How Sharp? And How to Sharpen?

[Moving Target]

Hello all. Just curious what specific tool or stone you recommend for putting a nice edge on a 'hawk. Also wondering exactly how sharp the edge should be? I've been told that the edge on an axe used for chopping shouldn't be as "razor" or "popping" sharp as on a knife? On the other hand, if it is to be used in a tactical/defensive/CQ situation, a true cutting edge would be seem better for cutting/slashing/punturing/etc. as well as the regular chopping drop-stroke. I have a CS 'hawk (no flames please! it was a gift ) that came rather dull - it chops alright but you'd need something sharper to butter bread with - and I havent had much luck getting it "razor" sharp with the old stand-by Spyderco Sharpmaker 204.

Just wonder exactly how sharp you all keep your tomahawks and what you use to get 'em that way? Any help would be much appreciated!

 

[Moving Target]

Nobody? Well I guess we can't expect long-term use of our hatchets if none of us know how to put a good edge back on them. Oh well.

 

[Andy Prisco]

I thought someone jumped on this one Target...allow me to get a flow started.

At ATC, we strive to provide each and every product we make with a shaving sharp edge...sharp enough to take hair clean off the arm.

No obviously, how "sharp" is largely going to be dicated by the included angle of the bevel, and ours are very knifelike at the edge...some products are 19 degrees and some widen out to 30 degrees.

While we don't have a recommended sharpening system, per se, I personally use and recommend the ceramics...they have always worked best for me.

Using a single ceramic rod, I free hand just about everything I own and finish it up with leather or a buffing wheel, loaded with compound.

Anyone else care to share some experiences?

 

[alphamaniv]

Ok, I'll bite. After many attempts with many different methods here is what works for me. Your mileage may vary.

I take a TV tray and sit on the couch. I lay the hawk down so that the cutting edge sticks out into the air. I then take a protractor to help me get the angle right. Then I just use one of the fine grit stones from my Spyderco Sharpmaker and sharpen away. I was using a 25 degree angle on each side , then I thought that it would make a 50 degree angle..yes?? Oh well, I'm still learning and I only used that angle once, so no real harm done. Hope this helps ya, or at least shows you what not to do

 

[SPATHA]

Uhhmm ok so I guess the assymetrical grind and the easy enough to touch up with a file edge I have on my Vietnam Tac aren't factory standard???