Mastering the art of sharpening your axe with a whetstone is an essential skill for any outdoor enthusiast or woodworker. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring your axe stays razor-sharp and ready for action.
Choosing the Right Whetstone
Compared to using a file or grinder, whetstone sharpening is gentler on the blade’s edge. It allows you to achieve a finer edge with less risk of overheating the metal.
Plus, whetstones are portable, making them ideal for field sharpening during camping trips or outdoor work.
Selecting the appropriate whetstone is crucial for effective axe sharpening. Here’s what you need to know:
Types of Whetstones
- Water stones: These stones use water as a lubricant and are known for fast cutting action.
- Oil stones: Traditionally used with honing oil, these stones are durable and maintain their flatness well.
- Natural vs. synthetic stones: Natural stones offer a unique cutting feel, while synthetic stones provide consistent performance.
When choosing a whetstone for your axe, consider the following:
- The axe’s current condition: Heavily damaged axes may require starting with a coarser grit.
- Axe steel hardness: Match the stone hardness to your axe’s steel for optimal results.
- Desired finish: Balance the speed of material removal with the level of polish you want to achieve.
Preparing for the Sharpening Process
Before you begin sharpening, gather these essential tools and materials:
- Your chosen whetstone
- Honing oil or water (depending on stone type)
- Cleaning supplies (cloth, brush)
- Safety equipment (cut-resistant gloves, eye protection)
- Axe securing method (vice or hands-free holder)
Set up your workspace in a stable, well-lit area. Organize your tools and materials within easy reach. Ensure you have proper body positioning for comfort and control during the sharpening process.
Sharpening Technique
Now you’re ready to begin putting an edge on your axe with the whetstone.
Start with a 120-220 grit stone. This will remove any nicks or damage and establish the initial edge (ref).
The most critical factor is maintaining a consistent angle between the stone and axe head. For an axe, this should be between 25-30 degrees on each side. A slightly shallower angle of 25 degrees will give you a sharper but more delicate edge, while a steeper angle over 30 degrees is stronger but doesn’t slice as efficiently.
Using small, controlled circular motions, work the stone over just 1-2mm of the edge at a time. Focus on keeping your movements tight and applying moderate downward pressure. Let the abrasiveness of the stone do the work rather than bearing down too forcefully, which can damage the edge.
Work one side of the axe until you can feel a slight burr form along the entire edge. This thin strip of raised metal indicates that you’ve sharpened that side adequately. Then flip the axe over and repeat the process on the other side until a burr forms there as well.
Once you have established the initial edge with the 120-220 grit stone, progress to a 400-600 grit stone to refine the edge. Continue alternating sides, using lighter pressure and fewer strokes than with the 120-220 grit stone.
Finally, use a 1000 grit stone to polish the edge and remove the burr. Make a few light passes from toe to heel on each side of the axe. At this point, your axe should be razor-sharp and ready for use.
Checking for Sharpness
But how can you tell if you’ve adequately sharpened your axe? There are a few quick tests you can perform to check the edge.
First, look closely at the edge under good lighting. The entire bevel should be shiny and even, with no dull or nicked spots remaining. If you see any inconsistencies, go back and work those areas again with the fine grit stone.
Next, use your thumbnail to gently test the sharpness. Place the edge against your nail at a 45 degree angle and slightly push in. If the edge bites and doesn’t slip, it’s sharp. If it glides across your nail without digging in, it still needs some work.
Finally, carefully try slicing a piece of paper with the axe. A properly sharpened edge will cut cleanly and smoothly through the sheet. If it tears roughly or stops partway through, continue honing with the fine stone.
Maintaining Your Edge
Congratulations, you’ve put a wicked sharp edge on your axe! To keep it in top shape, a bit of regular upkeep is required.
- After each use, take a few light passes on each side of the edge with your fine grit stone. This quick touch up will help maintain the edge alignment and sharpness over time.
- When storing your axe, always use a sheath or blade cover to protect the vulnerable edge. Unprotected axe heads can easily get dinged or chipped from contacting other tools.
- Coating the axe head in a thin layer of protective oil will prevent rust and corrosion from slowly dulling the edge. A light machine oil or even vegetable oil will work in a pinch.
With practice and patience, anyone can use a whetstone to put a razor sharp edge on their axe that will make chopping and splitting a breeze. The keys are maintaining a consistent sharpening angle, using progressive grits, and carefully checking your work as you go.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.