How to Hand Sharpen a Clipper Blade

Sharpening a clipper blades takes only a few minutes if you buy a sharpening stone, which can be found in almost any hardware store. Follow these steps to learn how.

Things You'll Need

• Clippers
• Sharpening stone
• Hand pliers or wrench

Instructions

1. Open the clipper blades as wide as possible. Unscrew and separate the blades, if possible, to make sharpening easier.

2. Hold the clipper blade in one hand with the pointed edge away from you. Hold the sharpening stone in the other hand.

3. Hold the sharp edge of the blade at a 45-degree angle to the sharpening stone and place the edge against the stone.

4. Draw the clipper blade toward you, maintaining the same angle in a consistent stroke.

5. Continue until the clipper blade shines from the sharpened edge, then test by running it across a piece of paper, which should slice easily.

6. Repeat the process with the other clipper blade.

7. Reassemble the clipper blades and tighten the assembly with pliers or a wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Always draw the blade toward you when sharpening, with the pointed end away from your body. Don't push a blade across a sharpening stone.

References

• Reader's Digest Blade-Sharpening Guide
• Information on Sharpening Hand-Pruners, Lawn Tools