Q&A Machetes, Knives, Sharpening and Saws

[@roberthunt1219]

Hi, Yes dragging the blade back is the way I was taught to sharpen super sharp edges. My dear old dad has now passed away of old age at 92 - he was a chemist / pharmacist. Back in the post WW2 era, everything was looked after due to the great depression. Dad would re sharpen his chemist shop scalpels when they became dull using the same dragging technique as you. As kid I used this technique to sharpen my little Barlow pocket knife to razor sharp. You brought back memories of my dear old dad. Thank you for sharing.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm glad it brought back memories Robert, your dad sounds like a great guy! Thanks for watching

[@outdoorbliss9897]

I have been watching and learning bits and pieces from you for years, There are bigger channels that I think watch you and take your ideas. I would just like to say you are under appreciated. Thank you and please keep producing knowledge and woodsy wisdom.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I wouldnt be surprised. I am way smaller than other youtubers so if the bigger ones copy me few will know. I'm glad you like what all I do, Thanks for watching

[@michaelcanning2815]

Just tried your sharpening technique and wow! What a difference. Thanks again for all the great info & ideas.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds great Michael! Im happy it worked for ya man. Take care and thanks for watching

[@bigstud6655]

I'm a knifemaker, Bob Armstrong Knives, you definitely know what you're doing. Enjoyed watching your sharpening methods too. You've put a lot of time into your tools, was very informative to watch.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you so much Bob!

[@cw5118]

I first learned how to sharpen when I was a forestry firefighter and we used a file and sat on the ground cross legged and used our shoe to support the Pulaski or the shovel. You gain muscle memory and so when I got my first Flexcut set of carving tools it was natural to stay consistent. I’ve also sharpened goat hoof trimming shears. Thank you for the tips! My machete needs some attention and my pocket knife.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the comments Connie!

[@gunterbecker8528]

Dear David,strong convictions indeed about you,according to Cocker"you one of a kind",keep up the good work!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you my friend!

[@Tbear7000]

Not only are your video's very informative. they are so entertaining, I bet many non-bush crafters watch and subscribe to your channel.. Thank you for sharing your many bushcrafing skills and the best down-home entertainment..

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Gary Bales Thanks Gary, Im glad you like what I do so much. I try and make em as entertaining as possible. Thanks for watching

[@aliceleyva3767]

You are so right! I am a 70-year-old disabled/handicapped lady. I love this Georgia man. I have learned so much from him. And enjoyed it all. A gentleman, he is.

[@missannie8012]

Yep, even us older ladies watch. 😁

[@daltonvickers7977]

Thanks for a very good video. Lots of info. I love the Mora knives too. I gave one to my hunting and fishing partner and he fell in love with it. When he found out how cheap they are, he got a couple more. I have a Mora Pathfinder that I love. It has taken a beating with no problem. I use my small Moras for smaller camp chores and skinning. Thanks for all the tips. Very helpful. And pulling a knife is a lot better way to sharpen than pushing one

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+dalton vickers Thanks Dalton, I'm glad you liked it. Man, almost everyone I have ever talked to that has tried a Mora, loves them. For the price, they can not be beat. Thanks for watching Brother

[@chrisbraid2907]

Yeah it’s push to grind and Draw to sharpen. If the edge was definitely dull I’d push just a little then draw a lot … always left me a nice edge. Don’t waste the steel on your knife, you only have it once …

[@boggycreekbeast]

The King! Great to see you, David. Love the shirt..."they know me here" LOL! So glad you put up this video. Gonna send a bunch of people your way because I think this video will cover their questions and then some. What a thorough video!!! Very good job my friend! Gonna have to watch a few more times. Take care-Tim

[@facksnack]

+boggycreekbeast This is exactly what I needed! THANK YOU DAVID! I'm watching again

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+boggycreekbeast Thanks Brother Tim! Im happy you liked it enough to send folks this way. I tried to cover all I do with sharpening. I feared it would be a boring video but Im happy its liked so far! Take care brother and Thanks for watching and sharing

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+facksnack You are very welcome my friend!

[@facksnack]

+Reallybigmonkey1 This video is so informative! You make it so easy to understand. There are all these channels that post similar information but it doesn't sound like it comes from experience. Thank you again

[@Tengan65]

Wow, finally someone saying the right stuff in a down to earth way, you are the best. Thx for sharing!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Tengan65 Thank you my friend! I simply tel it like it is and the easiest way possible.

[@jdc31947]

You are truly A MASTER of all things outdoors!! Thank you so much for all of your insight and for sharing it with us.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you like what all I do!

[@wvpok]

Your personality is excellent! Love these show & tell / Q&A videos! Lots of great info and I always learn a lot. Thanks!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Weston Probst Thanks Weston, I'm glad you like the way I do things. Take care and Thanks for watching.

[@ronalddunne3413]

Very informative, might try your method after watching this again... I have always pushed the blade rather than drawing it back.. my Dad made circular motions to sharpen his knives.. his 8" carborundum came to me, one fine side and a semi-coarse which I suppose was meant for axes (always sharpened his axes with a file and taught me the same). When I got my first Buck, the 7" "General-120", the instructions showed a pushing technique on a hard Arkansas which I have always used and it maintains a good edge... Thanks for posting, interesting and enjoyable to watch.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the comments Ronald and I'm glad you liked it Brother

[@not2fast4u2c]

Thanks for all the Info on how you sharpen knives .You showed a great way to sharpen an axe and the convex edge on the machete using emery paper on a stick ....I have done that using a paint stirring stick and emery paper to sharpen my Hatchet

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+not2fast4u2c You sre very welcome brother! Thats very cool to know you have used the stick n emery paper. That shows we think alike.

[@kachiri]

_"I live in my own little world... But it's oaky... They know me here!"_ I love that shirt!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

That applies to a lot of folks

[@joelvansickle3623]

That was great Dave... So do forks😂

[@gullionshomestead6130]

Dave, I have been fumbling around for years trying to learn how to properly sharpen tools. You have fixed that for me in this video and brought me out of ignorance and into the light. Forever greatful.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Fantastic to hear that my friend!

[@PaulBuikema]

Nice one David, always good to see you pop back up, thanks for the discussion of the last hour. Happy to see you on the Silky bandwagon, I have been a big fan for years and it started with a Pocketboy. Keep on keeping on brother, take care of you and yours.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Paul Buikema Thank you Brother Paul! Always great to be back on here. Man ever since I used my first Silky I have been hooked. You just can not beat them. Great hearing from ya and Thanks for watching Paul!

[@tompeltoma8531]

Just came across this older video and as usual you provided great information on how to sharpen different style blades. Thanks for sharing your insight on this subject.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm glad you liked it Tom, thanks for watching brother

[@lindabeebe7065]

I'm new to knives, and bush crafting, but I've been a camper for 35 years. (Tent, on the ground. So not too prissy, lol) I've bought my first Mora, same one you show here. I'm planning to use it for general feather stick and bush craft tasks as well as some small batoning. I am wondering if, with that sort of use, I could just "maintain" the edge, or would I need to handle it as you have here, with the India stone and oil? I loved this video. Was planning to just watch the sharpening part of it, but was interested the whole way through. I've also found Ullrica through you. She is such an inspiration to me, so thank you for that. I've also realized, after watching this that you, David, have become my mentor for all things cutting & chopping as well as some of your other info. Thanks for sharing your time in the woods, as well as knowledge such as this. Linda

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Linda Beebe Welcome to Bushcrafting Linda! As far as maintaining an edge on the ole Mora, the best bet is to just let your feather sticks show you. I say if it will still carve a feather stick then you just need to strop or polish it to keep an edge. If you can not carve feathers, then its time for the stone. As far as batoning, you can do it with a Mora but in my opinion you need to save that for a machete. Just remember this other tip, the smaller tool you have it for slicing and carving. Your larger tool is for chopping and batoning. Im happy you consider me a mentor. Ill try to not steer you wrong. I two good mentors and Ill never match them guys. Take care and Thanks for watching Linda!

[@LizzieWestBathandBody]

Thank you for sharing finally great techniques from someone who knows how to run a machine shop

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Elisabeth West You are very welcome Elisabeth. Many years of being a machinist and tool and die maker has helped me out a lot.

[@sonofnelfonos]

Told my wife "he made the sharpening video, come watch it!" She made it halfway through before she fell asleep! Thanks so much for putting this one out there! I really enjoyed watching it, and I learned a lot. Peace!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+sonofnelfonos LOL! Brother I can entertain AND put folks to sleep. Thats pretty well rounded. Thanks for watching Brother!

[@stephenwright3501]

Another entertaining and useful video. I look forward to each one. My grandfather taught me to push when sharpening, but I discovered on my own that pulling was better and have felt guilty about it for 50 years. Thanks for explaining the difference so I can "come out of the closet."

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Stephen Wright Thanks Stephen, I'm glad you liked it. Ah man, I guess I would have felt guilty too. I pretty much listened to every thing my grandpa ever told me. Im happy you have a method that works. Thanks for watching.

[@mikemagnum7987]

David, I've been a sub for 5 years and always enjoy your videos. That you are being criticized by the "Internet Critics" is typical of any channel that I have seen, especially the guitar vids! I wouldn't worry about it much, you know what works for you and I can say this; I have incorporated many of your sharpening techniques and find them to work very well for me. Keep up the good work and Stay Strong my friend! You do much good in the world and it needs it! There's a 4th..... "No body likes the Raw Butts".... ;) I also wanted to mention that I have the Kabar Kukri as well and must have gotten lucky with mine because it is indestructible and I have never have an edge problem like chipping or rolling. I beat that thing down the length of a 5 foot x 6 inch Black Hawthorne stick and let me tell you THAT TOOK SOME DOING! ;) It came through with flying colors and required minor touch-up to re-sharpen. I have Cold Steel's Heavy Machete and it is a beast to! It was once used as a shovel to get me un-stuck and it worked well for that to! In fact, I might still be there stuck if not that that machete;).... I'm more of a Bowie (Bo-EE) knife guy myself and am looking at the Condor Coffin Bowie, to give my CS Recon Scout a rest... Used primarily for chopping wading staffs and hiking sticks... Anyway, Please stay in the good fight and don't let the critics tear down your meat house!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you for the support Mike! Yep, you are so right. Everyone gets critics. It gets much much worse when you do thing out of the box and unlike anyone else. I think when myths are copied and filmed over and over it becomes the accepted norm. Once someone finds a better way they suddenly become the weirdo. LOL. I love all my Kabars and Condors but haven't gotten around to trying any Cold steel machetes.

[@gunterbecker8528]

Well said,don't need anything to add to it!

[@dianaevans5047]

Sure like your wisdom on safety, knowledge of camping and I love fishing and camping also! More than most people or even men! I got a old timer by Schrader! Stainless surgical steel and a leather sheath! How can I maintain it from rust and damage? Thanks Mr Pearson you got my attention are learning! Thank God your not boring!!! Lol! Your great! Just love to watch and listen to you! Keep up the great work! I sure appreciate you! Again thanks for being yourself and honest!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Diana, I'm glad you like what all I do. Surf around my channel upload list for lots more! Thanks for watching

[@rdlaw8868]

Great video, David. Very informative info. Thanks.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+RDLaw88 Thank you my friend!

[@Stargazer131000]

Thank you, David for sharing your vast amount of knowledge with us. You have answered every question I can think of and more. I consider you my only mentor because I have learned most of what I know from you.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

That's fantastic to hear! And Im always happy to share!

[@fergusrb]

WOW, my two favorite things..........shop video and an hour long video. :-) Had some coffee and sat back, learned some things too.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Bruce Ferguson Cool! Im happy you liked it all Bruce.

[@tjordulf]

I have made many knives, swords etc, Viking swords, Roman Gladius, Roman spatha, blah blah, but one thing is for sure, if you develop a sharpening technique that works, then who cares how others do it. I just laid on my couch, and after watching the full video, I have an overwhelming urge to go in my workshop, grab my sharpening stone and some strop leather and sharpen my survival knife, and I'm not even a bushcrafter. In fact, watching your vids has given me the idea to spend a weekend in the forest up the hill from me😊, although, it's October, it's Germany and its bloody freezing 😂, so I may wait till next summer. But one thing I wanted to say as a relative noob to your channel, is thanks for sharing your passion, and to us over the pond, your happy go lucky positive attitude and your really funny southern Hill Billy drawl, makes your vids even more infinitely watchable. So, cheers, appreciate it bro. 👍🏻

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm happy you like the videos and even happier I've motivated you to camp again!

[@dannynimmo3052]

Oh, I'm so angry and freaked out! LOL :) Nah really I like your videos, I'm a machinist also and I have a lot of the same stuff. The bushcrafting stuff is new to me so I'm getting a lot from your videos. I've wasted a lot of money buying all the wrong stuff. the info. I'm getting from your videos have been really beneficial, Thanks for all the great videos:)

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, I'm glad you like the videos Danny! If you're a machinist then we definitely think alike. We both like to make every thing rather than buy it. Am I right or what? Lol. Thanks for watching brother

[@williampysell2819]

Dave, I am a big fan of all of your videos. You are an engineer as much as you are a woodsman! I really like some of the things you have invented and filmed for us outdoor enthusiasts. Those items have displayed a lot of thought and logic in their design and uses. I personally love sharpening knives and axes, and for many years I was the guy in our camp that everyone would bring their knives to to get sharpened. It was always a good rainy day activity for me, and my friends would end up with really sharp knives! I learned about several techniques and gadgets from this video that I am going to adopt from now on, especially in regards to my machetes. One difference between you and me is that I prefer my axe edge to be razor sharp, and I have actually shaved with one in camp at times. Thanks for making such informative and interesting videos!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks , I'm glad you like all I do William. Funny thing, only the guys that know how to sharpen really well enjoy it, everyone else hates doing it! Thats cool you picked up a few things from me. The general idea for me with axes is if you do have a very old high quality alloy axe then its ok to make it razor sharp. Todays modern axes made in China seem to dull quicker with a razor edge but cut longer with a "sharp enough" edge. Hard to explain it but thats what Ive noticed. Take care brother and thanks for watching! Thanks for watching

[@thomasadams759]

David the way you sharpen your knifes is how my DAD taught me and his Dad taught him and so on, doing it some other way just does not feel right. Are you my missing brother. I have watched other videos on sharping a knife and I think most of them have been taught the wrong way by someone else. Dave please don't ever do it their way do it our way. We have so much in common on the old ways. People say come into the 21st century and I am I don't think so, our for fathers are doing it just like you and I and I will bet that a heck of a lot of great people that follow you do it just like you also. David you are spot on and you always take your videos to a new level that's why I and your other followers have so much respect for you plus you make this a family show. I am so glad I ran across your you tube channel, it's so nice to have found someone who really is funny with great camping skills and does know how to survive. God Bless you brother and if you ever come to Arizona to do a video please get a hold of me and you all can stay with me that way you can save a lot of money, plus you would have a guide. Take care and I'll keep looking and watching your videos.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thomas we must be missing brothers because you pointed out every single thing I strive for and want to impress upon in my videos! Thanks for the comments and see ya in the next one Brother!

[@mobiltec]

Finally. Now I know how to sharpen my blades. With a collection like yours I knew you had to know all about sharpening. Just ordered the Sog Revolver. Never seen one till now. Thanks for showing that. Actually, WD-40 is a water dispersant. Yes it works well to help loosen things but it was invented to disperse water or moisture. Hence the 'WD'. The number 40 is the final finished chemical mixture. There were 39 previous prototypes.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+mobiltec Im glad I could help. You are going to LOVE that Revolver! I knew about the WD part but not the 40 part, thanks for sharing that!

[@Zedoutdoors]

Another fantastic and educational video Dave, and I luv the you pronounce 'Oil' lol :) ~Peace~

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it Brother. LOL, man youll have to excuse my southern accent, I'm about as southern as the south gets! Take care and Thanks for watching

[@gnosisrisingbushcraftorgan2273]

I have to say you are the first person I've seen sharpen the same way as myself; "With the grain instead of against, so to speak, gives me the sharpest/fastest edge ", unless i'm changing the grind, fixing a chip or fold (quick couple of harsh shape changer swipes, against the grain then back to it, job done! Just finished my BK-2 from dull (butter knife) too razor sharp on 4 Wet Stones: 600/1000 3000/8000 4x8 each side over all four stones (It's the way i slide & the OCD in me lol 256 total). Great content glad i found your channel🙌🙏

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Great to hear we think alike! Only difference is on my Japanese water stones I stop at 3000 and go to the strop. Thanks for watching brother

[@gnosisrisingbushcraftorgan2273]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 Thanks i'll try your tip & stop at 3000 on my next sharpen (I've ordered the TOPS BOB Hunter, i don't have a scandi grind knife & liked what i've seen from reviews, interested in testing out the Scandi/vex grind, i can always turn it back to a true Scandi grind, if need be). After watching your Video on Machete I'm looking at the Esse Jungulas, value your honest opinions, much respect! (your machete/knife combos are mint imho).

[@fireandsteel9790]

Fantastic video brother! One of the best, if not THE best sharpening videoes i have ever seen. Snake

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Fire and Steel Thank you Brother Snake!

[@lejski69]

Fire and Steel

[@carolinezipp4383]

Thanx for your vids on machetes, I've just ordered my first one, a Terava Skrama. I appreciate all your good word!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome Caroline and I'm glad you liked it. You're going to love that Skrama!

[@wolswildcamping1257]

Another awesome video. Instructive and entertaining, I was left with only one question.... How do I afford all those lovely sharp tools? Thanks for sharing man. Be safe and be lucky, Wol.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+wols wildcamping Thanks Brother, I'm glad you liked it. LOL, man you get that many sharp tools by asking for them every birthday, every fathers day and every Christmas of every year. No ties or sweaters for me. Hee Hee. Thanks for watching.

[@RoxUniverse]

That’s some very fine cutlery sir! I like these videos because you make some excellent points about the gear! Thanks David

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you Brother!

[@brettsteele7386]

One of the things that I like about you is you make long video's. It seems like most of the channels have gone to 10 minutes or less. I like to watch the longer video's. Besides, you are just about the most entertaining bush craft/ survival channel out there. And I always learn something from you. That is the most important part to me. Great video.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Brett Steele I hear ya Brett. I hate it when Im watching a video and the subject is so good that it needs more time and gets cut short. Ive noticed lately its getting worse and most are going from 10 minutes to 5 minutes. You just cant cover a subject in that time. Im happy you like what I do and learn from it. Take care and Thanks for watching

[@rod.thehollerhound9791]

You're right Dave. I pushed my blades for years. They got sharp. But not razor sharp. I started pulling the blade. Now thet are razor sharp. Thanks for the video buddy.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Very cool to hear this method works for you! Thanks for watching my friend

[@deannaelliott8247]

Finally found this video. Got some new blades today that I'm not used to and knew you we're that man that would know how to keep them maintained. Thanks! Shannon

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds great! Im sure theres at least a few tips you can use here.

[@ruththinkingoutside.707]

Really great job with this one! :) .. I've always sharpened the way you do, direction-wise.. And honestly I can't remember who taught me to do it that way.. But.. In the past year or two I've gotten SO confused by the mixed messages online of "oh no! Never do it THAT way!" But never get a decent explanation WHY! So (as always) THANK YOU!! Very clear and reasonable details on all of it. You're a gift to us all ;) much appreciated!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Ruth Elgers Thanks Ruth! Thats cool you sharpen the way I do. Amazing to me how many sharpen a certain way then never explain why. Once I was explained why, I understood and never did it any other way. Take care and Thanks for watching!

[@ricklindsey3150]

great idea with filing the stone, simple idea. i cant believe i didn't think of it. i have seen that problem a lot and never thought to do that. great video as always

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Rick “USA1RICK” Lindsey Thanks Rick, Im glad you liked it. A lot of folks think it destroys a stone but to me, its just shaping it to be a dedicated kukri stone. Take care brother!

[@survivalistpt8080]

your knife sharpening skills and knowledge is truly impressive, I am a knife collector and I have 20 years experience in honing knives, I learned a lot from your excellent video... thank you.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+survivalistpt Thanks! I'm glad you liked it that much my friend! Its always great to hear when a friend has learned from me. Take care and thanks for watching!

[@ronhart8857]

Very great job sharpening all your equipment. Very well explained, thank you for sharing. You also do a great job with the sheathes you made with other equipment attached to it!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Ronald, I'm glad you liked it all my friend. Thanks for watching

[@leperejoe1536]

You are a clever man... You train your hands to do a task; your hands remember and learn, creating precise work like sharpening or other. Don't need any fancy 'selling point' gimmick device to Tudor you and do the work for you. If we don't stop using these crutches, hair will grow in our hands. Keep up the good work.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Joe! And how true. We all need to exercise our hands and the skills they possess

[@frankvazquez4050]

I know I have watched this before and commented, but KZbin let me give you a thumbs up, so I did and I must say that you showed us all that it doesn't require specific nor expensive equipment to sharpen a blade. I prefer the use of emery cloth or sandpaper because it's cheap and forgiving and can create a flat grind or a sabre (convex) grind when placed on a rubber mat. Belt sanders can do the same. But anyway, you make such good use of everything and nothing is wasted.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Frank, I'm glad you liked it again! Yep, no need to spend a fortune just to sharpen a blade. Take care and thanks for watching

[@chipchaffee2416]

Excellent video , no nonsense and very informative!!! Thank you

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Chip! I'm glad you liked it

[@dartarkana4279]

you are a very gentle spirit of man which in the long run will give you that perfect edge

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks!

[@davepetro9170]

like always Dave you're very meticulous on everything you do that's why you are the best great informational video on sharpening your tools of the trait👍👍👍👍👊👊👊👊

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Dave Petro Thanks you Dave! Im glad you liked it so much my friend

[@davepetro9170]

Dave thank you for getting back to me on my comment Dave do you have any cold weather overnight bushcrafting trips in your archives let me know and tell me how I can pull it up

[@RolandForest]

As always you don't disappoint. Great video. Getting to see you in the workshop is definitely an added bonus.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Roland Forest Thanks Roland, I'm glad you liked it. Man I do love hanging out in the ole shop! Thanks for watching my friend.

[@GaryESims]

Thank you for this great video. I will be able to keep my edge on my K-Bar Cutlass. I do have to say dressing the edge of the stone with a file is like scratching a chalkboard with my fingernails. Ouch! Thanks for all you do and taking the time to share with us. We are better for it. Your awesome.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Gary E. Sims You are very welcome Gary! LOL, man Ill admit, it doesnt look like a proper method for treating a stone but it will keep the shape of your Cutlass perfect! Thanks for watching Bro.

[@GaryESims]

+Reallybigmonkey1 Have a great Easter.

[@virginiacopeland108]

This is one of your best videos!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Clark and Virginia

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you my friends!

[@MrBluesluver]

Another nice video. I think this is the best video I've seen on sharpening a parang. Thank you.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Bill Strack Thank you Bill! Im happy you liked it that much. I just look at the convex grind of a parang and treat like I would an axe. Thanks for watching

[@pamdarsow9721]

Finally found this video . I have my sewing scissors and kitchen knives sharpened for me . I wanted to learn how to do it myself , with out ruining my knives . I have an axe I would like to sharpen too Thanks so much

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Knives, kitchen knives and axes are no big deal. Scissors are a tough one to sharpen for some reason. Thanks for watching Pam!

[@gyges2375]

Thank you for this. Forty years ago my father taught me to sharpen blades this way. He could set an edge for chopping or razor up a K-Bar that would cut through turtle hide like a hot knife. This is the first video I've seen demonstrating the technique but like you said, "it woks for me" and I've been doing it a long time.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it and I'm always happy to share. Thats very cool your father taught you this method!

[@dr.rodsmith7156]

Hi David.. Great video.. Thank you for all you do.. Lucky B was commenting about the Heat Treat Process he uses.. Well it really quite amazing.. I have two of his custom blades and Ill never part with them .. Just seems I can do practically anything with them and they take it and ask for more with an edge that doesn't quit.. He is the real deal.. a true Master Blade Smith.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Dr. Rod Smith Thanks Dr. Rod, Im glad you liked it. That heat treat process he mentioned does sound pretty amazing. Thats very cool you have some of his blades!

[@actahm5619]

Awesome work brother.....You are definitely the one to go camping with.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Chris! I'm a real hoot to camp with!

[@danielbrown1632]

Really good explanatory video. I can’t wait to try your methods on my stone and leather strop. I was always told to sharpen a blade by pushing it away from me. But what you teach certainly makes better sense. Thanks again for sharing your skills.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Daniel! I hope this works out well for you then.

[@tikkidaddy]

My grandfather used to use ceramic rods that he got when he was an electrician, worked in a textile plant in NC. He taught me to pull a knife blade toward you and roll one side to the other every stroke. So it goes away from the edge on one side and into the edge on the other stroke. It takes a minute, but it gets to the point you'll cut the soup out of yourself... Razor sharp. I lock the elbow and wrist and move from the shoulder. Helps keep your angle. Depends on the steel, and which is more comfortable, but I do what Dave explains here or I go back to the old tried and true. I got hold of the filaments from the bulb out of those huge street lights. You have to very carefully break the bulb and remove the cage that holds that rod, but man alive you talk about😂😂!!

[@HanaleiSurfrider1]

Thank you yet again. I just learned something new! Entertainment with value, humor and it's free! Much appreciated, Sir!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Always great to hear that and I'm happy you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@Occupuyourspine]

You sure have some nice machetes me I carry a La Grand Chef cleaver use a file to sharpen it. A dual purpose use is when I use it as a shovel; if the edge gets dulled so what a few strokes of a file & it has a new edge. I leave a burr on that tilts to the left deliberately so it cuts like a saw.🤠

[@Occupuyourspine]

Oh yeah I try for an edge that meets at 20 degrees with a burr tilted to the left to get the saw effect. 🤠 Kinda sharp for using with a baton for fire wood prep tends to jam up often so I am sure to have wedges with me.. The file goes into the cleavers case. I always have seriously sharp blades I do not "take care" of my fine, costly, well chosen blades as I can simply get another one athough I never use my cleaver as a pry bar. .

[@Occupuyourspine]

I prefer hollow ground edge on my knives. My favorite blade shape is a Bowie knife I usually buy Buck knives. I use a file to sharpen & leave the burr on. At one time I had 47 quality knives & 6 swords 🤠

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds good to me David!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I can see that. A finely serrated edge from files sharpening act's completely different from a finely honed edge but still very useful

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

In my later years I've become a scandi grind fan

[@johncavellier4681]

Wooie! NOW I know why I was NEVER satisfied with my results in sharpening knives.Thanks for the video! You explain things such that a common man like myself can understand. I'll have to find some leather to use as a strop.Thanks again!John

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds great John and I'm glad you liked how I do it. Good luck with it and it hope it works well brother! Thanks for watching

[@uralbob1]

This is one of the best sharpening/blade care videos I've ever seen. This is important info. I've been a little bit worried about evenly sharpening my Kukri along it's entire edge.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Fantastic to hear that Robert!

[@squirelova1815]

I WISH I could live in your wonderful "little world" dear sir. You are a sweetheart of a "man's man" sharing many very important useful skills and talents. I'm one of the "city slicker" prisoners who escaped/escapes the trappings of greazy "civilization" to God's mountains and eagerly watch your superb show to learn and Dream of how to Properly enjoy the wilderness country. Sincere Thanks again for a truly wonderful and very educational episode.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome my friend and get out into the wilderness any chance you can!

[@droflah76]

Thank you for taking us through your techniques! I am an avid sharpener and learned lots! Cheers!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome Josh and Im happy you learned some stuff man!

[@gaymiller09]

Hey son! Thank you, thank you, thank you! You cleared up a lot of things confusing to me. I used to watch my Daddy sharpen his knives and it was always a mystery to me why he would sharpen his knives and then run them down his boot heel. I now realize his boots were leather and he was stropping them. How cool. Good job my son. :)

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+GG Prepper Thanks Ma! Thats very cool to hear the way your Daddy used to do it. I believe the ole leather strop method has been around for years and is here to stay. Take care and Thanks for watching!

[@waldinrobey6620]

David.Another excellent and instructive video.Dragging on a leather strop was always the method used on the"old open razors. This type of razor was banned in the British Army for safety reasons. Waldo.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Waldin Robey Thanks Waldo, Im happy you liked it. Yes, the ole leather strop has been a main stay for years. Thats very interesting on the razor ban, I never knew that!

[@woodswalker64]

These are some great sharpening/blade care tips! Yes, you covered a lot more than most, and I appreciate it! Wet feet, bitter coffee, and a dull blade. Yep, I can verify that I hate those things! Thanks for the tips brother and I look forward to the next one. - David

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+David Fiorini Thanks David, I'm glad you liked it. Good to hear you hate all three of them things, Ive had one like biter coffee and one like dull blades. LOL. Thanks for watching.

[@donlute3444]

Your right in the sharpening. I've done both as you did and the edge was much more sharper by dragging creating the burr.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Great to hear that Don!

[@tooterr101oldgeezer4]

in my own personal opinion, to each their own. You do what works for you and I'll do what works for me. I do like your sharpening equipment. I'll have to check out that India stone and those rubber embedded ones. Both of those looked cool. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+tooterr101 oldgeezer I agree, everyones methods and blades and care differs. Do what works. Take care and Thanks for watching

[@BillHalliwell]

G'day Dave, I saw this excellent video when it came out. I didn't leave a comment. It happens that I'm a huge fan of Kukris and recurve machetes and recurve/convex knives. I took your advice on-board because I didn't have a strategy for sharpening my Kukris, convex and recurves. When in doubt I used a ceramic rod and a ceramic oval rod; which by the way, works well. Here it is two years later and I can tell you that your methods (in some cases slightly modified) have been working for me. I don't like using awlll (AKA: oil) so I got myself an ultra-fine water stone wheel. I also have practiced doing a lot of 'line of sight' freehand honing and stropping and I can pretty much get a surgical blade finish on any decent carbon or stainless steel. Although, I took your advice and didn't bother spending too much time on my 'chop only' Kukris. Now I have a lot of knives in my user collections that I don't need to show to a stone of any kind. Thanks, Dave you've been a great help! P.S. I love your Southern accent although with some words I need to see sub-titles till I get used to your great way of speaking. No dig intended; if you heard my rough Aussie accent you'd probably reckon I was babbling on in some foreign language :) Good one, Dave. Since 2016 I've not missed one of your videos. Outstanding.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Never too late to comment and I'm happy you liked it brother. Even cooler you use some of my methods! A quick tip on water stones, always use distilled water to avoid lime or calcium deposits from clogging the stone

[@BillHalliwell]

G'day Dave, Thanks for the tip on the distilled water. We filter all our water because it's 'hard' water down here, whatever that means. I can get distilled so I'll give it a go. I got two rare earth magnets and put one on the inside and outside of the water reservoir for the grinding wheel and it picks up all the metal fragments taken off my blades so they don't keep going around on the wheel with the water; hopefully keeping it clean and doing its job properly. The Tormec T7 & 8 have magnets but my cheaper T4 doesn't so I did my own. Cheers, BH

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

That's a great idea using them magnets!

[@bronxbomber0079]

Very helpful video as usual.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it

[@Traveler1226]

I'm right there with ya pal. I have used, what I call, the draw method on a sharpening stone since I was a little kid. I draw from the base of the blade on one side and draw from the point on the other. Just the way I've always done it. I find it much more forgiving that pushing the edge across the stone. I have switched to using water stones. Then I use the Yellow stone stropping compound I get on Amazon. Works better than jewelers rouge and doesn't get gummy. I have the ESEE junglas and love it. I have never used a kukri but admit I need to try one. As for the nay sayers. You get your knife sharp or not. No matter how you choose to get it done. It's done. Great video and tutorial my man. Thank you.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Its always great to hear from someone who uses this same method. I havent heard of that yellow stropping compound, Ill have to look it up. I'll also say if you havent tried a kukri, please try one or even a parang. Thats my 2 go too machete shapes. I'm happy you liked the vid.. Thanks for watching

[@Traveler1226]

I have had my eye on the Condor parang for a while. I may give that a try first. Be hard to replace my ESEE Junglas. That stropping compound is called "Yellow Stone" on Amazon. I always enjoy your stuff. Hang tough.

[@dr.rongoldstein1633]

wow, another great video....just the keen edge on sharpening Dave. We thank you.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Dr. Ron Goldstein Thank you Dr. Ron!

[@coffeetime3810]

Thanks for the info on sharpening and taking care of the blades.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+nancy briggs You are very welcome Nancy, Thanks for watching

[@jackmehoff2961]

Great Video ! You even make knife sharpening interesting. You have a way of keeping ones attention. Thank You for sharing another wonderful video. ATB

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it that much man! I try to make it all fun. Thanks for watching

[@rcastillon1]

Very insightful and as usual, love the humor! I'm not an excellent knife sharpener, to say the least but I found all of your tips to be very useful. Actually, they all seem to be inline with teachings I've had in the past so no reason for anyone to argue with them.Thanks for your return to KZbin my friend, always a pleasure seeing you

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Bob Castillon Thanks Bob, I'm glad you liked it all. I was taught these methods years ago and they have worked on pretty much all my blades. Its always great to be back on youtube. Thanks for watching.

[@habrork4430]

The Allman Brothers said it best about you.... Lord I was born a ramblin man... Great video, love every video you do, you are my favorite youtuber.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+hab rork LOL, Dude I do ramble a lot! I'm happy you like how I do things tho. Thanks for watching

[@mchang7103]

Hi Dave, I'm so glad you started making videos again. I've learned so much from them!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+M Chang Thanks! I hated that one year when I couldnt film. Life got busy but I have always tried to make videos as often as possible because its so much fun!

[@derrickfelix6206]

This vlog has to be one of the best, I have ever seen. Thank you, Cheers

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Derrick!

[@GabbyBillNumberOne]

Yup informative and entertaining, great combination David!I'm pretty much past the stage of Bush Crafting, but I like just about anything that has to do with tools and knives of a broad type of uses.I've always been the push type of sharpener as that's how I was taught by a dear friend who was a barber and that is how he sharpened his straight razors, along with the double strop, one side a very coarse canvas like material that would pull the burr off, and a smooth leather side that he would rub with jewelers red rouge, for the final polish.I'm going to try your method one of these days just to see how well it works for me.Thanks and keep doing what you are doing.Gabby

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Gabby, I'm glad you liked it. Some use push,some use pull. I've noticed the only way to get something sharp is to create a burr and remove it. In my experience it's easier to use the pull method

[@Airik1111bibles]

Hey brother thanks for the oil on the stones it works great. I wanted to tell ya about something I tried on my Mora Garberg, I took some very fine sand paper and taped it to a wood block, I used water and made the edge convexed into the scandi just slightly and it was really easy to do. The very fine sand paper really polished it into a nice sharp scandivex without being abusive to the edge, which makes it stronger yet cuts through the wood like butter. Sometimes with my smaller Mora's they will catch a notch and get little fine imperfections putting a little convex really works great. I also wanted to let ya know about the Cold Steel Finn Hawk, its only $18 and has an awesome blade design and handle I think you would dig putting it on one of your rigs. Maybe a knife purchase and review for later 😉 I tell ya its surprised me big time. Anyways thanks again for these videos, God definitely broke the mold after making you brother your knowledge is a blessing.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and I'm glad you liked that tip. I have used sandpaper before on a board but always tried to preserve the Scandi. I'll see if I can make an edge like you mentioned. I had never heard of the Finn Hawk so I looked it up. Very cool looking! May have some promise. Thanks for watching

[@virginiacopeland108]

No arguments from me! I rarely use stones ( only for repair!) I use a leather strap strope to sharpen all my knives ( I know !.. all of my knives wind up being convex, but that's what I do!) Good seeing you again, my friend. Thanks for the demo, Clark

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Virginia Bradley Very cool Clark! We think alike then. Always great to be back on here, take care and Thanks for watching

[@runningriverbushcraft7548]

Great Video !!! Dave enjoyed it it gave me many new ideas of doing my sharpening. Great Job Again.....

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Brother! Great to hear it gave you some ideas.

[@Standswithabeer]

Dave, you are brilliant' thank you for this really informative vid. You never disappoint.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+StandsWithABeer Thanks, I'm glad you liked it that much Brother. Thanks for watching my friend.

[@grayhamhomewood9286]

hi dave,i,m a carpenter and always sharpening every thing to within an inch of its life,but always good to learn new techniques..over here in the u.k. i think most of us use automotive valve grinding paste for all our stropping needs,but i like the metal polish idea even better,i will give that a try very soon..thanks for the vid i really learned a lot..love & peace brother..grayman..out..

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+grayham homewood I used to use Cloverleaf lapping compound all the time as a Tool and Diemaker but never thought about trying it on a strop. I have always had luck with metal polish so I stuck with it but I may try the compound. Take care and Thanks for watching

[@Eggcracker-lp2sn]

Hey man I just love your intros when I watch your videos I always get a burst of happiness when I hear that "hey everybody" it's just great keep up the great work with the vids man

[@robertoneal857]

Thanks Dave , As I have said in the past you are a great teacher. I love your knife collection. Well, the weather is now perfect for outdoor fun, so are you going to go camping soon? If you are take the camera so we can come along too. I watch every video you post but I don't comment on all but I just wanted you to know how much I really appreciate every thing you show. You friend and fan, Bob......

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+robert oneal Thanks Bob, I'm glad you liked all I do brother. I camp when I can but as far as filming, I have a huge list of stuff I need to film. Just a normal camping trip may be fun for once! Take care now and Thanks for watching.

[@insidethethirdeye8138]

Dude the more I watch your videos the more respect I have for you. Imma shut my mouth and watch more vids. Big ups to you my friend, I’m subbing

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you my friend!

[@royalblue2043]

Thanks Dave.Really helpful.Just picked up the Condor village panga El salvador machete. Will be taking it into the mountains this spring

[@royalblue2043]

Parang

[@marlonhaines]

Great Video I learn something new every time i watch you videos. I really like my Ontario SP6 you help me decide what to buy. Thank You I always enjoy your videos.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+marlonhaines Thanks, and always great to hear that. Man that SP6 is one tough blade!

[@wilfwilliams5780]

another great video! thanks and a big hello from Newfoundland Canada. cheers and God bless!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+wilf williams Thanks Wilf, I'm glad you liked it. Cheers back at ya from Georgia in the U.S.A. Thanks for watching and may God bless you too.

[@robertlindsay7527]

Really have enjoyed this video and your instruction on the how to,s for sharpening and telling the differences between machetes; I use a kurikuri which I really like:; again many thanks!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Robert, I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@robertlindsay7527]

really enjoy your video;s have listening to your commentory!

[@byronnorton9782]

Thanks Dave, very useful info. I use a foam mousepad as a backing for my sandpaper for convex edges, Turley style. I’ll have to try the wood backing the next time I sharpen my Bushcraft parang.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You're very welcome Byron and I'm glad you liked it! Foam mousepads do work well

[@richardshiffer9191]

For those who don't use an axe puck in a circular motion for axes,, they use a soft backing device to hold the sand paper to maintain the convex grind

[@dozerairsoft7468]

honestly you are one of the greats i found your channel by looking at machete vids and stumbled upon your channel i really enjoy the things you do and the things that u make and you are a great role model i just wanted to say great job and keep up the great work

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Dozer Airsoft Thank you my friend! Im glad you like what all I do. I try to show nothing but new stuff, fun and put out a positive outlook. Take care and Thanks for watching

[@miketownsend6108]

Thanks buddy; Tip for bitter coffee add 10 grans of salt will get rid of acid,make smooth coffee or tea

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Mike Townsend Ive heard that before but havent tried it.

[@DavyRayVideo]

Great information. I also maintain edges by using the bottom of a coffee mug. The rough ceramic on the very bottom is great for stropping a blade in the field.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+Dave Pritchard Thanks Dave. Ive tried that a few times and it seems to work good until the bottom of the cup gets slick n smooth. Thanks for watching

[@MTwoodsrunner]

solid information, great instruction...i could spend a couple days hanging out in that shop of yours...Thanks David...woods

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

+MTwoodsrunner Thanks Brother, Im glad you liked it. I LOVE hanging out in the ole shop and making stuff!

[@DannyWalker1949]

Some VERY GOOD Points David, on sharping your Knifes & Machetes.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Danny! I hope you found it all helpful.

[@greatamericansurvival]

Great video... thanks for all the tips you gave.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you Brother! Im happy you liked it.