3/8" pitch, what size file???

Good Feller · February 27, 2009, 12:32:32 AM

What size files do you guys use for 3/8 pitch chain? I've used 13/64" and 7/32". Both are recommended as far as I know.
The 13/64 is smaller and gives more of a "hook" to the tooth. Is that good/bad? I'm just trying to decide on one or the other. Thanks

RSteiner · February 27, 2009, 06:21:49 AM

I have used both 13/64 and 7/32 on 3/8 chain. On Oregon the chain that I sometimes use I like the 7/32 file but, if I use Sthil chain I like the way the 13/64 file works which is the one they recommend.

Too much hook is not your friend it seems the top of the tooth dulls quicker and tends to make the chain grabbier. No hook makes saw dust and cuts slow. I look at the profile of a new chain and try to match that as I sharpen each tooth. I like using a file holder which holds the file under a metal plate that rests on the top of each tooth as you stroke the file. That seems to allow me to keep the depth the file cuts and the hook profile about where I want it.

Randy

Rocky_J · February 27, 2009, 08:24:49 AM

The 13/64" recommendation is one of Stihl's ways of trying to isolate their users from other brands. No other manufacturer recommends that size file. With that said, the Stihl 3/8" chain is identical in size to Oregon and other brands which all recommend a 7/32" file. I have used Stihl chain and a 7/32" file for 20 years. The oddball size file results in too much hook IMO.

Banjo picker · February 27, 2009, 08:43:24 AM

Good Feller I am glad you asked that. I have usually just asked for a file for the chain in question. I am sure these folks here know more that the bean counter in the store. Tim

sawguy21 · February 27, 2009, 10:04:37 AM

Some start with the 7/32 then switch to 13/64 as the tooth gets shorter. I have not tried that but it makes sense.

chevytaHOE5674 · February 27, 2009, 10:39:47 AM

I sharpen all of mine with a 7/32 file. It leaves a nice profile and the file size is available anywhere.

ErikC · February 27, 2009, 10:52:56 AM

7/32 works good for me. Oregon or Stihl chain. I don't notice a difference in cutting if I use one or the other. Whatever is cheaper or more available where you are is the right answer I guess.

Good Feller · February 27, 2009, 07:07:52 PM

Dang, sounds like 7/32" is getting the vote..... Guess I should have asked this question BEFORE I purchased 5 dozen 13/64" oregon files!

chevytaHOE5674 · February 27, 2009, 07:09:48 PM

If you already bought them, then use them. For me its just that the 7/32 is much more common and easy to get locally/cheaply.

sawguy21 · February 27, 2009, 08:44:16 PM

Common and easy to get huh? :D :D I don't know what the problem is but we won't see Oregon 7/32 files until April. Other distributors are out too. You guys gotta quit hogging them.

chevytaHOE5674 · February 27, 2009, 08:46:22 PM

My dealer has dozen's of 7/32's stacked up. 8)

beenthere · February 27, 2009, 08:57:24 PM

5 dozen....YIKES!! Must be at least a years supply...

Ax- man · February 27, 2009, 09:24:58 PM

Quote from: Rocky_J on February 27, 2009, 08:24:49 AM
The 13/64" recommendation is one of Stihl's ways of trying to isolate their users from other brands. No other manufacturer recommends that size file. With that said, the Stihl 3/8" chain is identical in size to Oregon and other brands which all recommend a 7/32" file. I have used Stihl chain and a 7/32" file for 20 years. The oddball size file results in too much hook IMO.

I never looked at it that way Rocky, it kind of makes sense knowing Sthil.

For years the 7/32ths was the file Sthil recommended for both the 3/8ths and the .404. pitch chains. Then out of nowhere Sthil comes up with this 13/64ths for their 3/8 pitch chain. There really isn't a whole lot of difference between the two files 1/64ths is not that much. I do prefer the 13/64ths for the 3/8 ths pitch and still use a 7/32ths file for the .404. Gets confusing if your trying to teach someone which file goes to which saw.

As far as the hook on the cutter. No comment as I get the same results from both files on the same chain and can't tell a difference in how the saw cuts.

Larry

Hermio · September 13, 2019, 09:55:38 PM

I hope you folks do not mind me jumping in on a 10 year old thread, but I just came across it today. It is illuminating! I had used 7/32 before, then I discovered that Stihl recommends 13/64. I bought that size of the Pferd CX sharpening system, which works great in the field. But I noticed that the chain seems grabbier (is that a word) than before. It also seems grabbier than when I have the chain sharpened by a shop, which I get done about every 5-10 manual sharpenings to true it up. I suspect the shops are using 7/32 grinding wheels.