[Pepper]

What would be the best way to sharpen an Axe?

[Libertarian]

I use an axe sharpener!

[Libertarian]

Seriously, I use a file and stroke toward the body of the blade. I hold the file at about a 30 degree angle to the axis of the blade to get a good edge on it.

http://www.scoutingresources.org.uk/camping_axe.html

http://members.tripod.com/~toveza/campnotes.html

[Pepper]

Should I put any type of oil on it?

[Libertarian]

oiling the metal is a good idea during storage but for sharpening it isn't necessary. See the two links I just added to my first post. (You could use some oil during the round stone part but it isn't necessary.)

[Libertarian]

Be really careful while stroking the blade with the file thatyour hand does not follow through and hit the blade. I have seen several severe cuts made while sharpening axes and machetes.

Also: you can use a dremel or grinding wheel to sharpen your axe if you have one handy. Be careful not to heat the edge too much or you will soften the edge.

[SmartAZ]

An axe is made of soft steel, that's why you use a file. A knife is made of hard steel, so you use a stone. The edge of the axe has a wider angle than a knife, and there are (theoretically) three angles to it. Just follow the angles you see and it will be ok.

Everybody has their favorite ways of sharpening, and words to describe what they are doing. Search google and you will find a method that suits you. The bottom line is you need to sharpen an axe yourself, but you should pay someone to sharpen your knives for you.

[hummer]

Pepper. I have always used files to sharpen mine.......depending on how dull I have let it get, I first may use a little more coarser file......then a fine file. It is a great meditation activity.....as long as you watch what you are doing :) . hummer

[Hamilton Felix]

I've used a Mill Bastard file and put a shaving sharp edge on an axe. I sometimes use a power grinder. I've used a handheld right angle grinder. I like my belt grinder. If the axe has been "rocked," and has "rock hardened" spots, hit it with the grinder or an old (sacrificial) file before attacking it with your good file.

Stones work. Even various types of sandpaper placed on a flat surface can work. Be careful, and keep your tools sharp. :yes:

[Pepper]

Thanks all for the advice. What got this all started is, I found an old ax in the barn. I decided I would like to try to learn to sharpen it. I'm going to give it a whirl. And I will be careful.

Pepper

[FrmlyZ]

I use files but I remember learning this from my grandfather. He used a wheel. It was a wet wheel [included several different stones]. Slopped cooling water every where. I actually have it in the barn. When I get time I will dig it out and set it up. You power it with your feet. :D

Best Wishes,,,,,

Z

[Kimber]

Only use a file if you need to work out some nicks, or if you need to re-shape the axe. You may find that you don't need to, depending upon it's condition.

Your should also get a couple round axe sharpening stones. One of the better ones is made by Lansky and called "The Puck." Here's one link, so you can see what it it looks like.

http://www.wholesalers-direct.com/4180113.html

Also, you may want to download the following pdf (in several parts)

UDSA, Forest Service Trail Construction Publications
- "An Ax to Grind"
http://www.sctrails.net/Trails/LIBR...ubs/fspubs.html

[Renegade]

....... but you should pay someone to sharpen your knives for you.

Sorry SmartAZ, maybe it's the redneck in me, but that has to be the funniest, most ridiculous thing I've ever heard of.:lol: My Grandpa would roll over in his grave if I paid someone to sharpen my knives!

Then again....maybe you're on to something!! How much do people pay for that?? Hmm....maybe I could start me a mailorder business!! So much per inch of blade plus a flat fee for return postage.

Anyway, back to thread topic...

Pepper, if you do use any kind of power grinder, be sure not to heat the metal up. An axe is no different than any other cutting tool. The ability for a cutting tool to "hold" an edge is directly proportional to the hardness of the steel. If you must use a grinder, then keep it short duration.