How To Sharpen A Machete In 5 Simple Steps

Machete is a commonly used knife and chances are you already use one. Machete can cut through a lot of things – from unwanted tree branches and hedges to farm bushes. But first, you need to know how to sharpen a machete, machetes are powerful tools due to their shape and length. The average machete is 20 to 24 inches long and about 0.2 inches thick. If your blade is dull, you can always buy a new one. But why spend money? Even if you don’t need a razor sharp edge, most people will find it more helpful to know how to sharpen a machete.

Tools to sharpen Machete:

Contents

Before learning how to sharpen a machete, you should understand the different tools to use. All of these tools can create a razor-sharp edge on your machete.

File

If you are just learning how to sharpen a machete, then a file should be the first tool you should try. This is not a specialized tool and is very easy to use. The best file to use is the shank file, which is commonly used to sharpen knife blades. This helps to hold the knife firmly and angle it, so you get the desired effect. If you don’t have a co-pilot, you can fix the machete on another surface or on your hand (only if you have experience). All you have to do is push the file through the blade over and over again.

Grinding machine

If you want a razor sharp razor, it’s best to use a sharpener. The grinder will remove any dullness and larger dents. The sharpener is also ideal if you are restoring an old machete. The only downside is that grinders are labor intensive, so it’s best to have experience using a grinder first, you’ll also want to make sure you’re in a spacious workspace. Run the machete through the grinder for an even edge. Remember that machetes get hot very easily, so dip the machete in water or use a slow sharpener. Some even say that sharpening with a grinder will damage the edge of the machete.

Grindstone

The grindstone method is also recommended for beginners. This is the classic method of sharpening a machete, which does not require much experience and requires almost no equipment. The only tool you will need is a special sharpening stone, or a normal water stone will also work. All you have to do is move the blade up and down the stone.

Dremel

The Dremel is a hand-held power tool with a knife sharpener at the end of the shaft. It sounds scary, but it’s easy enough for beginners. The only downside to this method is that it often results in an uneven edge. Set the knife aside and run Dremel horizontally across the blade.

How to sharpen Machete:

5 steps to follow:

Read more: how to regain sanity so as not to starve Now that you know your different tool options, you are ready to learn how to sharpen a machete. This whole process is very easy to learn by following simple steps.

STEP 1: Get down motion

Regardless of the tool you use, you will move the machete over the tool in the same motion. Start at the hilt and run the blade down to the head. You will want to follow the natural curve of the blade. Don’t be surprised if you have to lean forward to achieve this curve.

STEP 2: Change your face

Sharpening a machete doesn’t just involve sharpening the edge you may be cutting. You should also grind the other side. Turn the machete upside down and follow the same motion down the other side, if you’re a beginner or don’t use machetes very often, you can skip this step. That’s because grinding this side is a little bit different. The top doesn’t have much of a curve, which means you’ll have to grind it differently. But less dominant edge sharpening will produce a precise and even blade.

STEP 3: Polish the edges

Sharpening the edge gives your knife a nice, sharp tip. This movement is very easy. Start at the edge and move down a bit from the top, focusing only on getting your knife to a nice spot.

STEP 4: Polish the edge

This step is not necessary but very useful. The only downside to machete sharpening is that sometimes the process leaves imperfections. You can get rid of these imperfections by polishing the machete, specifically the edge. The best way to polish the machete is to use the wheel of the cart Read more: how to transfer minecraft world from xbox 360 to ps4 Place the edge of the machete flat against the polishing wheel and move the machete perpendicular to the wheel . Do this on both sides of the machete.

STEP 5: Check Machete

Now comes the fun part! You’ll want to test the machete to make sure the blade is sharp enough. The best way to test a machete is to cut a 2×4 knife. See if you can cut the 2×4 in half, if not, try the paper cutting trick. Run a piece of paper along the edge of the machete. If it pulls the paper instead of cutting it, you’ll need to sharpen your machete even more. Use your favorite tool and repeat steps 1-4. You can also use a diamond stone which can further sharpen the blade and edge.

How to sharpen Machete:

Time to start:

Now you know how to sharpen a machete? The process is easier than you might expect. First, choose your desired tool. Then set up your knife and start sharpening it. Sharpen both sides of the knife and the tip, if necessary, polish the knife before attempting. From here, put your machete through a few tests and see if it’s sharp enough. Examples include the 2×4 cut and the paper test. If it’s not sharp enough, repeat the steps again. Would you like more advice on choosing and storing knives? Our survival section has many knife resources that will help you. Got any tips to share on how to sharpen a machete? Sound off in the comments below. Featured photo by: Freepik