I spent some time today taking nicks out of two of my axes. I find the extra-coarse DMT diamond plate makes quick work of it. In initial prep of an old tool I use an angle grinder with a sandpaper flapwheel, being careful not to over heat the steel. For maintenance sharpening, I can work the primary bevel down to a wire edge and then put a secondary bevel and polish on the broad axe in about ten minutes as long as there are no huge chips.