Tool maintenance and sharpening

Understanding the Importance of Tool Maintenance

Tool maintenance is a critical aspect of rural craft and woodland skills. Keeping tools clean, sharp, and properly stored not only prolongs their lifespan but also ensures safety and effectiveness during use.
Regular maintenance can prevent the build-up of rust, dirt, and sap, which can cause tools to become unwieldy and difficult to use correctly.
Tools such as axes, saws, shears, and knives, are commonly used in woodland activities, each requiring specific care and maintenance routines.

Procedures in Tool Sharpening

Tool sharpening is a critical part of maintenance - a sharp tool not only makes the work easier but also reduces the risk of accidents from tools slipping or needing excessive force.
The sharpening process involves using a file or grindstone to wear away the metal, followed by honing on a whetstone to fine-tune the edge and finally, stropping on a leather strop to achieve a razor-sharp edge.
The angle at which a tool is sharpened is of utmost importance; different tools require different angles, generally ranging from 20 to 30 degrees.

Safety Measures

Safety is paramount when carrying out tool maintenance. Always secure tools tightly when sharpening, and always move the file or sharpener away from your body.
Regularly inspect tools for damage - cracked handles, loose parts and excessive wear can lead to accidents.
Clean, oil and store tools correctly after use to prevent damage and ensure they are ready for the next task.

Selection and Care of Sharpening Tools

A variety of sharpening tools are commonly used, including bench stones, sharpening steels, and diamond sharpeners. The choice depends on the tool at hand and personal preference.
Sharpening tools themselves also need care and maintenance. Dirty or worn-out tools may damage blades rather than sharpen them effectively.

Remember, investing time in tool maintenance will ensure that tools last longer, are safer to use and perform more efficiently, making tasks easier and more enjoyable.