sharping stones for Axe

[RetiredUSNChief]

In my experience, axes can tend to be tempered fairly soft and you can easily sharpen them with a good file.

This.

Axes, hatches, machetes, corn knives, etc. are made from relatively soft steel which makes them easy to maintain in the field. Just carry a file and give them a few strokes when needed.

 

[ApacheCoTodd]

Not being a smart ass, I really would like to know: how is it that you are likely to cut yourself sharpening something heavy?

Probably an issue of the uninitiated moving the axe-head rather than the stone as they would a knife. Then, the heavier axe head with it's geometry-queering handle can conspire through momentum and leverage to set things adrift if not paying the strictest attention. My deduction anyhow.

One of the reasons I don't like "puck" stones is seeing too many fellas lay their palms open not paying attention even when properly moving the stone rather than the axe.

Another reason that I only draw-file. My fleshy-bits need never be anywhere near the mean end of the axe-head.

Todd.

 

[Obturation]

Not being a smart ass, I really would like to know: how is it that you are likely to cut yourself sharpening something heavy? I know I could easily find out since I am pretty klutzy, but forewarned is forearmed, and I'd prefer that to being one-armed. My ax sits out on the block by the woodpile and gets sharpened on the bench grinder, if that gives you an idea what kind of hack is asking...

Because when I sharpen a knife I hold the knife by the handle , when I sharpen a knife or hatchet the edge stays stationary and the tool is moved across the edge. Well it's obviously not intentional but a momentary brain fart and something squishy gets drug against the edge. The only place I ever get it is on the heel of my palm . I fully admit it's user error, just how I do it though. I wouldn't sharpen anything on a grinder, it's ok in a pinch but it's easy to booger up the edge and also change the temper by overheating . yes, I've sharpened knives ect. on a grinder but it's not ideal

 

[rust collector]

I am not sure if Todd does it this way, but it may help to understand the process. I plan to give it a try.

 

[RetiredUSNChief]

I'd also like to point out how using a file with a handle attached is a REALLY good idea.

It's a good idea for any use, but especially for sharpening because it gives you a much better grip and control... not to mention a handle to intercept the blade edge of you slip or over stroke.

 

[ApacheCoTodd]

I am not sure if Todd does it this way, but it may help to understand the process. I plan to give it a try.

Just so!
Keep in mind that the excessive metal being removed is due to truing up an edge the first time - more or less - and is not necessarily repeated each time it is sharpened afterwards.

That is an excellent video.

In the woods, I set the head against a surface perpendicular to me and the handle goes back against my upper body. With practice - and very much as in the video - you can hold an axe or hatchet head in one hand and use that hand as the pivot as well to draw in the arcing manner he shows.

Todd.

 

[StrawHat]

In the field I use a file. Back in the shop, a slow speed belt sander.

That fellow in the video needs to learn how to use a file. First thing is put a handle on it. Doesn’t have to be store bought but without a handle he is going to have a sore hand.

Kevin

 

[rust collector]

In the field I use a file. Back in the shop, a slow speed belt sander.

That fellow in the video needs to learn how to use a file. First thing is put a handle on it. Doesn’t have to be store bought but without a handle he is going to have a sore hand.
Kevin

If you look closely, you will see that the file wears a ball-shaped handle. I have not encountered these, but it seems useful when acting as a pivot as in the video.

 

[StrawHat]

If you look closely, you will see that the file wears a ball-shaped handle. I have not encountered these, but it seems useful when acting as a pivot as in the video.

I have to admit, I did not watch the whole video. A ball or knob handle is interesting. I use corn cobs cut or broken to length. Easy to mount and inexpensive.

Kevin

 

[rust collector]

I tried the drawfile technique on an old Plumb hatchet and it worked well for me.
I noted in another thread that I liked the Marbles hatchet that was made in El Salvador. While mine has been around awhile and some specs may have changed, I see that Smoky Mtn has them on sale as of Dec 28, 2020. https://www.smkw.com/marbles-camp-a...-Email&utm_content=20190104_Jan-Catalog-Email For $16, you could do a lot worse.