Sharpening

[Iain]

Just something I saw yesterday re sharpening, I immediately thought of all the comments on jigs etc and correct sharpening procedures. This was on channel 9 at about 7.30am and concerned the cork oak plantation in Canberra. A group of cork bark removers (?) were brought in from Portugal to remove the bark using their trusty axes, and to sharpen them, you turners would be proud, the axe was thrown on the edge of a sandy creek almost in the water and the blade flat on the sand, large workboot was then applied and sand and mud kicked over the blade and the boot was then opertaed with foot and ground the edge of the blade to a respectable degree of sharpness so bark removal could continue. A circular motion appeared to be the secret technique. Look out Tormek, the Portugese system has arrived.
Enter Blundstone sharpening systems. http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/wink.gif

[John Saxton]

Almost the same method of cleaning out your dixies when in the Army.
No detergegent necessary just mother nature applying a little water and sand in a swirling motion to come up with a clean utensil.
Seriously tho wasn't this the method used by many a SAS tyro in availing of natures bountiful options in retaining a keen blade.
Cheers http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

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Johnno