X
wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time.
This article has been viewed 36,871 times.
Learn more...
Shovels should be sharpened regularly to maximize their functionality and effectiveness. Proper maintenance of outdoor tools will save their owner time and effort in the long run. Shovel blades may become dull due to normal wear and tear or exposure to the elements. A dull blade will not cut through soil as easily as a sharpened one, which may cause increased exertion by the shovel's user. Read the article below to learn how to sharpen a shovel.
Steps
-
1Gather the necessary materials. You will need steel wool, an emery cloth or a manufactured rust remover in order to prep the shovel for sharpening. You will also need a 10- or 12-inch mill bastard file. All of these materials can be found at your local hardware store.
-
2Remove any rust from the shovel blade using the steel wool, emery cloth or rust remover. Gently scrub the surface of the shovel until any vestige of rust has been removed. This is an important step, as filing a rusty surface will dull the file resulting in ineffective sharpening.Advertisement
-
3Secure the shovel tightly in a vice or clamp it to the top of your workbench. Ensure the upper surface of the blade, or the concave side, is accessible. If you do not have access to a vice or clamps, grip the shovel between your knees and attempt to keep it as sturdy as possible.
-
4Locate the sharp side of the shovel by running your finger lightly along the top, then the underside, of the blade. You will sharpen the leading edge, or the one that feels noticeably sharper to the touch.
-
5File the leading edge with moderate pressure, pushing the file forward and sideways, at a uniform angle. You should form a bevel of about 70 degrees to the upper surface of the shovel. Avoid drawing the file backward.
Advertisement
Community Q&A
-
QuestionHow do I sharpen a scraper?NinoxTop AnswererUse the same method as the shovel (with a file) and finish with a grinding stone.
Advertisement
Things You'll Need
- Shovel
- Steel wool
- Emery cloth
- Rust remover
- 10- or 12-inch mill bastard file
- Vice
- Clamps
References
About This Article
Advertisement