Different strokes for different folks
I have a Oregon electric sharpener, found if the guy sharpening the chain is the same guy who buys the chains they tend not to be overly ground then. Most times I'm just touching them up and just barely throw any sparks. Besides, over grinding heats the edge of the cutter up then you lose the temper in the metal.
Ayuh,.... I hand sharpened my chains for years, 'n although I do a pretty darn good job of it freehand,...
It still ain't like a brand new chain,....
So, 'bout a year or two ago, I picked up the $30. chain sharpener from Harbor Fright,.....
It did Ok, but as time went on, the plastic housin' gained movement, 'n slop,....
Last fall, I went on a hunt for a Nice chain grinder,....
I ended up with the Oregon, top of the line grinder, with the hyd. vice,....
Found one, 'n bought it for 'bout $150. Below list,....
Talk 'bout Sharp chains,.... I'm spoiled now,....
I demoted the plastic chain sharpener to do
Just the rakers,....
Now I use my depth mic. 'n cut the rakes to .040 below the teeth, 'bout every 3rd or 4th sharpenin',...
Now when I sink the ole 044 into a log, I see strings of saw shavin's, 'n little to no dust,.....
When I see dust, it's time to swap to a fresh chain,....