When sharpening a KA-BAR knife or any other knife, the choice of grit stone depends on the condition of the blade and the level of sharpness you want to achieve. Different grit levels are used in a progression to achieve a finely honed edge. Here's a general guideline for selecting grit stones:
Coarse Grit (300-600): If your KA-BAR knife is very dull, has nicks, or the edge is significantly damaged, start with a coarse grit stone. This grit level will help quickly remove material and reshape the edge. A 300 to 600 grit stone should work well for this initial stage.
Medium Grit (800-1000): After establishing the basic edge shape with the coarse grit stone, move on to a medium grit stone. This level of grit helps refine the edge and remove any coarse scratches left by the coarse stone. Grits between 800 to 1000 are suitable for this step.
Fine Grit (2000-3000): For further honing and polishing the edge, use a fine grit stone. This will enhance the sharpness and smoothness of the blade. Grits around 2000 to 3000 are appropriate for this stage.
Extra Fine Grit (5000 and above): If you desire a razor-sharp edge, you can use an extra fine grit stone. These high grit levels polish the blade to a very fine edge, providing an exceptional level of sharpness. Grits of 5000 and above are considered extra fine.
It's important to note that proper sharpening requires practice and patience. Always maintain a consistent angle while sharpening and use a lubricant like water or honing oil to prevent the stone from clogging and to aid in the sharpening process.
Additionally, keep in mind that different types of KA-BAR knives, such as those with serrated edges or different steel compositions, might require slightly different sharpening approaches. If you are unsure about the specific requirements of your KA-BAR knife, refer to the manufacturer's guidelines or seek advice from experienced knife sharpeners.