I've had my HF sharpener for about 3 months now, sharpened about 30 chains (for myself, dad, BIL, and FIL) and thought I'd post my observations.
The pro's: The motor provides adequate power. If you bog it down you're probably trying to grind off too much too fast which isn't good anyway. The adjustments for cutter length and depth are fairly precise. I mostly do the depth by sight though. The supplied wheel is wearing very well. Even though it is constructed of plastic, the assembly is fairly stiff / shows minimal flexing.
The con's: The chain must be removed for sharpening. The vise to hold the cutter in place isn't fantastic, but it does the job...could be a lot better.
Overall, for $32 (on sale plus 20% coupon) it is a pretty decent little machine. I would buy another (and since it is HF, someday I probably will). I can put a very good edge on a 20" full comp loop in about 10 minutes (that includes removing and re-installing from the saw). I would not want to make my living with this, but for the guy making firewood for himself it is pretty not bad.
The pro's: The motor provides adequate power. If you bog it down you're probably trying to grind off too much too fast which isn't good anyway. The adjustments for cutter length and depth are fairly precise. I mostly do the depth by sight though. The supplied wheel is wearing very well. Even though it is constructed of plastic, the assembly is fairly stiff / shows minimal flexing.
The con's: The chain must be removed for sharpening. The vise to hold the cutter in place isn't fantastic, but it does the job...could be a lot better.
Overall, for $32 (on sale plus 20% coupon) it is a pretty decent little machine. I would buy another (and since it is HF, someday I probably will). I can put a very good edge on a 20" full comp loop in about 10 minutes (that includes removing and re-installing from the saw). I would not want to make my living with this, but for the guy making firewood for himself it is pretty not bad.