Q&A for How to Sharpen a Pocket Knife

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  • Question
    Do I need to strop the knife after honing?
    Community Answer
    It's not required, but it will clean up any burs and make your knife sharper.
  • Question
    How do I know when to sharpen my knife?
    Community Answer
    When you look at the edge against the light and the sharp edge looks round and shiny.
  • Question
    How do I sharpen the top of the knife?
    Community Answer
    Use a rock that isn't mostly chalk. Slate rock are usually the most effective. Put the knife at an angle pointing away from you body and push down until you get to the point of the knife. Make sure to do this one both sides to ensure a good sharp edge.
  • Question
    Which grit numbers should I get for sharpening stones?
    Community Answer
    For getting the blade roughly sharpened, you use a 1000-grit stone. For final sharpening, a stone around 5000 grit should work well.
  • Question
    Do I need to thin my blade as it wears into thicker metal from sharpening?
    Community Answer
    It shouldn’t be at problem for quite a few years. However, you can do it for aesthetics if you wish.
  • Question
    I don't have any of these things, what else can I use?
    Community Answer
    You can use several grades of aluminum oxide sandpaper, from 120 grit to 600 or 800 grit. Hold the blade consistently until all the scratches are gone for each level of coarseness. When you get to 600 grit, you can add a few drops of water. You should be able to get a mirror finish on your blade!
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