Is it necessary to have a certain file guide for a chainsaw chain?

I bought a file (13/64ths) for my Stihl chainsaw and now I need the guide. Stihl sells their kit for but Lowes sells kits for . If I have the right size file, is there any guide that is somewhat universal, or do I have to pay for the Stihl brand guide and kit?

Comments

4 Responses to “Is it necessary to have a certain file guide for a chainsaw chain?”
  1. train2023 says:
    June 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

    To maximize the cutting efficiency of the chain, I believe that the angle of the cutter and also the depth should be correct.
    Have been a Stihl owner for several years, but usually have the chain sharpened at the dealer for around $6.

  2. fuzzytop says:
    June 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

    Am thinking of all the aggravation have had over the years trying to keep the chain sharp. My father has an universal guide that he has used for over 30 years. May try to get it from him next time I visit. Have sharpen chains without the guides , lot of people do it that way. Once bought a electric sharpener, finally threw it away as no good. Bought a Homelite chainsaw that had automatic sharpener , finally had to get a normal chain for that saw. Once bought a fancy guide that pivoted and had to be screwed to hold it on, it was worthless. Once bought a chain that was titanium tipped , it got dull and would not sharpen. —On advice , you can start with the Lowes one for 8 bucks . If the guide lays on the chain and bar , it may work OK. If you are not satisfied , you will have to buy the Stihl one for 20 bucks. Good Luck ! —(all my life have been told :Keep The Chain Out Of The Dirt , It Dulls The Edge . How can soft dirt dull the chain and the hard wood does not ?? Again Good Luck! )

  3. Rusty Nail says:
    June 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

    I sharpen my chain freehand and have for many years. Just match the angle of the original grind.

  4. dmnnk says:
    June 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

    you don't have to use just stihl because you have a stihl saw, the guide that Lowe's sells will guide you the same way as a stihl file guide.The file guide just helps you keep the proper cutting angle for that chain


 
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