Sharpening help

[Towelie]

what Joe said /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/buttrock.gif

 

[SMcGill]

I like my spyderco sharpmaker also. My advice: Only draw the knife down to about a half-inch from the tip when using the stone's corners. Then draw the knife all the way down to the tip on the flats, being careful not to pull the tip off of the stone, because this will round off your tip. Also, clean your stones frequently, because they will build-up with metal and not cut as well.

 

[webley445]

Phew, input overload. At least I'm getting alot of info.
Time to spend some more money and time. *sigh* something else for the wife to yell about [he said with a grin].

 

[ewick]

Joe,

No, I've never used the Sharpmaker, so if I sound like I'm bashing it, I don't mean to. But I have used similar non-guided arrangements in the past, and I'm apparently one of those people that can't keep the angle consistent.

As far as the use (or non-use) of oil with hones is concerned, I've tried both. I'm using diamond and synthetic hones, and have had a lot better luck when not using oil. But that's just me.

Now, I'd really like to try out the Edgepro Apex, but for the price, I think I'll stay put.

 

[Joe Talmadge]

ewick: just to be clear, I definitely agree about diamond and synthetic hones. I use them almost exclusively, and always without oil or water, just dry. I have some water stones that I of course use with water. And for natural hones, I suggest trying without oil first, but if they clog too fast, you'll have to use oil.

Joe

 

[SHINER]

Came across a little sharpner last year at a trade days we have down here once a month.I had always had trouble sharpneing a knife.This thing has 2 little wheels that are bout as big round as a nickel.They are sitting besides each other on a little stand ,and you just put the blade between the wheels and pull..Didn't cost but I think it was 7 dollars.I have had them all and this little cheaper will put the others to shame.I let some guys at work try it and the next month I had to buy 7 of them for all the ones that wanted one.Don't know where they are made or waht the name is but they are the best I have seen.They will even put a nice edge on a buck knife with no problem.I need to get some more of them.
Later.
SHINER /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[RazorMaxx]

It depends on how much money you want to spend. Edge Pro makes the best sharpener availible in my opinion however they are just a bit expensive for the average person who only needs to sharpen a few knives periodically.

I would definetly NOT get a Chef's choice electric sharpener. I bought the best non-commercial model they offer and trust me, it will quickly grind away your blade, contrary to what they say and advertise. They are decent for kitchen knives though as most people don't want to spend a lot of time sharpening those.

If money is an issue then I will agree with the majority on the Sharp maker. Although I have not owned one I do have a ceramic system that works on the same principle and they are easy to use. Also, I have been a member of several knife forums and the Sharp maker has always been a favorite among many. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[webley445]

I also have some old military bayonets I'd like to put an edge on, the sharpmaker good for those too?

 

[smokinbasser]

i have been using my lansky system for almost 20 years now and have worn out one medium grit stone and bought a fine diamond(stone) and the serrated stone and am very satisfied with it. but I do have to agree that the clamp will leave a scratch/mark on the back of the blade, but working knives will get marked up sooner or later so this doesn't concern me too much and my mint collection knives will never get within 20 feet of a sharpener anyway. mint means never used,carried,sharpened..

 

[outlaw918692000]

If you want an edge on a knife you may have to spend some time. I use a rod then a ceramic and last leather. I can feel when the blade is ready for the next step (it starts to glide smoothly over the rod). This can take me hours depending on the condition of the edge. As far as factory, well I have never found a factory edge that was sharp enof so I have to touch them up. Good test is free hanging toilet paper and slash it if it cuts the TP without tearing it you are there. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dedhorse.gif (sorry I just love this smiley)