Files.

[Bob The Dog]

I've got both 5.2 and 5.5mm files for the 3/8 chisel chain. I tend to only use the 5.2mm and it sharpens them up very nicely. Doesn't seem to go blunt quickly either. I've got stihl files and they seem ok to me.

[IanW]

I had to use a 5.2mm file on a .325 chain as I didn't have any correct files.... I quite like it, it chips really well, carried on using it for all of the chain, think I might keep doing from now on on all my chains...

 

ian

[Bob The Dog]

I've not tried it, but I'd have thought a file that size on a .325 would've eaten into the working corner, and the larger radius would not leave the chain quite so sharp?

[Woodworks]

Surly it all depends how high or low the file is held. If you use a plate type file guide the hook angle should be the same whatever file size you use. If the file is too large a diameter it will cut into the tie strap.

[Daythe trees]

I occasionally use a larger size file to clean the gullet out on half or more worn chain in the workshop but hadn't considered using a larger file routinely when a chain is worn but it makes sense on thinking about it.

 

I am working through a load of Oregon files I bought and I think they are crap as they don't last at all in my experience, the stihl files I think are brilliant. Considering just buying these in future anybody use valorbe? Are they any good? The one in my bar dressing tool seems to last and last.

[Woodworks]

Rob D sent me a whole mix of files and IMO the Stihl was the best allround file.

[Daythe trees]

Ok then I will purchase stihl files in future, good to have my thoughts confirmed. Also amazon do them meaning less time wasted going to the machinery shop.

[C.J]

I occasionally use a larger size file to clean the gullet out on half or more worn chain in the workshop but hadn't considered using a larger file routinely when a chain is worn but it makes sense on thinking about it.

 

I am working through a load of Oregon files I bought and I think they are crap as they don't last at all in my experience, the stihl files I think are brilliant. Considering just buying these in future anybody use valorbe? Are they any good? The one in my bar dressing tool seems to last and last.

 

They used to recommend a smaller file on a worn chain ,( because the cutters slope away from the cutting edge) , to prevent you filling into the tie strap.

[C.J]

Surly it all depends how high or low the file is held. If you use a plate type file guide the hook angle should be the same whatever file size you use. If the file is too large a diameter it will cut into the tie strap.

 

Exactly:thumbup1:

 

But if your filling freehand the file will sit in the centre of the previous groove , giving more hook as the O.P suggested.

[timbernut]

I had to use a 5.2mm file on a .325 chain as I didn't have any correct files.... I quite like it, it chips really well, carried on using it for all of the chain, think I might keep doing from now on on all my chains...

 

ian

 

 

I do this as it sorts damaged teeth quicker if I've been cutting stumps really low or gritty wood, also found Stijl files to last a lot longer than Oregon ones