Any metal tool loses much usability if it can’t boast a sharp edge. We can entrust the use of it to experts or take on this task ourselves, provided that we equip ourselves with the right equipment.
Depending on our level of sophistication, we can use different combinations of stones and sharpeners to give sharpness. All of the following are great for sharpening knives, pruners and shears. Special oval stones or low-speed mechanical sharpeners will be more suitable to give sharpeners axes, shovels, hoes and forks. With a little practice, however, you can also do it using the solutions listed below.
Material
Sharpeners can be made of steel, minerals, ceramics and contain diamond elements. They differ from each other in properties, as well as granularity . The higher it is, the more accurate the sharpening will be, but it will take us more time and will require more precision. For smoothing and leveling defects we will use a sharpener with a granulation between 150 and 280, while the proper sharpening will be made with models up to 500. Above this number we are dealing with precise sharpening and polishing. Ceramic models have two levels of granulation , diamond can have even several. The most expensive sharpeners will be useful only if we use tools professionally and our maintenance depends on their sharpness. Less advanced solutions are enough for everyday use.
Stone sharpeners
Also called water stones – a sharpening technique derived from Japan, which has gained the recognition of both professionals and amateurs. For use they require immersion in water, we can also replace it with a special oil. They usually appear in two-sided versions, with different gradations. The diamond ones will also be used to sharpen ceramic knives.
liners
For the most advanced users will find them in meat processing and in butcher . They are fast and effective, but require practice.
Kitchen sharpeners
They are only suitable for narrow blades and are by far the easiest to use. Just insert the tool into the gap, drag a few times and it’s ready. Safe and intuitive .
Edging sharpeners
For all larger and bulky tools, including garden ones. If the sharpener is quite wide , you can also sharpen an ax or spade.
Rod sharpeners
The station with angled rods will require familiarity with this device and manual skills , but we can sharpen practically any blade with it – quickly and efficiently.
Portable sharpeners
Rather for use in field and camping conditions, they are not suitable for sharpening tools except for small knives or hooks.
Sharpening systems
A comprehensive solution covering various types of sharpeners. They give effects at the level of water stones, they have a whole set of grinding surfaces for different blades .
Homemade ways
If everything else fails or we don’t have a professional solution on hand, the old, proven methods remain. Most metal tools can be sharpened on stone , provided that we do it with sliding, small movements at an acute angle. Knives can also be sharpened to the bottom of a porcelain cup .
After finishing sharpening, wash the blade with water and wipe with a dry cloth.