What do you have to do to sharpen your edges?

Question

I Hot wax, but I don't know how to sharpen edges. Should i just take it to the resort? Also if I do that how much does it cost. I don't want them to wax.

Answer 1

You would have to ask the shop about sharpening prices. I think you should expect that to be around $30.

You would need a few items to sharpen edges:

1. A couple flat files. One should be a finer cut, and the other coarser.

2. An edger. This is a device that has little mini files in a plastic case. The case is designed so that the file stays at a 90 degree angle to the base as it files. With most edgers, you can adjust the "bevel", or the angle. Some people get really technical with beveling, but really, if you just stay at the 0 degree setting (I think most edgers go + or - from that point), that will work fine.

3. A wire brush to clean the files.

4. A diamond to smooth out burrs and help eliminate rust if it exists.

5. A sturdy rubber band to pull the ski brakes out of the way.

Those are the basics. If you are already hot waxing, and want to do a little more on your own, there are a few other tools that would be good to have.

1. A base flattener. This is a tool that removes high points in the edges and base. I consider this tool one of the most essential in my toolbox.

2. A base structure brush. Use this brush before hot waxing.

3. Base cleaner. Kerosene works the same...but smells worse, and may be harder on the bases. Use this before doing any work. I just use paper towels with this stuff on it, and scrub the bases. Actually, I do this twice. Once before working the edges, then again before hot waxing.

4. A cleaning brush. Nylon bristles to clean metal filings and other debris from the base while you work. I use this frequently when working on the edges. As you file, metal filings are left behind, and if you file over them, they may damage your bases.

5. A wax scraper. You probably already have that.

Here is a website that has all this stuff. It doesn't come cheap...but there is a certain amount of pride in doing this stuff all on your own.

http://www.tognar.com/

That is my favorite place to order from. They have lots of tips, advice, and how-to's on their website as well.

It is advisable to use some sort of work table with a ski vise on it, or a portable tuning table. This keeps the skis locked down.

However, I spent many years just putting the ski on a chair, and holding it steady between my legs. Not the best method...but it works.

Answer 2

Use a flat file and wrap 3 layers of duct tape around the end away from the tang. File the across the base lengthwise towards the center of the board.  use a smooth stroke,  the tape should be about 2-3 inches in from the edge.  Use an edge guide to do the sides which will allow a 1-3 degree bevel.  If park or rails, dull the middle to prevent grabs.

Answer 3

just get it done at a ski shop preferably away from the mountain which is cheaper ,,,, full tune up less than 50