MS 241 C-M
English
45
File holder
N Use a file holder
Always use a file holder (special 
accessory, see table "Sharpening tools") 
when sharpening saw chains by hand. 
File holders have markings for the 
sharpening angle.
Use only special saw chain files! Other 
files are unsuitable in terms of shape 
and type of cutting.
To check the angles
STIHL filing gauge (special accessory, 
see table "Sharpening tools") – a 
universal tool for checking sharpening 
and side plate angles, depth gauge 
setting, and tooth length, as well as 
cleaning grooves and oil inlet holes.
Proper sharpening
N Select sharpening tools in 
accordance with chain pitch
N Clamp guide bar if necessary
N Block saw chain – push the hand 
guard forward
N To advance the saw chain, pull the 
hand guard toward the handlebar: 
The chain brake is disengaged. 
With the Quickstop Plus chain brake 
system, additionally press the 
throttle trigger lockout
N Sharpen frequently, removing little 
material – two or three strokes of the 
file are usually sufficient for simple 
resharpening
N Guide the file: horizontally (at a right 
angle to the side surface of the 
guide bar) in accordance with the 
specified angle – according to the 
markings on the file holder – rest the 
file holder on the tooth head and the 
depth gauge
N File only from the inside outward
N The file only sharpens on the 
forward stroke – lift the file on the 
backstroke
N Do not file tie straps and drive links
N Rotate the file a little periodically in 
order to avoid uneven wear
N To remove file burr, use a piece of 
hardwood
N Check angle with file gauge
All cutters must be equally long.
With varying cutter lengths, the cutter 
heights also vary and cause rough 
running of the saw chain and chain 
breakage.
N All cutters must be filed down equal 
to the length of the shortest cutter – 
ideally, one should have this done 
by a servicing dealer using an 
electric sharpener
Depth gauge setting
The depth gauge determines the depth 
to which the cutter penetrates the wood 
and thus the chip thickness.