Putting a convex edge on an ax?

[Stormstaff]

I assume from what I've read that a belt sander like the 1"x30" from Harbor Freight would be the best way to put a convex edge on an ax/hatchet?

If I wanted to try it by hand until I can get the cash for a belt sander, what would I need?

Any vids out that you know of showing the proper way?

In the meantime, I'll keep searching.

Thanks in advance for your time and help!!!


Kirk

 

[ChapmanPreferred]

Hi Kirk,

I did a search on youtube but did not find anything exactly tailored to your request. So here is a link to a series of videos on convex sharpening. Not geared toward axes, but the same basic principles apply.

http://www.knivesshipfree.com/pages/Sharpening-Videos

This method will take time, but you can do it. They outline the needed supplies but here is the short list: lots of time (depending on how thick the edge is when you start), lots of sandpaper with multiple grit options, an old mousepad or similar, strip of metal, and buffing/polishing compound. You will quickly strengthen your resign to get a belt sander.

Take before and after pictures of your axe(s) and let us know how it went!

Doug

PS: This may be good reading for you as well.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=712646

 

[Stormstaff]

Hi Kirk,

I did a search on youtube but did not find anything exactly tailored to your request. So here is a link to a series of videos on convex sharpening. Not geared toward axes, but the same basic principles apply.

http://www.knivesshipfree.com/pages/Sharpening-Videos

This method will take time, but you can do it. They outline the needed supplies but here is the short list: lots of time (depending on how thick the edge is when you start), lots of sandpaper with multiple grit options, an old mousepad or similar, strip of metal, and buffing/polishing compound. You will quickly strengthen your resign to get a belt sander.

Take before and after pictures of your axe(s) and let us know how it went!

Doug

PS: This may be good reading for you as well.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=712646

The more I think about this project, the more I think it'll wait until I can get a belt sander, hehe.

 

[ChapmanPreferred]

Sounds like a plan to me.

 

[230grains]

I really wouldn't want to convex an axe by hand, hold off for the sander.

 

[snorkem]

ive convexed my hatchet through freehand on dmt red. I reprofiled the edge to make it have a larger angle then whenever I sharpen its easy to convex