Your chainsaw is like any other gardening tool – if you don’t take care of it, it’s going to malfunction. If your chainsaw is playing up and won’t cut straight, chances are the blades are dull. It would help if you had a sharpening tool to restore the working edge on the blades.
With the right chainsaw sharpening tool, you can take care of this kind of maintenance yourself. There’s no need to send your chainsaw into the service center every time you want to sharpen the blades. There are various types of chainsaw sharpening tools, and in this review, we’ll look at some top models to add to your tool shed.
Our review of the best chainsaw sharpener tools makes recommendations on the best bench-mounted and grinder-mounting sharpening tools. We’ll also unpack the details around choosing the right tool to match your chainsaw and your sharpening requirements.
Our Top Picks
We scoured dozens of listings looking for the best chainsaw sharpener. Out of all the models, we selected ten for this review. In this section, we look at our top three choices. There’s a sharpening tool to suit any size chainsaw or any budget.
Pick the sharpening tool to suit your needs, and get to work building your firewood stockpile and clearing your garden for the winter.
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- The Best Pick: Oregon Tools MCSSP Mountable Chain Saw Sharpener
This model from Oregon tools wins our award for the best overall chainsaw sharpener. The bench-mount design in this sharpening tool makes it the ideal choice for sharpening any size chainsaw. You get an adjustable sharpening pitch, with a bench-mounted design for durability and stability when sharpening your chainsaw. - The Runner-Up Pick: Oregon 520-120 120V Bench Mounted Saw Chain Grinder
This model from Oregon wins our award for the best premium chainsaw sharpening tool. This model features design and construction with a bench-mounted design for stability. Oregon includes three grinding wheels with this tool for a precision finish on your chainsaw. You get a powerful one-way motor with easy adjustments on the vice and cutting block. T - The Budget Pick: Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
This model wins our award for the best budget chainsaw sharpening tool in this review. You get a multi-functional design with wall, vice, or bench mounting. This tool has a universal fit for all the leading chainsaw brands, and you get a 4,200-rpm grinding speed, with compatibility for all chain designs.
Chainsaw Sharpener Reviews
Now that you have an idea of the top models in this review let’s look at our other choices for the best chainsaw sharpener.
We have models to suit any task, chainsaw, or budget. Choose the right chainsaw sharpener for your tool, and check out our buyer’s guide section for more information on selecting the best chainsaw sharpener.
Oregon Mountable Chain Saw Sharpener
If you’re looking for the best overall chainsaw sharpener, this tool is the best of the bunch. You get an adjusting grinder head, pivoting at a 30degree angle to suit any blade pitch. This tool is universally compatible with all leading chainsaw brands, including Husqvarna, Stihl, and Echo.
- Bench or wall mounted professional grinder: Powerful performance with hydraulic clamping assistance unique to the 620-120. Perfect for pro users. Ideal for frequent, high volume chain sharpening
- Save time & money: Sharpen your own chainsaw chains. Grinder easily mounts to a bench or wall with two included bolts - ideal for a workshop or garage
- Universal sharpener: Sharpens up to .404” pitch chain. Sharpen almost any saw chain from manufacturers such as Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, and others
- Accurate Sharpening: Multiple adjustment points for sharpening accuracy and built in light for better visibility.
- Includes: Grinder, a dressing brick and profile guide, operator instructions plus two grinding wheels (3.2mm & 4.7mm) and a 6.0mm flat profile disc for depth gauge maintenance
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You get a powerful grinding head, with an LED work light included for accurate sharpening in low-light conditions. This model features spare grinding discs included with your sharpening tool, along with a multi-tool and other accessories included with your purchase.
This chainsaw sharpener offers you excellent control over the process, thanks to the ergonomic handle. Sharpen your chainsaw safely thanks to the clear protection sheath preventing spark in your eyes. Set this model up on your bench, vise, or wall.
- Mountable design suitable for wall or the bench
- Beveling head with spare grinding discs included
- Durable steel design
- Universal compatibility for all chainsaw models
- User-friendly setup
- Ergonomic handle for excellent control
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Oregon 520-120 120V Bench Mounted Saw Chain Grinder
This Oregon model wins our award for the best premium chainsaw sharpener in this review. You get universal compatibility, sharpening chains with up to a .404″ pitch. This model is ideal for landscapers and heavy-duty users that need a reliable and accurate sharpening tool.
- Professional grinder: Perfect for professional users. Ideal for frequent, high volume chain sharpening. Can be bench or wall mounted.
- Save time & money: Sharpen your own chainsaw chains. Grinder easily mounts to a bench or wall with two included bolts - ideal for a workshop or garage
- Universal sharpener: Sharpens up to .404” pitch chain. Sharpen almost any chain from manufacturers such as Oregon, Stihl, Husqvarna, and more
- Accurate Sharpening: Multiple adjustment points for sharpening accuracy and built in light for better visibility.
- Includes: Professional grinder, dressing brick and profile guide, operator instructions, plus two grinding wheels (3.2mm & 4.7mm) and a 6.0mm flat profile disc for depth gauge maintenance
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This model is suitable for professional use, featuring a durable steel body and an adjustable grinding head that bevels 35-degrees. You get accurate, precision sharpening of any chainsaw brand and a bench-mounted design for extra stability when working.
This sharpening tool comes with two grinding wheels, a depth-gauge wheel, a quick template, dressing brick, and owner’s manual included in your purchase. This model features an onboard LED light for working in low-light conditions and a one-way rotating design for enhanced operator safety when sharpening chains.
- Durable steel frame
- Adjustable cutting angle to suit any size chainsaw
- Universally compatible design
- Three grinding wheels included
- Dressing brick and manual included
- A one-way operation for enhanced safety
- Self-centering chain vice
- Custom handle positioning
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Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
Homeowners looking for the best budget model in this review will get value out of the Buffalo Tools ECSS model. This electric chainsaw sharpener works on your standard 110-volt circuit, with its powerful motor giving you operating speeds up the 4,200-rpm.
- 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
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Buffalo Tools ECSS mounts to the wall or your bench for stable, sturdy use when sharpening your tools. This model comes with an ergonomic handle to reduce operator fatigue and vibration in use. There are no extra grinding discs included with this model, but it has an affordable price tag that most homeowners will find exciting.
This electric chainsaw sharpening tool comes with an adjustable grinding head tilting to 30-degrees. You get a universal fit to most chains from leading brands and a fast, efficient, and effective sharpening of your chain.
- Compact and lightweight design
- Affordable and effective
- Universally compatible with many chainsaw brands
- Anti-vibration handle design
- 4,200-rpm mas cutting speed
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Timber Tuff CS-BWM Electric Chainsaw Chain Sharpener
This model is a great choice for the professional sharpening of your chainsaw. You get a setup that’s suitable for landscapers and heavy-users. This model features a steel frame for bench or wall mounting and sturdy operation.
- Powerful sharpening motor keeps your chains working like new and delivers even cuts
- Sharpens chains from 1/4 to 3/4-inch with easy and accurate sharpening`
- Mounts to most work surfaces to provide a secure sharpening station
- Easy-to-read adjustment guides make it easier to consistently sharpen your chains
- Includes 3 grinding wheels: 1/8, 3/16, and 1/4-inch
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The onboard LED work light makes it easy to sharpen your chains in low-light conditions, and you get an easy-to-read adjustment guide for sharpening any leading brand. This model includes a beveling grinding head, suitable for use on any pitch, with a powerful 5,800-rpm sharpening action.
The Timber Tuff CS-BWM electric chainsaw sharpener is a top choice, with 1/8″, 3/16″, and ¼” grinding discs included with your purchase. You get safety features like overload protection and compatibility with ¼” to ¾” chains. This model includes a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
- Durable steel chassis
- Clear safety wheel cover
- Adjustable vice for universal compatibility
- 15-watt LED work light
- Sharpens ¼” to ¾” chains
- 5,800-rpm max speed
- Ergonomic handle to reduce operator fatigue
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YWTR Mini Bench Mount Electric Chainsaw Grinder Sharpener
Homeowners looking for a compact and easy-to-use model will love the YWTR mini electric chainsaw grinder. This model features a compact housing design that’s lightweight and easy to move around the workshop.
- Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Grinder for Sharpening OREGON HUSQVARNA STIHL ECHO Chain Saw.boasts a powerful 85WATT motor and is bench mounted giving you a stable base to work from. With a pivoting head and vice angles adjustable through 35º to the left and the right, complete with a brake to hold the chain in place whilst
- Bench mounted pro chain grinder 85W motor With brake to hold chain in place Pivoting and adjustable Allows quick, efficient chain sharpening 110V / 60HZ MAX SPEED 4200 RPM 7/8" ARBOR INCLUDES 4-1/4" X 1/8" GRINDING WHEEL
- Grinding/sharpening. Suitable for the professional user needing to quickly keep numerous chains from various saws in peek condition regularly when using the chainsaws on a daily basis - but also cost effective enough to be attractive to the domestic user who wants to make sure their chain is always in good cutting condition.
- Large Side Safety Guard And Chain Rotation Rollers To Advance Links; This Chain Saw Sharpener Is Quick,Safe and Powerful.
- Improve The Life Span And Cutting Power of Your Chain Saw With This Simple But Effective Chainsaw Sharpener
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The molded handle absorbs vibration during operation, and the ergonomic design reduces operator fatigue. This model’s most interesting feature is the automatic brake lever for precision control over the two operating speeds. You get compatibility with all the leading brands, including Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo.
This chainsaw sharpening tool offers fast and efficient sharpening of any chain pitch, with universal compatibility. While homeowners will get value out of this machine, it’s not a suitable choice for heavy-duty users.
- Compatible with Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo chainsaw brands
- Brake design for total control when sharpening
- Bench-mount design
- Adjustable grinding head
- Ergonomic handle reduces vibration
- Suitable for heavy-duty use
- Variable speed control
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View on AmazonHTTMT Electric Chainsaw Sharpener
Here’s another great choice for your chainsaw sharpening tool. This model comes with a multi-functional mounting design suitable for setup on the bench, wall, or the vise. This electric model features powerful operation, reaching sharpening speeds up to 4,200-rpm.
- Brand: HTTMT
- Uses 5-3/4" Grinding Wheels (2 Grinding Wheels Included):145*22*3.2mm Compatible With chains with pitch 0.325", 3/8" and 3/8" Low Profile; 145*22*4.8mm Compatible With Compatible With chains with pitch 0.404"
- Can be mounted on bench, wall or grinder stand
- Built-in light, providing optimum visibility while you work
- Has easy adjustment knobs to handle different pitches and chain gauges
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You get a precision sharpening effect from the beveling grinder head, with a chain vise adjusting to any angle for universal compatibility with any chainsaw brand. You get an adjustable height and scale positioning with this model, including chain rotation rollers to advance the links.
You get overload protection with this model, as well as a clear safety cover for the grinding disc. This model includes 4-1/4″ and 1/8″ grinding wheels for compatibility with any chainsaw pitch. This model has one of the most convenient setups in this review, reducing operator frustration.
- Chain rotation rollers to speed up setup times
- Precision adjustment for a professional finish
- Adjustable pitch, scale positioning, and height
- Adjustable chain vise for all chainsaw brands
- Multiple mounting options for bench, wall, and vise
- 4,200 RPM grinding disc speed
- Built-in Light
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View on AmazonOregon 30846 12-Volt Sure Sharp Chain Saw Sharpener
If you’re out in the woods cutting down lumber for a living, you need a reliable chainsaw with sharp teeth. If the teeth dull, you’re going to have a hassle with cutting anything. Keeping your blades sharp is paramount for any contractor, lumberjack, or landscaper.
- Sharpens any round-ground 1/4", 3/8" Low Profile, . 325", 3/8" or . 404" chain, which includes most chain types
- Simple sharpening angle adjustment guide for accuracy
- Includes both a 12-volt car adapter and battery clips for convenient use anywhere
- Replacement sharpening stones available
- Includes one each 5/32"(4. 0mm), 3/16" (4. 8mm) and 7/32" (5. 5mm) sharpening stones and a collet wrench
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This 12-volt chainsaw sharpening tool hooks up to any 12-volt battery, offering powerful sharpening action for any chainsaw. This tool is compatible with all leading chainsaw brands, and it’s suitable for sharpening any pitch.
You get a portable and lightweight chainsaw sharpening tool you can take to any job site. Never deal with a dull blade again, and keep this sharpener in your toolbox or the glove compartment of your truck for easy access.
You get two sharpening stones included in the kit, as well as a quick-adjustment guide for sharpening your chainsaw teeth to perfection.
- Suitable for sharpening on site
- A good choice for landscapers
- Portable and lightweight
- High-impact plastic housing
- Includes three sharpening stones
- 12-volt design hooks up to your car battery
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Husqvarna 653000035 SharpForce Chain Sharpener
This Husqvarna model offers dual-action, providing use as a depth gauge and cutting tool. This model is a top choice if you’re a professional looking for a custom finish on your chainsaw. You get a powerful sharpening action that suitable for any size chainsaw from any brand.
- Sold on Amazon
- · Genuine OEM Husqvarna Part
- · Files both cutter and depth gauge at one time, maintaining optimum cutting performance of the saw chain
- · Sharp Force Chainsaw File Guide
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This chainsaw file features excellent quality, with a durable design and service life. The lightweight, portable design of this sharpening tool makes it suitable to carry around to the job site. This tool requires a professional operator, and it’s not the best choice for newbies learning to sharpen their chain.
However, professional users will find the tool provides smooth user operation with excellent results. This file provides your chainsaw with an accurate, precision finish that’s razor-sharp.
- Exceptionally portable and lightweight design
- Budget-friendly sharpening tool
- Precise chainsaw sharpening
- Durable design for long service life
- Fast, effective saw sharpening
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Stihl 2-in-1 Easy-File Chainsaw Sharpener
This 2-in-1 chainsaw sharpening tool comes with functionality for measuring depth and sharpening. This professional model comes with compatibility for 1/4″ P, 3/8″ P, .325″, 3/8″, and .404″ chains, with two round files, a flat-file, file holders, and a filing guide.
- Package dimensions:2.9 cms(L) x8.2 cms(W) x39.9 cms(H)
- Package quantity: 1
- Product Type: TOOLS
- Country Of origin: United States
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You get everything you need for fast, efficient, and effective sharpening of your saw chain. This model is a great choice for lumberjacks and landscapers requiring the best equipment. You get a premium design producing exceptional sharpening results.
This Stihl chainsaw sharpening tool is compatible with all leading brands and chainsaw sizes. However, it would help if you had professional assistance when learning how to use this tool. Incorrect sharpening techniques may damage your saw chain, resulting in a costly replacement.
- Premium manufacturer
- Portable and lightweight design
- Dual-function design
- Good choice for heavy-duty use
- Compatible with 1/4″ P, 3/8″ P, .325″, 3/8″, and .404″ saw chains
- Includes two round-files, one flat-file, and file holder
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Chainsaw Sharpener Buyer’s Guide
After reading through the best chainsaw sharpener reviews, you probably have your eye on a few models for your saw. However, it’s challenging to settle on a final model, especially if you don’t know what to look for in the tool.
This section will look at the technical aspects of chainsaw sharpeners and unpack the specifics around the models in this review. Whether you need a chainsaw sharpener for your workshop or the job site, there’s a model to suit your needs.
What are the Types of Chainsaw Sharpening Tools?
- Electric – These models typically mount to your workbench, the wall, or a vise. They offer a stable base for sharpening your saw, with an electric cutting head featuring a grinding wheel. The griding wheel offers you an angular setup for honing any pitch of saw chain. The chain vise lets you customize your setup for the perfect sharpening angle.
- Manual Filing – A manual saw chain file locks against the sides of your chainsaw, letting you file the teeth sharp manually. Manually filing your teeth requires instruction on how to use the tool properly. If you’re a beginner, you want to avoid using manual tools, if possible. Manually filing them requires expertise in the task. If you set the device up incorrectly, it results in damage to the saw teeth.
- Manual Sharpeners – This cutting tool clamps over the chain bar, allowing you to file the teeth. You turn a manual handle to sharpen the teeth. This model is like a manual version of the electric model and doesn’t require the same user experience as a file.
- Dremel Attachments – The Dremel tool is a popular piece of kit in workshops around the world. Some chainsaw sharpeners feature Dremel compatibility for easy setup and use when sharpening smaller chains.
- Bar-Mounted – This model clamps to the saw bar, featuring a series of adjustment knobs that provide accurate, specific filing of your saw chain. This model requires manual operation and is suitable for intermediate or advanced users.
What are the Mounting Options for Chainsaw Sharpeners?
When selecting your chainsaw sharpener, you have the option of choosing your setup. Here are the three most common setups for chainsaw sharpening tools.
- Wall-Mounted – The tool mounts to a wall bracket, allowing you to customize the working height.
- Bench-Mounted – The tool mounts to your workbench for a stable, firm base.
- Vise Mounted – The tool mounts into your vise, allowing a firm grip over the machine while in use.
What Do I Need from a Chainsaw Sharpening Tool?
When selecting your chainsaw sharpening tool, look for the following features relating to your chainsaw and your sharpening needs.
Pitch
The pitch is the term for the distance between the chain links. Manufacturers measure this distance in inches, with an arrangement from smallest to largest. Saw chains feature design and construction with up to five pitches – ¼”, .325″, full-profile or low-profile 3/8″, and heavy-duty .404″.
If you have no idea what type of chainsaw you have, you probably own one of the more popular sizes, such as the 3/8″ low profile. Most universal sharpening tools work with this pitch. If you want to check on your chainsaw pitch, look for a marking on the frame. The manufacturer should leave it somewhere on the machine for easy reference.
Manual or Hydraulic Assist
Some of the latest models feature a hydraulic assist for the sharpening process. This feature locks the chain into place every time you lower the grinding head.
Automated Features – Some chainsaw sharpening tools feature automated operation. You feed the chain into the machine, key in your settings, and let the tool do the rest. The result is a fast and accurate sharpening process that’s suitable for a wide range of chainsaws.
Digital Readouts
If you want the best professional finish, look for models offering digital readouts. These machines allow the operator to key in the correct pitch for the cutting links. You also have the option of choosing your cutting angle to match your saw. Digital readouts offer accurate and precise sharpening of your chainsaw.
Built-In Lights
Some models come with built-in LED lights. This feature helps you with your grinding and sharpening tasks in low-light conditions. The bright LED light reduces accidents in the workshop, improving safety around the machine’s use.
Grinding Wheel
The grinding wheel is the meat of the machine responsible for sharpening the saw teeth. You get stones available in different sizes and grits to suit all chainsaw models. They’re relativity inexpensive and last for years. Make sure the grinding wheel corresponds to the correct pitch before you start sharpening.
Grinding-Wheel Gauges
The grinding wheel gauge is a tiny metal or plastic bar that features notches to check the grinding wheel width. This tool lets you check if you’re using the right grinding head for your saw chain. Cutting with the wrong grinding wheel size results in an incorrect finish and the premature failure or dulling of the saw teeth and chain.
Dressing Stones
The dressing stone is a critical part of the machine. It prevents debris from building on the grinding wheel during operation. If debris gets into the machine and onto the chainsaw teeth, it results in an improper finish resulting in malfunctions during use.
Adjustable Chain Vise
In electric models, you’ll run the chain through a vise to stabilize it during the cutting process. Make sure this vise offers a wide range-of-motion.
Handles and Grips
If you’re purchasing an electric model, make sure you look at the handle and grip. You want a machine offering total control over the grinding head during operation. The handle should feature an ergonomic design that reduces vibration from the device.
Material Design
Most benchtop chainsaw sharpening tools feature steel or cast bodies that give the device extra weight. The additional weight provides added stability to the sharpening process when using the tool.
How Do I Maintain My Chainsaw?
When the winter comes around, and you finish with sawing for the winter, it’s time for some basic saw maintenance.
Make sure you oil the chain and check the tensioner. Store the saw and cover the blades to prevent dulling. We recommend sharpening the saw before you store it to avoid the hassle next spring.
If you maintain your chainsaw properly, the chain should last for years, and you’ll never have any issues with the machine.
However, if you don’t have the time to maintain the chainsaw or don’t know what you’re doing, take it to a service center. A service center might cost you a few dollars. But you’ll ensure you get your machine back in proper working order.
If you find yourself using your chainsaw more often these days, a manual filing sharpening tool could be the better choice. Study a few YouTube videos to learn the correct technique, and you’ll have the skills you need to sharpen your chainsaw at any job site.
Chainsaw Sharpener FAQs
How do I know if my chainsaw needs replacing?
Some of the typical problems associated with a dull chain include the following.
- Difficulty in positioning the saw
- The chainsaw stops pulling into the wood
- The saw motor starts smoking, even with the right tension on the chain
- You produce a crooked cut
- The saw chain has damaged or missing teeth
How long does the chain on my chainsaw last?
Most chainsaw chains last around 5-years. However, you’ll need to ensure you keep the blades sharp and well-maintained to receive the best service life from the chain. With the right maintenance and care, your chainsaw chain could last for a decade or longer.
Why Is my chainsaw dulling so fast?
If your chainsaw is dulling quickly after sharpening, it’s because you’re using the wrong cutting angle. The rakers might be too far down in a position that wears out the teeth fast. Cutting dirty wood or touching the saw’s tip to the ground in use will also dull the blade. A chainsaw sharpening tool is a handy accessory to keep around, especially if you’re far away from your workshop.
Where can I buy the best chainsaw sharpener?
If you’re looking to buy the tool online, we recommend visiting Amazon for your purchase. With the best prices and a comprehensive range, Amazon offers fast, free shipping for all Prime members. You get buyer protection on your order, as well as hassle-free returns.
Chainsaw Sharpener – The Verdict
By now, you should have an idea of the best chainsaw sharpener to suit your chainsaw model and your sharpening requirements. Whether you want a benchtop model for your workshop or a portable unit you can keep in your truck – there’s a model in this review to suit your needs.
If you’re having trouble settling on the right chainsaw sharpening tool, why not go with one of our top picks?
- The Buffalo Tools MCSSP Mountable Chain Saw Sharpener is our choice for the best overall chainsaw sharpener. This model includes a beveling grinding head, allowing for a customized setup of the tool to suit any chainsaw. This model is universally compatible with leading brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo. You get a reliable, high-powered machine, with three grinding wheels included with your purchase.
- Homeowners and professionals looking for the best equipment with get the best value out of the Oregon 520-120 120V Bench Mounted Saw Chain Grinder. This chainsaw sharpening tool features compatibility with all the leading brands. You get a custom setup that caters to any pitch and any saw. This model features a beveling grinding head and precision sharpening of your saw chain.
- The Buffalo Tools ECSS Electric Chainsaw Sharpener is a great choice for a compact and portable chainsaw sharpener. This model features a lightweight design that clamps to your workbench. The beveled grinding head and adjustable chainlike make it suitable for sharpening a wide range of saws. The affordable price tag makes it the best value buy in this review.