There are many tools that you likely have in your shed or workshop that are useful in the home and garden. You probably have a drill and sander, maybe a selection of saws and more. If you’re reading this, you’ve either recently bought a chainsaw, or you’re thinking about it. It’s a good decision as they are very versatile tools that are available at affordable prices and in sizes that are suitable for use even in the smallest of yards or gardens. There are some things you need to consider when buying a chainsaw, and others when using one.

As with many power tools operating a chainsaw safely is vital. These are potentially very dangerous machines and need treatment with a good deal of care. Always wear safety gear, always follow the manufacturer instructions, and never let anyone play with a chainsaw, which is unaware of how to use it. It also needs to be treated to regular maintenance – keep the oil fresh and intact, clear away debris after use, and so on – and will need sharpening every now and then. How do you sharpen a chainsaw? With a chainsaw sharpener, and we’re here to tell you more about them.

What is a Chainsaw Sharpener?

It is a device that is specifically designed for sharpening chainsaws. A chainsaw is a unique machine in terms of its design and operation. The chainsaw sharpener will do the job far easier than trying to do it in any of the DIY methods you may find. There are many brands of chainsaw sharpener on the market, and you can find out more about some of the best at TraditionalGardening, where they give some great details and advice.

How does a chainsaw sharpener work? There are many different models but before we talk about them, let’s consider why a chainsaw needs regular sharpening.

Why Does a Chainsaw Go Dull?

A chainsaw works hard at its job and can be put to many very arduous tasks. It may seem that it goes through wood easily – and it certainly does so more than any other saw – but in doing so, it uses a lot of effort and energy. The metal used is not infallible and, as with all metal saws, will become blunt over time. You may not notice the difference, but once you put the saw on the sharpener and then use it, you certainly will!

When your chainsaw starts to lose performance, it is likely that it has gone dull. This is not a fault but a natural occurrence of wear and tear. A chainsaw sharpener will make things easier again by sharpening up the edges and putting the saw back to how it should be – sharp, clean, and ready for action. Let’s talk about some different types of chainsaw.

Different Chainsaws

When it comes to the care of trees and shrubs, there is no doubt that a chainsaw is a vital tool. Used for pruning back branches and overhanging trees, it makes life much easier. Consider using a hand saw and then try a chainsaw, and you’ll see the difference. A good, sharp chainsaw will easily cut through large chunks of wood, so you always have a tool ready to cut firewood.

The two main types of chainsaw are electric and gas-powered models; the latter is larger, more powerful, and more expensive, while the electric models are favored by people who want an occasional use machine for chopping wood. They are less expensive, lighter, and easy to. So, chainsaw sharpeners: what should you look for?

Choosing a Chainsaw Sharpener

The purpose of a chainsaw sharpener is essentially to grind away the surface of the metal and give it back its sharp nature. This is often done by grinding wheels, which turn fast and take the edge off the metal. Chainsaw sharpeners are usually bench-mounted for ease of use, so they can be fitted in your workshop or shed for use any time. Others mount to a wall and are equally usable. They operate by way of an electric motor and should only be used by those who know what they are doing. Once again, these power tools can be dangerous if misused, so safety precautions should always be taken.

The machine that is best for you is one that fits your chainsaw size and is within your budget, and there is a lot to choose from some well-known brands. We recommend you spend some time reading the specifications and check if the maker of your chainsaw recommends a particular sharpener. Ask at your hardware store or talk to the retailer that sold you the saw for more advice.

It’s worth spending the money on a chainsaw sharpener, especially if you will be using the saw regularly, so start looking now.