[Uzzy]

This has probably been asked a million times but my question is how sharp should a Hoe be? I mean should I be able to cut a piece of paper or is there some test that allows me to know.

Many  ?? in advance 

[snowdrops]

Hmm not sure on a test, I just expect mine to chop through a weed in 1 slice. I now use a swoe & im sure it is self sharpening, don't no how though

[JayG]

Don't know whether it's an 'elfin safety' issue, but every hoe I've ever bought has had laughably blunt edges and needed quite a lot of filing to get a decent bevelled edge on.

Aim for what Snowdrops has suggested - even if you could achieve an edge sharp enough to cut paper I don't think it would stay that way for long in garden use.

[DD.]

I now use a swoe & im sure it is self sharpening, don't no how though

It's all down to hardening of the steel. The bottom edge is hardened to a higher degree, so the upper edge will wear away at a slightly faster rate, leaving a sharp bottom edge. My swoe was used with much anger yesterday!

[ARPoet]

I have had a swow for a few years, and no its not sharp, but works well in soft soil. Its also ideal for whacking snails and slugs.

[Growster...]

My dad bought a Swoe when they first came out, and after 50 or so years, it is still very sharp, and a great tool for the job!

Wonder if they do one with the blade going the other way...?

[snowdrops]

Thanks DD, I have to say it does seem to be as sharp as when I bought it. I have Dutch hoes as well & used them up until I bought the swoe, but the swoe is what I turn to to get the job done.

[Growster...]

A good tip about a Swoe, is that if you've ever played hockey, you can flick a stone in any direction in much the same way as you did on a short corner...

;0)