Include Tips/Tricks
1. Start by finding the correct knife sharpening tool. Most Swiss Army Knives feature a file which is intended to be used as a sharpener, but you may find another type of small tool or handheld device that is also effective.
2. Establish a sharpening angle and maintain it throughout the process. Depending on the type of blade on your Swiss Army Knife, it might require different angles for different blades; take note of them so you can sharpen each part of the knife with accuracy and consistency.
3. Make gentle strokes, moving only in one direction against the blade while counting off full strokes to keep track, as opposed to just rubbing back and forth until finished.
4. Once you have made enough stroked to finish sharpening one side, stroke lengthwise along the length of the blade from point to handle to ensure evenness; then flip over and sharpen the other side if necessary.
5. Polish off any burrs left behind with fine sandpaper or steel wool and make sure all edges are smooth before putting away your knife for safekeeping.
Show Examples
1. Using a Whetstone: Place the blade of your Swiss Army Knife in the middle of a whetstone with the edge at an angle of approximately 20 to 30 degrees and start pushing it across the surface away from you. Try to keep a consistent angle as you sharpen until both sides of the blade have been sharpened evenly.
2. Using a Diamond Rod Sharpener: Securely grip your Swiss Army Knife in one hand and hold the diamond rod sharpener in the other, making sure that it is positioned at an angle of 15 to 25 degrees relative to the blade. Push your arms back and forth so that it creates a repetitive slicing motion which will sharpen both sides of the knife evenly.
3. Using Sandpaper: Use sandpaper with grits ranging from fine (220) to extra-fine (600). Place hold your Swiss Army Knife firmly against a sturdy, flat surface and run sandpaper horizontally across it in short strokes, making sure that you sharpen both sides equally. Finish by polishing with even finer paper after each stage to minimize damage during use and create a smooth finish for good performance.
Audience
This blog post is designed to help knife owners, from casual to enthusiasts, learn how to sharpen their Swiss Army Knife. With a few basic supplies and a little bit of time, you can easily keep your Swiss Army Knife sharp and ready for use!
To begin sharpening your Swiss Army Knife, start by gathering the necessary supplies, including either a diamond or ceramic stone. Depending on how dull your knife is, you may need more than one type of stone so that it’s as sharp as possible.
Next, prepare the blade by wiping away any dirt or debris that might hinder sharpening. Gently grasp the blade with your dominant hand and rest the back of the blade against the stone at an angle that works best for you – some people find success at around 25-30 degrees. Make sure to move in one direction only — going back and forth can result in an uneven edge that leaves the knife more fragile than before.
After a few passes over the stone’s surface (around 10 or so), turn it over and repeat on the other side of the blade until it’s as sharp as you’d like it to be! After both sides are finished being sharpened, use a damp cloth to remove excess filings that remain on your Swiss Army Knife before using it once again.
DIY vs Professional Services
Pros of Sharpening a Swiss Army Knife at Home:
– Cheaper and more cost-effective.
– Quicker and more convenient than taking it to a professional service since you can do it in the comfort of your own home.
– Feel a greater sense of accomplishment from sharpening the knife yourself.
Cons of Sharpening a Swiss Army Knife at Home:
– Without experience, mistakes might be made that could damage the blade or dull its edge permanently.
– Without the right tools and supplies, achieving the desired results may be difficult or even impossible.
Pros of Taking a Swiss Army Knife to a Professional Service:
– Experts have the knowledge and training to sharpen knives quickly and accurately.
– Assured quality as experienced professionals will make sure that blades are sharpened correctly without any lasting damage.
– Professionals usually use high-quality tools and materials so results will be superior compared with sharpening at home.
Cons of Taking a Swiss Army Knife to a Professional Service:
– More expensive because you are paying for professional service charges plus any additional costs for making sure blades are in good shape before sharpening them properly.
– Time consuming as often requires travelling to reach the location, booking an appointment and waiting for them to finish their job (which can take up to several hours).
