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Sharpening a chainsaw keeps it cutting smoothly and safely. Regular maintenance isn’t hard, but it matters. A sharp chain cuts wood with little effort, while a dull one can make your work harder and more dangerous. The video below reviews the product in more depth. You'll get a closer look at the chainsaw bar, chainsaw blade, tension adjustment mechanisms, and the chainsaw housing.

Tools You’ll Need

The only tool required is the STIHL 2 in 1 flat filing guide. It does two important things at once — sharpens your saw chain cutters and lowers your depth gauges. It also makes getting the sharpening angles fool proof.

  • Common file sizes: 3/8" and 0.325"
  • File handles should stay parallel to the chainsaw bar
  • Multiple passes per tooth (2–3) are usually enough

We're modeling the technique on a battery-powered STIHL MSA 120 C-BQ electric chainsaw. Always check your chainsaw’s user manual. Different models may require different steps for removing the guide bar or choosing the correct file. Safety first: remove the battery or disconnect the spark plug, and wear protective gear.

Demonstrating a 2-in-1 chainsaw sharpening file.
A 2-in-1 chainsaw sharpening file. Credit: Emily Fazio

How to Sharpen the Chain

  1. Loosen the chain. It should move freely around the bar. If the chain is moving too freely, you might consider applying the chain brake until it's time to slide the chain along to reach more teeth.
  2. Notice tooth direction. Teeth alternate directions. Sharpen all teeth facing one way first.
  3. Align the file. The STIHL tool keeps the angle consistent. Push along the arrow direction.
  4. Flip the file. Adjust to sharpen teeth facing the opposite direction.
  5. Repeat. 2–3 strokes per tooth is enough.
  6. Tighten the chain. Lock it in place, but don’t overtighten.

Pro Tips:

  • Mark the first tooth to know when you’ve gone full circle.
  • Use chain lubrication if the chain doesn’t slide easily.
  • Consider clamping the bar in a bench vise for stability.

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Signs Your Chain Is Dull

  • Cuts require extra effort increasing fuel consumption
  • Produces fine sawdust instead of uniform chips
  • Chain tension loosens quickly after a few hours of use

Check tension and sharpen blades every 2-3 hours of continuous use or each time you refuel a gas chainsaw. 

Wood chips produced from a sharp chainsaw blade.
Wood chips produced from a sharp chainsaw blade. Credit: Emily Fazio

Manual vs Electric Sharpening

We tested both. Manual filing offers more control and consistent results. Electric chainsaw sharpeners or bench grinders may feel faster; however, they aren’t always worth it.

Checking and Tightening the Blade

  • Lift the chain to check slack
  • Drive link teeth should stay in the guide system track
  • If teeth tips extend past the track, tighten the chain
  • Avoid over-tightening

Routine checks keep the chainsaw safer and running smoothly.

A STIHL chainsaw blade that is too loose around the bar.
This chain is too loose. Credit: Emily Fazio
A STIHL chainsaw chain that is perfectly taut.
Chain is perfectly taut for this chainsaw. Credit: Emily Fazio

Replacing the Chain

  1. Remove the housing
  2. Clean debris (wood chips, sawdust)
  3. Lift the bar off the chainsaw
  4. Slide the old chain off
  5. Place the new chain on the bar, check direction
  6. Connect the chain around the gear
  7. Tighten tension adjusting screw
  8. Reattach housing and fine-tune tension

Maintaining Sharpened Chain Life

Proper care keeps your chain sharp longer:

  • Sharpen after heavy use
  • Lubricate chain regularly
  • Avoid cutting dirty or frozen wood
  • Don’t cut on the ground or let the chainsaw dig into the ground.
  • Store in a dry place to prevent rust

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Common Problems and Fixes

  • Chain skips or jumps: Check tension and sharpen teeth
  • Chain sticks: Apply lubricant
  • Uneven cuts: File all teeth consistently, same angle

FAQs

How often should I sharpen my chainsaw?

Sharpen the chain every 2-3 hours of heavy use. If cutting softwood or occasional use, sharpen when the chain produces fine sawdust instead of chips. In addition to your touchups, you can also opt for a professional sharpening at the beginning of your work season.

Can I use any file for sharpening?

Use the correct file diameter for your chain (3/8" or 0.325"). The STIHL 2 in 1 gauge helps maintain the proper angle and depth.

Is it dangerous to use a dull chainsaw?

Oh, yes. Dull chains require more force, increasing kickback risk and making the chain more likely to jump its track. Always check tension and sharpen regularly.