Sharpening (stropping) a scythe or brush hook is done with this Scythe Sharpener or Strop.
Scythe Sharpener or Strop, 41 cm long, wooden grip fitted with a coarse carborundum grit. Suitable for stropping (resharpening) a scythe, brush hook, or ditch blade, among others.
While mowing, it is wise to strop every 5 to 10 minutes. This keeps the edge of the scythe nicely sharp and means the blade needs to be hammered less often.
How to use the strop
First wipe the blade clean with a cloth or a bundle of freshly cut grass. Place the point of the scythe snath or handle in the ground for stability. For the first pass, place the strop flat (± 10°) on the upper side of the hollow side of the blade. Pull away from your body toward the point in one smooth motion. Turn the scythe slightly and stroke back along the curved underside for the second pass, but with less pressure. The second pass is to remove burrs.
For checking, look diagonally along the edge of the scythe. When it shines evenly without dull spots or points, the scythe is sharp again.
