Did my dealer give me the wrong file size for a reason?

[JamesJems]

My dealer is a local institution. It's a respected local business. I go in an buy my first new saw. He knows I don't know squat, and he sets me up and sends me on my way.

So I've got a 3/8th .050 chain. I purchased a couple of extras too. I've got both the semi-chisel and a full-chisel. Since I'm not an expert, I bought the green-linked safety chains.

I'm looking at the Stihl website that tells me what size file goes with what pitch chain. He included a 7/32 chain, which, I see, is the proper one for .404 chain, not 3/8. Would a local reputable dealer who clearly knew about my lack of experience sell me a little bit bigger file for a good reason?

Is filing with a little bit bigger file easier for a novice like me?

Just wondering.

James
Saw-Killer

 

[blis]

with bigger file there will be alot smaller change to file a hook in the chain, which is unfortunately quite common to new filers... Also, with bigger file the change to file it useless is smaller IMO...

 

[sugarbush]

the 7/32 is for full chisel, 3/16 for semi.

 

[troutfisher]

I have 3/8 .058 chain that files with a 7/32 file, i also use 3/8 .050 chain that files with a 5/32 file. maybe check the chart again.

 

[sugarbush]

I have 3/8 .058 chain that files with a 7/32 file, i also use 3/8 .050 chain that files with a 5/32 file. maybe check the chart again.

5/32 is for the small 3/8. such as oregon 91.

 

[troutfisher]

yes, oregon 91VG

 

[troutfisher]

I use the 91VG for carving, real safe stuff. kickbacks are far less violent than my full chisel stuff.

 

[Jacob J.]

Would a local reputable dealer who clearly knew about my lack of experience sell me a little bit bigger file for a good reason?

He obviously doesn't like you.

 

[Stihl #1]

Attached is the recommended file sizes for STIHL chain, if you use the file guide tool. The guide holds the file about 1/10th of it's diameter above the cutter, so you don't get "hook", and gives you a reference line to maintain the 30 degree angle for the cutter.
Hope that helps.

 

[sugarbush]

pick up a 3/16 file, you can use it on both chains but may want to experment with the 7/32 on the full chisel to see what works the best for you.

 

[JamesJems]

Many Thanks

pick up a 3/16 file, you can use it on both chains but may want to experment with the 7/32 on the full chisel to see what works the best for you.

Many thanks. I'll do just that.

james

 

[stihl 440]

file size

sugarbush, don't you mean 13/64"? 3/16 is for .325. I use 7/32 if the chain is new and once the tooth is so far back I have to use 13/64". This technique works the best for me. You just got to be able to tell when to use the 13/64".

 

[SawTroll]

the 7/32 is for full chisel, 3/16 for semi.

That is BS (sorry).

sugarbush, don't you mean 13/64"? 3/16 is for .325. I use 7/32 if the chain is new and once the tooth is so far back I have to use 13/64". This technique works the best for me. You just got to be able to tell when to use the 13/64".

7/32 and 13/64 is a toss-up for RS and RM in 3/8" - 13/64 works best for the very first filings, and the last part of the chains life, 7/32 works best inbetween imo.....

3/16 is bad, for those chains though - don't use it!


...and the German made Husky files are much better than the Stihl ones, at least here.

 

[ray benson]

I have used the 13/64 and the 7/32 on 3/8 chain.Like Saw Troll says- 1st filing is easier with the 13/64 then 7/32.