How to Sharpen an Axe with a Grinder: 7 Basics Steps

Jacob Wilson | Dec 28, 2023

Whether you call it an angle grinder or a disc grinder, this super-effective handheld power tool is just enough to perform the majority of tasks related to polishing and grinding. With that being said, many people these days ask how to sharpen an axe with a grinder. A few were questioning whether it is really possible to sharpen an axe with a grinder!

Well, to help you out, I’ve decided to make this short yet effective post, where you can learn what you want to. So sight tight, and let’s get straight into it!

Can You Sharpen an Axe with a Grinder?

The answer is, yes, you can. Moreover, the most common and typical choice for sharpening an axe is a grinder; it doesn’t matter what type it is.

How to Sharpen Axe with Angle Grinder – Step-by-Step Guide:

Unless you follow the specific rules and techniques, sharpening the axe with an angle grinder will be a back-breaking task. So move forward, and let’s see how to sharpen an axe with grinder and that too without any risk:

Step-1: Observing Your Axe First

The first and foremost thing to do is check out your axe. See if it has any cracks, and the head is firmly attached to the wooden handle. This is important because if it is loose, the head might slip or fall off during sharpening and may end up injuring you badly. So it is essential to check your axe’s quality.

Moreover, make sure it isn’t chipped or dented. If it is, do not sharpen it; instead, buy a new axe.

Step-2: Cleaning The Axe is a Must!

Many people forget to follow this step, so we are here to remind you to clean your axe. Make sure there isn’t any rusting or anything on its surface. Try using steel wool to remove rust and dirt, then treat the surface with fine-grit sandpaper.

Step-3: Putting On Safety Dresses

Now, slowly put the blade of your axe on the table and make sure to secure it. Properly close the vise’s jaws to firm the axe’s head during the sharpening process. Now for your own safety, put your safety glasses on and other protective gear you need.

Step-4: Turning On the Grinder

It is finally time to start your grinder. Be sure to hold it tightly with both of your hands. If your grinder is attached to the power outlet, make sure the cord is long enough; so that it won’t get in your way when you are working. Take your most solid stance to avoid accidents.

Step-5: Holding the Grinder to Your Axe for Grinding

Once your grinder disc rotates, slowly hold the grinder to the axe. Make sure it is between 5 and 15 degrees angle, and you don’t chip the blade’s edge. Remember, the original bevel of the blade has to remain.

If you don’t know what a bevel is, then; it is the curve and the length of the blade. Do not shorten it or dull it too much by grinding.

Also, ensure to sharpen the axe blade with slow, long, and continuous straight stokes. Check to know if you aren’t overheating the edge of your blade.

Step-6: Sharpening Both Sides of Your Axe

Keep doing this process for the other side of the blade too. Make sure to evenly sharpen the whole surface of the blade to get the best output. Let it sit for a while once you think you have completed it. Thus, you can allow it to get cool down.

I recommend keeping it for at least 10 minutes. Also, don’t forget to turn off your grinder after completing the grinding task.

Step-7: Keeping Your Axe in a Safe Place

After about 10-15 minutes, loosen your vise slowly and carefully. Hold your axe with your protective gloves on to ensure it doesn’t fall. If the axe is still hot, leave it for a bit longer and be careful with your hands.

Remember, the axe now is sharp enough to injure you. So once you are done, store your axe at a high place so that if you have kids or pets around, they can’t reach it.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.’s):

What angle should an axe be sharpened?

To answer your question, the recommended and best way is to sharpen your axe at a 5 to 15-degree angle to achieve the best results. You are doing more than this may end up ruining your axe.

Can I sharpen an axe with a bench grinder?

I won’t suggest you use a high-speed dry bench grinder to sharpen your axe. You may quickly end up damaging the temper and ruining the tool. Although it may be much work, an old-style pedal grindstone is the best to use.

How do you sharpen a chopped axe?

To do so, sharpen each section in overlapping phases. Make sure to apply an equal number of back and forth sets to each section. Once done, flip the axe over and repeat the entire process. To hone it further, flit it again to the finer grit side and repeat for both sides.

Conclusion

So here is the complete guide on how to sharpen an axe with a grinder. Hopefully, it was helpful, and be sure to follow every step while following safety measures. It would be best if you didn’t get injured at all. After all, safety comes first!