Husqvarna 3/8 Depth Gauge Tool

A Husqvarna depth gauge tool sets the height of the rakers on 3/8 chain. Lay it on the chain, file any raker that sticks up flush with the tool, and the chain takes the right bite again.

Why rakers matter

Every time you sharpen, the cutter gets lower. The depth gauge in front of it does not, so after a few sharpenings the chain stops biting and starts making dust instead of chips. Filing rakers down a little restores the bite. Too far and the chain grabs, vibrates and kicks back more easily. The depth gauge tool takes out the guessing.

Check your chain's raker setting with each sharpening and file when they stand proud of the tool.

A depth gauge tool is also one of the cheapest things in a saw kit, and it makes a bigger difference to cutting speed than most people expect. Set the rakers right and a chain that seemed to need replacing will often cut like new again. Keep one with the files in every saw kit so it is always at hand.

How to use it

Lay the tool on the chain so the raker pokes through the slot, file it flush with a flat file, then round the front edge slightly. Work the same way on both sides. Keep the chain on the bar and the saw secure, with a stump vise if you are in the field.

Files, guides and vises are in our wrenches and files section.