How to Sharpen a Tree-Pruning Saw
- 1). Remove the blade from the handle or unfold it, if necessary. Depending on the type of saw, you may need tools to remove the blades.
- 2). Fill a bucket with soapy, warm water. Run a stiff brush along the blade's teeth to remove dirt, rust and debris. If sap is stuck on them, dip the blades in a solvent, like kerosene. Dry them with a towel, then wipe on a light coat of motor oil for lubrication.
- 3). Put the blade into a vise. Place the sharp end up, sticking out at least 1/2 inch. Clamp the vise.
- 4). Push a round file the fits the size of the blade's teeth against the beveled edges of the blade. Press down firmly, pulling the file toward you. Run the file against each beveled blade section a few times.
- 5). Run a small rectangular sharpening stone against the flat-edged sections of the tree-pruning saw blade. Apply pressure to the stone, rubbing it against the blade several times, in the same direction.
- 6). Hold the blade up to a light source. If the light reflects off the blade, it is not sharp enough yet. Repeat the sharpening steps.
- 7). Rub a light coat of oil on the blades. This will keep dirt from sticking to the metal, which can lead to moisture and rust.
