How to Sharpen Skate Blades

Once in a while, your ice skates need to be sharpened. The frequency of sharpening depends on how much you use the skates. If you are not a professional skater and know very little about skating blades, it is best to go to a local sports store to have someone with experience sharpen your skate blades. If you are a frequent skater and want to learn how to sharpen skate blades, on the other hand, there is some equipment required to sharpen skating blades to perfection.

Things You'll Need

  • Magnifier
  • Vise
  • Grinding wheel
  • Grinding machine
  • Cloth
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Instructions

    • 1

      Study the bottom of the blade in detail. While the blade is not very thick, sharpening a skate blade involves cutting off enough metal from the blade to make new and sharp edges. Use a magnifying glass, if necessary.

    • 2

      Attach the skate to the vise to hold it in place for the sharpening. Make sure it is secured tightly.

    • 3

      Attach the grinding wheel to the grinding base. The grinding wheel should be able to grind metal, so ensure this is labeled on the package when buying it.

    • 4

      Start sharpening the blade of the skate applying very little pressure. Since the grinding wheel can remove much of the metal on the blades very quickly with pressure, start slowly and take your time when sharpening the blade.

    • 5

      Finish sharpening the skate blades. Inspect the blade with the magnifying glass to see if a new and fresh blade edge has been created. The old scratches and dull blade should be gone and a sharp and new line should be there instead.

    • 6

      Make adjustments with the grinding blade, if applicable. This includes missed spots or creating a sharper edge.

    • 7

      Wipe the finished blade off with a cloth to remove any metal residue.