Machete Sharpening

[riverworld]

Having trouble using a basic SharpMaker set to sharpen a humble machete. I am following the user guide instructions for kinves. Any suggestions as to how to best accomplish this task? Always great results before this time.



riverworld

[Sword and Shield]

Hi, riverworld! Welcome to Spydieland!<img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

I would use sandpaper and a block of wood to sharpen a thick blade like a machete. Fix a piece of sandpaper to a block of wood, then sharpen blade like you would on a regular stone.

100 grit, then 200 and 240 tends to work very nicely on working edges. Good luck! <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

Keepin' it real...real sharp, that is.

Edited by - Sword and Shield on 9/16/2001 2:31:51 PM

[Michael Janich]

Dear Riverworld:

I like to clamp my machetes to a bench so the edge just hangs over the front of the bench. Then get a fine flat mill file (longer ones work best) with a handle. Take the handle off and cut a disk of 1/4-inch plywood about 4-6 inches in diameter. Drill a hole in the center large enough to go over the tang of the file. Place the disk on, then replace the handle. The disk will now act as a hand guard to keep you from cutting your hand.

Now gently file the edge of the machete in a series of push strokes until you cover the entire edge. Flip the machete over and repeat the process on the other side. This should give you a sharp edge with a pronounced burr.

Clamp your Sharpmaker in a vise so you can work the machete with both hands and sharpen the blade in sections as you would a regular knife. This should produce good results.

Stay safe,

mike j

[riverworld]

Thanks to Sword and Shield and Michael.

I will try the tips the first chance that I get.

riverworld

[riverworld]

Thanks to Sword and Shield and Michael.

I will try the tips the first chance that I get.

riverworld