How to Sharpen a Gerber Survival Knife

Gerber survival knives are favorites among many survivalists, hunters and knife lovers in general. However, proper care and maintenance is key to prolonging the life of the knife. A dull knife is also a dangerous knife. Frequent, light sharpenings are best. How you sharpen your knife depends on the type of sharpener you use, and the type of blades being sharpened. There are different varieties of Gerber survival knives, so know what kind of blade you are dealing with to best protect and lengthen the life of your knife.

Things You'll Need

  • Knife sharpener
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine knife's edges. Are they flat or serrated? Some Gerber survival knives have a section that is serrated. These edges require separate sharpening techniques than the regular edges.

    • 2

      Basic sharpening tools include the ceramic stick, the butcher's sharpening steels, and sharpening stones. Much comes down to the preference of the knife owner. Techniques used are generally the same for all types of sharpening instruments. Choose the tool that seems best suited to you.

    • 3

      Work vertically, and away from you. Start at the back of the blade and work down to the tip, using a firm, constant pressure and maintaining a 10-degree angle.

    • 4

      Do one side, then the other. Do not use a back and forth motion while sharpening.

    • 5

      Follow the directions Gerber gives for serrated knife edges. Serrated knife edges are longer lasting, but more complex to maintain. They recommend the use of the Gerber Diamond Sharpener or the Multi-Quick Sharp. At a 15-degree angle, put the shaft on sharpener on each serration and file down. If done properly a burr will be felt on the flat, reverse side, which should then be removed by sharpening that area.