How to Sharpen a Cane Knife

Regular sharpening of your cane knife will prevent damage to the edge of your knife caused by cane abrasion. It will also allow easy cane removal without the need to apply a great deal of pressure. A sharp cane knife should be able to cut your fingernail upon contact. If pressure is required, your knife is not sharp enough. Fortunately, knowing how to sharpen a cane knife will enable you to protect your knife and save your strength when cutting reeds and cane.

Things You'll Need

• Sharpening stone Measuring stick or tape

Instructions

1. Place one side of your cane knife against the sharpening stone at a 10-degree angle. You can use a measuring tape or stick to assist you if needed. Your cane knife should be placed so that the burr is on the "wrong" side. Pull the cane knife toward your body, with the edge first.

2. Continue sharpening your cane knife in this direction until you are able to feel the burr emerge from the entire length of your cane knife. The burr should be felt with your fingertips on the side that is not against the sharpening stone.

3. Turn your cane knife over and pull it across the sharpening stone, away from your body. The blade should be positioned at 45 degrees against the stone. This motion should continue until you feel the burr emerge across the entire length of the blade.

4. Repeat Steps 1 to 3, alternating sides of your cane knife, until you have obtained the desired sharpness.

5. Lay your cane knife flat against the sharpening stone. Alternate pulling and pushing your knife perpendicular to the stone in an up and down motion. This motion sheers the burr of your cane knife and compresses the points of the burr. Use only a tiny amount of pressure to avoid damaging the points.

Tips & Warnings

• Sharpen your cane knife regularly to avoid damage to the shape of your knife-edge. Cane is very abrasive, and regular sharpening will prevent permanent damage from occurring.

• Avoid grinding your cane knife in a circular or figure-eight pattern. These motions may appear impressive, but they can result in significant damage to the blade of your cane knife.