There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from a perfectly manicured lawn, and nothing beats the clean, even cut of a reel mower. But like any tool, a reel mower needs regular maintenance, and one of the most important is sharpening the blades. While taking your mower to a professional is an option, sharpening the blades yourself is a relatively simple task that can save you money and allow you to better understand your machine. This guide will walk you through the process of sharpening reel mower blades by hand, covering everything from the tools you need to the steps involved in achieving a razor-sharp edge.
In essence, sharpening reel mower blades by hand involves removing a thin layer of metal from the blade’s edge using a honing steel or sharpening stone. This process aligns the blade’s edge and creates a sharp, even cutting surface. While it may seem daunting at first, with a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to keep your reel mower in top shape for years to come.
Gather Your Tools
Before you start sharpening, make sure you have the necessary tools. The good news is that you don’t need a lot of specialized equipment:
- Honing Steel or Sharpening Stone: A honing steel is a long, cylindrical rod used to align the edge of the blade. A sharpening stone, on the other hand, is a flat piece of abrasive material used to remove metal and create a sharp edge.
- Work Surface: A sturdy, flat surface like a workbench or table will provide stability and protect your blades from damage.
- Safety Glasses: Protecting your eyes from flying metal shavings is essential.
- Gloves: Gloves will protect your hands from the sharp edges of the blades and potential injuries.
- Cleaning Supplies: A brush or cloth will help remove any dirt or debris from the blades before and after sharpening.
Remove the Blades
Once you have your tools ready, it’s time to remove the blades from the mower. The process for removing the blades can vary depending on the model of your mower. However, most reel mowers will have a mechanism that allows you to easily detach the blades. Refer to your mower’s manual for specific instructions. Once removed, carefully lay the blades on your work surface, ensuring they are stable and secure.
Inspect the Blades
Before you start sharpening, it’s a good idea to inspect the blades for any damage. Look for:
- Dents or Cracks: These can affect the blade’s cutting performance and should be repaired or replaced.
- Excessive Wear: If the blade’s edge is significantly worn down, sharpening may not be enough. You might need to replace the blade.
Sharpening the Blades: Honing Steel Method
1. Clean the Blades
Start by cleaning the blades thoroughly using a brush or cloth. This will remove any dirt, debris, or rust that might hinder the sharpening process.
2. Position the Honing Steel
Hold the honing steel firmly in your dominant hand. You can either hold it vertically or at a slight angle, depending on your preference and the angle of your blade. Place the blade on your work surface, ensuring it’s stable and secure.
3. Apply Pressure and Glide
With the honing steel held securely, gently press the blade against the steel. Start at the heel of the blade (the end closest to the handle) and glide the blade along the steel towards the tip. Apply consistent pressure throughout the motion.
4. Repeat and Check
Repeat the process 10-15 times on each side of the blade, ensuring you are using a smooth, even stroke. After each pass, check the blade’s edge for any burrs or irregularities. If necessary, repeat the process until the blade feels sharp.
5. Check the Angle
The angle of the blade’s edge is crucial for a clean cut. Most reel mower blades have a 20-25 degree bevel. If you notice any inconsistencies in the angle, you can gently adjust it by applying more pressure to one side of the blade during the sharpening process.
Sharpening the Blades: Sharpening Stone Method
1. Clean the Blades and Stone
As before, clean the blades thoroughly. Also, clean the surface of your sharpening stone to remove any debris.
2. Choose the Right Grit
Sharpening stones come in various grits, ranging from coarse to fine. For reel mower blades, start with a medium grit stone (around 400-600 grit). You can then use a finer grit stone (around 1000-1200 grit) for a smoother finish.
3. Position the Blade and Stone
Place the blade on a stable surface and position the sharpening stone at the desired angle (around 20-25 degrees) against the blade’s edge.
4. Apply Pressure and Move the Stone
Gently apply pressure to the stone and move it across the blade’s edge in a smooth, consistent motion.
5. Rotate the Blade
After each pass, rotate the blade 90 degrees and repeat the process on the other side. Continue to alternate sides until the blade is sharp.
6. Finish with a Fine Grit Stone
If you are using a fine grit stone, repeat the process using the same technique to achieve a smoother edge.
Finishing Touches
Once you have sharpened the blades using either method, give them a final inspection. Look for any burrs or imperfections. If you find any, use a fine-grit stone or a honing steel to smooth them out. Finally, clean the blades thoroughly and reassemble them onto your reel mower.
Maintaining a Sharp Edge
To keep your reel mower blades sharp for longer, it’s essential to maintain them properly.
- Regular Sharpening: Sharpen your blades after every 10-15 hours of mowing, or more frequently if you are mowing in rough or sandy conditions.
- Cleaning: Clean the blades after each use to prevent rust and debris from accumulating.
- Proper Storage: Store your blades in a dry, clean place when not in use.
Conclusion
Sharpening reel mower blades by hand may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a simple task that will pay off in the form of a beautiful, even cut and a longer lifespan for your mower. By following these steps and maintaining your blades regularly, you’ll be able to enjoy the satisfaction of a perfectly manicured lawn for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my reel mower blades need sharpening?
You can tell if your reel mower blades need sharpening by examining the cut they make on the grass. If the blades are sharp, the grass will be cleanly cut, with no tearing or bruising. If the blades are dull, the grass will be ragged and uneven. You can also feel the edge of the blades with your finger. If the edge is smooth, the blades are sharp. If the edge is rough or has burrs, the blades are dull and need to be sharpened.
Another indicator of dull blades is the difficulty in pushing the mower. If your reel mower is suddenly difficult to push, your blades may be dull and require sharpening.
What tools do I need to sharpen my reel mower blades by hand?
You will need a few basic tools to sharpen your reel mower blades by hand. You will need a sharpening steel, a honing guide, and a flat file. A sharpening steel is a long, cylindrical rod with a pointed end. You will use the steel to smooth out the edges of your blades. A honing guide is a device that helps you to maintain the correct angle of your blades while you are sharpening them. A flat file is a tool with a flat, rectangular surface that you can use to remove metal from your blades.
You will also need a soft cloth to clean the blades and a small container of oil for lubricating them. Make sure to choose a sharpening steel that is compatible with your mower’s blades.
How do I sharpen my reel mower blades by hand?
To sharpen your reel mower blades by hand, you will need to follow these steps:
- Remove the blades from your mower.
- Clean the blades thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- Position the blades in the honing guide.
- Use the sharpening steel to smooth out the edges of the blades.
- Use the flat file to remove any burrs or irregularities.
- Reinstall the blades on your mower.
Make sure to keep the sharpening steel at a consistent angle when sharpening the blades.
How often should I sharpen my reel mower blades?
You should sharpen your reel mower blades every 10-15 hours of use. If you use your mower frequently, you may need to sharpen them more often. You should also sharpen your blades if you notice any signs of dullness, such as ragged cuts or difficulty pushing the mower.
Sharpening the blades regularly ensures a clean cut, which results in healthier grass and less stress on your mower.
Can I sharpen my reel mower blades with a grinder?
While it is possible to sharpen reel mower blades with a grinder, it is not recommended. The high heat generated by a grinder can damage the temper of the blades, making them brittle and prone to breaking. It’s best to stick with hand sharpening methods for your reel mower blades.
Using a grinder requires precision and expertise to avoid damaging the blades, which could affect their performance and lifespan.
What are some tips for sharpening my reel mower blades by hand?
Here are a few tips for sharpening your reel mower blades by hand:
- Use a light touch. Don’t press down too hard on the sharpening steel or flat file. You should only be removing a small amount of metal with each pass.
- Keep the blades clean. Clean the blades thoroughly before and after each sharpening session.
- Use a honing guide. A honing guide will help you to maintain the correct angle of your blades while you are sharpening them.
- Don’t oversharpen. If you sharpen your blades too much, they will become too thin and may break.
- Be patient. Sharpening reel mower blades by hand can take some time, so be patient and take your time.
By following these tips, you can sharpen your reel mower blades properly and ensure that you are getting the best possible cut.
How do I know when my reel mower blades are sharp enough?
You can tell when your reel mower blades are sharp enough by observing the cut on the grass. If the blades are sharp, the grass will be cleanly cut without any tearing or bruising. You can also feel the edge of the blades with your finger. A sharp blade will have a smooth, almost burr-free edge.
You can also use a simple test to check the sharpness. Fold a piece of paper in half and try to cut through it with the blade. If the blade cuts cleanly through the paper without any difficulty, it is sharp enough.