HOW TO SHARPEN A FIXED BLADE KNIFE
A fixed blade knife is an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist. However, even the best quality fixed blade knives require regular sharpening to maintain their effectiveness. Sharpening a knife is not difficult, but it does require patience, practice, and the right tools. In this blog post, we will discuss how to sharpen a fixed blade knife, step by step.
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools
Before you begin sharpening your knife, you will need to gather some essential tools. These include:
Sharpening stone (e.g., diamond, ceramic, or water stone)
Honing oil or water (depending on the type of sharpening stone you are using)
A towel or rag to wipe the knife blade clean
A sharpening guide (optional but recommended)
Step 2: Prepare the sharpening stone
The next step is to prepare the sharpening stone for use. Depending on the type of sharpening stone you are using, you will either need to apply honing oil or water to the stone. Honing oil is typically used with diamond and ceramic sharpening stones, while water is used with water stones.
Step 3: Position the knife blade on the sharpening stone
Place the sharpening stone on a stable surface, such as a table or workbench. Hold the knife by the handle and place the blade at a 20-degree angle to the stone. You can use a sharpening guide to help maintain a consistent angle throughout the sharpening process.
Step 4: Start sharpening the blade
Using a light pressure, draw the blade across the sharpening stone, from the heel of the blade to the tip, while maintaining a consistent angle. Start with the coarsest grit of the sharpening stone and work your way to the finest grit. Repeat this process several times until you have a sharp edge on the blade.
Step 5: Hone the blade
Once you have sharpened the blade, it's time to hone it. Honing helps to refine and polish the edge, making it even sharper. Using the finest grit of the sharpening stone, draw the blade across the stone several times while maintaining a consistent angle.
Step 6: Clean the blade
After sharpening and honing the blade, use a towel or rag to wipe the blade clean. This will remove any metal particles or debris that may have accumulated during the sharpening process.
In conclusion, sharpening a fixed blade knife is a simple process that requires patience, practice, and the right tools. By following these steps, you can keep your fixed blade knife sharp and ready for any outdoor adventure or survival situation. Remember to take your time and maintain a consistent angle throughout the sharpening process, and always exercise caution when handling a sharp knife.
Northern Survivalist