How to Sharpen a Shovel

[Arkitekt]

1. Use a flat metal bench file to sharpen the shovel.

2. Sharpen the curved inner edge of the blade.

3. Place the file at a 45 degree angle on the edge of the blade.

4. Keep the file at the same angle and sharpen in only one direction, not back and forth. A few passes with the file should make a sharp cutting edge.


Tips:
You can also use a sharpening stone, but it will take much longer to sharpen the blade than it will using a file.

Sharpen the shovel frequently if you are digging in rocky soil. Rocks will dull the blade quickly.

[Byrn]

Is this the same method you use for kitchen knives and other objects.?

[Khalin]

Danke :)

[NeGaS]

Looks good, although I dont think my shovel will need sharpening...

[Chineseguyx]

Thanks for the little tip for this, i will probably try it during the winter time.

[TheGunRenter]

I'll pass this on to my son. *wink* *wink* He needs to keep my yard nice.

[Sidewinder]

Remember you don't want a knife edge for a shovel, for the same reason you don't want a scalpel edge on an axe.

[razorbladetherapy]

Remember you don't want a knife edge for a shovel, for the same reason you don't want a scalpel edge on an axe.
Quoted for truth.