Whether you're pruning your garden, preparing firewood at camp, or carving wood during a bushcraft adventure, sharp tools are a must. A dull blade slows you down, makes tasks harder, and increases the risk of accidents. That’s why proper sharpening is key—and Ardennes-Coticule sharpening stones are designed to deliver lasting sharpness with ease.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to sharpen your pocket knives, pruners, axes, and other outdoor tools so you can keep them in top shape wherever your adventures take you.
Step 1: Lubricate with Water
Unlike synthetic stones that require soaking, Ardennes-Coticule stones only need a light splash of water to work effectively.
Why use water?
Water acts as a lubricant, preventing metal particles from clogging the stone and ensuring a smooth sharpening experience. This reduces friction, resulting in a cleaner, sharper edge.
Step 2: Start by Creating a Slurry
The first step in sharpening is to create a slurry, a fine paste that improves sharpening efficiency by allowing the garnets in the stone to glide smoothly over the blade.
How to create a slurry:
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Use a slurry stone to rub the surface of your sharpening stone.
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Continue rubbing until a milky paste forms. This paste helps remove metal more effectively while protecting both the blade and the stone.
Creating a slurry is especially useful when sharpening tougher tools like axes and garden shears, as it speeds up the sharpening process.
Step 3: Sharpen with Controlled, Even Strokes
The key to effective sharpening is consistency. Maintaining a steady angle and using even strokes will help you achieve a clean, sharp edge.
Tips for different tools:
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Pocket knives: Hold the knife at a consistent angle (around 20 degrees) and use smooth, sweeping strokes. Alternate sides for a balanced edge.
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Pruners: Sharpen each blade separately. Use short strokes at a slight angle to get a precise, sharp edge.
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Axes: Lay the blade flat on the stone and apply even pressure while moving it in a circular or sweeping motion.
Step 4: Clean and Store Properly
After sharpening, it’s important to clean and store your tools and stones correctly to prevent rust and ensure they last longer.
Cleaning your tools:
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Wipe the blade with a clean cloth to remove any remaining slurry or metal particles.
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Apply a thin layer of oil to protect the blade from rust.
Cleaning your stones:
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Rinse the stone under running water to wash away any residue.
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Let it dry completely before storing it in a dry place.
Proper care ensures that your tools stay sharp and ready for action, while your sharpening stones remain effective for years to come.
Which Stone Should You Use?
If you’re wondering which Ardennes-Coticule stone is best for your outdoor tools, check out our guide to choosing the right stone for outdoor activities. It covers the different types of stones we offer, their sizes, and which tools they’re best suited for—whether you need a portable stone for your pocket knife or a larger one for heavy-duty axes.
Ready to keep your outdoor gear razor-sharp? Explore our range of Coticule Blue and Coticule Combo Pyrenees stones today and experience the difference that handcrafted Belgian sharpening stones can make.
