How to Sharpen a Swiss Army Knife

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

The Swiss Army Knife is a great tool because it has many different functions. After repeated use, however, the blade of the knife can become dull, which diminishes its effectiveness and can actually make the knife more dangerous to use. Fortunately, sharpening a Swiss Army Knife, or indeed any pocket knife is relatively easy and inexpensive. Follow the steps below to make your Swiss Army Knife blade as good as new.


Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Preparing your Knife and Tools

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dirt or grease on the blade may result in an uneven sharpening of your knife.
    • Sharpening the blade may be easier if you briefly dip the cold blade into boiling water right before you begin sharpening it. [1]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0d\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0d\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    There are numerous types of files and sharpeners on the market, including Japanese water stones, stones with diamond encrusted surfaces, and stones with different grades of grit.
    • These different tools will give you slightly different results. For most purposes, a basic, two-sided sharpening stone, available for about $10 at most hardware stores, will be adequate. [2]
    • There is also a knife sharpener you can buy specifically for the purpose of sharpening Swiss Army Knives, available from the company's online store.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-3-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-3-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-3-Version-3.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-3-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    There is some disagreement as to whether it is important or even beneficial to lubricate your sharpening stone. [3] If you choose to lubricate yours, a variety of different options are available.
    • Some people believe that lubricant should be used because the friction that results from sharpening the blade has the potential to warp it, [4] or because the lubricant will help float away metal particles that can dull the blade during the sharpening process or clog the pores of the stone itself. [5]
    • Others believe lubricant is unnecessary, slows the process the down, and may actually dull the blade by washing the metal particles over the blade during the sharpening process. [6]
    • If you opt to use a lubricant, you can use cutting oil, mineral oil, kerosene, or WD-40 on natural stones, or water on diamond stones. [7]
    • Before applying oil, consult any instructions that came with your sharpening stone. Some types of stones can be ruined by the use of oil. [8]
    4. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Sharpening the Blade

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c0\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c0\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The blade should meet the stone at an angle of 15°-20.° This will result in a cutting angle of 30°-40.° [9]
    • Keeping the angle consistent throughout the sharpening process is key to a good sharpening. With an official Swiss Army knife, you can approximate the correct angle by resting the back edge of the blade on two stacked pennies. [10]
    • If you have a hard time keeping the angle correct and consistent, you can buy a sharpening guide for about $10 that will make the task easier. [11]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Run the knife along the stone as if you were trying to carve a thin piece off the stones surface, repeating this motion several times. [12]
    • If your knife is very dull, start this process on the rough side of the whetting stone, or with a diamond stone. [13]
    • Don't apply too much pressure. Let the stone do the work. [14]
    • If using lubricant, add more every few dozen strokes to wash away metal shavings. [15]
    • If the knife blade is longer than the stone, you’ll need to sweep the blade sideways as you sharpen so that the entire edge is sharpened completely and evenly. [16]
    • As a rule of thumb, you'll want to give the blade six to twelve strokes across the stone. [17]
    • A more precise way to know when to switch sides is to look for a burr (also sometimes called a "wire") that is formed on the other side of the edge. You'll be able to feel burr with your thumb on the side of the edge opposite the stone. The formation of a burr indicates that the steel is thin enough at the very edge that it is folding over slightly. [18] The steel must get very thin to be razor-sharp.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Now, turn the blade over and repeat the process, sharpening the other side of the blade. [19]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/86\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/86\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    To get a razor-sharp edge, and to remove the burr on the knife, you'll now want to switch to finer grit (i.e. the other side of your whetting stone, if you've got a standard two-sided sharpener). [20]
    • At this stage, alternate which side of the blade is making contact with the stone with each stroke. [21]
    • Apply even gentler pressure on these last few strokes to avoid raising another burr. [22]
    5. Advertisement
Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Finishing Up

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a7\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a7\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Wipe the blade on a towel or clean rag to remove any lubricant and metal fragments from the sharpening process. [23]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Stropping is running the blade edge across a leather strap that has been covered with an abrasive such as stropping paste or green chromium oxide. [24] It puts a final polish on your knife edge.
    • Move the blade in the opposite direction you did when sharpening. Run it over the leather with the "spine" of the blade at the front and the sharp edge behind. [25]
    • Stropping the blade between sharpenings can help keep your blade sharp longer. [26]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/aid1071415-v4-728px-Sharpen-a-Swiss-Army-Knife-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once you think you're done sharpening the knife, check to see if the blade is sharp. There are several ways to do this.
    • Cut some paper. A razor-sharp blade will easily cut right through. [27]
    • Shine a bright light on the sharpened edge. A dull edge will reflect the light. [28]
    • Drag the edge lightly across your thumbnail. The blade should scrape the nail cleanly, without catching or vibrating. [29]
    4. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Any alternatives to sharpening stones? This kind of item is not available in my country.
    Community Answer
    River stones were used for centuries by primitive cultures to sharpen cutting tools. It takes some time to find and flatten the right one, but it has been done. Another quicker method is to staple sheets of sandpaper to a flat board, and use that similar to a sharpening stone.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 6
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Mechanical and electric sharpeners may be used on Swiss Army Knives, but are generally thought to be less effective in producing a razor-sharp edge. [30]
        Thanks
      • If you aren't sure which side of your stone is the rougher side, scratch it with your fingernail and see which grit feels more coarse. [31]
        Thanks
      • If you believe your Swiss Army Knife to be defective in its materials or manufacture, contact the company, as they have a lifetime warranty for such issues. [32]
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Be careful when sharpening and cleaning your knife. Even though the knife is dull it can still cut you badly if you slip and hit the blade.
        Thanks
      • Don’t use a grindstone to sharpen your knife. It can permanently damage the blade. [33]
        Thanks
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to Wrap a Knife Handle with Paracord
      How to
      Close a Pocket Knife
      How to
      Measure Chainsaw Chain
      How to
      Use a Cutting Torch
      How to
      Use a Punch Down Tool
      How to
      Replace an Axe Handle
      How to
      Sharpen a Hand Saw
      How to
      Use an Angle Grinder
      How to
      Use a Reciprocating Saw
      3 Easy Ways to Sharpen a Pocket Knife at Home
      How to
      Sharpen an Axe
      How to
      Use a Swiss Army Knife
      How to
      Cut Vinyl Using a Vinyl Cutter
      An Ultimate Guide on How to Use a Laser Cutter
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      2. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      3. ↑ https://www.knifecenter.com/info/sharpening-faq
      4. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      5. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      6. ↑ https://www.knifecenter.com/info/sharpening-faq
      7. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      8. ↑ https://gearjunkie.com/camping/5-tips-to-sharpen-your-knife
      9. ↑ https://www.swissarmy.com/us/app/content/sak-faq
      1. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      2. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      3. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      4. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      5. ↑ https://gearjunkie.com/camping/5-tips-to-sharpen-your-knife
      6. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      7. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      8. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      9. ↑ https://www.knifecenter.com/info/sharpening-faq
      10. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      11. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      12. ↑ https://www.knifecenter.com/info/sharpening-faq
      13. ↑ https://www.knifecenter.com/info/sharpening-faq
      14. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      15. ↑ https://www.knifecenter.com/info/sharpening-faq
      16. ↑ https://www.knifecenter.com/info/sharpening-faq
      17. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      18. ↑ https://gearjunkie.com/camping/5-tips-to-sharpen-your-knife
      19. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      20. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      21. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/
      22. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/03/05/how-to-sharpen-a-pocket-knife/
      23. ↑ https://www.swissarmy.com/us/app/content/sak-faq
      24. ↑ https://scoutingmagazine.org/2011/10/tips-for-sharpening-your-favorite-blade/

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 105,816 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Denny Northup

        May 29, 2017

        "I love my knife, and this article was a big help. I have a stone that my father used so it is very old, but still ..." more
        Rated this article:
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement