How to Sharpening a Machete With a Grinder?
Another suitable method through which you can sharpen your machete blades is the use of a grinder. It is best for machete blades that are totally blunt and need aggressive sharpness. This will not only sharpen the blade but also give shine to your blade. This means this is an effective way to give your machete a new look.
In order to sharpen your blade, you have to use the grinder in a spacious place. This will provide an even edge. The process generates heat, so using the machine in a low space may be irritating for you as well.
If you do the grinding at high rpm, it may overheat which in turn damages your blade. Therefore, keep rpm less. If there is a need to keep the rpm high then it’s good to keep water with you. Pour some water frequently on the grinder this will help in moderating the temperature of the grinder. Even this will create an overall environment comfortable and you will complete your task without any temperature issues.
Another reason to keep the low temperature is that it maintains the blade composition grade. Otherwise, the high temperature may cause the low grading of the carbon blades. In this way, despite getting benefits you will have to lose your machete.
Therefore, to maintain the grading of your machete blade and to get the best sharpening result to follow the proper pattern, maintain the temperature, and apply the technique.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Safety first: Before you begin, make sure to wear protective gear such as safety goggles and gloves to prevent any injury.
- Prepare the grinder: Make sure that the grinder is properly set up with the correct grinding wheel. A coarse-grit wheel, such as 36-grit or 60-grit, is ideal for sharpening a machete.
- Secure the machete: Use clamps or a vice to secure the machete to the workbench or table to prevent it from moving while you are sharpening it.
- Begin sharpening: Turn on the grinder and slowly run the machete blade along the grinding wheel, starting from the base of the blade and moving toward the tip. Keep the blade at a consistent angle, usually around 25 degrees, and apply light pressure. Repeat this step until you have sharpened both sides of the blade.
- Cool the blade: The machete blade will become very hot during the grinding process, so it’s important to cool it down periodically. You can do this by dipping the blade into a container of water or by using a spray bottle to mist it with water.
- Test the edge: To check if the machete is sharp, run your thumb along the edge. If it feels sharp and cuts paper easily, then it’s ready to use.
- Clean the machete: Once you are finished sharpening, clean the machete blade with a soft cloth to remove any metal filings or debris.
Remember to be cautious when using a grinder, as the blade can become very hot and can be dangerous if not handled properly.
