure to cut
- Slower cutting speed than usual
- The chain producing smoke even with adequate lubrication
Sharpening Methods: DIY or Professional?
You have a couple of options when it comes to sharpening your chainsaw chain:
DIY Sharpening:
You can sharpen chains yourself using a round file and guide. However, it requires practice to get consistent results. Each cutting tooth must be filed to the same angle and length, and the depth gauges need periodic attention too. If you’re keen to learn, we at Blakewell Services stock all the tools and files you need for DIY chain sharpening, including round files in various sizes, filing guides, and depth gauge tools. Our staff are happy to show you the proper technique and help you choose the right tools for your specific chain type.
Professional Sharpening:
For many people, professional sharpening is the better and more convenient option. It ensures consistent, accurate results and often includes a check for any chain damage or excessive wear. At Blakewell Services, our experienced technicians use professional sharpening equipment to ensure your chains cut like new, taking the guesswork out of it for you.
Blakewell Services: Your Partner for All Things Chainsaw
Beyond providing sharpening services and DIY tools, we’re here to support all your chainsaw needs. We carry a wide range of new chains in stock for various models. Plus, if you have a less common requirement, our skilled team is often able to make up most other chain sizes to suit your specific chainsaw.
Safety First: Always Protect Yourself
Operating a chainsaw, and even performing maintenance like sharpening, requires care and attention to safety. It is crucial to always ensure you are using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). When sharpening, this includes sturdy gloves and eye protection. When operating the saw, comprehensive protection such as a helmet, hearing protection, safety glasses or visor, chaps, and steel-toed boots is essential. At Blakewell Services, we believe safety comes first, which is why we offer a comprehensive selection of safety equipment for sale, suitable for all types of jobs, helping you stay protected while you work.
A sharp chain makes your chainsaw work safer, faster, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a professional arborist or a homeowner tackling the occasional fallen branch, proper maintenance and sharp chains make all the difference. If you’re unsure about any aspect of chain sharpening, need new tools, a replacement chain, or prefer to leave it to the professionals, pop in and see us at Blakewell Services. We’re always happy to help keep your equipment in top condition!
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-using-chainsaw-4206120/
