How To Sharpen a W49 Western Bowie Knife

S

Steve Clancy

Joined
Oct 7, 2020
Messages
7
Howdy.

I recently purchased a W49 Western Bowie knife and would like to know the proper sharpening technique. I am aware that there are differing blade grinds as illustrated on the AG Russel website.

I can't tell what the grind is on this knife. The upper edge of the blade is sharpened as well.

I have used both natural and artificial sharpening stones in the past, lubricated with sharpening oil.

I am relatively new, so any advice will be much appreciated.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AeE5pLeci3ffhhASZqwcelWgJo9WORcy/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CRBRc9RQ8QWYeeecPhcKZKZyIuGU_tPT/view?usp=sharing
 
There is no one proper sharpening technique.

One tip would be to tape the blade up in masking tape, except for the very edge.

I've been hand sharpening for a long time, and I will still, occasionally, scratch a blade!

If you have stones, use them. Put a sharpie marker on the edge, and that will help you figure out where you are hitting.

Take it slow.


I've used natural stones, diamond stones, sandpaper on a dense rubber backing (to convex), I've worn out a lansky sharpener, used up a smith diamond stone (the ceramic rods and a diamond stone combo).

Currently I use a set of diamond folding stones and a Spyderco sharp maker wirh medium and fine rods. I also have a strop (homemade).

If the need arises I also have a 1x32 and a 2x72 belt sander. I've reprofiled and sharpened a few blades on each.
 
Here is your pics.

This is a clip point bowie with almost a full belly, and just a bit of flat. The grind looks like a high Sabre grind, maybe convex, but it’s hard to tell from your pics.

This can be sharpened on a variety of stones and hones. As big as this one is, you’d be served well with a larger stone. If it’s convex, some sandpaper on a mouse pad would work in varying grits.
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Last edited:
OK, thanks. Good idea on the larger stones. I appreciate it.

Any advice on sharpening the concave top edge?
 
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