Tool Sharpening – Here is what you need to get started
- Old Toothbrush or Similar Brush, Steel Wool
- Soapy Water
- Sharpening Stone or File
- Serrated Knife Sharpener
- Lubricating Oil
- Dry Cloth
Important – It is best to sharpen Stainless Steel often before it becomes extremely dull and more difficult to regain a sharp edge. A few quick strokes when you notice your blade starting to dull and you will never be without a sharp edge.
I recommend using the DMT Diamond File Sets and the DMT Serrated Knife Sharpener or similar sharpeners from other brands. Diamond files seem to be much easier and quicker, especially for beginners than a traditional sharpening stone.
Thoroughly clean the blade of any plant sap and residue build up with the toothbrush and soapy water. For really sticky material use a solvent and/or steel wool to clean the stainless steel. Dry the blade once clean.
FLAT EDGE – Take your file or stone, and only on the beveled edge of the blade, file all the way along the blade away from you in one direction. With slight pressure, file repeatedly, slow and easy at nearly the same angle as the beveled edge.
The edge should start to shine as the old metal is shaved off. Do not file back and forth. After the edge is sharp, pass the file once on the under side of the blade to clean off any metal burrs.
SERRATED EDGE – Match the diameter of the cone on the serrated knife sharpener to the size of the serration on your knife. Serrated knife sharpeners are usually tapered to match the different serration sizes.
With the sharpener in one hand and the knife in the other, use a few short, soft, back and forth strokes to sharpen the beveled edge of each individual serration.
Keep the sharpener near perpendicular to the beveled edge. After a few light strokes, feel for a burr on the underside of the knife. Once you can feel the burr move on to the next serration.
Once all the serrations are sharp, pass the file once on the under side of the blade to clean off any metal burrs.
Wipe the knife off and give it a light oil.
Store it in a dry safe place and it is ready to use for the next job!