Regardless of the tool you use, you will move the machete over the tool in the same motion. Start at the hilt and run the blade down to the tip. You’ll want to follow the natural curve of the blade.
You should also sharpen the other side. Flip over the machete and follow the same motion down the other side. Sharpening the top side may take some time getting used to.
Honing the edge gives your machete a nice, sharp point. This motion is easy. Start at the edge and move down slightly from the tip, only focusing on bringing your machete to a nice point.
This step isn’t necessary but it’s helpful. The only downside of sharping a machete is sometimes the process leaves imperfections. You can remove these flaws by polishing the machete, specifically the edge.
The best way to test a machete is by cutting a 2×4. See if you can cut the 2×4 in half. If not, try the paper trick. Run a piece of paper along the machete’s edge