Start by working the outermost edge of the cutting bevel. This permanent marker trick makes it easier to visualize the steel you are removing. This makes it much easier to see the steel that has been removed. You will notice the coloring being removed as you start using your stone or puck to get a good axe edge. Color in as much of the beveled edge as possible. Use a permanent marker to discolor the blade’s beveled edge (see photo). The author demonstrates how to use a sharpening puck on the beveled edge. This isn’t easy to do at times, so there is a straightforward way to visualize the material that needs to be removed. To sharpen the beveled edge evenly, use the same number of strokes on one side as the other. I prefer to use circular strokes on the bevel to remove the steel more uniformly along that edge. Use the puck to remove the sharpening bevel on the axe. You should expect to do this regularly in the field when using an axe. Medium grit grinding is used when an axe has become dull after using it for the tasks for which it was designed. You will only need the medium-grit side when an axe is appropriately used in the field. It is easy to grip and has a coarse side for removing a lot of steel and a medium-grit side for finishing your cutting edge. The one seen below is an ideal sharpening tool. The best way to sharpen an axe in the field is to use a sharpening puck or stone. I am going to cover each in this article: There are three common reasons to sharpen an axe. I first want to focus on an axe that is regularly being used and not one that has been neglected. Once you assemble those tools, it is time for learning how to sharpen an axe. Craig Caudill Craig Caudill Getting Started in Sharpening an Axe The author’s collection of axe sharpening tools. Honing Strop and Compound: A leather strop is a must for that last bit of fine-tuning.Dual-Grit Sharpening Puck: This should go everywhere your axe goes because it is easy to use in the field or at home on the workbench.Coarse Grit Sandpaper: Used to remove stubborn rust.Steel Wool or Scrubbing Pad: On neglected axes, you can use these to remove light rust before sharpening.You will need it to remove ample steel when needed. Bastard File: This is a file closer to coarse than fine.Suitable Work Gloves: Accidents happen, and gloves can help in the event there is a surprise slip.Table of ContentsĪ few tools will make your work easy and help you to effectively sharpen an axe: If you understand these principles of how to sharpen an axe, and make them your own with ample practice, you will have a highly effective tool to meet your needs. Even though there are multiple ways to get an axe sharp, a few underlying principles are helpful. The best way to sharpen an axe is the way you feel comfortable doing it. Learning how to sharpen an axe is key to safe and efficient work, whether you are cutting wood for the fire or limbing trees for habitat management. One of the sweetest sounds (and feelings) in the outdoors is when a sharpened axe splits cleanly through the wood you are cutting with it. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
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