Pferd 8 in. Depth Gauge File

The Pferd depth gauge file is an 8 inch flat file for taking down the depth gauges, or rakers, on chainsaw chain. Sharp cutters only help if the gauges in front of them let the chain take a proper bite.

Why depth gauges matter

Each cutter on a chain has a depth gauge in front of it that sets how deep the cutter can bite. Every time you round-file the cutters they get a little lower, and the gauges stay put. After a few sharpenings the chain stops taking a full bite and just skates, even though the cutters are sharp. Taking the gauges down with a flat file brings the cut back. A quality flat file takes metal off in a few controlled strokes.

Leave them too high and the saw cuts slowly; take them too low and the chain grabs and is more prone to kickback. Getting them right matters on every saw, and most of all on a top-handle used one-handed aloft.

How to file them

Set a depth gauge tool over the chain, file each gauge flush with the tool using a few even strokes, then round off the front of the gauge to keep its original shape. Use the setting your chain maker specifies. Check the gauges every few sharpenings, not every time.

Fit a handle to the file, clamp the bar, and wear gloves. See our wrenches and files for depth gauge tools and handles.