How to Sharpen a Curved Gardening Knife

Hello all

I hope you are well.

I have the 'Spear & Jackson 7946KEW Kew Gardens Collection Folding Garden Knife' which is advertised as being Razor Sharp, unfortunately, it is not

At the moment it will not Cut anything, even Grasses

This is the Knife:

Spear & Jackson 7946KEW Kew Gardens Collection Folding Garden Knife : Amazon.co.uk: Garden

What would be the best way to Sharpen this Knife?

Thanks in advance

Kevin

 

I have something I used to use at work for various types of sharpening, it's basically a diamond coated steel rod similar to what chefs use for sharpening knives.

 

Hello Kevin, it doesn't look as though there's a locking mechanism where the blade joins the handle, so first things first, secure it well with tape so it can't close back on your fingers. An ordinary sharpening stone will give it back it's edge. https://www.amazon.co.uk/sharpening-stone-garden-tools/s?k=sharpening+stone+for+garden+tools I use a Draper 'cigar' design for all my garden tools as it's versatile for all sorts of blades, whether secateurs, knives, hoes or edging shears, but the flattened types probably work just as well. There are many techniques available, wet, dry, oily etc. and just as many recommendations

 

According to the product description, the blade is 'stainless steel' , which will be difficult to hone to keep its edge. Better would have been a carbon steel but it is what it is. The diamond stick @pete mentions should work. Always work behind the cutting edge!! and securely clamp the blade in a vice. If you have a 'Family butcher' , he may do the initial job for you for a beer!(dont ask on a busy Saturday......) or you could PM @Retired ?

 

Hello all

Thanks for the Replies.

I will look at getting one of the Sharpening Tools referenced.

Thanks for your Help

Kevin

 

It will take a while to profile the ground edge to a sharp one ! As a woodworker, 'scary sharp' is the way to go, but 180g-320g-600g would be a start. Going on 800g-1200g-1600g is for aficionados and those with time on their hands.

 

As @infradig says, I'm not a fan of stainless steel either, it doesn't really hold a good edge for long.
Of course as with any tool it's how you treat it and what you cut with it that will make a difference.

 

There is a little sharper, with a titanium piece and a cone shaped diamond file. I am not sure of the rules for reccomendations / advertising on this site but I can name it if allowed.
You can get a basic edge with the titanium block, and then a final edge with the diamond file.