how to sharpen a machete?

Question

yeah, i was cleaning out my garage and found a machete I bought several years ago, it has become rather dull, and a litle rusty. What's the best way to sharpen without getting a sander thingy or any expensive tool. And what's the best way to clean it? If you could contribute, I'd love it!!!

Thanks

Answer 1

The only good way is to use a metal file. You need to stabilize it like in a vise. You need to have a handle on the file and sharpen down the sharp edge; into the sharp edge and as you do you need to travel along the length. Why into the edge? because if you go away the edge will develop a curl which will make a bad edge. You need to be careful not to slide you hand and/or fingers into the edge. You do not need to sharpen the whole edge, just the part used to cut with. A few good long strokes on both sides with a fine file will do the job. If you have rust then use some rust converter to remove it and paint it. Then to store It between uses, keep a thin film of oil on it.

Answer 2

You can just oil it, or take a very fine sandpaper, better than that, crocus cloth, and rub in the oil.

It can be sharpened with any whetstone. If you are going to do any heavy cutting, the angle of the cutting edge should be steep. Like a wide V, rather than a narrow one.

Answer 3

buy a cheap angle grinder from Harbor Freight or any of the other Chinese import stores. $15. use it to sharpen the blade. the wheel of the grinder should rotate into the blade, not out.

Answer 4

Do it with a whetstone in front of the police department.