machete sharpening

[Dijos]

I got a ontario machete recently. and have been using it for all of my yard work. wha is the best way to sharpen? I'm kind of looking for a good, lowtech (jeff Randall) method. thanks, joe

 

[Josh Feltman]

A bastard file works well for sharpening machetes, and it's pretty lo-tech. If you want really lo-tech, try a flat rock or cement slab. It works, but I find that I get a better edge with the file.
--Josh

 

[Cliff Stamp]

A bastard file works very well for setting the edge, which can then be maintained on a simple butchers steel which is essentially a finer file. You can also try a small hone. I use a DMT diafold, first on 600 and then finishing with 1200. I go back to the file when the blade gets heavily damaged. If you are just using the blade for very rough work you don't need to bother sharpening it, and can just set the edge with the file.

-Cliff