How to sharp on-the-go in the outdoors

You’re Only as Sharp as the Knife You Carry. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping trip or embarking on a serious bushcraft adventure, a sharp knife is your most valuable tool. From preparing food to carving wood and cutting rope, a dull knife can quickly turn simple tasks into frustrating, time-consuming chores—and even become dangerous. That’s why sharpening your knife before you head out and keeping it sharp in the field is essential for both campers and bushcrafters.

In this blog post, we’ll explain why a sharp knife is crucial for outdoor activities, introduce the portable Ardennes-Coticule sharpening stones, and give you a simple guide on sharpening both at home and on the go. If you’re ready to gear up, check out our collection of portable sharpening stones for bushcrafters, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Portable Sharpening Stones for On-the-Go Sharpening

When you’re camping or bushcrafting, it’s not always practical to carry a full-sized sharpening setup. That’s why portable sharpening stones are a game-changer. At Ardennes-Coticule, we offer small, lightweight stones that are perfect for keeping your knife sharp in the field.

Our top picks for on-the-go sharpening:

Coticule combo Pyrenees 7.5 x 3 cm

Small enough to fit in your pocket or pack, this dual-sided stone offers both coarse and fine grits for quick touch-ups.
Ideal for pocket knives, camping knives, and bushcraft tools.

Coticule Blue 10 x 4 cm

A slightly larger option for those who need to sharpen larger tools, like bushcraft knives, machetes, or camp hatchets.

These stones are easy to carry, require minimal water to use, and provide the sharp edge you need to keep going. Ready to add one to your kit? Shop our portable sharpening stones here and stay sharp on every adventure.

How to Sharpen Your Knife Before You Head Out

Before heading into the wild, take a few minutes to sharpen your knife at home to ensure it’s ready for action. Here’s how:

Prepare your sharpening stone: Wet the stone with a splash of water and create a slurry using a small slurry stone.
Set the angle: Hold the knife at a consistent angle (usually around 20 degrees for outdoor knives).
Sharpen the blade: Move the blade across the stone in a sweeping motion, alternating sides after each pass.
Check your progress: Feel the edge with your finger (carefully!) to check if it’s sharp enough.
Clean and oil your knife: Wipe the blade clean and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

On-the-Go Sharpening: Quick Steps for Field Maintenance

Even the sharpest knife will dull after repeated use in the field, which is why it’s important to touch up your blade on the go. Here’s a quick guide for sharpening your knife in the wild:

Find a flat surface: Set your sharpening stone on a stable, flat surface (a rock or tree stump works well).
Use water: Splash a little water on the stone to act as a lubricant.
Sharpen with steady strokes: Maintain the same angle you used at home, and draw the blade across the stone in smooth, controlled strokes.
Clean your knife: Wipe off any residue and keep your blade dry to prevent rust.

With a small Ardennes-Coticule stone in your pack, you’ll always have a reliable way to keep your knife sharp and ready, no matter where your adventure takes you—whether it’s a remote bushcrafting trip or a family camping weekend.

Ready to Sharpen? Check Out Our Tutorial

Want a more detailed look at how to sharpen your knife with an Ardennes-Coticule stone? Check out our step-by-step tutorial here and become a pro at keeping your outdoor tools razor-sharp.

Why Choose Ardennes-Coticule for Outdoor Sharpening?

Natural quality: Our stones are made from high-garnet natural rock, providing superior sharpening performance.
Portable design: With sizes starting at 7.5 x 3 cm, our stones are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for outdoor use.
Versatility: Whether you’re sharpening a bushcraft knife, pocket knife, or camp hatchet, Ardennes-Coticule stones handle it all.
Sustainable craftsmanship: Handcrafted in Belgium using eco-friendly processes, our stones reflect centuries of sharpening tradition.