Fine file on Wave good as a sharpener?

[Roj Avon]

Someone suggested to me that the fine file on my Leatherman Wave would be good to use to sharpen knives.

Would this be ok as a regular sharpener or should I only consider this in an emergency?

 

[Shmackey]

Aside from the size issue, I would think that the file on the Wave (my personal multitool, btw) would be too soft to sharpen good knife steel. It might work a couple of times, but then it'd be shot.

Just a guess.

 

[Grey Area]

I have used the diamond-coated side of that file to sharpen the swedge of an A/F combat folder. The file suffered only slightly at the edges. I would say it is good to use for very basic sharpening or changing the grind. However, to get an edge on the knife I still had to use the Sharpmaker.

Greetings, Kris

 

[knifenerd]

I think the diamond-coated file is OK as an in-the-pinch sharpener for use in the field.

Other than that, stick with your Sharpmaker.

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Dick

 

[storyville]

I like the Leatherman diamond file (Wave, PST II, Pulse) precisely for that reason. Obviously, a bigger and better sharpener should be used for any serious work; but it's reasonably sized (2.5" long) for touching up folders and evn smaller fixed blades. I've used it probably a couple dozen times and it hasn't worn significantly.

Also, I've smoothed the spine (opposite hacksaw teeth) with my Sharpmaker and use it to steel edges on my daily folder. In fact, I tend to use it as a steel more often than as a sharpener.

Lastly, should it wear down, just get it replaced. Leatherman has a good reputation for honoring its warranty.

My .02 --

Glen

 

[chad234]

I have used the diamond coated file of my wave and pulse to sharpen knives many times and it does a VERY good job. It leaves a very aggressive cutting edge, perfect for fiberous materials.
I have used them on BG42, 440V, 154CM and ATS34, it works well on all.
Take care and stay sharp,
Chad

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Wicked Knife Co.
Hoods Woods
chad234@email.com