file size for a stihl 3/8 semi chisel chain?

[skipster]

I'm still learning to sharpen my MS362,and wondering what file size to use in the Granberg file n joint.
So,some folks are saying 7/32, others 13/64.
The chain is fairly new,so what do you reckon?

 

[GPX433Todd]

I believe STIHL has a file size selection chart on their website. Without knowing exactly what chain you have, I couldn't give you an answer. I sharpen my RSK's with a 13/64ths.

 

[Bwildered]

I'm still learning to sharpen my MS362,and wondering what file size to use in the Granberg file n joint.
So,some folks are saying 7/32, others 13/64.
The chain is fairly new,so what do you reckon?

If your not good at filing use a 5.5 mm file , if your ok or better use a 5.2 mm
Thansk

 

[Cope1024]

Stihl says 13/64".

 

[Full Chisel]

Oregon files are 7/32 while Stihl files are 13/64. Essentially the same size file, Stihl just likes to use obscure "proprietary" sizes on their products, like 25" bars that are actually 24" with the same DL count.

 

[GPX433Todd]

Oregon files are 7/32 while Stihl files are 13/64. Essentially the same size file, Stihl just likes to use obscure "proprietary" sizes on their products, like 25" bars that are actually 24" with the same DL count.

Perhaps. But to some, .015 is a mile.

 

[Full Chisel]

When it comes to filing, that is within margin of error. It wouldn't surprise me to find that Stihl files actually measure 7/32". I don't have a good set of calipers or I would compare them to Oregon files.

 

[SawTroll]

Oregon files are 7/32 while Stihl files are 13/64. Essentially the same size file, Stihl just likes to use obscure "proprietary" sizes on their products, like 25" bars that are actually 24" with the same DL count.

No, it isn't the same size, but the reason Stihl does it differently may well be as you indicate.

Stihl 3/8" cutters are best filed with 13/64. They are a little lower up front than the Oregon 3/8" ones, and needs a narrower "hook".
I use 13/64 for the last part of the Oregon cutters as well, when the remaing cutter is lower.

7/32" files can be used on Stihl 3/8" chain, but it is a bit difficult with new chisel chain, and never is ideal.

 

[SawTroll]

When it comes to filing, that is within margin of error. It wouldn't surprise me to find that Stihl files actually measure 7/32". I don't have a good set of calipers or I would compare them to Oregon files.

Stihl sells 7/32" files as well, but recommend them only for .404 chain, and some saw blades for brushcutters and clearing saws.

 

[PogoInTheWoods]

How 'bout grinding? Seems like if the tolerances are so critical for hand filing as to be splitting hairs between these file sizes, a grinding wheel that has even been looked at cross-eyed would be unacceptable for either Stihl or Oregon chain on any level. But the OP indicated he was using a Granberg jig which will at least provide correct and consistent angles if used properly..., which is more important in the performance of the chain in the long run regardless of the 1/64th" inch difference in the diameter of the file whether it be 13/64 or 7/32....and brand new, never used.

Grinders are a whole other discussion, of course. But I use the file size recommended by the manufacturer of the chain, "proprietary" or otherwise. They're a buck apiece either way, so why not use the recommended size unless you don't have a convenient source of the Stihl files? If the latter is indeed the case, use 7/32 and don't look back.
Keep correct angles and cutter length and ya probably won't notice the difference anyway when it comes to cutting.

On the other hand, I've found Stihl files to cut better and last longer than most others I've used and will use them regardless of chain brand...even a 13/64 on Oregon chain.

So there!

But everyone will have their own opinion anyway and a discussion would be pointless .

Hi, ST!

 

[GPX433Todd]

Just checked my STIHL 13/64ths file with a good caliper. It checked .203 along the whole shaft. Which is exactly 13/64ths.

 

[PogoInTheWoods]

Close enuff for Oregon chain!

 

[MustangMike]

Either file size will work just fine, IMO. Your technique will be more important than the file size, and your hook can be adjusted by the height of your file.

Note that when sharpening RS (which I prefer), your file should not be level across the top.

 

[MCW]

Personally I use 7/32" on Stihl chain. Works well. Just remember that if anybody ever wants to use a 7/32" Stihl file guide on 3/8" chain it simply won't work properly as it's designed for their .404" chassis. Also Stihl files are made by Vallorbe and I've lost count of how many times I've heard people say that Stihl files are better than Vallorbe despite being the exact same file. The subconcious persuasion of Stihl's propoganda machine shouldn't be underestimated
Out of interest I was at a forestry course a few years back and the training group had just been suckholed by Stihl. They used to run Husky gear. Stihl are masters at getting their gear into areas that they believe will influence others to buy their products - smart advertising actually. They told the training group that they will provide all of their chainsaw gear for free if they dump all Husqvarna products. Anyway the trainer actually liked Huskys and had a run of my ported 390XP. He was an ex softwood faller. He was fascinated by the chain I had on the saw (33RS) as he hadn't seen round filed full chisel chain cut like that before in pine. Anyway he took a look and asked what file size I was using. I said 7/32" - he commented to the other guys to take a look and liked how it had gotten into the gullet. Each to their own but as mentioned earlier Stihl do have a habit of coming out with stupid sized proprietary products so that customers end up believing that they have to buy Stihl gear. The 24" vs. 25" bar comment above is spot on. A number of Stihl guys believe that they have a bar 1 inch longer than a Husky user so their saw must be more powerful.
On another note a mate of mine is high up in South Australia's State Emergency Service (SES). Stihl have just done a deal at state level to get them to dump all other brands and exclusively use Stihl. This has upset a few of the guys at ground level as this means a number of them now have to deal with some crap Stihl dealers that they'd been avoiding for years.

 

[Full Chisel]

Either file size will work just fine, IMO. Your technique will be more important than the file size, and your hook can be adjusted by the height of your file.

Note that when sharpening RS (which I prefer), your file should not be level across the top.

Are you saying that you use a horizontal bevel on RS? I set my granberg to 10* for LGX but for RS I use no bevel and get razor sharp cutters. I can get the Stihl chain noticeably sharper than Oregon, it's good chain for sure.

 

[SawTroll]

Close enuff for Oregon chain!

When the teeth have been filed well back, so they are lower, yes.

 

[Jeffkrib]

MCW does stihl sell a 13/64 file guide? And a 7/32 file guide? I will check to see what ive got in the shed.

 

[SawTroll]

.......
But everyone will have their own opinion anyway and a discussion would be pointless .

Hi, ST!

HI, thats right - at least there would be no fun!


....and yes, I do disagree with some of your statements .....

 

[SawTroll]

MCW does stihl sell a 13/64 file guide? And a 7/32 file guide? I will check to see what ive got in the shed.

They do - but as MCW said, the 7/32 one is for .404 chain, and not 3/8".

 

[MCW]

MCW does stihl sell a 13/64 file guide? And a 7/32 file guide? I will check to see what ive got in the shed.

Yes they do but their 7/32" guide is setup to suit their .404" chain. The file sits too shallow if used on 3/8".