Timber Savage Flat File

The Timber Savage flat file is a chainsaw flat file for taking depth gauges down to height and dressing burrs off bar rails. It is the other half of a sharpening kit, next to your round file.

What a flat file is for

Round files sharpen cutters. A flat file handles the rest: lowering rakers so the chain takes a proper bite, and smoothing the burrs that build up on the edges of the bar rails. Rail burrs cause the chain to bind and wear unevenly, so a few strokes with a flat file each time you flip the bar helps it last.

Use it with a depth gauge tool so you take rakers down by the right amount.

A flat file is also handy for squaring up the end of a scratched depth gauge tool, smoothing the edge of a wedge, or touching up other jobsite tools. Keep it in the saw kit with a file handle fitted, since the bare tang is sharp and hard to grip. A handle also gives you better control and steadier strokes, which means a cleaner result on the rakers and rails.

Getting the most from it

File in one direction, pushing away, and lift on the return stroke. Keep it dry and clean, and store it so it does not rattle against other steel, which dulls the teeth. Set the chain brake and clamp the bar before filing.

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