s219
Super Member
- Joined
- Dec 7, 2011
- Messages
- 8,608
- Location
- Virginia USA
- Tractor
- Kubota L3200, Deere X380, Kubota RTV-X
I generally field sharpen my chains with a file 3-4 times a day when cutting. I am amazed when I hear from someone that doesn't do that! Should be standard practice when using a chainsaw, and it can be a matter of 1-2-3 minutes tops.
Another important factor is choice of cutter type. A lot of people are in love with full-chisel chain because it cuts better, but it also dulls way faster, so it's only better cutting when it's freshly sharp. For that reason, I use semi-chisel most of the time. It reduces the need to file by about 2/3 when cutting wood that is on the ground or has been dragged or rolled on the ground. That is a lot more productive.
My general rule is that when the chips start to show some dust mixed in with the confetti, it's time to pull out the file and sharpen. Don't wait until you can feel the reduction in cutting performance. I also flip my bar after every day or 3-4 sharpenings, which is very important. Many people overlook that too! When flipping the bar, it's a good time to clean the sawdust and gunk out of the clutch cover. An old stiff paintbrush and/or toothbrush works well for that.
Another important factor is choice of cutter type. A lot of people are in love with full-chisel chain because it cuts better, but it also dulls way faster, so it's only better cutting when it's freshly sharp. For that reason, I use semi-chisel most of the time. It reduces the need to file by about 2/3 when cutting wood that is on the ground or has been dragged or rolled on the ground. That is a lot more productive.
My general rule is that when the chips start to show some dust mixed in with the confetti, it's time to pull out the file and sharpen. Don't wait until you can feel the reduction in cutting performance. I also flip my bar after every day or 3-4 sharpenings, which is very important. Many people overlook that too! When flipping the bar, it's a good time to clean the sawdust and gunk out of the clutch cover. An old stiff paintbrush and/or toothbrush works well for that.