My First Scything Video - 4/29/24

I am new to the scythe, and still learning. However, I am already in love with it!
There are nuances to sharpening the blade and cutting the grass that come with time and practice. While I am not very skilled yet, I am sure I will get there eventually.
My favorite part is that I am the engine. There is no petroleum involved, it’s nearly silent, and I get to be an observer of the world waking up.
What a lovely way to start my week. Working on my yard, listening to the birds, and keeping an eye on my dog.
Happy Monday!

[@DoodleMcDoo]

Looking good John, bet you felt that the next day. Looks fun but hard work.

[@FoodCyclist]

I did feel it. Lower back especially. I am still making rookie mistakes. The sharper you keep the tool and the better your form the easier it gets. But I had to start somewhere.
If nothing else it’s a good little workout in the AM.

[@SebR-FR]

Hi. I'm not an expert as I started using a scythe only 3-4 years ago. I'd just like to make some comments so you can quickly improve efficiency.
Your gesture looks rather good to me. But maybe your blade is not not set up correctly. I looked at slow speed, your video can help yourself in that way...
It looks like the tip is maybe too opened ; it should be around 5cm above the heel of the blade.
Also the angle between it and the shaft doesn't seem correct, the cutting edge tilts too much upward. You can correct you position or put wedges in the fixture.
And focus on keeping the blade to the soil with a bit of downward pressure.
Cutting low lawn is the most difficult imho, your technique must be good enought and the blade must be perfectly set up and razor sharp.
I'm not sure about the blade you're using (does it came from Dictum ?) but I think this kind needs to be pinned from time to time - it's a skill in itself, not very hard imo but it needs also some practice.
For this blades, stones are just to refresh the edges every couple of minutes. The "real" sharpenning is done with the hammer.