MS 311, MS 391
English
35
When the specified files and/or 
sharpening tools and the proper setting 
are used, the specified values for angles 
A and B will be attained automatically.
The angles must be identical for all 
cutters in the saw chain. Varying angles: 
Rough, uneven running of the saw 
chain, increased wear – even to the 
point of saw chain breakage.
Because these requirements can be met 
only after sufficient, constant practice:
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.
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 Super 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.
Chain Type Angle (°)
AB
Rapid Micro (RM) 30 75
Rapid Super (RS)  30 60
Picco Micro (PM) 30 75
Rapid Micro X (RMX, rip-
ping chain)
10 75
Picco Micro X (PMX, rip-
ping chain)
10 75
Tooth shapes
Micro = semi-chisel tooth
Super = chisel tooth
689BA025 KN
001BA203 KN
689BA018 KN
90°
689BA043 KN