Survival Skills

Knife Sharpening: How to Maintain a Life-Saving Edge

A dull knife is more than just a nuisance; it’s a hazard. It requires more force to use, increasing the chance of a slip. In a grid-down scenario, knowing how to restore a “shaving sharp” edge with basic tools is a mandatory skill.

The Three-Step Field Method

You don’t need a professional workshop. You need a Dual-Grit Whetstone and a bit of patience.

1. The Coarse Side: Used to “re-profile” a damaged or extremely dull blade. Grind until you feel a “burr” (a slight lip of metal) on the opposite side.
2. The Fine Side: Used to polish the edge and remove the burr. Use light strokes, maintaining a consistent angle (usually 20 degrees).
3. The Strop: If you don’t have a leather strop, use the back of a leather belt or even a piece of cardboard to give the blade a final, razor-like finish.

The “Paper Test”

If your knife can’t slice through a piece of paper with zero snagging, it isn’t ready for your bug-out bag. Keep practicing until the edge is effortless.