Which Chainsaw Sharpener is Best? Let's find out! Stihl, Granberg, Chicago Electric, Oregon
Which Chainsaw Sharpener is Best? Let’s find out! Can any of the sharpeners make a used chain sharper than a new chain? We'll find out! Brands tested: Stihl 2-in-1, Stihl 12V, Granberg Bar Mount with file, Granberg 12V bar mount, Oregon Sure Sharp 12V, Oregon 120V Bench, Chicago Electric 120V Bench, Oregon Field Sharpening Kit. I purchased 10 identical chains and then dulled the chains. After sharpening the chains, tested them using a Makita Lithium Chainsaw in a sharpness and cutting speed test. Hope you enjoy the video!
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➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
Stihl 2-in-1: amzn.to/3pYRdyb
Granberg Bar Mount Manual: amzn.to/3dx6Avt
Granberg 12v Bar Mount: amzn.to/2ZxnB0l
Oregon Sure Sharp 12v: amzn.to/3sdaBJA
Oregon 120V Bench: amzn.to/3udObd3
Chicago Electric 120V Bench: amzn.to/3dATmxA
Oregon Field Sharpening Kit: amzn.to/3qEvq09
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/2SvwQdS
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC
This guy is our only reliable source of knowledge about tools and he needs to be protected at all cost.
Thanks!
Commercials lie, he tells the truth.
AvE is cool too
@@ProjectFarm i enjoy alot of your oil testing videos and i always use penzoil i had switched to full platinum synthetic i use to use regular 5w 20 and i was wondering if you could test the difference in the regular penzoil high mileage platinum and the platinum full synthetic and i think there is also just the regular high mileage thankyou for your videos on testing out different products and was wondering if you could test the different grades of penzoil.
Absolutely
I've never said it before, so I wanted to leave this here: Thank you very much for having little to no dead time on your videos. You always time your commentary on the comparison you're making just right so you're done before the test finishes. This makes it so that when you're done talking, you're ready to show the next in line, and gives your videos a very dynamic feel.
Thanks!
I agree with you 110%!
Yes, super professional production values.
agree completely
Agreed. Videos are long but don't lose your attention.
This guy is the best for comparison tests on you tube that I have seen. No nonsense, no time wasting and no annoying music. We should all send him a few dollars / pounds.
Since you speak for us all go ahead and Chip a a dollar for each of us
he runs and burns (hardens of ?) the metal as fast as he talks. Easy on the grinding! RUMMMP! "blk & blue" metal
It's been incredible to watch you grow over the years! I remember when most everything you tested was either "should you get this cheap thing or the super cheap knockoff?." Not to say that you have gone above the average homeowners budget, it's just that your growth and success has allowed you to test some higher end tools and it's verry appreciated.. A $7 screwdriver is one thing, but when you're testing multiple different products that are $50 to $100 a piece, that's where you're saving us some serious money brother! I agree with everyone else! Protect this man at all costs! For he is the only "Quality Control" person lookin' out for the little guys!! 🤙
Thanks!
Let's all stop for a minute to admire the amount of time and thought it must take for you to not only think of the ideas but to make the tests the video then editing. Thank you!!!
You are welcome!
Hell, I'm just admiring the time it takes to sharpen one chain by hand, let along almost a dozen of them several times. I know he shows it only takes 5 minutes or so in the video, but I remember watching my dad spend hours doing that and his end result was that he felt like it didn't help much. I have a feeling he was just buying cheap chains and/or he had a crappy sharpener. Now whenever mine get dull, I just replace them. This video is making me consider getting a good sharpener. It would definitely pay for itself within a year (my use is light). I wonder how well these would work on other materials. I found a chain I really like and it says the blades are made out of titanium. The chips that come off that chain are huge.
@@teddgram i agree on just replacing them. when I know I am going to do some major cutting i just buy a couple/three new chains and have at it. I guess if you're cutting everyday or week it makes more sense to sharpen them. I do use the stihl sharpener when I am in the field cutting though and it does a very good job.
Nah dremel faster
Ha! Gotta love the internet. The guy does a good and interesting video on different chain sharpeners and a whole group of viewers spend who knows how much time arguing over why you should or shouldn't use lye and what it does to steel etc. Maybe Project Farm needs to test that.
I'm a line clearance tree trimmer and the Stihl 2n1 is my go to.
Thanks for sharing.
The 2 in 1 is my go to as well. 5-10 min tops and good to go!! If I’m in the woods I use a bar clamp to hold the saw steady
It's definitely the best value and also the most portable. Very fast to get the chain sharp as well. That's all I use to sharpen my chains
Awesome. I'm old school. I've got an old John Deere with a 38" bar, 67cc. Very heavy, powerful, and a great workout. Not so much fun for trimming.
Hey same I work for abc.
I have used the sthil 2 n1 for nearly 2 years now , compact, convenient, fast and easy to use. It also fits in the glove box of my utv without trying to keep track of accessories or other loose parts other sharpeners need.
Thanks for sharing.
dito. blue 2in form Pferd
I own 4 of those from Stihl. They run about $40 here in Alabama and I own so many because they seemed to disappear when I would cut some storm trees so I would pick another up. It is the only time I haven't been upset about buying needless multiples. Now I have them everywhere I need them... BTW, I haven't checked lately but the Pferd ones or knock offs I'm not sure are almost half on eBay. I believe Pferd makes these for Stihl. If price has got you unsure I wouldn't think twice about buying one on eBay. They really are that good...
Twenty years ago I purchased the big Oregon bench sharpener , think I paid $300 , and some spare stones . I have sharpened hundreds of chains and it’s still in perfect condition! There is definitely a learning curve , easy to remove too much material, and burn cutter ! You must adjust slowly and go easy !
Thanks for sharing.
The most famous quotes of all time: "one small step for man", "let's get ready to rumble" and "We're going to test that" :P
Thanks!
more like "Let's find out"! I love seeing that in the clip.
@@MiloPerrotti Me too! Another good one
Wow. I've tried several chainsaw sharpeners, and hated every last one of them. So, I go to the hardware store, get the proper bits for the mototool, and go to town. I have a rare knack to repeat actions over and over, so holding the proper angle used to require a protractor or angle guid, but now, it's all in the muscle memory. But, I will say that the mototool is a whole lot faster than by hand!
Dont forget the most famous: "I make a new one" - mymechanics
"Hey man, you wanna come over for a beer?" "Sorry, I'm busy sharpening 9 different chain saw blades"
Thanks for watching.
CHAIN AND BAR! There is no blade
"Sorry, I'm busy watching a guy sharpen 9 different chainsaw blades"
"Sorry, I'm busy dulling 9 chainsaw chains"
@@bassboat1 Ahaha That is good one! :D
Doing chainsaw work for 40 years almost every day, I never used anything but a file. I also never let anyone else run my saws. High-end Husky's and Stihl's. I also wrapped my files in soft cloth and kept them clean, I'd get years out of the file. We had a Stihl grinder, which some people preferred because of their inability to file it correctly. I was always constantly making new chains up for them, since they'd go through chain so fast. I did use the Stihl file tool, and found it excellent if you were careful.
Thanks for sharing.
Files? or grinding stones? I keep my files piled together in a drawer, same files my dad had. Probably some 60-70 year old files. I bet all that piling up damaged them. 😆
@@m4rvinmartian I actually used mine every day. And the files I sourced weren't that old, so maybe the old ones stayed sharp longer, but I doubt it.
hand filing is the way to go, i learned the hard way letting someone use my saw.
The Stihl 2 in 1 lives in my belt pouch and gets used in the field - clear winner in my opinion…
Thanks for the feedback.
I bought one of these a year ago and haven't looked back since. The best for ease of use, compactness and price. Top quality as well. I agree. The winner in my opinion as well. So easy to use you could sharpen your chain in the porta john after morning coffee. Double threat this thing is..
It's what I use.
I just bought this thing and I'm blown away at how good it performs and ease of use. I'm sold on the 2 in 1.
@@williamwalter4882 Yep simple, foolproof, and effective. Kinda perfect.
PF: "I will now sharpen 9 chainsaw blades." Foresters everywhere: "The Absolute MadLad!"
Lol, Thank you!
it's ya boi!.....Project Raid: Farm Legends
I assume they'rere probably thinking "Chainsaw blades?"
@@intox69 Huh?
@@intox69 Not sure what's up with the "blade" referral when it comes to chainsaws, either. They have a "bar" and a "chain".
Can you do one on digital torque wrenches? I seen the other day harbor freight has one and I would like to see how it held up to a snap on. Like if you agree 👍🤙🤙
Great suggestion!
@@ProjectFarm I was wandering the same thing. I need to buy a torque wrench and was wandering if the one at Harbor freight was worth buying. PS, Your channel is the best on KZhead!
My manual Craftsman and Wright Tool torque wrenches are growing tired. Costs a lot to calibrate them. Seen digital ones at dealerships and there seems to be a big range in the green light and beep.
I seconds this, I use the cornwell CTG5000ANG, because at the time I bought it 3 years ago it was half the price of the snap-on equivalent and I like the weekly warranty service. From what I understand the cornwell is identical to the Eastwood digital wrench. The head was very cheap feeling and coarse-tooth, but I swapped a snap-on 1/2 ratchet head into it with a tiny bit of filing the opening. Would love to see how accurate it is compared to others, both in Torque and angle measurements. Your channel is excellent, please keep up the great work!
I agree, this would be a good one. And please include the digital adapter style like the AC Delco one that you use in the videos, and the Quinn digital adapter style from HF.
I love this video. Nothing but pertinent info. No dead air or wasted words. I also loved the scientific integrity, the weighted bar to insure consistency and the 2nd take of the whole process. Good job!
Thanks so much!
In a world where you can trust so few, you make up the few. Amazing work. Thanks for all you do.
"One of my least favorite things to do is chain sharpening" A Fricking Men...The only thing I hate more than sharpening chains is cutting with a dull one.
Thanks for the feedback.
Gives us something to do when it’s raining/too wet out.
This channel is what youtube is supposed to be about. Amazing knowledge for the world. In short, thanks for posting.
You are welcome!
Personally I use the Stihl 2 in 1 and it's a great compromise between simplicity, price, and performance. Great video! Thank you for all your hard work on this channel. After watching; I no longer feel the urge to buy/try a new sharpener. I now believe that the 2 in 1 is the best option for the particular work that I do. Cheers 🍻
Thanks for the feedback.
I agree I cut professionally and the 2 and 1 does the job for us
I have a 2 in 1 by Pferd. Also from Germany. Excellent results. Don’t mind sharpening the saw any more.
I agree. That tools is a perfect combination of simplicity and accuracy. As long as you have working hand muscles, you don't need motors for this stuff. And since it also cuts the depth gauges at the same time, it's usually the fastest tool for the job.
I love my 2 in 1. Been sharpening saws for many years and have found nothing that comes close to this tool.
Thank you for your attention to detail and explanation of the process. This serves to make the video credible. Keep up the good work.
Thanks, will do!
The Stihl 2 in 1 on time, cost, set-up and results is by far a clear winner.
Great point!
@@ProjectFarm The stihl two in one would've done an even better job had you purchase the right size file in the tool for your chain. It's a precision made piece of equipment. Not recommended to swap out file diameter sizes. It messes up the tolerances. Best sharpener I ever owned. 🤗👍
I agree, I love mine!!!
Agreed. I have two Stihl 2 in 1s-one for each size chain I own. They are affordable, reasonably fast, and do a very good job of keeping my saws sharp while cutting juniper firewood. Plus, no need for electricity of any kind, they are very quiet, simple to use and the files last much longer than sharpening stones. I bought one of those Chicago sharpeners. Never made it past reading the set up instructions! Thanks to ProjectFarm for validating my purchase decision! What a great reviewer!!!
@@benjamincrooker2533 up mom c mmm k time Zyb CB M u f l youll k
"We're gonna test that"...Companies begin sweating. :) love every one of your videos,you help the consumer more than anyone .
Thank you!
I always need to look through your old videos to understand how a specific product and technique works. Thanks again.
Even when there are scientific or methodical errors in your videos your collection is the best resource for learning about tools. Thank you !
Never owned a chainsaw Never envisage needing one Certainly won't need a chainsaw chain sharpener So why am I watching this video? Because Project Farm 😁 Feel free to use that as a slogan everyone 👍👍👍
Thank you!!
Thank God for project Farm! Yes, because project Farm!
I was going to say the same thing. I'll never use some of the products that Todd tests but having the knowledge about them is important to me.
Man bidness.
*_Stihl 2 in 1 is the best! I use it all the time, on the field even 2-3 times per day. Simple brainless sharpening ;) I hate electric sharpener if you don't have electricity nearby and they also take away a LOOT of material making chain useless after a week of working !!_*
This is the absolute most unbiased channel about tools I have ever seen, I love it
Thanks!
@@ProjectFarm I only stumbled upon your channel 2 days ago I'm curious why the Kobalt chainsaw was not featured in chainsaw videos?
Great job! Thank you! I enjoy your channel!
@@Blacklistwar Because it's not a chainsaw comparison, it's a chainsaw sharpener comparison......
i think that there is a very important variable here: the angle that you use the chainsaw to cut -- is not the same all the time. A steeper angle means greater cutting area - this can influence the time a lot. thank you for your test. it is always nice to watch your videos
Thank you very much for the time & effort you put in to this video. not sure if anyone else has ever gone to this extent to explain chainsaw sharpening…great job!!
Thanks and you are welcome!
My only goal in life is to be called "Very impressive" by Project Farm
"we have twenty commenters here and we're going to see who comments the best"
thakita vs stihl
You do NOT want to know how he's going to test you to get that rating.
@@DiscoFang this is the most underrated comment on KZhead.
With a chuckle to boot 😂
I find myself sitting here rooting for my tools, and today I was not disappointed. I love my Stihl 2-in-1!!!
Same, and fits in your back pocket!
Thanks for the feedback.
Agreed no hassle does a great job use it in the woods. Can change out the files when worn out. There is no better file in my opinion.
Grat job...its nice to see a real product comparison ( some are so bias ) Thanks.....I'll be back! pc
Certainly is advantageous in being a 2-in-1 sharpener over my HF Grinder which, overall, scores highly on value-for-money & ease of use. Thanks for a neat comparison video.
The Stihl 2 in 1 is the one I would go for! Good results with no power supply needed! Also small and compact and you could carry it with you.
Great feedback. Thank you!
I keep mine right in the stihl chainsaw case
Excellent test. Really appreciate this video, including how fast it covers all the points.
I run a firewood and tree removal business and run 4 stihl chainsaws ranging from a 230 to a 441c magnum. I have tried all forms of sharpening tools over the years including the electrics and the granberg system which bolts on the bar. The small electrics wear out stones very fast and the big electrics are not site potable. The granberg bolt on the bar system is accurate but cumbersome and I threw mine away after a few sharpenings. By far the best system I have found is the stihl 2 in 1 for simplicity,ease of handling and portability. Just cannot beat it.
I agree
I go back and forth between the 2 in 1 and the oregon bench grinder skipping the rakers on the grinder. To me that makes a really consistent really sharp chain
Yup can’t beat the two and one portable just keep a good shark file and you’re good to go
Agreed
I agree also from 71 year old fellow. I also believe the stihl chains are the best. To me, these chains stay sharp longer and wear longer. It is like that have much better steel to begin with.
I love my Stihl 2 in 1. Not only is it fast, portable and requires no power, but it does a great job with both the teeth and the rakes. The testing times obviously don't include removing and replacing the chain with some units, a fact that eliminates those from consideration for me. Plus, there's something satisfying about hand sharpening a chain, that can't be quantified.
Thanks for sharing.
I use the Dremel saw sharpening kit, which comes with 3 stones and costs about $15 (of course you have to have a Dremel already). It seems to do good enough, it looks similar to the Oregon or the Stihl 12V units.
As always, great intel! I’ll be going with the Sthil 2 in 1 myself. Thanks for all your time and effort!
the Stihl 2-in-1 is great in the field! i find it very useful!
I agree. It gets mine peeling better than a new chain. I’ve never been happier!
Thanks for sharing.
Yup, the ease of use in the field makes it the best in my opinion.
@@ProjectFarm I think it's possible to flip the sharpener instead of switching the blade out of vice. At least thats been my experience. Thanks for sharing
I love how the second Granberg is just the previous two combined.
Thanks for the feedback.
Kudos!! You spent many many hours to give a very concise and very fair comparison of the different products!!
You are welcome!
I always appreciate the inventive ways you come up with, to produce tests that are equal across the board, for each product!!!
Thanks!
@@ProjectFarm thank you!! I use your reviews to guide me in what products to use all the time, you never steer me wrong.
I bought 2 of the Stihl 2 in 1 sharpeners last year and love them! You're getting the depth gauge work done without even thinking about it, and they're small, portable and don't need a power source.
Thanks for sharing.
Agreed.
when you don't even own a chainsaw, but click because you love Project Farm videos!!
Thanks for watching!
Absolutely!!!
Grab one at yard sale. Fuel lines likely bad. 10 bucks like new
@@jeromeduffy9270 I would but I dont have a need for one yet
@@Mr.Everything___ fun to have.
I am now rewatching videos from 2 years ago to see what I should buy again. Love this channel!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
I worked as the yardman for a logging company for several years. The best chain sharpener I found was a file. I tried one of these electric sharpeners and even had a person who worked on our chainsaws to sharpen chains using his sharpener. They all harden the chain to the point you cannot sharpen them with a file when you need to.
This is a really important point that many will miss
Curtis, are standard round files okay to use for this? It seems the cutting links on the chain are hardened and the file I used couldn't bite into them very well. I did succeed and the results were good, but are there better files available, such as diamond grit and carbide? How critical is file diameter?
@@beingsentient I always use a chain saw file. You have to use the right size file also. There are several different sizes of files. Which one depends on what kind of chain you use. Most saw manuals tell you which size to use for your chain type. Also the person who sold you the saw/chain should be able to point you to the right size.
If it hardens the chain isn't that a good thing? As in stays sharp longer while you are cutting?
@@harvestvillage695 makes it nearly impossible to field sharpen with a file though. Didn't seem to last as long as with a file either.
Had not seen your channel until now, excellent Job!! I really love how you get through the material in a clear and speedy way, so many videos out that are time burners, like testing a log splitter by starting in the barn and showing hooking it up to the tractor!!!!
I showed my dad this channel. We all love it. This channel has the best practicality measuring between brands that I've ever seen. Your advice and experiments have genuinely changed our lives. Thank you, and keep up the good work.
Wow, thank you, will do!
Good comparison of the chain sharpeners. In the woods, I've been using the Sthil 2-in-1 and stump vise with good results. I resharpen ever two to three gas refills depending on the wood being cut. Back at the workbench, I'll sometimes use a Dremel tool with their proprietary chain sharpening kit. Good results with the Dremel but since I keep the chains resharpened in the woods (and I usually end the day dressing up the chain) I rarely use the Dremel.
Thanks for sharing!
I'm always impressed by your attention to detail, and I LOVE the rapid delivery!!
Thanks!
Ohhh man! I’ll say it again, “ Most useful channel on KZhead” 😄
Appreciate that!
Project Farm spares no expense of his time or money to make these videos. Another stellar video!
Thanks so much!
@@ProjectFarm while i have you - I saw that you did a video on oscillating tool blades. have you done one on the best oscillating tool? I've been thinking about getting one
Your fairly scientific videos are the best maybe the only reviews that I trust. Keep up the great reviews USN Retired
Thanks for your service! Thanks and you are welcome!
regarding reviews... you don't know the half of it. Some places have you sign a non-disparagement agreement before they send out review products (early release stuff). There's a certain industry that is having a trade show this month that is pretty bad for "soft reviews".
Thank you! For taking the time to do this and do it well. No nonsense, fact filled and professional! The only option I missed was a hand filed chain using only files and a depth gauge. That is what I use, or the bench grinder. All depending the chain and its state.
Thanks and you are welcome!
I personally love the Stihl 2 in 1, we always take it with us to the forest, takes me max 3 minutes to sharpen the chain.
Thanks for sharing.
Yep. You can't go back to the shop and run your power grinder if you're out working. Lowering the depth gauge at the same time is a big plus, too.
Hands down the best for the money.
You got it right Hannah. I do the same. Files rakers(depth gauges) at the same time. Great sharpener
I've tried many sharpening tools and failed miserably. I haven't used the Stihl. Is it easy to use by a layman?
I love to see that both you and, speaking for myself others weren't gonna be satisfied with the first round of results. Thank you for the dedication of going back over the products and taking the time to produce accurate tests! We appreciate your hard work and dedication!
Awesome! Thank you!
I second that! Thank you!
Best product comparison video I’ve seen! Very informative, unbiased, great video, close-ups and results chart! Kudos!!!
Thanks and you are welcome!
The trouble with using powered grinders to sharpen anything dry is *heat* . You can see in at least one of the closeups, the teeth are discolored blue after grinding. That oxidation color means you've overheated the steel; it's no longer tempered properly, and it will not stay sharp as long. That chain is more or less junk now... you'll find yourself sharpening it a LOT more often, and therefore you'll have to replace it much sooner.
Yeah, there is a reason why powered knife grinders run slow and in a water bath. Even the vintage foot cranked knife grinders ran a water bath. Temper is key for cutting tools!
oh god this wives tale again, saw chain is not hardened, that's why you can sharpen it with a hand file . the only thing you end up doing by "blueing a tooth" is make it harder to hand file sharpen because you have potentially added temper
First it had to quenched to be able to temper it. When you heat up the chain uncotrolably then coll it down in air, its not tempering.@@tyler7433
@@tyler7433 Yup, these chains are 20 bucks new. They are not high end exotic steel you would find in a chefs knife of high end edc knives.
Another great test! I’ve used the Stihl 2in1 for a while yet and it’s hard to beat, especially in the woods away from a work bench.
Great point!
Totally agree! I bought one for each of the three chain sizes I use. Great tool! You can buy them directly from Pferd who makes them for Stihl.
Great video as always. I appreciate the time, effort and detail you put into each of your videos.
Even when you review products I will most likely never use, I still love to watch your videos. As always thank you for the content and keep up the good work! Can't wait for the next Video!
You are so welcome, will do!
Thank you for your in-depth testing, I appreciate your attention to detail and the time you spend.
My pleasure!
The grandberg is amazing for milling. Mainly because you don’t have to take the saw off the mill or take the chain off the bar and disassemble everything. I can put my 7 foot mill/220 link chain razor sharp in 15 min
I used to hate to sharpen my chains until I bought this stihl 2 in 1 sharpener, it is a game changer for me...
My dad has it and loves it
I use a stump vice with my 2&1. It's fast, reliable and simple. Just keep sharp files in it and you cant go wrong.
Like most of our early learning from educated people who were not liking kids very much but the money comes in whether we learned what they put on the board. Just in case we had a question on subject matter.🤔
"It was so bad that I had to make sure the chain wasn't on backwards" LOL. I learned something new about cleaning up the chains using lye. You must have a massive inventory of power tools. Loved the video!
Doubt the lye helps any. Sure wouldn't use it on a motorcycle chain.
Thanks!
@@replynotificationsdisabled Well no shit you wouldn't use it on a motorcycle chain. Lye is used to remove the dead tree bits from the chain before sharpening. Unless your motorcycle eats dead trees, don't use lye on it lol
@@replynotificationsdisabled It only reacts with aluminium or zinc. I'd stick with gasoline or diesel too tho because I dont know the alloy
@@Sun-ut9gr but you'd use it on a chain with blades, literally in front of your face?
Great demonstrations no idle crapping on. Straight to the point. Thanks buddy 👍
Thanks and you are welcome!
These comparison videos are fantastic - very informative and well done. Thank you!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Now that I've seen the entire video, I'm really impressed that you have everyone a second chance "because I'm not very good at sharpening chains" I didn't think you could get fairer than a Project Farm test, but it seems that you can 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Thanks for watching.
I've been using the Stihl 2 in 1 for about 2 years now and I'm so glad you were able to confirm my biases! Thank you as always!
You are welcome!
My thoughts exactly. I've always loved using it and "felt" it to be sharper than factory. It's my #1 for in that it doesn't need voltage to run. Thank You!
I use one in the field and touch up my chains regularly rather than let them get dull before I sharpen. Great sharpener.
Great test! And I'm pleased to see that the Granberg faired well, since that's the style sharpener I've used for the past 45 years! ONE NOTE: Stihl makes (or made) a heavy duty, made in Germany look-alike of the Granberg hand sharpener. I picked mine up about 10 years ago and like it better than the Granberg just for its larger size and stout, cast aluminum frame
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Chainsaw newbie here - this is one of the most helpful and nerdiest videos I’ve seen in a while :)
You should do a “best hydraulic car jack”
Thank you for the video idea!
Yes I would like to see that.
Just bought the big daytona from HF. I hope I picked a good one lol
This!
That would be a great idea, I've bought a few that have really let me down for their durability
Appreciate learning that my Dremel tool with the proper stone is just fine; experience helps.
Thanks!
@TimothyPrice: exactly! I use my Dremel with a lawnmower blade guide every year, and it gives a nice, sharp cut.
Project Farm shows how the commercial products stack up against each other, but often I find none of the products are worth having😉
Are you sharpening the rakers as well, or just the cutters? I was a Dremel guy for years until I recently learned what I was doing. Dremel is great for cutters. Using it for rakers is dangerous unless you hand depth gauge each one. The Stihl 2 in 1 is definitely worth having. The 2/1=cutters and rakers. It automatically hits both while maintaining the proper ratio of cutter/raker. Way faster than depth gauging each raker. Worth having if you don't want to lose fingers.
Your warning seems a bit over the top. Been doing this for years and fingers are fine.
Like a boss! So grateful for your thoroughness and attention to detail. I’ve seen many of your videos now and they’re all well worth the watch.
Thanks so much!
Best reviews I've ever seen. Unbiased and short to the point. Have you ever done one on the best water fittings? Shark bites, crimp rings, solder or compression.
Thanks so much!
I found the stihl 2in1 to be pretty good. Here in australia we cut alot hardwood & have lots of termites so the wood often has dirt in it so chai wear is really bad so not only does the cutting edge go blunt quickly the height of the tooth wears also. The 2in1 not only sharpens but also reduces the height of the rakers. Alot of people have trouble sharpening chains because they dont realise the height of the rakers is important.
Thanks for the feedback.
As a professional woodcutter in Australia I agree completely. The Stihl 2 in 1 is easy to use and does need power. That means you can sharpen in the forest / bush every refuel which for me can be every hour or 30 min if really going hard on a Stihl 500i.
That does not need power.
@@49100CHPAmen.
Very impressive video! Getting right to the point and no wasted airtime. Love how you gave all the tools a 2nd chance by resharpening the chains.
Thank you very much!
Wow, what a lot of effort you put into your videos, much appreciated! Earned my sub!
Thanks! Thanks for watching and subscribing!
Thank you for all your hard work.
You are welcome!
Fun fact: I was listening to an album named Grinding Stone when the notification came up. Great test, the effort you put into every single video remains astonishing and I thoroughly enjoy your methodology! Thanks for this high quality content!
Thank you!
Used a Dremel with Sharpening stone for many many years, do it by eye. Always works fine. Maybe not optimal, but plenty sharp. Sharpening done ON the bar. easy to see what already done because layer of oil removed from blade done. (done most like the Stihl version)
Thanks for sharing.
Yep - same here - takes 2 mins for whole chain..
I file mine, but I was kinda thinking the same.
if you have bad eyes, you can just buy the dremel chain saw sharpening attachment.
I really thank you for your hard work , your tests really help in purchase decisions .just wish I had found you years ago .
Thanks so much!
Thanks for doing these straight to the point vids.. extremely helpful. You rock
You are welcome!
That self sharpening tool didn't have a chain come with it? That one requires a special chain
It did not come with a chain. Thank you
Yup but still junk 🤷🏼🤡
The real Oregon one needs a special chain, bar, and sharpener. The real one has a chain with cutting edges on top like chisels, which is why it works. The spoof versions play off the idea trying to get people to think it can sharpen any chain. It cant.
Yup special chain required for them.
@@ProjectFarm maybe a bonus video of using the self sharpener until chain failure or if it will eventually create a new cutting edge like the proprietary chain.
Never used chainsaw in my life yet watched whole vdo. Love from Asia.
Thanks for watching!
Pretty throughly well done test. A lot of work was put in for this test. Thank you.
Our pleasure!
Thanks for the comparison. I have the Granberg file I have used for years and an unopened HF Chicago Electric sharpener I want to try out. Your video came up when I was looking for its performance.
Great to hear!
I don't own chainsaw but for some weird reason I still find this video interesting :-) Just like all Project Farm videos I just like to watch them because they are really well done and interesting and I will always learn something new from them =)
Thank you very much!
I don’t use a chainsaw every day maybe once a week or sometimes maybe once a month but I like chainsaws and I got two of them
You should get a chainsaw. They’re fun tools 🤪 and now you know which sharpener to get 😉
@@johnw1178 And if there something in your way just cut it
"We're gonna test that" needs to be on on a shirt and a hat..........and possibly on my underwear.
Go to project-farm.com to view new merchandise "We're gonna test that".
Kinky.
@@ProjectFarm I clicked the link but sadly didn't find any underwear. I feel this needs attention.
Your reviews have saved me a ton of money. Thanks and keep them coming.
You are welcome! Glad to hear!
As some one that grew up in the UP of Michigan, I am fairly well versed on the cross saw or as we called them a 'misery wipe' It would be interesting to see how a modern cross saw holds up. Great videos. Thank you.
I love it when Project Farm recommends tools I already own. Thanks Todd, another awesome video.. I have an old (really old) Homelite. I have been using Granberg sharpeners for ever.. I'm going to get a Granberg 12v just cause the older I get, the less time I want to spend sharpening my saw every season.
Thanks so much! Thanks for sharing.
I never held a chainsaw in my life and honestly don't see myself in a situation where I will need a chain sharpener but I can't stop watching, that's how great and well made this man's videos are
Thanks so much!
I learned to sharpen chains with a file in the 60s and always considered it the best way. Your excellent video did nothing to change my mind.
Thanks for the feedback.
An electric grinder does put on a good edge, but I've found that the edge doesn't last as long as using a file. My theory is that the grinder doesn't take the temper out of the whole tooth but does take it out of the fine cutting edge, as the edge is so thin. It's the only thing I can think of that would cause this to happen. I'm a retired tree climber and have sharpened saws thousands of times in the field.
I've been cutting firewood for 20 years, and completely agree. Even if a grinder can get it just as sharp, it just doesn't last
I have noticed this but still use my HF grinder about every 3rd sharpen and then lightly. I still manually field sharpen when needed.
Seems like any electric sharpener is bound to shorten the chain life.
I find hand filing is plenty good enough, and definitely the way to go in the field. I touch up while taking a break gassing and oiling the saw. 'Machine grade accuracy' disappears fast while cutting. Touch it up and get back to work.
It is all in the mechanics of how youre holding the grinder. If your pass has a wobble or canter then you have a weaker rounded more dull edge. Every rig is going to have different results. How precise is your rig/jig? The alignment of your arm grinder body is very importantant not to have a cross action working against your angle of a perfect inline stroke..
Hi, first, I'm very thankful to you. There's a lot behind the scene to prepare and create, very inspiring. 2nd perfect incredible synchro while writing down my "to do list" and knowing I have to buy something to sharpen my chain saw and want to search and I opened my internet and what I see on you tube right now, this. Perfect timing. A great amazing demonstration. From Quebec/Canada.
Thanks so much!
Project Farm: "When it comes to using a chainsaw, one of my least favorite things to do, is chain sharpening!" Also Project Farm: *makes a video sharpening 9 chains all at once
Also Project Farm: "I hate getting punched in the face, so next video I'll be testing 12 different types of brass knuckles on my own face"
Thanks for watching.
@@MichaelMacGyver the fuck lol
Ah the sacrifice he's willing to make is most valued.
The Stihl 2 in 1 will make sharpening easy and no longer a chore. I have a Triton SuperJaws in my shop and I clamp a 5 inch C- Clamp in it and use that to clamp my bar and sharpen my chain on the saw with the 2 in 1. It's quick to clamp my saw and a good height to sharpen at. Takes about 5 mins to sharpen. In the field I just set the saw on the back of my truck, put the tip of the bar in my stomach (usually wearing a sweatshirt), sharpen all the top teeth, then rotate the chain. 3-4 times and I'm done. Probably 7 minutes that way.
Thanks for trying to evaluate these sharpeners in a scientific way while also showing the cost and set up complexity. Great job.
Thanks!
Wow. Thanks for taking the time to do this video, and I guess others. Really helpful. The Chicago Electric seems to be a good value for the weekend warrior.
You are welcome!
I've used a few types of chainsaw sharpeners over the years from the field sharpening kit to the oregeon bench sharpener before I finally settled on the Stihl 2 in 1 sharpener. I've used the 2 in 1 on all my chains that I've amassed over the years (quite a few) and they all are cutting almost better than they did new. I will also note that after watching this video I will definitely be adding cleaning my chains this winter to my list of winter projects every year from now on. Awesome video thanks for making it.
Thanks and you are welcome!
I use the the Stihl 2 in 1 sharpener and now my chainsaw goes thru logs like a hot knife thru butter..fantastic sharpener..
@@ProjectFarm , what so you do with the lye water?
yes.. the lye is a neat trick...didn't know
I watched many other videos on saw-chain sharpening tools. This one was excellent. Lots of subject matter covered rapidly. Right to the point! Concise descriptions. Good use of fast-frame. Excellent editing! 5 stars! Thank you. I'm subscribing.
Thank you!
I enjoyed this video. I went and bought the Stihl file that had the guides and flat file attached. It works great. Thanks for the review
Great to hear!
I think adding "filed by hand with a round file" would have been a good control group.
That would have put even more variables into the test. Understanding the sharpener and using it correctly is #1.
The “Oregon field sharpener” was basically a round file by hand. It had that angle jig clipped on to assist the angle, but that doesn’t really help as much as just allowing the chain tooth to guide the angle. I’m glad to see the old fashioned low tech way is about equal with all those power sharpeners and even a new chain. The slow and steady process probably gets more life out of the chain too; instead of hogging it down with abrasive disks or rods.