5 Best Chainsaw Sharpeners of 2025

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The Best Chainsaw Sharpeners

The Best Chainsaw Sharpeners
  1. Oregon Universal Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit[ SAVE 11% ]

  2. Faithfull Electric Chainsaw Sharpener [ CHECK PRICE ]

  3. Clarke ECSS2 Electric Chainsaw Sharpener[ CHECK PRICE ]

  4. Portek Maxi Chainmaster Mark II [ CHECK PRICE ]

  5. MIZOOVA 10 Piece Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit[ CHECK PRICE ]

Chainsaw Sharpener Reviews

The Oregon Universal Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit is an essential tool for anyone who regularly uses a chainsaw, offering a convenient, all-in-one solution for sharpening your chainsaw while on the job. This comprehensive kit ensures your chains stay sharp and efficient, helping you avoid downtime and prolonging the life of your saw.

The kit includes three round files in 5/32-inch (4 mm), 3/16-inch (4.8 mm), and 7/32-inch (5.5 mm) sizes, making it versatile enough to work with a range of chainsaw chains. It also comes with a 6-inch flat file for maintaining the depth gauges, ensuring that your chains cut at the right height and remain in top shape. The included file guide is a standout feature, helping users achieve consistent angles and more accurate sharpening, even if you’re not an expert.

One of the best aspects of this kit is its portability. The entire set comes in a rolled pouch with inner pockets and a hook and loop closure, making it easy to transport and store. Whether you’re working in the field or just need to sharpen your chainsaw at home, the compact design makes it convenient to carry wherever you go. The instruction sheet is thoughtfully inserted into the handle pocket for quick reference, especially handy for beginners or those needing a refresher.

The Oregon Universal Chainsaw Field Sharpening Kit is a must-have for anyone who values sharp chains and efficient cutting. Its comprehensive selection of tools, portability, and user-friendly design make it ideal for both seasoned chainsaw users and DIYers.

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Runner Up
  • Effectively sharpens most chains in under 10 minutes
  • Each individual tooth is sharpened equally, leading to a cleaner and straighter cut
  • Although the frame is made from plastic, the overall construction is good quality
  • Clear instructions make it easy to get started almost straight away

  • Plastic parts produce some movement while the sharpener is in operation
  • Chain stop needs keeping an eye on in case the chain starts to move

Getting chainsaw chains sharpened on a budget isn’t easy when you have to take them to be done professionally. However, the Faithfull Electric Chainsaw Sharpener is an economical way to sharpen them at home.

This electric sharpener does the job quickly and is straight forward to use. It’s the best chainsaw sharpener to buy if you want a budget-friendly option.

The set-up is simple, and the instructions are sufficiently detailed to get the chain sharpener running almost immediately. Once the correct adjustments have been made, it can breathe new life into old chains – even those that are past hand filing.

Running an 85 W motor, chains can be sharpened in as little as 10 minutes which isn’t bad going for 60 links. The angle adjustment is simple to change, and the depth gauge can also be altered to avoid cutting too far down onto the chain.

Although the overall build quality of this chainsaw sharpener is pretty reasonable, the all-plastic frame makes it seem a little more like a machine for hobbyists rather than professionals. Some of the plastic moulding can be a little rough around the edges. But, considering its price, it seems understandable that the finishes might be lacking.

Also worth mentioning – there can be some ‘play’ in the chain stop (which holds the chain still). It needs to be kept an eye on in order to make sure it is sufficiently holding the chain in place.

Even with these snags in mind, it’s still one of the best electric chainsaw sharpeners to buy on a budget.

Plus, its inexpensive price tag means that the cost is quickly justified and it’s a worthwhile purchase that won’t break the bank.

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Also Good
  • Easy to set up thanks to the clear instructions
  • Intuitive to use without overly complicated processes for setting the sharpening angle
  • Runs very quietly
  • Sharpens the chain in approximately ten minutes
  • Can be mounted on a workbench for stability

  • Bolts on the clamp are made from plastic so not the most durable material
  • The on/off switch is located at the back which means you cannot see it while the sharpener is in operation
  • Instructions don't list recommendations for grinding angles so if you are new to chainsaw sharpening you will need to research this separately

If you’re after professional-level chain sharpening at home, the Clarke ECSS2 Electric Chainsaw Sharpener is a useful tool that will help you achieve it. It’s the best chainsaw sharpener overall.

Given the quality results that this electric chainsaw sharpener provides, it’s surprisingly easy to use and set up. It also offers great value for money by 1) saving buying new chains, and 2) reducing the necessity to take chains to a workshop.

With an 85 W motor that runs at 4800 rpm, this chainsaw sharpener is compatible with most chains, and essentially brings chainsaws back to their original sharpness. Even after cutting dense hardwoods like oak and ash, this electric sharpener can sharpen the chain in approximately 10 minutes.

It can be mounted onto a workbench and comes with one grinding wheel included. The grinding wheel won’t quickly need replacing, but it’s easy and inexpensive to buy a replacement when necessary.

When it comes to setting up this chainsaw sharpener, the instructions are simple and easy to understand. Using the electric sharpener is relatively intuitive, which naturally makes the process easier.

It’s one of the best sharpeners for creating a professional finish in a short time. Given the price of the machine, and the normal cost of taking chains to be sharpened, it will quickly earn its keep for anyone who uses a chainsaw on a semi-regular basis.

Whilst the overall design is good, it’s worth noting that the sharpener’s clamp knobs are made from plastic, not metal. Although not immediately problematic, metal would tend to provide stronger construction.

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  • Sharpens chainsaw chains in 10 - 30 minutes
  • Set up is easy thanks to clear, detailed instructions
  • Suitable for lower budgets yet still very effective
  • Capable of restoring chains to original sharpness

  • Made with some plastic components which allow for movement when the sharpener is in use
  • Bolts to mount sharpener to your worktop will need to be purchased separately
  • Can take time and research to master the correct filing of different chains

Describing itself as a “semi-professional chainsaw sharpener”, the Portek Maxi Chainmaster Mark II works with the majority of chainsaw sizes and brands.

Along with sharpening the cutting face of the chain, the grinding wheel can be lowered to improve the edge of the rakers too. There’s an auto-clamp that will hold to chain in place as the blade is lowered, ensuring precise sharpening.

This chainsaw sharpener comes with a grinding wheel of 3.2 mm which can be replaced when it eventually wears out. Plus, the electric sharpener is also compatible with blades of 4.5 mm thick, making it versatile and suitable for different types of chain.

Setting up the chainsaw sharpener is straight forward. The instructions are clear and methodical, and the machine can be mounted on a workbench for security; however, what can take time is mastering how to use it in order to achieve the best results.

Different chains will require different angles and adjustments on the cutting settings.

The 85 W motor produces 4,200 rpm and it’s one of the best chainsaw sharpeners if you’re after value for money. Yes, it has its limitations – some of the components are made from plastic instead of metal – but it’s good for the price and it’s not a professional machine.

It should still save money in the long term by allowing chains to be sharpened at home. Often sharpening within 10 – 30 minutes.

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  • Great value for money with everything you need included
  • Comes in a thick cloth bag for neat storage
  • Most chainsaw teeth can be sharpened in just 4 or 5 strokes
  • Quieter and easier to set up than electric chainsaw sharpeners
  • Portable kit allows sharpening of chainsaw no matter where you are

  • File sizes aren't marked so it can take practise to learn which file is which
  • Removing the file from the handle can be difficult as it's quite stiff

There are some instances where manually sharpening a chain will still be the best option. The MIZOOVA 10 Piece Chainsaw Sharpener File Kit includes all of the essentials for sharpening a chainsaw blade.

Whether you’re trying to get into the rakers, or don’t like the idea of using an electric chainsaw sharpener, this manual chainsaw sharpener kit provides a comprehensive, high-quality alternative. It’s also compact enough to carry around with you, which could come in handy.

When used regularly, the files will only take a couple of strokes to produce a sharp edge. They easily shave off steel, meaning minimum effort is required.

Three round files come included, as well as a flat file, hardwood handle, depth gauge and assorted other tools. All of these manual chainsaw sharpeners are held securely in a lightweight orange pouch which is easy to spot if you put it down. It keeps all 10 pieces safe and makes them easy to find when required.

The round files are three different sizes: 4 mm, 4.8 mm and 5.5 mm. However, they are unmarked, so it may initially take a bit of thought to work out which one to use. Once selected, the file needs to be inserted into the handle before use.

Only one handle comes provided, which can be a little inconvenient if swapping between files, but it does keep the size of the carry case down.

The portability of this set makes it the best chainsaw sharpener if you’re working on site, or away from a garage. However, it’s also just a good-quality manual sharpening kit in general, and useful to have on hand for jobs when an electric sharpener isn’t required.

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Harry's Smart Buying Tips

  1. If you use your chainsaw frequently, you’ll most likely want an electric chainsaw sharpener. As the name suggests, these require minimal manual effort. They’re also a quick way to sharpen chainsaw chains.
  2. Most electric sharpeners are compatible with all chain sizes because they can be adjusted. However, it’s still worth checking the chain’s specifications to make sure the sharpener is compatible with the chain pitch.
  3. If you want an electric sharpener, you should make sure that it has the option of being mounted to a workbench. Naturally, this provides stability whilst sharpening. Also, it’s a good idea to make sure that there are replacement grinding wheels readily available. Although you won’t need them straight away, it’s frustrating not to be able to find any later down the line.
  4. If you’re not using your chainsaw often, or simply prefer the traditional approach, go for a manual chainsaw sharpener. An added benefit of having a manual chain sharpening kit is that they are portable chainsaw sharpeners: you can use manual files to sharpen the chain out in the field if required.
  5. If you choose a manual kit, look for a set containing a combination of tools. The best manual sharpener sets will include a round file, flat file, file guides, and a depth gauge. These allow you to sharpen a range of chains, giving you the best value for money.
  6. For example, the most common chain pitch is 3/8 inches (9.5 mm). For this, you need a round file with a 5.2 mm diameter. However, a 8 mm and 10 mm chain pitch is also common, in these cases you’ll need a 4.8 mm or 5.5 mm file, respectively. 

For quickly sharpening chains, I’ve chosen the Clarke ECSS2 Electric Chainsaw Sharpener as the best chainsaw sharpener. This machine is compatible with most chains and only takes around 10 minutes to finish the job.

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