Sharpening Secateurs

To get back to the original question. Cleanthe blades first with crean mate ( it's like a big eraser) I use a diamond file to sharpen, you don't need much pressure just follow the profile of the original blade. I have Felco No2. I like them because you can get replacement parts if needed, and they have a rubber "bump" stop which makes them less harsh on your hands.

 

These are my Felcos over 40 years old. I have replaced the main blade once. Above are the set of diamond files for sharpening.

 

Well I am obviously completely hopeless as I never have to bother to sharpen my secateurs because I lose them before they are blunt. I am in awe @Allotment Boy that you have not lost yours in over 40 years.
I had, accent on the had, a pair of Felcos which did not last any longer than others, so I gave up and now buy cheap and cheerfuls. As a consequence I do not get too furious with myself when yet another pair disappear, normally onto the bonfire pile or compost heap. I tie orange binder twine round the handles in an attempt to make the secateurs more visible but still manage lose them with monotonous regularity. I lost a digging spade about 4 months ago , now that really is taking the proverbial, however, I did find that “ hiding” behind a tree a couple of days ago.