logicalScienceIsSexy
707
16
2
My task is to fix up my dad's hatchet which, once upon a time, you could shave your arm with.
I am asking imgur's bladesmiths for tips on how to re-edge knives and axes to razor sharp.
Tools available: various sharpening stones (handheld), steel honing rod, course and fine sides of a leather strop.
Typically, I can maintain factory edges well, but developing one from scratch is another game.
jimfalconer611
Bastard file and a lotta elbow grease. I prefer a double bevel so the point is super sharp but widens out to a more sturdy thickness
Firegod86
Bastard file, 30° angle, work from inside to edge evenly, both sides. You can go sharper with stones but it will dull quickly.
69thStPepper
Start coarse as possible until you smooth those nicks, then work your way up. Strope last. Castrating a gnat is optional
workchick
First get a doohickey, then use it with the thingamabob. Be careful about the whatsit.
DeviatedPrevert
i always used a steel file, but it is for chopping wood so I wouldn't worry about being too exact
OmegaYeti
Start with a file, gotta get the steel back beyond those dings. Use the stones to clean up the scratches the files puts in it.