Hedge shears are a gardening tool that is used to trim and shape hedges. They come in a variety of sizes and designs, but all have two blades that come together like scissors. Hedge shears need to be sharpened on a regular basis to ensure they are working properly.
But how often should you sharpen your hedge shears? And what is the best way to sharpen them? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about sharpening your hedge shears.
How Often Should You Sharpen Your Hedge Shears?
Hedge shears should be sharpened at least once a year, but ideally, you should sharpen them more often than that. If you use your hedge shears regularly, then you will need to sharpen them more often.
If you only use them occasionally, then you can get away with sharpening them less often. However, it is always better to err on the side of caution and sharpen your hedge shears more often than less often.
What Is the Best Way to Sharpen Your Hedge Shears?
There are a few different ways that you can sharpen your hedge shears. The most common way is to use a file. You can purchase a file specifically designed for sharpening hedge shears, or you can use a general-purpose file.
If you choose to use a general-purpose file, make sure it is a medium or coarse file so that it will remove enough material from the blade to make a difference. We have listed a complete guide for sharpening hedge shears in a file below. Make sure to give it a look if you wanna do it DIY.
Another option for sharpening your hedge shears is to take them to a professional who specializes in garden tools. This is generally not necessary unless the blades are severely dull or damaged. A professional will be able to quickly and easily sharpen your blades so that they are as good as new.
Sharpening the Hedge Shears Yourself | DIY Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To sharpen your hedge shears, you will need the following supplies:
- A file: You will need a file that is the same size as the teeth on your hedge shears. If you don’t have a file, you can also use a piece of sandpaper. Just make sure it’s not too coarse or it will damage the blades.
- A sharpening stone: This will help to remove any burrs on the blades and give them a nice, sharp edge.
- A cloth: This is for wiping down the blades after you’re done sharpening them.
- WD-40 or another lubricant (optional): This is for lubricating the blades after you’re done sharpening them. It will help to prevent rust and keep the blades in good condition.
Step 2: Prepare the Blades
Before you start sharpening, you need to prepare the blades. First, check the blades for any nicks or damage. If there are any, use a file or sandpaper to smooth them out. Next, wipe down the blades with a cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 3: Sharpen the Blades
Now it’s time to actually sharpen the blades. First, hold the blade of one shear against the sharpening stone at a 45-degree angle. Then, using long strokes, move the blade forward and backward across the stone until it is nice and sharp. Repeat this process with the other blade.
Once both blades are sharpened, use a cloth to wipe off any metal shavings. Then, if desired, lubricate the blades with WD-40 or another lubricant. This will help to prevent rust and keep the blades in good condition.
Step 4: Test the Blades
Now that you’ve finished sharpening your hedge shears, it’s time to test them out! Cut through some branches or leaves and see how well they work. If they seem dull or aren’t cutting as well as they should be, repeat steps 2-4 until they are razor-sharp and working like new!
Step 5: Store the Shears
Once you’re finished sharpening your hedge shears, make sure to store them in a safe and dry place. This will help to protect them from rust and keep them in good condition for years to come.
And that’s how you sharpen your hedge shears the right way! With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to keep your hedge shears in great shape year-round.
Some Safety Precaution to Keep in Mind While Sharpening
As always, it is important to take all necessary safety precautions while sharpening your hedge shears.
- Always wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying shavings, and make sure to keep your hands away from the blades while you are working.
- Additionally, always remember that a dull blade can be just as dangerous as a sharp one, so make sure to keep yourself safe while sharpening your hedge shears.
- Make sure to read the manufacturer’s manual carefully and follow all safety precautions listed there. And if you’re ever in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution!
Conclusion:
Hedge shears are an important tool for anyone who wants to keep their hedges looking neat and tidy. But like any other tool, they need to be properly maintained if they are going to work properly. That means sharpening the blades on a regular basis.
How often you need to sharpen your hedge shears depends on how often you use them, but generally speaking, they should be sharpened at least once a year. You can do this yourself with a file or take them to a professional if necessary.
However, by following this simple five-step guide above, you can easily sharpen your own hedge shears at home without having to take them to a professional! With proper care and maintenance, your hedge shears will last for many years.