- Select the proper stone to use.
COARSE – Very aggressive and removes lots of metal during the sharpening process. Use to set a new sharp cutting edge on a very dull or damaged blade.
MEDIUM – Not as aggressive as the COARSE stone, but does remove moderate amounts of metal. Use for next step after starting with COARSE stone, or as a starting point for somewhat dull blades that still have a consistent cutting edge but need to be sharpened.
FINE – Removes the least amount of metal. Sharpens and polishes the cutting edge at the same time. Use for finishing the cutting edge to razor sharpness. - Put a small amount of Honing Solution on your stone. Don't use a lot of lubricant as a small amount goes a long way. Using a Natural Stone without a lubricant or water will damage and clog your stone. It protects the stone and the cutting edge of the knife or tool by washing away the particle of stone and metal created during the sharpening process. If necessary, water can be used as a substitute.
- To insure the proper sharpening angle on your knife, place the yellow Smith's Angle Guide at the end of your stone. This shows you the proper angle we recommend to use in order to obtain the sharpest edge. Next, place your blade flat on the Angle Guide at the end of the stone. Now you are ready to begin the sharpening process.
- Push the blade away from you just like you are trying to carve a thin slice off the top of the stone. Don't be afraid to use pressure against the stone while sharpening since it will not damage the stone or your knife. Repeat this pushing stroke 3 or 4 times. Remember, try to keep the same approximate sharpening angle all the time, since this is the key to obtaining the sharpest edge.
- To sharpen the other side of your knife, simply place your blade at the opposite end of your Smith sharpening stone and repeat the above steps, but instead of pushing the knife away from you, pull it towards you. Continue to sharpen until you feel that your blade is truly sharp.
Care:
Cleaning your stones will keep the pores free of stone and metal particles. After each use, the Arkansas stones should be cleaned by scrubbing vigorously with water, liquid soap, and a stiff nylon brush.
HONING SOLUTION WARNING: IF INGESTED, DRINK SEVERAL GLASSES OF WATER TO DILUTE. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING UNLESS DIRECTED TO DO SO BY MEDICAL PERSONNEL. NEVER GIVE ANYTHING BY MOUTH TO AN UNCONSCIOUS PERSON. GET MEDICAL ATTENTION.
