Curious to see how the more experienced guys do it. This is the first axe I've ever owned and first time sharpening something other than with a bench grinder. I bought a cheap stone from the hardware store and use a honing oil. I've split about 4 cord with it so far and sharpen after every cord or so. It seems to hold up pretty well at first but towards the end of my pile I can really notice a difference in splitting.