How to Sharpen and Lubricate an Ax

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A dull ax is a dangerous ax, so always make sure that it's good and sharp before you use it. There is a knack to ax sharpening and lubricating, so read these steps before you begin.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

A Vise (one attached to a surface is best)
A Medium Cut Mill File
Round ax stone
Rust inhibitor or lightweight machine oil
Very fine grade steel wool
Leather ax sheath

Step1

Make sure that the ax is clean of any dirt or debris. Secure the ax head, sharp end up, in the vise.

Step2

Hold the file against the blade. Draw the file in an upward motion going toward the blade. Lift the file off the ax each time you reach the end of the blade.

Step3

File on both sides of the blade. Make sure that you round the metal up to a sharp point. Only the very edge of the blade should be narrowed.Leave the blade surface straight - don't taper the ends.

Step4

Look for any bright areas as these are dull spots. File these until they match the rest of the filed area in shine.

Step5

Use a round ax stone with oil to put the best edge on the ax. Move the stone in circles over the edge of the blade.

Step6

Apply a rust preventative or a lightweight machine oil with a very fine grade of steel wool. This will oil the ax and protect it.

Step7

Always store your ax in a leather blade sheath. You can buy these wherever aces are sold.