I've been an arborist for 28 years I still prefer round files. I feel with a proper shape to the gullit and semi aggressive rakers you can sharpen more sharp than factory, and will last longer if you don't hit metal or dirt.
Agreed 👍 I'll actually have a few different stages of aggressiveness of cutting on different chains depending on the wood I'm cutting dead green and the fibres change too! And for big felling jobs in clean green wood I go square ground chain .
Mike i love your videos. Im playing catch up on your videos. I cut alot of firewood and could never get a sharp chain. I used to drop them off to have them sharpened. Cutting firewood they would dull if the bark was dirty or if i hit the dirt on acccident. Ive bought every chain sharpener known to man. The best i bought is the stihl easy file. I saw a video on project farm and wranglerstar then bought them for my 260 pro and 461 best thing i ever bought. I touch up the chains after a few hours of cutting and its the best. I hope you try it and let me know what you think. Love the videos you and your family are an inspiration. Thank you for making these videos and letting us follow along. Keep up the great work.
I used to run a semi skip chisel on my 266 Husky with a 28 inch bar and it did cut faster and fewer teeth to sharpen, BUT, it was not as forgiving as a round tooth when it came to dirt. And you had to use a special chisel file. If you lost your chisel file you could use a round file but the chisel was not a true chisel any more. Also I used to give my rackers an extra lick or two when filing them. When you touched the tip of the chain to the log it pulled the saw right to the log. I eventually bought an electric chain sharpener crudely similar to the ones at saw shops. That way the angles were right. 10 degrees up and 30 decrees from straight. Be interesting to see how that Stihl Hex chain works out. No mistaking that Hex file! Thanks for taking us along on your video.
Good job Mike on demystify the important elements of the chain demissions when needing to find the correct replacement. Most weekend warriors have no idea when they go to the box store for a replacement. Tip for those running Stihl saws and bars, there is a pictogram on the side of the bar which calls out the dimensions and part numbers of the bar/chain. I run .063 gauge on all my Stihl saws so I can switch them interchangeably between my 660,462, 362 and 361
I must say, you really give good comparisons. How much more does the hex chain cost? It really does sound like they have made an improvement that will help everyone. What another great example of a family recording parts of their daily lives benefiting others as well as their own family. The original owner of Blueford able to enjoy seeing his prize equipment still in the job, and Eva's children, when grown and Mike and Melissa gone, can still see and hear their awesome grandparents active in daily life. Now how precious is that! You always thank us subscribers for being there, but the real deserving thanks goes to you! Today's video was short - but I saw a brand new product and how it stacked up against the old product. I got to see that awesome backsaver the Wolfridge, split some cherry firewood and another look at that real nice woodshed. A heartwarming story about Blueford. Best of all, I was able to start my day w another great dose of Mike Morgan! So thank you Mike for taking the time and effort to share w all of us that are hooked on your channel, and let's not have any more talk about 'some day you may stop RUclips' ! See ya tomorrow! 👌
Good job on explaining the parts of the chain saw, always saw the numbers on the box but didn’t know what they meant. I also like when you do a comparison test on you tools. Keep it up😀
Happy Mothers Day! Nice job on this video Mike. I have been using what is now called the Hexa profile for a couple of years now on my buck'n and firewood cutting chains. I still prefer square grind on my felling chains. The Hexa profile stays sharp considerably longer than round ground chain. I use a three square file in a file-n-joint to file it. I can't wait for the file to be available here. I believe it's going to replace alot of round files, it will be easier for most to master and stay sharp longer if one keeps the chain out of the dirt. 👍
Good morning everyone. Happy Mother's day. Mike thanks for the comparison you did a while back on the Ms261 and the Ms271. Made my decesion to go with the 271 easier. Cheers.
Happy Mothers Day Melissa! Hello to Mike and Eva, and Hunter! I saw little difference on the chains as well Mike. I can hand file as long as I can use my vise to hold the bar. I usually put the jaws just snug in the center of the bar, do one side, turn the vise to do the other side. My stepfather taught me how to not only sharpen my chain, but to work in the woods as well. We did a lot together. God bless my friend, have a day Morgans!🎚🙏🇲🇾🇲🇾🇲🇾
Mike thanks for another great video. You do a fantastic job using the chain saws. Tell Melissa Happy Mother Day. This will be the first Mother Day without my Mom. She passed away in November at the age of 95.
Looking forward to the Hexa chain. I still use the 2 in 1 to sharpen my saws. If the hexa is easier to hand file, I’ll be very interested in trying it out. Thanks for the heads up.
I did alright with a round file, but the 2 in 1 made a big improvement as someone who just cuts up fallen trees after storms for firewood and seasonal ATV trail maintenance. So as a non-pro, if it cuts better and is easier to sharpen, I'm in. Just don't price gouge me.
Almost identical right out of the box … it’ll be interesting to see how they perform over time … love the channel, the content, and the commentary … have a day M & M 😎
I took the easy way out. Just bought a few more chains and rotate them through the shop for sharpening. The time it takes to screw around filing chains just isn't worth messing with in my situation. I'm 10 minutes from a Stihl and pro equipment dealer. If I were farther away, I may be a "Filer" too! Was nice when Leonard's Farm and Ranch moved across town to a spot near my house. Generally when I walk in there with 1-4 chains, they do them on the spot and it only takes minutes. Good video Mike, I always enjoy the informative videos. This is the kind of stuff I like to do. My recent journey into learning and exploration is with Pressure Washers and transitioning from mulching blades in the Gravely ZTX 42" to high lift blades and a Quickchute blocker. For the Pressure Washers I got the performance levels I wanted first, 4 GPM @ 4000 PSI and 2 machines in tandem for powering a 20" surface cleaner. Then transitioning from two wheel cart style frames to 4 wheel re-purposed generator frame style with straight axel and swivel casters at the other end. They have a much smaller footprint and are easy to move around with only 1 hand. Using a re-purposed pallet jack handle on them which is perfect. Also went to one of the new Predator 459cc electric start engines on the one I use the most, the other has a pull start Honda GX390 on it. As you alluded to the other day on a video, you've really diversified your operation with services you can provide others as well as being self-sufficient. Kinda surprised not seeing any emergency backup generators in your videos yet. Thanks for taking the time and sharing!
Yeah Mike... if the rain keeps on coming you have to see if Kubota makes a boat. LoL. Happy Mother's day to all! Thanks for the information about the new blades I haven't heard of them before and anything that makes them easier to sharpen is better for me.
Always enjoy these comparison videos and also updating us on new equipment that is available. Thanks for sharing Mike! Was at my Mom’s place in Boonville, NY to celebrate her 91st birthday and Mother’s Day. Hope to see you at the Woodsman’s Show this summer!
Happy Mother's Day to Melissa. Not sure the cost and availability of the specialized files, along with the hardness of the Stihl chain (the reason I use Stihl chain) and their occasional resistance to filing, is worth the change over for me. However, It sure does cut fast.
Good morning Mike and Melissa and the crews around there. Good explanation of the new chain Stihl has out. Hope you have your flotation devices set up around there with all that rain. Stay safe and have a great Mother's Day around there for everyone. Fred.
Thanks for the chain demo. I believe you are correct about the sharpening process. I still struggle getting it right with the standard chain so this new design my be the ticket
I did that when testing if I could improve on the factory grind with a hand file. I could, I went down from nine seconds and a bit to seven and a bit, but got yelled at for using such a low powered sav! (Husqvarna 40). Tried it later with a Partner 5000+ and same chain and bar, got down to six and a half second, and that sav is the only saw I have seen above 21,000 rpm.
Hey Mike That Was Fun To Watch The The Explanation and The Two Different Chain Demonstration Comparisons! So Close In Timing The Naked Eye Could Hardly Tell And Needed The Photo Finish For A More Accurate Result!! Keep Smiling On!! 😀👍👊
Hey Mike, I timed your cuts as you were cutting! Hexa chain was 24.65 seconds and the normal chain was 25.71 seconds, like you said, not much of a difference but it was just over a second. Love the videos, keep them up please!
The "magic" is the file not the chain. And as mentioned,. To maintain that profile you need that special file. First time you put it on a electric grinder you're back to regular chain. Square ground chain is not new by any stretch. To be blunt you could buy a "hexa" file and file the chains you already have to the hexa profile
Happy mother's Day Melissa and Mike happy mother's Day to your mom and your daughter-in-law whose name I can't recall but I know who she is have a blessed day y'all.
I think the main object would be which one remains sharp the longest, I see little gain in the difference in cutting speed! Happy Mothers Day to Melissa!
Rain? Here in Lycoming County I had 2.45" and 36 degrees on Sunday morning. I went out on the deck and skated a little then saw where ran had collected in a barrel lid and there was some ice there. Never in my 74 years have I seen that this late in the season.
So you can only sharpen the hexa chain with a special file, I sharpen my chains on the bench sharpener. I use the rs3 rapid cut on a 066 and 25 bar. I'll hand file on the job just to touch up.
I think the invention of battery operated rotary tool people use to sharpen chains is the driving force behind the hexa chain. Those who can't sharpen saw chains use the rotary tool but those who know how to sharpen can do both and know that the hexa chain leaves those who can't sharpen out in past
Nice review Mike 👍 it would have been a nice comparison against half Skip and full skip chain. I'm not seeing you use them on your channel. It can be used on any saw over 70cc or larger with great improvement on cut speed. Not designed for homeowners. Happy mother's Day Melissa I hope Mike's treating you like a Queen 💃
I shouldn't say anything but that rain was just too much at once.great job on your video I really like your wood splitter it's faster than I thought you keep the videos coming and I will keep watching them.
I think the best test will be how often do you have to sharpen the chain. Variables will be how much dirt and water are on the logs. I have cut some logs that have had bullets and rocks in them. That is really hard on the chain. Take care and stay safe. PS: give the pup a pat on the head for me.
Smeeech, I was cutting up a downed Hickory once and up where it forked hit a stone. I live on a gravel road and figure a road scraper in the Winter threw it up in the crotch and it “grew” in place. First time I ever hit a rock 🪨 high up in a tree. Never have hit a bullet yet.
@@oldmanfred8676 I live near a military base. We used to be able to get wood lots for fire wood. They discontinued the privilege due to live ammo and explosives in the area that we used to cut. Nothing like travelling on short notice if you stepped on something. That is interesting about the stone way up in the tree.
Now your talking it’s a real game changer for sure looks like it’s a lot easier to sharpen better cutting then round grind thanks for posting. I always wondered why Stihl international always has things we can’t get in the great USA!!! I was looking for the 18 light 04 bar for my stihl ms261c-m can’t get one. You can if you live outside USA even the products are different. I got a Stihl SE122 shop vac but when you look on International a lot more features
What a Neat,Comprehensive, & Infomative Vidio. Realy liked the all the "High Tech " performance attributes. Mr. Mike you are such a Professional----ALLWAYS Great Infomation. God Bless all your endeavours.
Phil and Brothers, 74° right now going to 94° Today. Filleted a passel of White Bass yesterday that my buddy and his Granddaughters caught. Make memories with your family! Old Man Fred
Hey Phil! I’d rather have your 61F (16C) and windy than our 47F (8C) and wind. We’re forecasted for nights in the 40s for several days. Chilly for May!
Hi Mike. Great video as always. Have you ever tried skip chain. My bother has owned his tree service for 40 years and he wouldn't use anything else. Runs faster and less to sharpen. I use them on my saws and firewood processor. Happy Mothers day to all the moms out there!
Skip chains were mainly designed for use as rippers, like with an Alaskan saw mill rig so they don't load up with long wood chips. Yes, they unload the saw motor because they are only pulling half the teeth.
@@charlesfoleysr6610 Actually is 1/3 less cutters, and is recommended for saws running over 24 inch bars. Not limited to ripping only. I run one on a 20 inch bar 50 cc saw. and it makes a difference in cutting speed and power. Right now I am playing with full skip square ground chain.
One would have to consider the cost comparison to determine if it would be worth the few seconds gained in cut time. Does the new Hexa chain cost the same or less than the regular chain one uses (probably not)? Does the new sharpening file cost the same or less that a standard file used to sharpen one's blades (probably not)? I'm leaning toward the concept of gimmick. But hey if cuts faster for you and your happy with it go for it. Great video Mike and wish Melissa a happy Mother's Day for Ann & me.
@Mike Hunt Nothing. I think it's a great name. Do you have any facial hair?.... Mike Hunt is very hairy. Or are you clean-shaven?.... Mike Hunt is nice and smooth.
Another good vid. I still have to stick to the semi chisel. I can cut a truckload and still be sharp enough to cut more. With a full chisel I have to use 2 chains per truck load. At the end of the day... more down time swapping over chains and then 2 chains to file.. but yea the hex seems cool so have to see how it sharpens.
I've learned to keep an eye on how well the oiler is working as well. More oil + longer chain and bar life. You probably already know that sir, not suggesting you don't. I just hasn't been mentioned.
Almost looks like they simplified square ground filing. If so, should be just slightly faster but last longer because of better support/more material behind the working corner. Be interesting to see if it lasts significantly longer between filings.
I have three different filing devices the new stihl hand file some generic clamp on duel angle finding rail system that locks the file in place at the sideways and down angle and the husqvarna hand file. I think the only one that would work withe the new file would be the rail type that locks the file into position.
Question 6:01 I lever my saw blade using the log-dogs rather than letting it cut straight down. Seems to be faster and easier but maybe I put too much pressure on the chain that way?
Got started on my winter wood last Thursday. 2 cords bucked, split and in the wood shed, all done with an old Poulin Pro and a 6 ton electric splittter and all done on my own. Imagine what I could get done if I used a Stihl 500I. Hahahaha.
I was a little bit disappointed that the Hexa chain was not all that much faster after the 10% gain in cutting speed as made by Stihl. Still a great new product. My how chain saws and the technology that has come along with them. A really stark contrast from what they were when I was first around them in the early 1960's. We had Homelites and thought we were in high cotton.
Mike I watched a RUclips video last year where a guy sharped his chain with a triangle file that made the chain cutting edge exactly the same. He said he learned it from a old guy that had a tree cutting service.
I could already see the regular chain was slowing down when you started cutting up the oak to split. Red oak, burns good, splits like candy, and stinks to heaven when you split it.
I have question you may, or may not be able to answer. This morning when todays video popped up, I immediately hit on it to bring up the video. Below the video it said there were 18 views. I immediately clicked on the like button and it said I was the 35th person to like the video??? Do you see my dilemma? In my mind the math doesn't work out? Very informative video about the chainsaw blades. I've never gotten the knack of sharpening my own blades, Buy I see the value of the hex file on the hex blade. Especially for the occasional saw user such as myself.
Mike, All full chisel chains, from any manufacturer, will cut WOOD a little faster. They are nothing new and have been around for decades. And they're great. But the downside is that they are less tolerant when encountering anything else, like dirt embedded in the bark. That's also why you use a debaker on your saw mill. I have always run, and recommended semi chisel chains to my general customers. Also, you might want to try a carbide chain. Do you dress (file) your chain a little, often, in the field to maintain sharpness? If not, your cutting efficency goes out the window. lol Shalom/gw
Looks like a good chain, Mike. I'd like to see a comparison with a full chisel chain. I think you would like an electric bench sharpener. Thanks as always for the great videos. Shalom/gw
Buckin' Billy Ray has been touting the "square ground" chains for a while now. He still seems to prefer the round grind over the square, but he admits that it is because that is what he is use to doing. Hey, as long as it is cutting that is all that matters to me! I am currently using my "round ground" chains due to availability, AND, my Oregon grinder that I use only once in a while on chains that may have hit rock, is for the round grinds. But I too would like to try the square grinds.
Thoroughly enjoy. Apparently I hooked up near the very beginning. Rock terminology is very regional. Here in northern Cal it is pretty much opposite of what you describe and I cringe whenever you call it "stone". All that matters is that you and your vendor agree on terminology. Go and ask them for the local terms and also ask them for estimating guides to help you determine how much you need.
@@waynebarnett7467, Doing okay Wayne, lost my Mom to Cancer a few years ago. Gina and I will go to Church and they will have the Primary kids sing, should be fun.
Thanks, Mike, I appreciate the anatomy lesson on the blades as well as the comparison between. Sharpening tools is the key! Do you call the splitter WolfE? Love it!
It’s funny that they came up with this chain loggers have been doing this for quite a while for that exact reason being able to hand file quickly that’s where the time-saving comes in for the loggers
What difference in price is there Mike, for me a fire wood cutter I think I will stay with the r s chain it's a good one .thanks for the video. God bless you all and happy mother day ..
Good video, informative fair and real. The chain I like has, for some reason, fallen out of favor and is hard to find today. That would be Oregon "chipper" chain. /his could be a good alternative.
With speeds that close together, the next question is the price difference. average wood cutter could probably get by with the RS chain. Commercial cutting is a different story. As i cut my firewood here in the northwest, seconds aren't that crucial to me. safety first and foremost in my neck of the woods.Thanks for the demo.
that difference in time can be the difference in where you were cutting in the log, you can see it has a extra knot on the last cut. i quit buying stihl chains once they jumped from 26 to 34 dollars and i can still buy a oregon for 21, i do think the stihl chain is a little better but not enough to being able to buy 5 for the same price of 8 oregon.
I wonder if the Stihl file tool will take the new files. Doesn't look like they do. I have two of the Stihl file tools, different sizes, they work great. They lower the rakers at the same time they sharpen the cutters.
Shirts and Hoodies Here www.outdoorswiththemorgans.com/shop
Good morning. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there.
I've been an arborist for 28 years I still prefer round files. I feel with a proper shape to the gullit and semi aggressive rakers you can sharpen more sharp than factory, and will last longer if you don't hit metal or dirt.
I agree.
@@erkeltree Me too
The hexa chain you need to file at 90 degree to chain to hit gullet then your 30 degree
@@frankpristov9745 Me three!
Agreed 👍 I'll actually have a few different stages of aggressiveness of cutting on different chains depending on the wood I'm cutting dead green and the fibres change too! And for big felling jobs in clean green wood I go square ground chain .
Mike i love your videos. Im playing catch up on your videos. I cut alot of firewood and could never get a sharp chain. I used to drop them off to have them sharpened. Cutting firewood they would dull if the bark was dirty or if i hit the dirt on acccident. Ive bought every chain sharpener known to man. The best i bought is the stihl easy file. I saw a video on project farm and wranglerstar then bought them for my 260 pro and 461 best thing i ever bought. I touch up the chains after a few hours of cutting and its the best. I hope you try it and let me know what you think. Love the videos you and your family are an inspiration. Thank you for making these videos and letting us follow along. Keep up the great work.
Starting off today in Missouri it's very windy up to 30 mph. But it's better than rain for now. Happy Mother's Day!
Good morning! HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL THE MOTHERS!! It's amazing how something so small with a little change can excite us so much.
I used to run a semi skip chisel on my 266 Husky with a 28 inch bar and it did cut faster and fewer teeth to sharpen, BUT, it was not as forgiving as a round tooth when it came to dirt. And you had to use a special chisel file. If you lost your chisel file you could use a round file but the chisel was not a true chisel any more. Also I used to give my rackers an extra lick or two when filing them. When you touched the tip of the chain to the log it pulled the saw right to the log. I eventually bought an electric chain sharpener crudely similar to the ones at saw shops. That way the angles were right. 10 degrees up and 30 decrees from straight. Be interesting to see how that Stihl Hex chain works out. No mistaking that Hex file! Thanks for taking us along on your video.
Good job Mike on demystify the important elements of the chain demissions when needing to find the correct replacement. Most weekend warriors have no idea when they go to the box store for a replacement. Tip for those running Stihl saws and bars, there is a pictogram on the side of the bar which calls out the dimensions and part numbers of the bar/chain. I run .063 gauge on all my Stihl saws so I can switch them interchangeably between my 660,462, 362 and 361
I love your show. I really like that you talk to us, not down to us. Keep up the great work.
Very informative. I have a “wood boss” I bought it in ‘86 had to put a carburetor on it a few years ago,sthil runs great!
I must say, you really give good comparisons. How much more does the hex chain cost? It really does sound like they have made an improvement that will help everyone. What another great example of a family recording parts of their daily lives benefiting others as well as their own family. The original owner of Blueford able to enjoy seeing his prize equipment still in the job, and Eva's children, when grown and Mike and Melissa gone, can still see and hear their awesome grandparents active in daily life. Now how precious is that! You always thank us subscribers for being there, but the real deserving thanks goes to you! Today's video was short - but I saw a brand new product and how it stacked up against the old product. I got to see that awesome backsaver the Wolfridge, split some cherry firewood and another look at that real nice woodshed. A heartwarming story about Blueford. Best of all, I was able to start my day w another great dose of Mike Morgan! So thank you Mike for taking the time and effort to share w all of us that are hooked on your channel, and let's not have any more talk about 'some day you may stop RUclips' ! See ya tomorrow! 👌
Good morning Mike & family!!
Good job on explaining the parts of the chain saw, always saw the numbers on the box but didn’t know what they meant. I also like when you do a comparison test on you tools. Keep it up😀
Happy Mother's Day 💓! The new chain does do better. You can her the difference in the saws motor. Blessings
GOOOOOOOD
MAAAWNIN everyone out there in OWTM land…& HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY to all the Moms & single Dads doing both jobs. GOD BLESS you all!!
Good morning from South Louisiana. Happy Mother's day to Melissa and all you moms out there. Have a blessed day.
Happy Mothers Day! Nice job on this video Mike. I have been using what is now called the Hexa profile for a couple of years now on my buck'n and firewood cutting chains. I still prefer square grind on my felling chains. The Hexa profile stays sharp considerably longer than round ground chain. I use a three square file in a file-n-joint to file it. I can't wait for the file to be available here. I believe it's going to replace alot of round files, it will be easier for most to master and stay sharp longer if one keeps the chain out of the dirt. 👍
Good morning everyone. Happy Mother's day. Mike thanks for the comparison you did a while back on the Ms261 and the Ms271. Made my decesion to go with the 271 easier. Cheers.
Good Morning Melissa!
Happy Mothers Day!!
Keep Smiling On!!
😀👍👊
You always do good with the side by side comparison videos. Happy mother's day to Melissa and all the mothers watching.
Mike, a GREAT demo as usual !! Wishing ALL Mothers everywhere, a Happy Mother's Day !!
Happy Mothers Day Melissa! Hello to Mike and Eva, and Hunter!
I saw little difference on the chains as well Mike. I can hand file as long as I can use my vise to hold the bar. I usually put the jaws just snug in the center of the bar, do one side, turn the vise to do the other side. My stepfather taught me how to not only sharpen my chain, but to work in the woods as well. We did a lot together.
God bless my friend, have a day Morgans!🎚🙏🇲🇾🇲🇾🇲🇾
Mike thanks for another great video. You do a fantastic job using the chain saws. Tell Melissa Happy Mother Day. This will be the first Mother Day without my Mom. She passed away in November at the age of 95.
Happy Mother’s Day to Melissa. Enjoyed your chair saw demo Mike.
Looking forward to the Hexa chain. I still use the 2 in 1 to sharpen my saws. If the hexa is easier to hand file, I’ll be very interested in trying it out. Thanks for the heads up.
I did alright with a round file, but the 2 in 1 made a big improvement as someone who just cuts up fallen trees after storms for firewood and seasonal ATV trail maintenance.
So as a non-pro, if it cuts better and is easier to sharpen, I'm in. Just don't price gouge me.
I'll be looking forward to follow-up on sharpening the HEXA chain, interesting concept. Could make life easier for some of us armatures 😀
Good morning and happy Mother’s Day from upstate New York.
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MR. AND MRS. MORGAN!
Thank you for posting your outstanding well produced videos.
Good morning to the Morgans and a very Happy Mother's day to Melissa hope she has a great day 💓. And I think your right Mike on the new chain. !!!!!
Almost identical right out of the box … it’ll be interesting to see how they perform over time … love the channel, the content, and the commentary … have a day M & M 😎
I took the easy way out. Just bought a few more chains and rotate them through the shop for sharpening. The time it takes to screw around filing chains just isn't worth messing with in my situation. I'm 10 minutes from a Stihl and pro equipment dealer. If I were farther away, I may be a "Filer" too! Was nice when Leonard's Farm and Ranch moved across town to a spot near my house.
Generally when I walk in there with 1-4 chains, they do them on the spot and it only takes minutes.
Good video Mike, I always enjoy the informative videos. This is the kind of stuff I like to do. My recent journey into learning and exploration is with Pressure Washers and transitioning from mulching blades in the Gravely ZTX 42" to high lift blades and a Quickchute blocker.
For the Pressure Washers I got the performance levels I wanted first, 4 GPM @ 4000 PSI and 2 machines in tandem for powering a 20" surface cleaner. Then transitioning from two wheel cart style frames to 4 wheel re-purposed generator frame style with straight axel and swivel casters at the other end. They have a much smaller footprint and are easy to move around with only 1 hand. Using a re-purposed pallet jack handle on them which is perfect. Also went to one of the new Predator 459cc electric start engines on the one I use the most, the other has a pull start Honda GX390 on it.
As you alluded to the other day on a video, you've really diversified your operation with services you can provide others as well as being self-sufficient. Kinda surprised not seeing any emergency backup generators in your videos yet.
Thanks for taking the time and sharing!
Yeah Mike... if the rain keeps on coming you have to see if Kubota makes a boat. LoL. Happy Mother's day to all! Thanks for the information about the new blades I haven't heard of them before and anything that makes them easier to sharpen is better for me.
Good morning everyone 😊👍🌎🌞
Happy mothers day to all the moms 💕💖💝
Always enjoy these comparison videos and also updating us on new equipment that is available. Thanks for sharing Mike! Was at my Mom’s place in Boonville, NY to celebrate her 91st birthday and Mother’s Day. Hope to see you at the Woodsman’s Show this summer!
Happy Mother's Day to Melissa. Not sure the cost and availability of the specialized files, along with the hardness of the Stihl chain (the reason I use Stihl chain) and their occasional resistance to filing, is worth the change over for me. However, It sure does cut fast.
You've definitely mastered the art of a sharp chain and straight cuts. It's not easy to cut large hardwood fast and straight!!
He has been blessed with an excellent idea! It’s pretty obvious with it comes to grade cut length etc.
Good morning Mike and Melissa and the crews around there. Good explanation of the new chain Stihl has out. Hope you have your flotation devices set up around there with all that rain. Stay safe and have a great Mother's Day around there for everyone. Fred.
Wow you've got all brand new equipment. I like my old husqvarna rancher 061. heavy but reliable.good video,informative.
Good video . Thanks Mike
Thanks for the chain demo. I believe you are correct about the sharpening process. I still struggle getting it right with the standard chain so this new design my be the ticket
I think a better test would be to use the lowest powered saw with both chains. A lot of power can make up for a dull/poor chain.
I did that when testing if I could improve on the factory grind with a hand file. I could, I went down from nine seconds and a bit to seven and a bit, but got yelled at for using such a low powered sav! (Husqvarna 40).
Tried it later with a Partner 5000+ and same chain and bar, got down to six and a half second, and that sav is the only saw I have seen above 21,000 rpm.
@@leifvejby8023 Sounds like you have a good handle on the test, good luck have fun, be safe with those chains.
Hey Mike That Was Fun To Watch The The Explanation and The Two Different Chain Demonstration Comparisons! So Close In Timing The Naked Eye Could Hardly Tell And Needed The Photo Finish For A More Accurate Result!!
Keep Smiling On!!
😀👍👊
Hey Mike, I timed your cuts as you were cutting! Hexa chain was 24.65 seconds and the normal chain was 25.71 seconds, like you said, not much of a difference but it was just over a second. Love the videos, keep them up please!
The "magic" is the file not the chain. And as mentioned,. To maintain that profile you need that special file. First time you put it on a electric grinder you're back to regular chain. Square ground chain is not new by any stretch. To be blunt you could buy a "hexa" file and file the chains you already have to the hexa profile
Happy mother's Day Melissa and Mike happy mother's Day to your mom and your daughter-in-law whose name I can't recall but I know who she is have a blessed day y'all.
Happy mother's day 🌹💐 Melissa. Enjoyed the explanation of the two chains. Great content.
Happy Mother’s Day Melissa!
I think the main object would be which one remains sharp the longest, I see little gain in the difference in cutting speed! Happy Mothers Day to Melissa!
Rain? Here in Lycoming County I had 2.45" and 36 degrees on Sunday morning. I went out on the deck and skated a little then saw where ran had collected in a barrel lid and there was some ice there. Never in my 74 years have I seen that this late in the season.
So you can only sharpen the hexa chain with a special file, I sharpen my chains on the bench sharpener. I use the rs3 rapid cut on a 066 and 25 bar. I'll hand file on the job just to touch up.
I think the invention of battery operated rotary tool people use to sharpen chains is the driving force behind the hexa chain. Those who can't sharpen saw chains use the rotary tool but those who know how to sharpen can do both and know that the hexa chain leaves those who can't sharpen out in past
Nice review Mike 👍 it would have been a nice comparison against half Skip and full skip chain. I'm not seeing you use them on your channel. It can be used on any saw over 70cc or larger with great improvement on cut speed. Not designed for homeowners. Happy mother's Day Melissa I hope Mike's treating you like a Queen 💃
Good morning Hunter :-) and family and friends :-) , Happy Mothers Day to all the Mommies ;-)
Bad😊👍
Morning BadCat.
@@oldmanfred8676 / Good afternoon Fred ! :-)
@@waynebarnett7467 / Good afternoon Wayne :-)
Happy Mothers day Melissa.
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL THE MOMS!!!
I shouldn't say anything but that rain was just too much at once.great job on your video I really like your wood splitter it's faster than I thought you keep the videos coming and I will keep watching them.
All the Tulips, Daffodils, Bradford Pears and Redbuds bloomed and gone weeks ago. North Texas.
I think the best test will be how often do you have to sharpen the chain. Variables will be how much dirt and water are on the logs. I have cut some logs that have had bullets and rocks in them. That is really hard on the chain. Take care and stay safe. PS: give the pup a pat on the head for me.
Smeeech,
I was cutting up a downed Hickory once and up where it forked hit a stone.
I live on a gravel road and figure a road scraper in the Winter threw it up in the crotch and it “grew” in place.
First time I ever hit a rock 🪨 high up in a tree. Never have hit a bullet yet.
@@oldmanfred8676 I live near a military base. We used to be able to get wood lots for fire wood. They discontinued the privilege due to live ammo and explosives in the area that we used to cut. Nothing like travelling on short notice if you stepped on something. That is interesting about the stone way up in the tree.
@@smeefamily54,
😊
Now your talking it’s a real game changer for sure looks like it’s a lot easier to sharpen better cutting then round grind thanks for posting. I always wondered why Stihl international always has things we can’t get in the great USA!!! I was looking for the 18 light 04 bar for my stihl ms261c-m can’t get one. You can if you live outside USA even the products are different. I got a Stihl SE122 shop vac but when you look on International a lot more features
What a Neat,Comprehensive, & Infomative Vidio. Realy liked the all the "High Tech " performance attributes. Mr. Mike you are such a Professional----ALLWAYS Great Infomation. God Bless all your endeavours.
Good morning everyone, 61º in Kansas City. Stay safe, be humble & kind and have a day. 261k
Phil and Brothers,
74° right now going to 94° Today.
Filleted a passel of White Bass yesterday that my buddy and his Granddaughters caught.
Make memories with your family!
Old Man Fred
Hey Phil! I’d rather have your 61F (16C) and windy than our 47F (8C) and wind. We’re forecasted for nights in the 40s for several days. Chilly for May!
Enjoy watching the video 🪵, from in the woods with the CAPONE’S🇨🇦
Mike I’m slowly switching over to the Hexa chain. They are to me easier to file and touch up. Happy Mother’s Day Melissa 👍✊
Hi Mike. Great video as always. Have you ever tried skip chain. My bother has owned his tree service for 40 years and he wouldn't use anything else. Runs faster and less to sharpen. I use them on my saws and firewood processor. Happy Mothers day to all the moms out there!
Skip chains were mainly designed for use as rippers, like with an Alaskan saw mill rig so they don't load up with long wood chips. Yes, they unload the saw motor because they are only pulling half the teeth.
@@charlesfoleysr6610 Actually is 1/3 less cutters, and is recommended for saws running over 24 inch bars. Not limited to ripping only. I run one on a 20 inch bar 50 cc saw. and it makes a difference in cutting speed and power. Right now I am playing with full skip square ground chain.
I am from Oregon (Oregun) we use Oregon chain on our saws and Lupold scopes on our guns.
Happy Mother’s Day Pretty momma !
One would have to consider the cost comparison to determine if it would be worth the few seconds gained in cut time. Does the new Hexa chain cost the same or less than the regular chain one uses (probably not)? Does the new sharpening file cost the same or less that a standard file used to sharpen one's blades (probably not)? I'm leaning toward the concept of gimmick. But hey if cuts faster for you and your happy with it go for it. Great video Mike and wish Melissa a happy Mother's Day for Ann & me.
@Mike Hunt Great name!! Hey, who are you talking to? "Oh, I'm just talking to *Mike Hunt"!*
@Mike Hunt Nothing. I think it's a great name. Do you have any facial hair?.... Mike Hunt is very hairy. Or are you clean-shaven?.... Mike Hunt is nice and smooth.
Another good vid. I still have to stick to the semi chisel. I can cut a truckload and still be sharp enough to cut more. With a full chisel I have to use 2 chains per truck load. At the end of the day... more down time swapping over chains and then 2 chains to file.. but yea the hex seems cool so have to see how it sharpens.
I've learned to keep an eye on how well the oiler is working as well. More oil + longer chain and bar life. You probably already know that sir, not suggesting you don't. I just hasn't been mentioned.
Almost looks like they simplified square ground filing. If so, should be just slightly faster but last longer because of better support/more material behind the working corner. Be interesting to see if it lasts significantly longer between filings.
All the work in the wood yard looks good
I have three different filing devices the new stihl hand file some generic clamp on duel angle finding rail system that locks the file in place at the sideways and down angle and the husqvarna hand file. I think the only one that would work withe the new file would be the rail type that locks the file into position.
Great video Mike!, pretty close on the chains but I think your right on sharpening that hexa chain!. Morgans good day!.
Question 6:01 I lever my saw blade using the log-dogs rather than letting it cut straight down. Seems to be faster and easier but maybe I put too much pressure on the chain that way?
Got started on my winter wood last Thursday. 2 cords bucked, split and in the wood shed, all done with an old Poulin Pro and a 6 ton electric splittter and all done on my own. Imagine what I could get done if I used a Stihl 500I. Hahahaha.
Everyone have a wonderful day! 😃
I was a little bit disappointed that the Hexa chain was not all that much faster after the 10% gain in cutting speed as made by Stihl. Still a great new product. My how chain saws and the technology that has come along with them. A really stark contrast from what they were when I was first around them in the early 1960's. We had Homelites and thought we were in high cotton.
Mike I watched a RUclips video last year where a guy sharped his chain with a triangle file that made the chain cutting edge exactly the same. He said he learned it from a old guy that had a tree cutting service.
Not sold on the chain yet but interesting. Happy Mothers day Melissa.
I could already see the regular chain was slowing down when you started cutting up the oak to split. Red oak, burns good, splits like candy, and stinks to heaven when you split it.
Harry,
I Love the smell of Red Oak, takes all kinds!
I have question you may, or may not be able to answer. This morning when todays video popped up, I immediately hit on it to bring up the video. Below the video it said there were 18 views. I immediately clicked on the like button and it said I was the 35th person to like the video??? Do you see my dilemma? In my mind the math doesn't work out? Very informative video about the chainsaw blades. I've never gotten the knack of sharpening my own blades, Buy I see the value of the hex file on the hex blade. Especially for the occasional saw user such as myself.
Mike, All full chisel chains, from any manufacturer, will cut WOOD a little faster. They are nothing new and have been around for decades. And they're great. But the downside is that they are less tolerant when encountering anything else, like dirt embedded in the bark. That's also why you use a debaker on your saw mill. I have always run, and recommended semi chisel chains to my general customers. Also, you might want to try a carbide chain. Do you dress (file) your chain a little, often, in the field to maintain sharpness? If not, your cutting efficency goes out the window. lol Shalom/gw
Looks like a good chain, Mike. I'd like to see a comparison with a full chisel chain. I think you would like an electric bench sharpener. Thanks as always for the great videos. Shalom/gw
I’ve been asking you to do this. Glad you tested them. I’m with ya on thinking it will be easier to sharpen.
Buckin' Billy Ray has been touting the "square ground" chains for a while now.
He still seems to prefer the round grind over the square, but he admits that it is because that is what he is use to doing.
Hey, as long as it is cutting that is all that matters to me!
I am currently using my "round ground" chains due to availability, AND, my Oregon grinder that I use only once in a while on chains that may have hit rock, is for the round grinds.
But I too would like to try the square grinds.
Good evening all 10.00pm here in Melbourne, Australia
Happy Mother's Day Melissa :)
Thoroughly enjoy. Apparently I hooked up near the very beginning. Rock terminology is very regional. Here in northern Cal it is pretty much opposite of what you describe and I cringe whenever you call it "stone". All that matters is that you and your vendor agree on terminology. Go and ask them for the local terms and also ask them for estimating guides to help you determine how much you need.
Good stuff comming from STIHL my friend 👏 👍 👌 🙌 😀
Hex file stays sharper longer - 6 cutting surfaces to the normal 2. Interesting design.
Good morning Morgan’s. That chain and saw combo is awesome. Looks like warm dry weather here this week. Have a day. Wayne in Ohio.
Wayne,
Brother 😊👍
Hey friend how goes it.?? Hope all is well. Going up to my mothers house today. She always has a sons to do list.
@@waynebarnett7467,
Doing okay Wayne, lost my Mom to Cancer a few years ago. Gina and I will go to Church and they will have the Primary kids sing, should be fun.
Thanks, Mike, I appreciate the anatomy lesson on the blades as well as the comparison between. Sharpening tools is the key! Do you call the splitter WolfE? Love it!
It’s funny that they came up with this chain loggers have been doing this for quite a while for that exact reason being able to hand file quickly that’s where the time-saving comes in for the loggers
What difference in price is there Mike, for me a fire wood cutter I think I will stay with the r s chain it's a good one .thanks for the video. God bless you all and happy mother day ..
Good video, informative fair and real. The chain I like has, for some reason, fallen out of favor and is hard to find today. That would be Oregon "chipper" chain. /his could be a good alternative.
I love my yellow chain. Did not know they were new.. but they are awesome. Never going to use the green chain again :)
With speeds that close together, the next question is the price difference. average wood cutter could probably get by with the RS chain. Commercial cutting is a different story. As i cut my firewood here in the northwest, seconds aren't that crucial to me. safety first and foremost in my neck of the woods.Thanks for the demo.
Good morning to all from SE Louisiana 8 May 22.
Bill,
Brother, 😊
Old Man Fred 👍👍👍👍👍
You can tell Kubota rly loves you guys…
that difference in time can be the difference in where you were cutting in the log, you can see it has a extra knot on the last cut. i quit buying stihl chains once they jumped from 26 to 34 dollars and i can still buy a oregon for 21, i do think the stihl chain is a little better but not enough to being able to buy 5 for the same price of 8 oregon.
That new chain is definitely impressive. Thanks for the review Mike. Cool video 👍👍👍❤️
Better is better. Especially if it’s still priced competitively to their other chains
I wonder if the Stihl file tool will take the new files. Doesn't look like they do. I have two of the Stihl file tools, different sizes, they work great. They lower the rakers at the same time they sharpen the cutters.