File sizes

[MattB1987]

What file size do i use for a 3/8 husqvarna chain. Stihl uses a 5.2mm but husqvarna is saying 5.5mm. I have 2 of the stihl filing kits already (1/4 3/8P and 0.325) and get on with them well. Will the stihl filing kit be ok or do i need to get a husqvarna or oregon kit with a 5.5mm file.

 

Cheers. Matt.

[peatff]

Can you put a 5.5mm file in the holder in place of the 5.2mm ? It seems the obvious choice instead of buying all the lot again. If you know the angles you can do it just with a file so it can't be that critical.

[morten]

What file size do i use for a 3/8 husqvarna chain. Stihl uses a 5.2mm but husqvarna is saying 5.5mm. I have 2 of the stihl filing kits already (1/4 3/8P and 0.325) and get on with them well. Will the stihl filing kit be ok or do i need to get a husqvarna or oregon kit with a 5.5mm file.

 

Cheers. Matt.

 

Either file will work fine with either chain. It is mostly a matter of taste, and your Stihl 3/8" file holder would be perfect for either file as well.

 

Some people start off using a 5.5 mm file on 3/8" chains, and when the cutter is half gone, they turn to a smaller 5.2 mm file, as the cutter heigh is smaller towards the end. But, honestly, I doubt very much anyone would be able to tell the difference.

 

So my recommendation: Go ahead, and use the 5.2 mm file you already have for the husky/oregon chains.

 

And if you want to speed up your chain sharpening, go for the SaveEdge brand files next time. They cut faster (more aggressively) and last longer, as well. See http://www.chainsawbars.co.uk/products/catlisting/category/round-files/

Edited November 26, 2013 by morten

[MattB1987]

i dont have a file kit for the 3/8 chain. I need to buy one. I cant decide which one is correct or whether it doesnt matter?

[Dan Earp]

U could by an oregan file guide for £20 i think and itll fit any file urll ever need including a flat file. Again look on rob d website.

 

http://www.chainsawbars.co.uk/products/catlisting/category/filing-guides/

 

I use mine all the time with fantastic results. From a ms 150 to a 660

[MattB1987]

Either file will work fine with either chain. It is mostly a matter of taste, and your Stihl 3/8" file holder would be perfect for either file as well.

 

Some people start off using a 5.5 mm file on 3/8" chains, and when the cutter is half gone, they turn to a smaller 5.2 mm file, as the cutter heigh is smaller towards the end. But, honestly, I doubt very much anyone would be able to tell the difference.

 

So my recommendation: Go ahead, and use the 5.2 mm file you already have for the husky/oregon chains.

 

And if you want to speed up your chain sharpening, go for the SaveEdge brand files next time. They cut faster (more aggressively) and last longer, as well. See Products for the category: Round files

 

Thanks for your help morten.

[Al Cormack]

5.5, 5.2:confused:

 

What happened to 5/32, 3/16 and 7/32? Only sizes I've ever needed in nearly 30 years.

[Stubby]

Either file will work fine with either chain. It is mostly a matter of taste, and your Stihl 3/8" file holder would be perfect for either file as well.

 

Some people start off using a 5.5 mm file on 3/8" chains, and when the cutter is half gone, they turn to a smaller 5.2 mm file, as the cutter heigh is smaller towards the end. But, honestly, I doubt very much anyone would be able to tell the difference.

 

So my recommendation: Go ahead, and use the 5.2 mm file you already have for the husky/oregon chains.

 

And if you want to speed up your chain sharpening, go for the SaveEdge brand files next time. They cut faster (more aggressively) and last longer, as well. See Products for the category: Round files

 

I was gonna say all that !

[Stubby]

5.5, 5.2:confused:

 

What happened to 5/32, 3/16 and 7/32? Only sizes I've ever needed in nearly 30 years.

 

5.2 is something 64ths .......

[treequip]

i dont have a file kit for the 3/8 chain.

Good

 

I need to buy one.

No you don't, just buy the file and learn to use it, using guides will de skill you or you will never learn the skills