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How to Sharpen an Axe Print E-mail
Written by British Red   
Article Index
How to Sharpen an Axe
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axesharpening13.jpg
Then this is the motion you want.

Concentrate on long sweeping strokes right across the bevel 
 
axesharpening14.jpg
Don’t do lots on one side. Keep turning the axe over and working both sides evenly. Sight along the bit and make sure you are keeping it in perfect line with the haft.
axesharpening15.jpg
On both sides, keep the file strokes going down towards the haft - this will feel awkward on one side, but don't worry.

The bit, when finished, should be a bit thinner than now, an even thickness, and have no dings. It should be in a straight line as you sight along it and be in line with the haft.

Go slow and steady. You can take more off, but you can't put it back

Put your index finger on top of the file to guide it and work one way....(note where the haft is pointing 
axesharpening16.jpg
And then the other.....
Step 2 - Smoothing

axesharpening17.jpg
After cutting back, the axe will be quite rough and show file marks as shown below
axesharpening18.jpg
We need to change direction (whilst still removing metal from bit to poll). You therefore change the angle to 90 degrees from your original angle and are filing bit to poll, heel to toe - like this.


 

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