Video - "field" sharpening of machete using Washboard

[HeavyHanded]

Been meaning to make a machete video for awhile. Perfect opportunity when, while mowing the lawn, I spotted my Marbles jungle machete hanging in a tree in my backyard - where I'd hung it a couple weeks ago...Not too bad condition, aside from the rust blossoms and the odd ding. I cleaned it up with some 600 grit sandpaper and stropped with my homebrew compound on the Washboard. This technique will work with other stones as well as with smaller blades - anytime there's no table around. The Washboard makes it a bit easier/more consistent.

[video=youtube;Uidso_8KJ38]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uidso_8KJ38&feature=youtu.be[/video]

 

[Chris "Anagarika"]

That's a scary machete that might lop off branches easily

 

[HeavyHanded]

That's a scary machete that might lop off branches easily

It does add another dimension to ones safety awareness, have to plan the path of the swing a little more carefully. All the newspaper cuts were across the grain - that puppy can chop!

ETA:
The amazing thing is how long it holds that edge when chopping. Overall performance is night and day compared to a coarsely sharpened one.

 

[awestib]

Great video Martin - again! Thanks for sharing!
Once I get your new set, I will try it on my camp axe the same way.

 

[Magnaminous_G]

Awesome vid, Marty. :thumbup::thumbup: