How do you sharpen ice auger blades?

To sharpen ice auger blades, remove the blades from the auger, clamp them in a vise and use an auger-sharpening tool to sharpen the blades. Do not sharpen blades that are still attached to the auger as serious injury can occur.

To sharpen ice auger blades with a sharpening tool:

1. Remove the blades
Remove the blades from the ice auger and secure them in a vise. The blades need to remain completely stationary during the sharpening process or serious injury can occur.
2. Place the tool on the blade
Tools vary, so be sure to check the user manual before beginning, but generally the tool is placed on the blade with the side with the more visible insert against the beveled edge side of the blade. The beveled-edge side is the side that needs to be sharpened.
3. Slide the tool
Hold the tool at a 90-degree angle against the edge of the blade and apply a light pressure. Light pressure is all that is necessary, as heavy pressure can potentially cause injury. Only slide the tool in one direction and do not move the tool back and forth.
4. Perform several passes
Perform several passes of the tool until the blade conforms to the tool's angle, which will result in a razor sharp edge.
5. Reassemble the auger
Remove the blades from the vise and reassemble the ice auger for use.