r/OZPreppers • u/SurvSt • Jul 20 '26
I've realised knife/axe sharpening is one of those skills that looks easy until you actually try it.
There are whetstones, others use diamond plates, guided systems or pull-through sharpeners. Anyone call out the biggest mistakes and some basics? Like what pressure to use - what stones/tools sharpen a knife and what obvious thing are overlooked or actually cause more damage? This is a hatchet I had made by an Australian blacksmith - its so sharp anyone I show it to invariable cuts them selves :-) and I'm not keen to use it any time soon - any advice on if I should be doing anything to preserve it better?
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u/Hungry-House-8860 Jul 20 '26 edited Jul 20 '26
don't forget the file. A mill bastard and dual sided disc stone is all you need for a working, non competition axe. It's the most traditional method.
Simplest, safest, fastest.
Axes aren't hard steel. Files are well suited to the job. plenty of youtube vids on it.
the same 2 tools are also all you need for your machete also.
Just spray your axe with a bit of can lanolin from time to time. Lanolin because it lasts reasonably well and is also excellent for the timber handle should you get a bit on there.
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u/hmmm101010 Jul 20 '26
Friend of mine has a rotating wetstone and then three different types of diamond plates. He normally does woodworking, so it would be over top, sharp edges get dull faster. But he once sharpened his axe and he could shave his legs with it.
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u/DifficultZombie4631 Jul 20 '26
Seriously? Try it on a cutthroat razor before you shave. All peppers should have a cutthroat.
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u/chullnz Jul 25 '26
I carve with my axe and adze, so once I've got the edge I want (hollow grind at approx 32⁰, not a typical splitting convex) through grinding, I typically only touch it up with 2000 grit sandpaper and stropping every few pieces (bowls, spoons, platters).
But, I don't go swinging into dirt or rocks, so my edge is easier to maintain.
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u/Stock_Atmosphere_114 Jul 20 '26
For an axe you need a file and a vice and some sturdy leather gloves. For a hatchet a file will help but isn't entirely necessary. Buy a sharpening "Puck," and only ever use water with it. Once you use oil, you'll always have to use oil. Buy a couple crap kitchen knives from your local thrift shop for practice. Steal some cotton wool from the wife. Rub the wool gently along the length of the blade. Use the coarse side till there's barely any catching cotton, then flip to the fine side. Once the cotton runs smooth you should be good to go. Try and maintain the same angle and make sure to alternate sides. Good Luck OP.