How do you guys sharpen axes?

[darksidedsam]

Hi all ...

i hit a problem my axe is getting very blunt and i am not able to chop down trees anymore with it, thus no more bowmaking until i can sharpen it..

i got a flat oil stone and i got 3 in 1 oil

but i dont really know how to use it i dont ever seem to have much luck with it..

the oil stone is 8" long and has got a really course side and a smoother side..

any help would be nice?

[Pete W]

I just use a file. If you want a finer edge use the coarse stone then the finer stone after you file the initial edge.
 Use the stone just as if you are sharpening a knife.

[darksidedsam]

you use a file a?

what kind of a file?

[Flesner]

I use a 10 or 12 inch mill file. Does quick work and leaves a fairly clean edge. I've never found that I needed to stone it after the file.

[darksidedsam]

i am using a needle file .. its taking its time but it is working!

[john gerrard]

If you can find an old Boy Scout handbook I believe they had pretty good directions. Brokenwing

[darksidedsam]

it getting fairly sharp but not sharp enough to cut paper..

[Crooked Stic]

File it then use the stone if you want to shave with it.

[sidebuster]

Check this tool I found on the internet.
 http://gardenshoponline.com/toolcare/rotarymowertoolsharpener.html

[Falk]

I use a disc grinder (?word) with some 80-120 grit 'paper' on a rubber disc - with good advantage and no problems. You have just to be carefull not to 'burn out' the edge. My grinder has adjustable RPM - so it's easy.
A file does a good job for finishing touches.

[Dryrot]

I much prefer a good 18" medium duty chainsaw.  

[Onestringer]

I agree with Dryrot.  CHAINSAW.

[Voodoofire1]

I use a 4 1/2" angle grinder with a flapwheel, works great and gets it shaving sharp very, very fast.

[Falk]

Yes - I suppose thats what I wanted to say - I mean - "angle grinder and flapwheel" - thanks Voodoofire  

[Ken999]

http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/fspubs/99232823/index.htm  

I also use a mouse pad and wet/dry sandpaper on my hatchets.

 http://www.mhcable.com/~yocraft/sosak/convex.htm

[Gordy]

Chainsaw is my first choice too, but for an axe a mill file works great.
Try your best to hold an angle and stroke with one hand while rotating the axe head with the other.

Never tried chopping paper or shaving with my axe, but it will cut wood just fine.    :D