With
this type of sharpening device you don’t
need oil or water. Just use a basic cleanser
like Ajax with a non-metal scouring pad to prepare
your dull tool and your ceramic sharpening stone
will finish the job. Ceramic
stones are baked at high temperatures for several
hours, which will prepare them to cut through
any metal you may be working with. The three
grits are medium (600), which is used to shave
steel to shape a tool; fine (1800), which hones
a sharp edge in a dull blade; and extra-fine
(2000) for polishing to a professional finish
on any tool you’re working with.
A
diamond sharpening stone is another useful
tool that can sharpen and hone fishhooks, ski’s,
chainsaws, garden tools, and scissors, among
other things. Made with monocrystalline diamonds,
the tool typically has a flat shape and can quickly
sharpen any dull blade for personal or professional
use.
The All-purpose Arkansas Stone
For generalized sharpening of knives and tools,
pick up a white hard or soft Arkansas
stone.
Mounted on a piece of wood or a cedar block,
the soft stone in medium grit can be used for
shaping and sharpening, while the hard stone
in fine grit is perfect for polishing when used
with honing oil. Compound stones offer extra
value since they provide multiple services.
Whether
using ceramic, diamond, or Arkansas stone,
use caution when sharpening a tool. Follow
the manufacturer’s safety guidelines,
such as wearing goggles and other gear, to
ensure prompt, satisfactory results and personal
protection.
Any
of these sharpeners can be purchased from tool
stores or equipment dealers. You can surf the
Internet and find photographs, product information,
or drawings to give you an idea of which tool
you might prefer based on specific sharpening
needs and your level of expertise. Keep one in
your tool shed or on your workbench for handy
usage. You may want to store another in the kitchen
for knives and implements there. Never leave
dull blades laying around, waiting to be sharpened.
Curious young hands can pick them up to play
with these dangerous items and cause a serious
accident. Likewise, be sure to carefully and
securely store your ceramic sharpening stone.
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