Rating of the best chainsaw chain sharpeners for 2020

The chainsaw is actively used not only for industrial purposes in the construction and felling of timber, but also for domestic needs or in the country. With intensive use, it wears out, and its main cutting element - the chain - is the first to be hit.

However, the constant purchase of new chains is expensive, so it is possible to purchase a machine to restore the old one. Such a unit does not belong to high-tech equipment, but choosing a reliable model is not an easy task, as it seems.

Below are the classification of devices for sharpening gasoline saws, principles of operation, characteristics, descriptions, the study of which will help to answer - what are the options, how to choose the right model, and also where to buy the best machine.

Reasons for the need to sharpen the chain

The chain has a simple toothed link design. They have a complex geometric shape with two perpendicularly spaced incisors that perform:

• cut of the surface to be sawn;
• removal of chips, as well as ensuring the kerf.

The material is chrome-plated steel.

Reasons for blunt teeth:

• intensive use of the chainsaw;
• hit of metal objects;
• improper operation;
• interaction with hard rocks.

Sharpening is required for all chainsaws, regardless of brand or price.

It is not safe to use a blunt tool. Cutting time slows down, gas mileage increases, and increased vibration destroys the housing.

Principle of operation and classification

The design is similar to a pruning saw with a sanding disc in a hanging head fixed to a base frame instead of a cut-off.

The rotary vise fixes the saw part, and each tooth is sequentially processed by the supplied sharpener. The required angle is independently set by the operator in steps between the links. As a rule, the thickness of the circle is 3.5 - 4.0 mm.

Safety is achieved by securely attaching the tool to the workbench.

In order to process each link as sharply as possible, it is necessary to position the disc perpendicular to the chain.The service life can be extended by individual editing of each tooth.

It should be remembered that the machine also aligns the chainsaw blade. For this purpose, the smallest tooth is selected, under which all the others are fitted. With the same dimensions, the load on the internal mechanism is reduced. In addition, the alignment prevents the links from decaying.

Types of machines

The classification is carried out according to several parameters.

1. By drive:

• manual;
• electrical.

2. By application:

• portable (mobile);
• stationary.

3. By power supply:

• power grid 220 V;
• car battery 12 V.

4. By management:

• manual (semi-automatic);
• automatic.

Manual machines: Purpose and principle of operation

They are mechanical devices, similar to a bow saw, in the form of a frame with a file fixed to the chainsaw. The required angle is set by the simplest adjustment system. The depth is determined by the most worn tooth and is maintained throughout the cycle.

The operation is performed by making reciprocating movements of the file with the hands. The efficiency of the process increases when processing first one side, then the other.

A high-quality result requires skill. Intuition and the eye are of particular importance. Cooling is carried out with compressed air, after which it is immersed in machine oil.

The popularity of models is determined by the presence of advantages and the absence of disadvantages.

• Low price when compared to electric;
• Ease of use;
• Small weight and size values ​​that do not create problems during transportation;
• Compatible with any suitable file;
• Independence from power supply or complete autonomy;
• No risk of overheating;
• Minimal grinding of the cutter, which prolongs the service life.

• Low productivity, as well as labor intensity of the process;
• Impossibility of perfect angle exposure;
• The need to calculate the number of file passes;
• Requirement of specific skills and knowledge of construction, angles, used abrasive sharpener.

Does not apply to chains with carbide dusty links.

Semi-automatic electrical machines: Composition and procedure of work

Main components:

• a bed with a fixed vise, where guide skids are installed, as well as a depth gauge, an angle scale, a start button, as well as other equipment;
• asynchronous motor and abrasive sharpener on the spindle;
• latch with fasteners.

The movable mount provides position adjustment for correct angle setting. The saw chain is placed on the slide. The attached stop plate adjusts the cutting depth. Thanks to the adjustment screw, it extends, increasing the turning depth.

Sharpening stages:

1. Placing the chain in a vice on a slide.
2. Rotation on a graduated scale to the required angle.
3. Fastening with a stopper.
4. Setting the desired depth of the groove.
5. Starting the engine and bringing the sharpener to the cutter by the handle to the specified depth.
6. Lift the motor head up with power off.
7. Unfastening and moving the link.
8. Repeating the process.

After the process is complete, the teeth on one side are checked with a gauge. The chain is then reversed and the operation continues for the other side.

The device must be configured prior to use. Instructions are included with the kit.

• Good performance;
• High speed;
• Ability to align teeth under one;
• Universal functionality;
• Excellent sharpening angle, adjustable;
• Partial automation;
• Backlight;
• High security;
• Budget models with affordable prices;
• Connection to mains or battery.

• Required skills of the operator;
• The need to replace discs due to wear;
• Lack of consideration of the characteristics of each link, as well as its wear;
• Decrease in resource due to a single template applied to all links.

Automatic machines

Specially designed units for the main unmanned sharpening cycle in large sawmills or repair shops.Human participation is limited to circuit placement as well as parameter setting.

Hydraulic drives controlled by the controller move the working components. Sharpening is carried out simultaneously with two heads:

• from above - cutting;
• on the side - depth limit.

The speed is increased in one pass, because the upper head interacts alternately with all the teeth.

Homemade devices

If you need daily sharpening, you can make homemade tools that perform sharpening with your own hands. These can be electric motors with an abrasive disc attached to the shaft.

The engine power should be low, and it itself is fixed on the bed. The chain is fixed with a special template, and a motor with a rotating sharpener is manually driven to each tooth.

The material to be processed must be securely fixed, and the engine must be movable.

How to make this type of device is clearly explained on the pages of the Internet. There you can also find out how much it costs to convert grinders or other power tools into branded units that can restore old chains.

Video tutorial "Homemade saw chain sharpening machine":

Practical advice for choosing

Before choosing a machine, which one is better to buy, you need to get acquainted with this tool by studying the technical parameters and ratings, as well as listen to the advice of experts, what to look for. It is necessary to present the basic principles of action, as well as to determine the planned volumes in advance.

Main selection criteria

1. Nature and operating conditions:

• stationary or mobile;
• manual or semi-automatic (automatic).

2. Price.

With infrequent use, it makes no sense to buy an expensive professional model.

3. Technical parameters:

• the speed demonstrates speed and sharpening qualities. For intermittent use, 3000 rpm is sufficient. For daily use or large volumes, it is advisable to consider tools with values ​​up to 7.5 thousand rpm;
• the size of the abrasive disc determines the purpose: up to 145 mm - manual models, up to 250 mm - stationary devices, up to 400 mm - industrial units.
• power determines the frequency of use and mobility: up to 220 W are popular models for household devices, and professional models are equipped with more powerful electric motors in order to increase resistance to loads.

4. Equipment with additional functions:

• turning the grinding head or clamping block;
• cooling system;
• wet grinding;
• tension control;
• backlight;
• additional functions of a specific product.

5. Complete set:

• the product itself;
• sharpening discs of different thickness;
• calibers;
• additional keys;
• instructions, manuals, reviews.

6. Safety assurance:

• casing;
• additional screen;
• transparent insert material for control and protection;
• automatic power off.

The best machines for sharpening chainsaw chains

The rating of quality models was compiled on the basis of an analysis of the preferences of customers of the Internet services Yandex.Market, E-catalog, as well as according to the opinion of buyers purchasing construction tools in the largest Russian marketplaces. An overview will allow you to better navigate among the chain sharpening tools. The rating is subjective and does not constitute a buying guide.

TOP 5 best manual machines

Oregon 557849

Simple hand-held device suitable for sharpening saw chains in the field.

At a price: 1200 - 1450 rubles.

• high accuracy;
• easy fastening to the bus;
• ease of use.

• no file included.

Patriot manual CFG

Universal handheld device weighing 730 grams, suitable for all types of chainsaws. Suitable for round files with suitable diameters: 4.0 - 5.5 mm.

Average price: 1500 rubles.

• good accuracy;
• the convenience of use;
• quick attachment to the chainsaw.

• low productivity;
• labor intensity.

LUX-TOOLS

Universal mobile device made in Italy.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Weight, g	417
Height, mm	275
Width	860
Depth	540
Manufacturer country	Italy

Average price: 1550 rubles.

• ease of use;
• ease of attachment to the tire;
• good mobility.

• low productivity.

DDE GT010B

Universal device under the American brand, made of anti-corrosion steel. Designed for processing without removing from the tire. Any files are suitable for repairs. The warranty period is one year.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Weight, g	550
Height, mm	65
Width	165
Depth	290
Brand name	USA

Average price: 1200 rubles.

• low cost;
• ease of use;
• small size;
• reliable fastening to the bus;
• ease of transportation.

• wing joints of parts of insufficient rigidity.

Champion C6500

Small hand-held quick sharpener directly on the tire. Secured on both sides with secure screws. The angle can be changed according to the degree markings. The measuring handle can be used to fix the saw element.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Weight, g	550
Height, mm	60
Width	160
Depth	291
Brand name	Russia

Price: 730 - 1050 rubles.

• adjustment in any direction;
• sharpens limiting and cutting teeth;
• high angle accuracy;
• low vibration;
• low cost.

• no file included;
• separate inconveniences during installation.

TOP 10 best electric machines

Caliber EZS-220

Cast unit with good stability. Transparent shield provides protection against abrasive splinters. The ergonomic handle allows comfortable control of the tool. Also used for sharpening electric saws.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	220
Rotation frequency, rpm	7500
Disc diameter, mm	100
Bore diameter	10
Circle thickness	3.2
Rotation angle, °	30
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	1.6
Packing dimensions (L-W-H), mm	296x198x191
Equipment:	product;
	working table with a set screw;
	table clamp;
	circle fastening key;
	instruction.
Trademark	Caliber (Russia)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 1872 - 2500 rubles.

• convenience of adjusting mechanisms;
• rotary table;
• small in size;
• dustproof engine.

• short lengths of power cord;
• the speed is excessive, can be reduced by a rheostat;
• a lot of plastic.

Sturm! BG60016

Great for home use. The 160 W motor provides three thousand revolutions per minute for the sharpening shaft. The stability of the unit is achieved by an impact-resistant cast support. A transparent shield provides protection from sparks.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	160
Rotation frequency, rpm	3000
Disc diameter, mm	100
Bore diameter	10
Circle thickness	3.5
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	2.5
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	310x203x202
Equipment:	product;
	two wrenches;
	two faceted keys;
	bolt with washer and nut;
	additional brushes.
Trademark	Sturm (Russia)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 2800 - 4200 rubles.

• dustproof switch;
• easy preparation for use;
• famous brand;
• suitable consumables;
• convenient adjustment mechanisms;
• the use of diamond or abrasive discs;
• good value for money.

• wear of the belt;
• there is no backlight.

Video review:

Safun CSH-150-104

Powerful and inexpensive Chinese-made models. They are easy to adjust, install and configure. There is practically no vibration. Convenient for home use.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	150
Rotation frequency, rpm	5000
Disc diameter, mm	104
Bore diameter	22.2
Circle thickness	3.2
Rotation angle, °	35
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	1.95
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	260x185x180
Equipment	tool
Trademark	SAFUN (China)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 2800 - 3320 rubles.

• ease of use;
• easy customization;
• high-quality assembly;
• processing of all types of chainsaws;
• lack of vibration;
• long service life;
• overheat protection;
• protective cover;
• excellent value for money.

• not found.

DDE MSC-104-95

Compact tabletop model for professional use and household use. High accuracy is ensured by the ability to turn the vice up to 35 degrees in both directions with a graduated scale.

The hazardous area is covered with a shrapnel protection cover.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	95
Rotation frequency, rpm	5000
Disc diameter, mm	104
Bore diameter	22.2
Circle thickness	4.5
Rotation angle, °	35
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	2.5
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	260x190x185
Equipment:	tool;
	grinding wheel;
	lever;
	bolts for clamping and fastening;
	nuts, screws, washers.
Trademark	Dynamic Drive Equipment (USA)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 2100 - 2340 rubles.

• high accuracy;
• good speed;
• little noise;
• compactness;
• II class of protection;
• LED lights;
• precise setting of angles;
• body strength;
• long service life.

• lack of keys included;
• short power cord;
• the build quality is poor.

Video tips for sharpening chains on this unit:

Patriot MG 220

A versatile model made of high quality wear-resistant materials. Operator safety is ensured by a protective cover.

Operation does not require any special maintenance. The tool is easy to use. The housing rotates to set the desired angle. The stop bolt prevents the sharpener from dropping below the designated point.

The stability of the position is provided by the support leg. In addition, secure bolting to the workbench surface is provided.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	85
Rotation frequency, rpm	4800
Disc diameter, mm	108
Bore diameter	22.2
Circle thickness	3.2
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	2.2
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	422x183x228
Equipment	product
Trademark	PATRIOT (USA)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 2250 - 2510 rubles.

• small weight and size values;
• easy transportation;
• convenient storage;
• lack of vibration;
• low noise.

• some inconvenience when replacing the grinding wheel;
• the shaft has no stopper;
• unreliable plastic case.

Champion C2000

Model for widespread use in the country. Robust cover protects against sparks and damage.

A high-quality result is achieved by a well-thought-out design of a rotary table up to 35 degrees. A graduated scale ensures accurate angle alignment.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	85
Rotation frequency, rpm	4800
Disc diameter, mm	105
Bore diameter	23.2
Circle thickness	4.5
Rotation angle, °	35
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	2
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	348x246x156
Equipment	product
Trademark	Champion (Russia)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 1930 - 2300 rubles.

• body strength;
• small size;
• ease of use;
• vise with quick clamps;
• available consumables;
• good value for money.

• there is no backlight.

Rezer EG235-CN

Stationary model for processing all types of chainsaws in a specialized workshop. No complicated service required.

Instrument control is provided by on / off buttons. The clamping mechanism is made of steel with an eccentric cam.

Safety is ensured by a transparent spark shield.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	235
Rotation frequency, rpm	3000
Disc diameter, mm	145
Bore diameter	22.2
Circle thickness	4.5
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	5.8
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	499x356x212
Equipment:	unit;
	installation block;
	clamping nut;
	two grinding discs;
	step-by-step instruction.
Trademark	Rezer (Russia)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 5380 - 6850 rubles.

• ease of use;
• the angle can be tilted;
• low noise;
• lack of vibration;
• reliable clamping mechanism;
• the presence of backlight;
• strength of the metal body;
• long service life.

• flimsy attachment of the casing;
• unreliable plastic bed.

Machine video review:

Huter ECS-100

A convenient model for fast processing of a chainsaw at home or in the country. Mandatory attachment to the workbench. Work is simplified by adjusting the tilt of the surface up to 30 degrees.

A special protected unit ensures safe operation.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	100
Rotation frequency, rpm	5200
Disc diameter, mm	108
Bore diameter	23
Circle thickness	2
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	2
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	255x220x170
Equipment:	machine;
	grinding wheel;
	description.
Trademark	Huter (Germany)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 2300 - 2700 rubles.

• light weight;
• simplicity of design;
• low noise;
• convenient locking and adjustment mechanism;
• long service life;
• high quality sharpening;
• long power cord;
• good value for money.

• poor equipment.

DIOLD MZ-0.13

Inexpensive compact 130W device for occasional home use. The sturdy die-cast aluminum base can be easily screwed onto the workbench. The comfortable grip is ensured by the ergonomic handle, leaving the best experience. The device can be ordered online from the online store at an attractive price.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	130
Rotation frequency, rpm	2500
Disc diameter, mm	100
Bore diameter	10
Circle thickness	3.5
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	2
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	304x199x204
Equipment:	tool
Trademark	DIOLD (Russia)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 2100 - 2510 rubles.

• high efficiency;
• ease of customization;
• use of a collector motor;
• with forced cooling function;
• double insulation;
• long service life;
• good value for money.

• small backlash of fixing elements;
• no backlight.

Video review of the device:

Whirlwind SZTs-200

A powerful, inexpensive model on a metal bed with good stability, preventing spontaneous rollover. Mechanisms are protected from damage by a robust housing. Safety is ensured by a transparent plastic shield. One year warranty.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Power, W	200
Rotation frequency, rpm	6000
Disc diameter, mm	100
Bore diameter	10
Circle thickness	3.2
Voltage, V	220
Weight, kg	2
Packing dimensions (L-W-H)	304x179x212
Equipment:	product;
	open-end and crosscut keys;
	grinding wheel;
	protective screen;
	circle blocker;
	the passport.
Trademark	Vortex (Russia)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 2100 - 2500 rubles.

• suitable for different types of chainsaws;
• high speed;
• good quality;
• compactness;
• dustproofness;
• excellent value for money;
• long service life.

• sometimes there is a backlash of the bed;
• the power cord is short;
• mounting bolts are not included.

Video review:

Summarizing

Thus, the best machine is a device that meets the stated requirements in all its characteristics and has positive feedback from users. Comparing the parameters of most products, you can choose an excellent option, new items from universal models at an affordable price.

It is important not to make mistakes when choosing. It should be remembered that the Russian market of offers is almost 20% filled with fakes from China, copying the external forms of instruments from recognized manufacturers. Therefore, buying a cheap machine made by unknown craftsmen can be a bad purchase. In this case, it will not meet the requirements and will not provide a warranty obligation.

It is possible to solve the question of which company is better to take the goods of which one can only contact the shops or representative offices of trusted companies that have the necessary licenses. The best manufacturers value their reputation.

Enjoy the shopping!