CLEANING YOUR TOOLS

 

Keeping your tools dry and clean will extend their life and usefulness. Cleaning them between use also helps to prevent the transfer of diseases from plants and soil, and the spread of weeds.

 

Moisture is one of the main culprits when it comes to dulling the blade on your tool so be sure to dry it before putting up after use.

 

If your tool has a spring it is best to store it open. This keeps pressure off the spring and extends the life of the tool.

 

Prior to storing for the winter be sure to give your tools a good cleaning. Wipe off any debris with a cloth or brush. Then wipe down with oil. We recommend using a light oil such as orange oil, 3-in-1 oil, or even a vegetable oil to clean your tools. Do NOT use motor oil, grease, or WD40 on your tools.

 

SHARPENING YOUR TOOLS

 

Clean the tool you will be sharpening. We recommend orange oil but any tool cleaner will work. Make sure to dry the tool well with a rag or towel and then let it air dry for 3-5 minutes before sharpening. Try to match the angle or flat edge of the blade
with the sharpener.

Anvil Pruning Tool & Non-Serrated Knives
Make 4-5 light strokes on each side of the blade using the rounded 400 grit side of the sharpener. Then, using the flat 600 grit fine side of the sharpener, make one light drag across the opposite side of the last side sharpened to get rid of the burr.

Bypass Pruning Tools & Secateurs
Sharpen angled side of the blade 4-8 light strokes. Then, with the flat side of the sharpener make 1-2 light strokes on the flat side of the blade.

 

Of course, we hope you'll consider using the best tool sharpener on the market, our 10 Inch Diamond Sharpener.

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