How to sharpen a Machete.....need info

[ThePap]

i would like to see those pics, i sometimes need pictures! or coloring books

[Lungbustr]

Can't beat the work sharp for a machete.

[tvc184]

I use a regular old b a s tard file from Lowes. Works like a champ.

That is the only way that I sharpen them and have gotten them nearly to shaving.

The trick is not to saw the blade back and forth but the draw file it. It is easy to hold the same angle and make it very sharp, very fast.

I am not knocking the other mechanical methods but a regular sharp file can really do the job if you know the method.

[JPoole]

I use a metal file then follow up with a regular stone, at one point I had mine almost near hair cutting sharp. Granted that isn't very practical as it makes it easier for you to cut yourself, regardless I wanted to see how sharp I could get it.

[Beleg]

It's called a Mill file. It's Fine as opposed to a course cut.

[Iehooligan11b]

Work sharp

[Winman]

so I take it use the double first and single second?

Pick up a 10in mill smooth file and you will be set...as previously stated...you don't need to shave with a machete,just cut brush...

[ThePap]

How about this one? Like i said y'all, i know nada about files. Thanks for all of the input everybody.

[tex4k]

You don't need to shave with a machete or an axe, but the sharper they are the better and easier they'll cut.

[HNT ETX]

Yep, just a plain old flat file from the hardware store. Had a vato show me the south of the border way of sharpening. Stick the pointed end into a tree or fence post, put handle end about waist high while pushing into it with your hip to arch the blade, file back and forth, flip to other side and repeat. Works like a patron.

This. I spent more 10 hour days than I can count on the business end of machetes and brush hooks and this man is steering you right. Regular ol' flat ******* file, lean on the handle enough to bow the blade up a little and that file will do the trick for you. When I was done, I always ran the file straight across the edge one time.....get the edge too sharp and it will turn on you when cutting.

I always sharpened both sides, and only go one direction with file...I prefer away from my body.

One more thing, keep your file dry. Get water on it and it is toast in no time.