A triangular file can be used to sharpen the edges.
A sharpening jig is a device used by woodworkers to sharpen metal tools. Over time, tools can wear down or develop marks along the edges. While sharp tools produce clean cuts and give users maximum control over the quality of the work, dull tools can break wood or make the job more difficult. Instead of taking these tools to a professional sharpener, many craftsmen sharpen them at home. A sharpening jig helps hold the tool at a precise angle while sharpening, resulting in a more precise and consistent finish.
Carpenters can use a mechanical grinding wheel or sanding stone to sharpen metal tools. The different types of sharpening jigs are designed to work with either of these two sharpening methods. Although commercial templates are available, many users prefer to make their own templates out of wood or other materials. A sharpening jig can be designed to push the blade along a wheel or stone, or to run the blade back and forth over the stone or wheel. The choice between these two designs largely depends on the type of tool being sharpened and how it is configured.
Each sharpening jig consists of a wooden or metal body and a clamp to hold the tool or blade in place. Depending on the project, it may also have a clamp or clip used to secure the template to a grinding wheel. The template holds the tool or blade at a specific angle, allowing the user to maintain a consistent angle between this tool and the grinding wheel or stone. Using the same template each time, users can replicate a cut angle to ensure consistent results.
These templates offer a number of advantages for both new and experienced woodworkers. A sharpening template teaches new users the correct angle to use when sharpening a tool, allowing them to achieve the desired cutting angle on the blade. It also helps the user get the same angle every time the tool is sharpened. Because workers often get used to the nuances of their tools, this consistency makes it easier for them to use tools correctly and achieve quality results. Consistent chamfering or chamfering also helps extend the life of a tool by reducing metal loss due to improper sharpening techniques.
A potential downside to using a sharpening jig is the potential safety risks involved. Using a template while sharpening tools makes it easier to lose focus on the task at hand. This can cause injury or broken tools. It is also critical that users use the correct template size for each tool. Using a jig that is too small to hold a tool securely can cause the tool to fly off the grinding wheel and cause injury.