Stihl recommends 13/64 files for their 3/8 chains. Most other makes seem to call for 7/32 files with 3/8 chains. It seems pretty well accepted that 7/32 files work fine with Stihl 3/8 chains. Does that still apply to the 2 in 1 sharpeners? I'm going to order a Pferd 2 in 1 for my Stihl 3/8 chains. I've always used 7/32 files.
I lent a new Stihl 3/8 chain to another member which he used but wanted to touch up. He uses 7/32 files ( which i didn't know) on his 3/8 non-stihl chain. He called me and said his files didn't fit right. We figured it out later.
I use a Pferd 2 in 1 with 7/32 files on my 3/8 chains with good results - however not Stihl brand so I guess that doesn't answer your question. You're talking about a 1/64 difference....I imagine after you hit the chains the first time then continue sharpening with the same size file ylull be in good shape.
That must be why it works for me...I've been using 7/32 on all my 3/8 chain, including Stihl...heck, the Stihl dealer is the one that sold me the 2 in 1 file!
I had this discussion with my buddy the other day when he got a of a pferd csx( 2 in 1). We used woodland pro chains.
I've gone too far into the google rabbit hole on this. I found somewhere that the 7/32 pferd will take the depth gauges down something like .004 more. If that amount even matters, I don't cut any real hardwoods so it would be a slight advantage. And a lot of opinions say the 13/64 makes for a slightly sharper cutter, but the 7/32 stays sharp longer in dirty wood, which is also an advantage for me.
"And a lot of opinions say the 13/64 makes for a slightly sharper cutter, but the 7/32 stays sharp longer in dirty wood, which is also anadvantage for me." Bingo IMHO and it makes perfect sense.
