Hand Tool Maintenance Tips

 This week we will just deal with some small random issues that relate to hand and small tool maintenance.

When in doubt as to how a tool should be sharpened,cleaned, shaped or maintained, call the manufacturer. If the manufacturer cannot give you answers, then contact someone who has experience in tool maintenance. Local hardware store, sharpening shop, etc..

Axes

Remove all paint from tool head.

Polish the tool head with a buffing wheel, make it clean from scratches and gouges that would allow rust to form.

Sharpen the axe using a file and a hone. Don't use a bench grinder! Take all the nicks and dings out of the cutting surface

Wipe the head with machine oil lightly.

Bolt Cutters

Use a file and hone on bolt cutters the same as the axe.

Bolt cutters should be honed sharp, much sharper than the axe.

If the tool has large nicks and chips replace the blades.

Oil with light machine oil as with the axe.

Oil the moving joints of the cutter as well.

Do not allow oil to get onto the handles as it causes a slipping hazard.

Wooden Handles

No amount of baling wire, wet leather wraps, staples, nails or glue will salvage a severely damaged handle. Replace it!

Sand for maintenance with a medium to fine grade sandpaper

Coat handle with boiled linseed oil.

Be sure to geet linseed oil where the handle passes through the tool head.

Do not varnish wooden tool handles.

Do not paint wooden tool handles.

Fiberglass Handles

Have over strike protection near the head.

If there is slight damage sand it smooth, and cover it with polyurethane to prevent shards.

If it is severely damaged replace the handle.