Do you folks sharpen your blades? My almost new blade is not doing so well.

I wonder if RPM's are a factor?

Definitely use a good file. I tried using my dad's grinding wheel on his workbench on my old blade, and even though it was quick, it was difficult to get it right and I ended up messing up the blade more than it helped. I actually went back over it with a file to fix it, and the file really didn't take much more time or effort.

I prefer to use a dremel tool with a sanding band on the rubber cylinder. Don't use the lawn mower sharpening stone with attachment, it gives mediocre results. I also like to use a mower blade balancer (cheap plastic thing) to make sure it is in balance. Or you could put it on a nail on the wall to see if it is in balance.

I tend to use a mill bastard file (gee, that word passes? Good, because that's exactly what it's called) to remove burrs, and then a simple GardenSharp instrument from the Home Depot to further sharpen the blade a bit.

I don't go razor-sharp, just not dull. Razor sharp blades dull quickly and burr badly.

tiemco wrote:Don't use the lawn mower sharpening stone with attachment, it gives mediocre results.

The dremmel sharpening stone with attachment is the only thing I've used for years to keep my blades sharp. For me, it's foolproof. The attachment makes it easy to use the perfect angle so the edge is not too sharp.

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Well, since I just got crap for not sharpening my blades, I figure I'll give it a shot this weekend, hopefully before the next cutting is required.

Here's a million dollar invention for anyone that wants an idea. Find me a way to accurately and efficiently sharpen my mower's blade without having to take it off or stoop bending over excessively in the process. Grr...

Dremel grinding wheel for me. Balance on a nail, and adjust by taking extra off either the cutting surface or the back of the blade at the end. You can sharpen on the mower, but I find it easier to take the blade off for sharpening.

As an aside, an old mower blade that has been sharpened on only one end make for a pretty good makeshift chopping tool. Wear leather gloves and blunt the "handle" end.

I have used the file and the dremel tool. Both work well. The dremel will take more material off faster. I have been surprised to find that my JD x300 at full rpm and freshly sharpened blades does not cut as cleanly as my push mower with a season's worth of use on the blades. It boggles my mind.

I just bought a brand new blade and it came painted or powder-coated black. It does not feel very sharp but I was told that "once the paint wears away the blade is sharp under there." Does that sound right or should I sharpen it?

I sharpened my new blade after 3 mows, cuz it seemed like my old blade did better. Worlds of a difference by knocking off that paint.

Thanks... just filed it, we'll see how it does tomorrow...