Best Chainsaw Sharpener Reviewed
Blades can lose their cutting edge quickly, but with an effective sharpener, you’ll never have to worry about achieving optimum results.
There are a number of different sharpeners available to suit all preferences and budgets, so how do you go about choosing the best chainsaw sharpener for you?
Electric chainsaw sharpeners are a popular choice because they offer speed and efficiency.
Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Quick Reference Table
We review each of the items in our roundup of electric chainsaw sharpeners below, but for those in a hurry here is a table comparing the models we examined.
Why Use An Electric Sharpener?
When you’re working on a project, you don’t want to be stopping and starting constantly, trying to ensure your blade is as sharp as possible.
An electric sharpener works within seconds to restore sharpness, giving you access to the best machinery at all times.
Even if you happen to chip or catch a blade, an electric chainsaw sharpener will help you rectify the problem and get back on track in no time at all.
As time is of the essence for many people who operate chainsaws, and safety is always a priority, it makes sense to invest in a sharpener which gives you a chain that cuts great as quickly as possible.
Best Electric Chainsaw Sharpeners
If you’re looking for a new chainsaw sharpener, and you don’t know where to start, why not check out our list of electric chainsaw sharpener reviews? We’ve trawled the marketplace to find a handful of the best products available.
Here are some of the best electric chainsaw sharpeners for the money:
1. Oregon 410-120 Bench or Wall-Mounted Saw Chain Grinder
The Oregon 410-120 Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
If you’re on the lookout for a versatile, high-quality sharpener, which won’t break the bank, this could be the ideal choice for you. Offering users the chance to mount the grinder on a bench or the wall, the Oregon 410-120 is a functional chainsaw sharpener, which offers a host of features that will appeal to those who utilize a sharpener on either an occasional or a regular basis.
Oregon 410-120 Features
The main features of the Oregon 410-120 chain grinder include:
- Wall or bench-mounted
- Attractive design and bright red color
- Safety features including built-in, one-way rotor system
- Easy to modify
- Three grinding settings: low profile, pitch chain and depth gauge grinding
- Quick and simple to use with rapid grinding template
- Voltage: 120-AC
- Extended nose life and new sprocket system
Who should buy the Oregon 410-120 chain grinder?
Oregon is a leading name within the industry, and the 410-120 bench or wall-mounted grinder is a product that ticks many boxes for those who use a chainsaw. This product may not be ideally suited to those who require professional-standard results, but it’s a great acquisition for anyone who is looking for a versatile all-rounder that produces excellent results. The fact that you can mount the sharpener on a wall or on your workbench is attractive for anyone who is looking to save space. Wall-mounted sharpeners free up valuable bench space, enabling you to set about tasks efficiently and safely. Another major benefit of the Oregon 410-120 chain grinder is the ease of use. Once your sharpener is set up, it takes a matter of minutes to achieve the results you’re looking for.
The pros and cons
The Oregon 410-120 chain grinder offers a wealth of advantages for consumers, but it’s not perfect. Here are some pros and cons, which may help you decide which product to add to your basket.
Pros:
- Wall or bench-mounted
- Affordable
- Customizable grinding settings
- Safety features
Cons:
- This may not be the best option for those looking for a sharpener for continual or professional use. In this case, buyers may be looking for a slightly more sophisticated product with more features at a higher price.
In summary
In summary, the Oregon 410-120 is an excellent product for anyone who is looking for a quality electric chainsaw sharpener at an affordable price. This product will be particularly appealing to those who are short on space, thanks to the option to mount the grinder on the wall.
- Universal sharpener: Sharpen almost saw any chain from manufacturers such as Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, and others
- Durable sharpener: Ideal for any user who sharpens chains semi-regularly and wishes to save time and money. Great for loggers, arborists, semi-professionals and home users who regularly saw wood
- Bench or wall mounted grinder: Sharpens 1/4", 3/8" low profile, 0.325", full profile 3/8", and .404" pitch chains from all manufacturers. Standing tripod can be purchased separately
- Built in light for better visibility. Safe sharpening: One-way motor rotation for greater operator safety. Wheel wear indicator. Top plate and down angle settings
- Box includes grinder, a dressing brick, a quick check grinding template, and three grinding wheels for sharpening
2. Oregon 520-120 Bench Saw Chain Grinder
The Oregon 520-120 Electric Chain Saw Sharpener
A professional standard bench saw chain grinder, the Oregon 520-120 is a popular choice for those who require a dependable sharpener for work purposes. This product is powerful and effective, producing outstanding results in a matter of minutes. Offering the chance to sharpen a wide range of blades, the Oregon 520-120 is also famed for its versatility.
Oregon 520-120Features
The Oregon 520-120 bench saw chain grinder is packed with features, including:
- 3 different grinding wheels (¼, ⅛, 3/16)
- Quick rotation
- Includes a dressing brick
- Top plate and angle down settings
- Customizable handle position for enhanced comfort and safety
- Light source for precision work
- Suitable for high volume sharpening
- One-way motor for increased safety
Why buy the Oregon 520-120 bench saw chain grinder?
Oregon is a reputable brand, which is trusted by tradespeople all over the world. The Oregon 520-120 is a professional standard chainsaw sharpener, which guarantees excellent results at the same time as offering simple, quick operation. This bench-mounted grinder has a range of settings, which make it a viable option for a wide range of buyers, and you can program the product to suit your individual needs. This product is suited to consumers who use chainsaw sharpeners on a regular basis, and those who require optimum results.
The pros and cons
While the Oregon 520-120 bench saw chain grinder offers a host of pros, there are also a couple of cons, which may put some buyers off.
Pros:
- Powerful
- Versatile: suitable for use with different size blades
- Customizable settings
- Includes a dressing brick
- 3 grinding wheels
- Adaptable hand positioning
- Inbuilt light
Cons:
- The price: at $309, the price may be more than some buyers want to pay
- Suited to professional, rather than occasional use
In summary
The Oregon 520-120 bench saw chain grinder is a first-class quality electric sharpener, which is ideal for those looking for a grinder for professional use.
- Universal sharpener: Sharpens up to .404" pitch chain. Sharpen almost any chain from manufacturers such as Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, and others
- Durable sharpener: Built with the quality and features needed for frequent, high volume chain sharpening. Ideal for professional users such as loggers and arborists
- Includes: Grinder, 2 grinding wheels for sharpening 1/4", 3/8" Low Profile, .325", 3/8", and .404" pitch chain,1 wheel for depth gauge maintenance, a dressing brick, quick template and instruction manual
- Bench mounted grinder: Sharpens 1/4", 3/8" low profile, 0.325", full profile 3/8", and .404" pitch chains
- Built in light for better visibility while working. Safe sharpening: One-way motor rotation for greater operator safety. Self-centering chain vice and customizable handle positioning.
3. Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
The Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
If you’re on the hunt for an electric chainsaw and you’re on a budget, you’ll struggle to beat the Buffalo Tools ECSS Chainsaw Sharpener. A functional, wallet-friendly product, this is ideal for those who are searching for a sharpener for occasional use. Although not suited to those who require professional standards, this is an ideal choice for anyone who needs to sharpen a blade once in a while.
Buffalo Tools ECSS Features
The main features of the Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener include:
- Versatile mounting options: you can mount this product to a wall, bench or vise
- Compatible with the majority of chain designs
- Voltage: 120
- Easy operation
Who is the Buffalo Tools ECSS sharpener suitable for?
The Buffalo Tools ECSS sharpener is a perfect match for buyers who don’t want to pay to have their blades sharpened in a shop and those who don’t require daily use. If you’re looking for a product that will do the job when you need to sharpen a chainsaw now and again without splashing out, you’ll struggle to beat this budget-friendly option.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Great value for money (RRP $42)
- Easy to use
- Compatible with most blades
Cons:
- Not suitable for daily use
- Manual chain feeding
In summary
In summary, the Buffalo Tools ECSS sharpener is a great investment for those who don’t require professional standards or continual use. For less than $50, you get a functional product that will enable you to keep your blades sharp with minimal hassle.
- Keep your chain in top condition and save money by sharpening your own saw
- Mounts to bench, wall or vise for easy access and stability
- Adjusts to most popular chain designs
- 4200 RPM grinding speed, 60 Hz, 85-watt, plugs into a standard 120-volt wall outlet
- Uses a 4-1/4-Inch x 1/8-Inch grinding wheel with 7/8-Inch arbor
4. Wall Mount Saw Chain 230W, Chainsaw Sharpener
The Wall Mount Saw Chain 230W, Chainsaw Sharpener is a powerful electric chainsaw sharpener, which can be mounted to walls and benches. Boasting a commercial motor, this product is suited to buyers who plan to use a chainsaw sharpener on a regular basis.
Wall Mount Saw Chain 230W, Chainsaw Sharpener Features
The primary features of the Wall Mount Saw Chain 230W, Chainsaw Sharpener include:
- Sturdy cast aluminum design
- Safety guards and features designed to prevent burning and softening
- Tilted vise
- ⅛ and 3/16 grinding wheels
- Compatible with chisel-style cutters
- Commercial 3,000 RPM motor: suitable for use with most chain sizes and types
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Powerful product for outstanding results
- Enhanced safety features
- High-speed motor
- Suitable for frequent use
- Wall or bench-mounted
Cons:
- May be too expensive for those who only need a chainsaw sharpener for occasional use
Who should buy this product?
The Wall Mount Saw Chain 230W, Chainsaw Sharpener is ideal for buyers looking for a high-grade sharpener, which can cope with regular use.
- Electric Chainsaw sharpener with grinding wheels 1/8" & 3/16".
- Made of sturdy cast aluminum with reinforced hinges that improve strength and performance.
- Chain Grinder with work light and safety guards improve accuracy and provide superior protection.
- The tilting vise accommodates semi-chisel & chisel style cutters.
- Chainsaw sharpener with constant 3000RPM commercial motor, grinds almost Any chain type and size. It ensures you never burn, hot spot or soften your chain.
5. Timber Tuff CS-BWM Benchtop/Wall Mount Electric Chain Saw Chain Sharpener
The Timber Tuff CS-BWM Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
The Timber Tuff CS-BWM electric chainsaw sharpener is a portable, battery-operated device, which works off a car battery. Giving you access to sharpening capabilities on the go, this is a speedy, economical product.
Timber Tuff CS-BWM Features
- 230-watt motor input
- Maximum speed 3,600 RPM
- Low noise level
- 3 grinding blades
- Wall or bench-mounted
Who is this product suited to?
The Timber Tuff CS-BWM electric chainsaw sharpener is a versatile, mobile sharpener, which offers fast results. Ideal for those on the go, the mid-range price tag makes it appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Fast
- Economical
- Mobile
- Wall or bench mounted
- Compatible with many blade sizes
Cons:
- Can take a while to get used to operation
- May not last as long as other products
- 110V/60 Hz motor with an input power of 230 watts and a motor speed of 3600 rpm for a very powerful motor that will keep your chains working like new; ETL and CETL approved
- Sharpens chains from ¼” to ¾” with easy and accurate sharpening; mounts to most work surfaces to provide a secure sharpening station.Maximum speed: 5800 rpm
- Easy-to-read adjustment guides make it easier to consistently sharpen your chains; see-through safety shield and 15 watt work light gives you good visibility while sharpening
- Includes thermo-overload protection for your safety; comes with 3 grinding wheels, 1/8”, 3/16”, and ¼”
- Gives you longer lasting chains with even cuts and even saves on the chain saw bar; 1 year limited Manufacturer’s warranty
Buying Guide: Things to Consider
Chainsaw chains dull over time regardless of whether you have a high-quality top of the range chainsaw or a budget chain from your local DIY store. Sharpening your chainsaw is crucial for the quality and finish of the work you do and for your own health and safety.
In order to make your hunt for the best chainsaw sharpener easier, we have put together a complete buying guide with points that you consider before finalizing your purchase. As you go through this guide, write down the most important features and specifications to you so that you don’t forget anything important when you shop around.
Types of Chainsaw Sharpener:
There are three main types of chainsaw sharpeners on the market for you to choose from. Before starting to look for the best sharpener for you, you will need to choose from one of the three listed below.
Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
Using an electric chainsaw sharpener to sharpen your chain is the fastest way to sharpen your chain. Sharpening one tooth takes less than a minute. Always turn off the chainsaw sharpener before altering its settings or checking the blade.
Handheld File Chainsaw Sharpener
If you choose to use a hand file chainsaw sharpener, you would be choosing to sharpen your chain manually and will be using the method that takes the most amount of time. Hand filing your chainsaw with a grinding stone result in a very precise outcome, and it is the oldest method of sharpening.
Bar Mounted Chainsaw Sharpener
Most bar-mounted chainsaw sharpeners allow you to sharpen your chainsaw chain without having to take the chain off your chainsaw. This is a very convenient way to sharpen your chain.
Size and Weight
Your chain size and weight are extremely important features when it comes to choosing a chainsaw sharpener. If the file size doesn’t match your chain size, the sharpener will be rendered useless.
Frequency of Use
How often you use your chainsaw will determine how often you will need to sharpen your chain.
Ease of Use
Looking for a chainsaw sharpener with a built-in light, deep depth gauge, and file guide with a wide range of sharpening ability will make it very easy to use and comfortable for you.
When it comes to sharpening your chainsaw chain, you certainly do not want the task to be any more fiddly than it already is. Comfort features are key, so look out for a chainsaw sharpener that is comfortable with positive customer reviews when it comes to ease of use.
Power
Electric chainsaw sharpeners need a lot of power to sharpen your chainsaw chain with ease and in a short amount of time. If you choose a chainsaw sharpener that doesn’t use enough power, the chain will take a very long time to sharpen, and it might not ever get as sharp as you want it to.
Durability
Look for a sharpener that is made using durable and long-lasting materials such as cast aluminum and stainless steel. A chainsaw sharpener should last you a long time, so making sure it is made of durable materials is key.
Price
Set yourself a budget. Chainsaw sharpeners vary in price, and you might find yourself paying more than you need to. Most low ticket and professional chainsaw sharpeners will have the features you are looking for, so shop around until you find the right sharpener at an affordable price.
FAQ
You are almost ready to make your purchase, but in order to find the best electric chainsaw sharpener, you need to know a little bit more about chainsaw sharpeners and how to use them. Here is a frequently asked questions section for you to refer to.
Q: How do you sharpen a chainsaw like a pro?
A: The only way to sharpen a chainsaw like a pro is by using a good quality chainsaw sharpener that is comfortable and easy to use.
Q: Do chainsaw sharpeners really work?
A: Absolutely! Having a dull chainsaw chain does not mean you have to fork out a lot of cash on a replacement; just sharpen it, and it’s as good as new.
Q: What is the best chainsaw sharpener?
A: The Oregon 120V Bench/Wall Mounted Saw Chain Grinder is considered to be one of the best chainsaw sharpeners on the market. That being said, the best chainsaw sharpener for you depends on your specific requirements.
Q: Is it worth sharpening a chainsaw chain?
A: Yes, it is! You shouldn’t use a dull chainsaw as it could cause serious accidents. Pieces of wood and debris may fling off at you, and the final product may be full of splinters and uneven edges.
Q: What angle do I set for my chainsaw sharpener?
A: You should always set your chainsaw sharpener to a 90-degree angle (right angle).
In summary
In short, if you’re looking for an electric chainsaw sharpener, which is versatile and functional, the Timber Tuff CS-BWM may be a good option for you.
- 110V/60 Hz motor with an input power of 230 watts and a motor speed of 3600 rpm for a very powerful motor that will keep your chains working like new; ETL and CETL approved
- Sharpens chains from ¼” to ¾” with easy and accurate sharpening; mounts to most work surfaces to provide a secure sharpening station.Maximum speed: 5800 rpm
- Easy-to-read adjustment guides make it easier to consistently sharpen your chains; see-through safety shield and 15 watt work light gives you good visibility while sharpening
- Includes thermo-overload protection for your safety; comes with 3 grinding wheels, 1/8”, 3/16”, and ¼”
- Gives you longer lasting chains with even cuts and even saves on the chain saw bar; 1 year limited Manufacturer’s warranty
Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Video
Here is a YouTube video explaining the basics of using the best chainsaw sharpener:
If you’re looking for a new chainsaw sharpener, hopefully, this guide has given you some ideas and narrowed down the options for you.