Axes are a great tool to use for woodcraft. This tool is so versatile and multipurpose that it can be used for almost anything. Axes wear out relatively fast, so if you continue to use a dull one, it will lead to fatigue, then to an accident.
Sharpening an axe regularly will certainly make life easier, but it is easy to forget or lose a kit when you are heading into the forest.
Survivalists claim that you can sharpen your axe using a rock lying on the floor. Can you really sharpen an edge with a stone?
Yes , you can sharpen your axe with a rock as long as it has enough hardness to remove the metal.
If you are able to identify the stones and choose one that is the right shape, you can use it to sharpen an axe using the usual methods.
This is an amazing technique that can be added to any survival kit. It’s also a good fieldcraft for anyone. Continue reading to find out more.
The majority of sharpeners actually consist of rock
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Many people are surprised to find out that they feel they’re just out of luck when they leave their sharpening system behind, lose it, or otherwise go without it.
It is very easy to forget the traditional methods that brought us here.
For most of the history of mankind, steel was sharpened with rocks.
The experimentation was not too difficult to find out that certain rocks were sharper than others. They also sharpened more effectively when they had a specific shape, size, or other characteristic.
Soon, the rocks in question were harvested, shaped, and sold, or marketed, with a specific purpose of being used as tools for sharpening bladed knives.
Many sharpening inserts and stones in different systems are still made of natural stone.
It’s not necessary to own a powered sandpaper or diamond-grit pulley device to give your favourite, trusted tool a sharp, effective edge. All of this stuff, while nice to have, is not essential.
You can easily improve your axe with a little bit of searching, a sharp eye and the right technique.
The Natural Stone Will Not Help An Abused Axe
Be aware that you are sharpening an axe just like anyone else. There is no difference between a simple sharpening, and reconditioning it properly.
If you can sharpen an axe with any type of stone using these techniques, it is in good condition and has only been dulled by mild neglect or good use.
The techniques that I am about to show you will not help an abused, beaten down axe with a bad edge that’s been rolled or gouged, or covered in significant rust deposits.
If your axe falls under the second category, it will require some TLC before you can even restore it to its original condition.
The edge will have to be restored by restoring the profile with a file or grinder, removing any rust, and restoring a good finish.
In the wild, you can find a sharpening stone that is suitable.
You can find stones to use no matter where in the world you are or what region you’re in… if you know how! You can find some good stones in the following list.
Sandstone:sandstone can be found in many areas, and comes in different consistencies. It is also easy to break or shape to fit your requirements. Be careful when using the coarsest sandstones as they can leave grooves on your edges.
River Rockssmooth river stones, whether round or oval in shape are the best natural sharpening stones. It is easy to use, aligned easily and available in many places. With a bit of searching and experimenting you will probably be able to find one which works almost as well as the sharpener that you forgot at home.
Granitegranite can be used to sharpen knives in the field. Many varieties are similar to those found in kits.
Quartz:quartz works like the fine or very-fine stone that comes in sharpening kits. It can be difficult to find a large enough piece to complete the task, and to remove it without damaging it. However, the end result is usually well worth the effort.
Characteristics to Look for: No matter the type of rock you have available or your specific needs, choose one that has a size and shape to suit you. This will make it easier and more efficient to do the work.
The rock should be large enough for you to have some distance from the blade, so that you do not endanger yourself. A flat, or almost flat surface for sharpening is best. This should be backed by a domed or round side to grip.
The Right Technique Is Essential
Once you’ve found the stone that suits your needs, it’s time to sharpen. This task is similar to using a handheld sharpener. However, you won’t have the convenience of a workbench.
Start by finding a place where you can deck the head of your axe or hold it in another way to increase stability.
You can sharpen a large boulder, log or tree stump with your hands, although it is more difficult and less repeatable.
If you own a pair of gloves, you should put them on the hand that will be holding the stone. You can also use your fingertips to ensure that you are not touching the edges of the stone.
You only need to move the stone from the edge towards the pole or opposite bit of an axe when it has two bits.
You may need to make 20-50 passes on your edge before you flip it over to repeat the process.
To ensure uniformity, maintain pressure on the edges and use the same pattern.
Sharpening an axe in heavy field use is a controversial topic. An angle between 20deg to 30deg is probably ideal.
Your axe will be in perfect splitting condition again after a few repetitions!
Alternate Technique
If you’re not having success, you can try repeating the above process but instead of making a single stroke with the stone in one direction you could make smaller swirls and circles on the edges before continuing the same procedure.
This technique is said to help reduce user error, sharpen the edges and remove any imperfections or irregularities.
The conclusion of the article is:
It is not an urban legend that you can sharpen your axe by using a rock. This technique has been around for centuries.
Success is dependent on understanding the proper manual sharpening techniques and selecting a stone that suits your task. Some homework and some practice can pay off.