I need to sharpen a new axe?

[Jack Draw]

I just bought an axe brand new and have found that the edge is blunt. Is this normal?

Just curious.

[garethw]

Hi there
I don't know about the top end axes.. Gränsfors Bruks or others, which I belive come pretty sharp... But all the non brand axes I've seen in the local shops here are blunt as hell...
I got a small 1.8lb carbon steel ash handled camping axe and had to use a file to get a reasonable edge, finishing it with a diamond steel sharpener... it was shaving sharp after this. I even pointed out to the guy in the shop that his axes were blunt and he just looked dumb at me... I guess they expect you to put an edge on it.
cheers
Gareth

[RobbC]

Im sure that it is only the swedish companies and high quality axes that come very sharp. When i got my GB SFA it came shaveing sharp. But most axes in most shops are supplied blunt.

Robb

[Jack Draw]

Ok. Well I will need sharpening stones anyway and I will need to learn to sharpen blades so it is not important.

Thanks for your input.

[Tony1948]

Jack I'v got a GB axe it comes shaving sharp, but if you'll like me you are never satisfied with the edge. IF you've got a right monkey edge on you'r axe use a file then a stone dont worry about getting a sgandy tipe edge, its an axe not a knife,it dosent matter about beeing convekst?[cant spell]LOL............atb.........dont get eaten by the bears..........TONY

[Jack Draw]

Well it looks like I'll have to get a file as well then. I suppose a builders yard would supply stones and files, yes?

Looking forward to my first Bushcraft trip. ;)