Sharpening your chainsaw chain is crucial for efficient and safe cutting. A Stihl file guide can be a valuable tool in achieving consistent and accurate sharpening. This guide will explain How To Use A Stihl File Guide effectively to maintain your chainsaw’s performance.
The basic file holder offers several advantages:
- Top Plate Angle Guide: Engraved lines on the top help you maintain the correct top plate angle, typically around 30 degrees.
- Enhanced Grip and Control: The handle provides a secure grip, making it easier to guide the file accurately with your other hand.
- Consistent Depth Control: The guide holds the file at the recommended depth below the top plate (usually 1/5 of the file diameter).
To ensure accuracy, the groove in the file holder must match the diameter of the file you are using. This is essential for maintaining the correct cutting geometry. Be wary of “universal file holders” as they often compromise accuracy. Using the correct file size for your guide is crucial for proper sharpening.
The Stihl file guide works best when used at a 90-degree angle or a 0-degree “down angle.” Some file guides that support the file from below might produce varying results with chains that have different cutter heights or shapes. File guides like the Pferd or STIHL 2-in-1 do not always work on skip-tooth chains and do not allow independent adjustment of the depth gauges if needed. These types of guides are often favored by newer users due to their simplicity and ease of use.
Different users may have different preferences, and it is important to find what works best for you.
Maintaining clean files is also important. A good method is to simply tap them on their end and/or use a stiff brush or file card to remove debris. Cleaning your chains before sharpening at home is always a good practice.
