If the blade of a long-handled or ‘Turk’ scythe needs a major sharpening job, it is safest to remove the blade from the snaith or handle, and clamp it in a jig. Use a flat file to remove any large burrs, and then with a medium or fine cigar stone, hone the curved blade carefully along its whole length, using small circular strokes. Only the upper edge of the blade is sharpened. A grasshook is sharpened in the same way.
Scythes and grasshooks need frequent honing in the field, if they are to cut efficiently, and almost as much time should be spent honing as cutting. To hone a scythe, wedge the end of the snaith firmly on the ground, and steady the back of the blade with the left forearm and hand. Sharpen with your right hand, using a fine cigar stone, stroking away from the edge. Wear gloves on both hands whilst sharpening.
Grasshooks should be honed in the field by holding the tool downwards with the blade facing away from you, and then sharpen with a diagonal movement, away from the blade.
