A pocket knife is a handy and all-around tool that you can easily bring with you. You can use it to fix up things at home or for emergencies when you are on outdoor adventures. Other people even use it as a self-defense item. The compact size makes it a perfect partner and companion wherever you go.

However, its effectiveness as a tool highly depends on its sharpness. A dull pocket knife defeats the purpose and may render it useless. As such, blade sharpening and maintenance are essential to keep your Ulu Pocket Knife the useful tool that it is. Here is a guide on how to effectively sharpen your pocket knife.

Gather Your Tools

There are countless knife-sharpening tools on the market. Some are handheld while others are bulky fixtures. The choice is entirely up to you. Take a look at the products you wish to purchase and compare them in terms of brand, price, and reviews. The most common one is a whetstone coupled with a lubricant such as mineral oil or water. The lubricant depends on the sharpener so make sure to read the instructions before using it.

Clean The Knife

Before you sharpen the knife, make sure to keep its surface clean so that you can smoothly sharpen the edge at your desired angle. Use some soap and water to wipe the surface. Use an absorbent cloth like cotton to soak up the moisture. The gentle and soft fibers also ensure that your knife won’t get scratched.

Identify The Angle

Every pocket knife has varying angles. The goal of sharpening is to identify the original angle and then follow along. There is no need to re-profile the knife as this is time-consuming and may damage the structural integrity of the knife.

You may identify the angle by following the natural contours of the edge. If these are already dull, take a look at old product photos so that you can identify the exact angle. Use those pictures as a guide.

Start Sharpening Your Knife

Place your blade against the stone and then proceed to run the entire length. Use light and sweeping motion. Just imagine that you are cutting away the edges of the knife.

Sharpening pocket knives is easier because you only need to cover a short length. The compact size allows you to control your movements and the amount of pressure you inflict at every swipe. Use a lubricant such as mineral oil or water to make the edge run smoother.

When you are done, rinse the knife with some soap and water. Pat dry with an absorbent and soft piece of fabric. Fold it inside the compartment to keep it sharp. You should also clean and dry the sharpening tool so that it will last longer without corrosion.

Keeping your pocket knife sharp is an easy and straightforward process. The frequency of sharpening sessions depends on how often you use your knife as well as its quality. An Ulu Pocket Knife, for instance, is made of high-quality construction so it won’t need to be maintained as much as a regular pocket knife. Visit B. Merry Studio for the best quality pocket knives.