Chainsaw Files

About Chainsaw Files

Chainsaw files are precision hand tools designed to sharpen and maintain chainsaw chains, ensuring optimal cutting performance and safety. A sharp chain cuts efficiently through timber with minimal effort, reducing kickback risk and operator fatigue whilst extending the working life of both the chain and the chainsaw itself. Regular filing with the correct diameter file is essential for anyone who relies on a chainsaw, from professional arborists to homeowners processing firewood.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of chainsaw files including round files in various diameters (typically 5/32", 3/16", and 7/32"), complete file and guide sets for consistent sharpening angles, and professional diamond files for enhanced durability. Our selection features trusted brands including Bahco, DMT, Draper, and Handy, offering solutions for both occasional users and professional forestry contractors who demand reliable performance from their maintenance tools.

Applications

Chainsaw files are essential tools for professionals and enthusiasts across numerous sectors:

• Arborists and tree surgeons requiring razor-sharp chains for precision cutting and safety when working at height
• Forestry workers and loggers managing commercial timber operations with constant chain maintenance demands
• Landscapers and grounds maintenance contractors who use chainsaws regularly for tree work and site clearance
• Estate managers and groundskeepers maintaining woodland areas, parks, and large properties
• Farmers and agricultural workers managing hedgerows, felling trees, and processing timber on-site
• DIY enthusiasts and homeowners with wood-burning stoves who process their own firewood supplies
• Conservation volunteers involved in woodland management and habitat maintenance projects

Choosing The Right Chainsaw Files

Match the file diameter to your chain pitch: Check your chainsaw manual or chain markings to identify the correct size. Common UK chains require 5/32" (4.0mm) for smaller .325" pitch chains, 3/16" (4.8mm) for mid-range chains, and 7/32" (5.5mm) for larger 3/8" pitch chains. Using an incorrect diameter damages the chain and compromises cutting performance.

Consider a file and guide set: For consistent results, particularly if you're less experienced with chainsaw maintenance, invest in a complete set like those from Handy. These include the appropriate round file plus a guide that maintains the correct filing angle, eliminating guesswork and ensuring uniform sharpening.

Professional versus occasional use: Diamond files from brands like DMT offer exceptional longevity for professional users who sharpen chains daily, maintaining their cutting ability far longer than standard files. For occasional users, traditional steel files from Bahco or Draper deliver excellent results at competitive prices.

Keep spares available: Files wear down with use and lose effectiveness. MyToolShed.co.uk recommends professionals working in remote locations keep spare files readily available, as a dull chain can halt productivity and compromise safety.

Safety Information

Always disconnect the spark plug lead or remove the battery before performing any chainsaw maintenance to prevent accidental starting. Wear appropriate work gloves to protect against sharp chain teeth, and ensure the chainsaw is securely mounted in a vice or stable position before filing. File away from your body with fingers clear of the chain, and clean clogged files with a wire brush to prevent slipping. Maintain even pressure and consistent stroke length across all teeth for balanced cutting performance. In accordance with HSE guidelines, ensure you have received appropriate training in chainsaw use and maintenance if operating these tools professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size chainsaw file do I need?

The correct file size depends on your chain's pitch. Check your chainsaw manual or chain markings for specifications. Common UK chainsaw chains use 5/32" (4.0mm), 3/16" (4.8mm), or 7/32" (5.5mm) files. Using the wrong diameter will damage your chain and produce poor cutting results.

How often should I sharpen my chainsaw chain?

Sharpen whenever you notice the chain producing sawdust instead of wood chips, pulling to one side during cutting, or requiring excessive pressure to make cuts. Professional users often touch up chains several times daily, whilst occasional users might sharpen after every few hours of cutting time.

What's the difference between standard and diamond chainsaw files?

Diamond files feature a diamond-coated surface that cuts faster and lasts significantly longer than traditional steel files, making them ideal for professional users who sharpen chains frequently. Standard steel files are more economical for occasional use and still deliver excellent results when replaced regularly.