Sharpening by hand

[bofh]

Can someone recommend a good "kit" to buy for sharpening by hand. I see various one's on sale and thought I'd ask if there's much difference to be found in quality etc.

 

Thanks

[arniecardigan]

I used various "kits" then stumbled across this style which taught me how to sharpen! I now sharpen free hand (the woodmans tickle) without issue. There are ones for each different file size.

Husqvarna Chainsaw Chain Combi File Guide Gauge .325" x 1.3mm (H30) | eBay

[Chris Sheppard]

Not really a fan of file guides, but the stihl ones that clamp round the file aren't bad to use, especially on smaller semi chisel chains.

[Stubby]

I used various "kits" then stumbled across this style which taught me how to sharpen! I now sharpen free hand (the woodmans tickle) without issue. There are ones for each different file size.

Husqvarna Chainsaw Chain Combi File Guide Gauge .325" x 1.3mm (H30) | eBay

 

I tried these once and i think the plastic rollers wear out too quickly dropping the file too low . I recon the Oregon metal plate that clamps to the file is way better . Or there is free hand .........

[Brushcutter]

I like those Husky file guides. You do have to change them every so often as the rollers do wear out.

 

You can't really go wrong with the STIHL ones that clamp over the file they don't wear out.

[fergusonforestry]

i've got one of these but one thing i will say is the combi spanner is complete poo and will snap! otherwise ok jus chuck in yer own spanner

[morten]

I tried these once and i think the plastic rollers wear out too quickly dropping the file too low . I recon the Oregon metal plate that clamps to the file is way better . Or there is free hand .........

 

I am freehand filing these days, but I have had exactly the same experience with the rollers wearing out and dropping the chain.

 

I'd recommend one of the file guides that clip on to the round file.

 

One of the site sponsors sell a number of these file guides, either separately, or as part of a kit. I would choose the clip-on guides from Oregon rather than the ones from Stihl, as they are slimmer, and thus easier to store in a pocket/pouch.

 

See:

File handle and guide

Sharpening pouches

Edited September 13, 2012 by morten

[tuttle]

Can someone recommend a good "kit" to buy for sharpening by hand. I see various one's on sale and thought I'd ask if there's much difference to be found in quality etc.

 

Thanks

 

a glove, the right sized file and an off cut of wood for a handle:lol:

[Paul Smith]

Try a golf ball for a handle. Surprisingly comfortable!

[Rich Rule]

Might try the golf ball handle tip. Cheers, Paul.

 

I also use a Maccy "d"s straw as a cover for the files. Stops them rubbing together and dulling.