what is a better angle for chopping

[bryant R]

is a 20 degree angle or a 25 degree angle better for chopping

 

[Komitadjie]

Depends on the steel. The steeper edge will bite better, but generally have a shorter life. Generally the way you can find out is sharpen it steep and give it a try, a few whacks into something good and stiff, then inspect the edge. If it's holding up and not rolling, you're just fine. If it rolls, just change angles and micro-bevel it until you've got an edge stiff enough to stand up to the use you want it for.

 

[Ben Dover]

Usually, whatever angle the manufacturer puts on the axe will suffice.

 

[richard j]

have you considered a convex edge?

about a month ago cjpgeyer came over and brought one of his busse choppers to get sharpened. for years he has kept a v edge on it. i talked him into a convex edge and now he loves it. he said the convex edge never stuck where the v edgd did.