The importance of a sharp ax
Having a sharp ax means that users can do more with it and with less effort compared to a blunt ax. An ax that is not sharp will not bite when it hits wood, resulting in a bounce or deflection.
In addition, an ax with dull blades makes the task even more difficult and, in the worst case, could cause serious injury. Buying one of the best ax sharpening tools allows users to sharpen the ax at home and have it ready when it’s time to go outside.
Tools needed to sharpen an ax, including the best whetstone for axes
Before I go on to tell which is the best ax sharpener, it is important to note that sharpening tools for mauls may vary slightly from axes, and you can read about the difference between a mallet and an ax to understand why.
There are various tools available for sharpening axes and axes, and some of them can even sharpen knives. The words axes and axes are often confused with each other, due to their similar functionality, but there are key differences between the two tools (differences between an ax and a hatchet) – article title).
Ax sharpeners can be a whetstone, scourer, file, or grinder, where a file is the most commonly used tool for sharpening an ax, especially one with an extremely dull edge. Regardless of the type you use, it is a good idea to learn how to store shafts to avoid frequent sharpening (how to store shafts).
A stone is good for sharpening smaller size edges and is also very portable, making it easy to carry on the road. Grinders are often an excellent choice when looking to sharpen two-sided shafts, and a scourer can be used for the final stages of sharpening.
How to sharpen an ax or ax with a file?
Before sharpening an ax, it is important to take the necessary safety measures, since the process involves working with a sharp blade.
Start by paying attention to the bevel or angle of the end of the bit, because the thickness angle differs across the entire edge of the blade.
For example, most shafts have a 15 to 20 degree angle approximately ½ inch from the cutting tip and a 30 to 40 degree angle to the end of the bit. Note that the bulge that is slightly off the edge is the part that gives the ax its cutting power.
When sharpening the ax at home, it is recommended to hold the ax for safety, something that might not be possible in the field. Once the ax is clamped on an edge-up mounted video, grab an aggressive file and remove any burrs or nicks that are present.
Use the file by stroking it downwards, making several strokes on each side of the edge. The following image illustrates the approximate angle to hold the file as it passes over the edge.
Make sure to alternate sides to ensure all chips and dents are removed and the result is a gleaming steel arch. Pay close attention when filing towards the edge of the ax, as a slight mistake can cause a large cut.
It is always a good idea to wear a pair of cut resistant safety gloves. Here is a video tutorial to focus an axis with a file. This range of gloves is useful in a number of other situations as long as you when buying the right pair of safety gloves (Safety Gloves Buying Guide – 2000+ Words).
Sharpen an ax or ax with an ax sharpening stone
If there is a whetstone and some lubricant on hand, such as water or oil, it is easy to use both together to sharpen an ax. Here are some expert advice on how to use a sharpening stone the correct shape for knives and other blade tools, and is a must read, especially if you are familiar with using an ax sharpening stone.
IN Sharpening stone offers several benefits (benefits of sharpening stones), and it has two sides: a thinner side and a thick side, which is the side that needs to be lubricated with oil or water.
Now place the tip of the ax head on the stone and make sure it matches the angle of the bevel. Next, apply light pressure and move the ax head in small circles, while noting the number of strokes, and repeat this process from one side of the ax to the other.
At this point, some paste will probably be generated, which should not be cleaned. Once a pass is completed after moving back and forth to the starting point, flip the ax over and apply the same process to this side of the ax blade and with the same number of strokes.
Now that the ax has received the course side treatment, apply the lubricant on the fine side of the stone and perform the same steps as on the course side 2-3 times. The head of the ax should now be razor sharp, and its sharpness can be tested by running a fingernail along the blade.
Video tutorial on sharpening ax with whetstone.
Why is a bench grinder one of the best tools for sharpening axes?
Bench grinders are considered one of the best tools for sharpening axes, and it is important to wear safety equipment when using them. If you don’t own a bench grinder, read our detailed bench grinder buying guide (for this article I was thinking of doing a full style review with buying guide because there are so many models to cover) to buy the best model.
Start by turning on the bench grinder and matching the angle of the bevel to the grinding wheel, while applying light pressure when polishing.
Make sure there is a bucket or tub of water on hand to wet the ax head to cool it down and preserve its temper. Repeat the same process for the other side of the sheet, and lastly clean the edges with a wire brush for that sharp edge.
Sharpening an ax with a disc, also known as an ax blade sharpener
The contoured shape of a disc makes it an ideal choice for sharpening a wide range of blades, including axes, lawnmowers, axes, shovels, and other cutting and chipping tools. First, place the ax in an upright position with the blade facing up.
Lubricate the thick side of the disc, and then work in small circles on one side of the blade, and do not wipe away the paste that builds up. Repeat this process on the other side as well. At this point, the blade should be sharp enough to cut paper.
Now, to sharpen the ax to cut hard logs of wood, apply lubricant to the thin side of the disc and repeat the same steps as the course side about 3 or 4 times. If the correct sharpening technique has been used, the ax is ready to go into the field. Quick Video Tutorial for Disc Sharpening.
What to look for in the best ax sharpening kit?
Before using any type of sharpening tool, it is advisable to take the necessary precautions to avoid injury. In addition, it is also important that you buy the right tool for the job, such as chainsaws for cutting dense wood (This may be a product review article on chainsaws – 3,000+ words.
There are a few factors to consider when shopping for the best ax and ax sharpener, in particular:
To sharpen stones and discs, it is good to buy one that has a two-sided grain: clear on one and fine on the other. In addition to this and regardless of the type of tool, it is a good idea to buy a larger size, especially for sharpening large shafts.
The multipurpose sharpeners allow you to sharpen axes and other tools such as kitchen knives, scissors, hunting knives and others with blades. If you buy a multipurpose ax sharpener, make sure it rests on a sturdy base to prevent it from tipping over.