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Tool Talk => Edged Tools => Topic started by: RF52 on March 21, 2018, 08:38:45 AM

Title: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 21, 2018, 08:38:45 AM
I'm thinking of buying something to sharpen my knives and MT's, and have been looking at Lansky's stuff. But I need a little help deciding. The options are their tri-stone benchstone and a blademedic or one of their controlled angle systems. Do any of you have any recomendations or pros/cons for any of these?

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 21, 2018, 10:23:45 AM
Just got an angle system.

Not the real Lansky deal but it works the same.

So far I'm really pleased with it!
Works conveniently and some knives that never took a good edge, do now.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: hiraethus on March 21, 2018, 10:31:54 AM
I find multitools and SAKs with small blades and heavy handles hard to sharpen on the Lansky guided system and have much better results freehand on a bench stone.  The Lansky works well on 'proper' knives though.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 21, 2018, 10:59:31 AM
Then I think I will go for the freehand option, and it is also a good skill to know Thanks for your help guys

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Fuzzbucket on March 21, 2018, 11:33:14 AM
Freehand sharpening takes a lot of skill and muscle memory and can look (from an aesthetic pov) a bit iffy too, especially if you're not that used to doing it - I've had a pocket knife since I was five and while I can sharpen freehand, I wouldn't say the results are consistent.
I'd invest in a Lansky guide system - just the basic one will do, but if you don't abuse knives too much and just need to touch them up from time to time get a mini Lansky Crux/Crock Stick, about a $8 at most - they're excellent for maintaining factory edges.  :tu:

Edit: Also Lansky guide systems can do small pocket knife blades easily enough, they have a little notch for them, that's what I use.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 21, 2018, 11:50:33 AM
Freehand sharpening takes a lot of skill and muscle memory and can look (from an aesthetic pov) a bit iffy too, especially if you're not that used to doing it - I've had a pocket knife since I was five and while I can sharpen freehand, I wouldn't say the results are consistent.
I'd invest in a Lansky guide system - just the basic one will do, but if you don't abuse knives too much and just need to touch them up from time to time get a mini Lansky Crux/Crock Stick, about a $8 at most - they're excellent for maintaining factory edges.  :tu:

Edit: Also Lansky guide systems can do small pocket knife blades easily enough, they have a little notch for them, that's what I use.
Thanks for your input, guess I'll just wait and see what I end up with when I go to the store to check out the options there

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Fuzzbucket on March 21, 2018, 11:55:14 AM
Freehand sharpening takes a lot of skill and muscle memory and can look (from an aesthetic pov) a bit iffy too, especially if you're not that used to doing it - I've had a pocket knife since I was five and while I can sharpen freehand, I wouldn't say the results are consistent.
I'd invest in a Lansky guide system - just the basic one will do, but if you don't abuse knives too much and just need to touch them up from time to time get a mini Lansky Crux/Crock Stick, about a $8 at most - they're excellent for maintaining factory edges.  :tu:

Edit: Also Lansky guide systems can do small pocket knife blades easily enough, they have a little notch for them, that's what I use.
Thanks for your input, guess I'll just wait and see what I end up with when I go to the store to check out the options there

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

If you're going to the shops, avoid any of those plastic diamond crock stick thingys, especially the gerber one - they're horrible!!!  :ahhh
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 21, 2018, 11:57:21 AM
Freehand sharpening takes a lot of skill and muscle memory and can look (from an aesthetic pov) a bit iffy too, especially if you're not that used to doing it - I've had a pocket knife since I was five and while I can sharpen freehand, I wouldn't say the results are consistent.
I'd invest in a Lansky guide system - just the basic one will do, but if you don't abuse knives too much and just need to touch them up from time to time get a mini Lansky Crux/Crock Stick, about a $8 at most - they're excellent for maintaining factory edges.  :tu:

Edit: Also Lansky guide systems can do small pocket knife blades easily enough, they have a little notch for them, that's what I use.
Thanks for your input, guess I'll just wait and see what I end up with when I go to the store to check out the options there

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

If you're going to the shops, avoid any of those plastic diamond crock stick thingys, especially the gerber one - they're horrible!!!  :ahhh
Thanks I have a sports/outdoors store I'm going to that have both the tri-stone and the guided system from Lansky, so will compare them and see what I end up with

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: SteveC on March 21, 2018, 01:01:49 PM
Check out the Lansky Turnbox it works really well to maintain a sharp edge. That and a benchstone or small diamond pocket stone is all you really need  :tu:
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: kaput on March 21, 2018, 03:41:58 PM
I've sharpened my small traditional knife and a small crkt pilar on a lansky guided. Worked great
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Blackbeard on March 22, 2018, 01:59:13 AM
the blade medic is good for touching up the edge after some moderate use, and good to have in a backpack, but if you need some deep work I don't think its the best option.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Aloha on March 22, 2018, 06:23:50 AM
I'm a fan of the guided system by Lansky.  Lots of options on abrasives as well.  I also have the Turn box which is nice for touch ups but I use my Spyderco sharpmaker more.  Stropping is what I always go to first when my edges begin to loose their edge.  If after a strop session I find I need more then onto the ceramics then back to stropping.  If damage has occurred then I'll break out the Lansky.  I run a few compounds on my leather strops.  Nothing high end and nothing I cannot readily get from a home improvement store.  I know there are really nice compounds but so far I've managed to get by rather well. 

Many blades would do fine with some stropping to bring the edge back up vs an all out sharpening session.   
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 22, 2018, 07:41:46 AM
Thanks for your input and tips guys! Still can't decide but I'm sure I will end up with something good ☺

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: ThePeacent on March 22, 2018, 01:00:01 PM
I can also recommend the blade medic for occasional touch up (I have two, on two bags) but nothing serious (the diamond is really aggressive, the ceramic is about 1000 grit and leaves a good polish but has small area/surface, I don't use the pull-throughs, the BladeMedic is heavy)

The Turn Box is essentially a cheaper and simpler Sharpmaker that seems to produce good results for most people, I can't speak for myself because I only have the Spyderco SM which I use very often (my main sharpening tool)  ;)

(https://i.imgur.com/WbfhP29.jpg)

On the go and when I want to carry a small but good sharpening system and not handle the weight of the BladeMedic I use small hones and crock-sticks sold by Lansky, this one serves for small, big, SE and PE knives, and the groove is for hooks, package openers or really small blades  :ahhh

(https://i.imgur.com/jvPJztM.jpg)

there is aversion for Cold Steel's serrations also sold by Lansky but works for other things too. Both models are cheap (5-10$) and versatile  :tu:

(https://i.imgur.com/mCEnYoC.jpg)

these small ceramic and diamond plates are also handy to have and weigh little, they fit well in altoids tins, small sheaths or tiny pockets in clothes and bags

(https://i.imgur.com/NM0pgrZ.jpg)

let us know what you finally get!!  :salute:
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 22, 2018, 01:25:01 PM
I can also recommend the blade medic for occasional touch up (I have two, on two bags) but nothing serious (the diamond is really aggressive, the ceramic is about 1000 grit and leaves a good polish but has small area/surface, I don't use the pull-throughs, the BladeMedic is heavy)

The Turn Box is essentially a cheaper and simpler Sharpmaker that seems to produce good results for most people, I can't speak for myself because I only have the Spyderco SM which I use very often (my main sharpening tool)  ;)

(https://i.imgur.com/WbfhP29.jpg)

On the go and when I want to carry a small but good sharpening system and not handle the weight of the BladeMedic I use small hones and crock-sticks sold by Lansky, this one serves for small, big, SE and PE knives, and the groove is for hooks, package openers or really small blades  :ahhh

(https://i.imgur.com/jvPJztM.jpg)

there is aversion for Cold Steel's serrations also sold by Lansky but works for other things too. Both models are cheap (5-10$) and versatile  :tu:

(https://i.imgur.com/mCEnYoC.jpg)

these small ceramic and diamond plates are also handy to have and weigh little, they fit well in altoids tins, small sheaths or tiny pockets in clothes and bags

(https://i.imgur.com/NM0pgrZ.jpg)

let us know what you finally get!!  :salute:
Some good options there I'll see what is available and post it here when I get whatever I decide on

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 22, 2018, 01:34:07 PM
Pssssst

Online you can find some stores that sell a set like Lansky's.

They're cheap, they work, and they give you an idea what a Lansky is all about before buying it.

Ofcourse, if a Lansky system is affordable, just grab that one... if that catched your interest.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 22, 2018, 01:36:13 PM
Pssssst

Online you can find some stores that sell a set like Lansky's.

They're cheap, they work, and they give you an idea what a Lansky is all about before buying it.

Ofcourse, if a Lansky system is affordable, just grab that one... if that catched your interest.
Cool! But the Lansky system is quite affordable compared to other options here and I can just go buy it and not wait forever to get it

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Gerhard Gerber on March 22, 2018, 01:38:47 PM
I just spent 1.5x the price of the original kit on the diamond stones........my advice is get those and only those......if possible.

........depending on the steel you're trying to sharpen of course.....
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 22, 2018, 01:39:22 PM
Pssssst

Online you can find some stores that sell a set like Lansky's.

They're cheap, they work, and they give you an idea what a Lansky is all about before buying it.

Ofcourse, if a Lansky system is affordable, just grab that one... if that catched your interest.
Cool! But the Lansky system is quite affordable compared to other options here and I can just go buy it and not wait forever to get it

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
In that case...

I'd say: get one!

You can even use the stones freehand if you prefer.

My copy works great so I can only imagine the results with a Lansky...
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 22, 2018, 01:41:25 PM
Pssssst

Online you can find some stores that sell a set like Lansky's.

They're cheap, they work, and they give you an idea what a Lansky is all about before buying it.

Ofcourse, if a Lansky system is affordable, just grab that one... if that catched your interest.
Cool! But the Lansky system is quite affordable compared to other options here and I can just go buy it and not wait forever to get it

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
In that case...

I'd say: get one!

You can even use the stones freehand if you prefer.

My copy works great so I can only imagine the results with a Lansky...
It does seem like a great way to get good results and not mess up a lot in the process Looking forward to trying it

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 22, 2018, 01:42:40 PM
I just spent 1.5x the price of the original kit on the diamond stones........my advice is get those and only those......if possible.

........depending on the steel you're trying to sharpen of course.....
The diamond stone system or just the diamond stones?

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Gerhard Gerber on March 23, 2018, 09:14:43 AM
The diamond stone system or just the diamond stones?

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Sorry, I was referring to the Lanksy kit.  Don't know if it's possible, but I would buy the basic kit with diamond stones.  I think mostly people won't need the extra coarse, so 3 diamond stones and the ceramic should be wonderful for most people.

Badly cut myself while sharpening a blade I forged from a bearing casing, partly because it was taking forever.  With the diamond stones it went quickly.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 09:26:40 AM
The diamond stone system or just the diamond stones?

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Sorry, I was referring to the Lanksy kit.  Don't know if it's possible, but I would buy the basic kit with diamond stones.  I think mostly people won't need the extra coarse, so 3 diamond stones and the ceramic should be wonderful for most people.

Badly cut myself while sharpening a blade I forged from a bearing casing, partly because it was taking forever.  With the diamond stones it went quickly.
I will see what they have Thanks!

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 09:32:35 PM
So I got the deluxe sharpening system from lansky and a blademedic so I can do serrated knives also. Tried the system on a Ganzo and a CRKT minimalist I got from ThePeacent today and they got sharp enough for me so I really like the guided system. I also tried the blademedic on a Vic Handyman and that worked out great so I'm really happy with the purchase Didn't take a pic of it in use but here's one before i opened it and one with the load of stuff I got from TP (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180323/74037fe9d8ce9738723829b0af76034f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180323/85b1a1db2b9aa83e483da84a34b1d0ad.jpg)

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 23, 2018, 09:43:57 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 09:45:53 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 23, 2018, 09:47:30 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

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What does the stone side look like?
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 09:48:19 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
What does the stone side look like?
I'll put up a pic tomorrow for you

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 23, 2018, 09:48:54 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
What does the stone side look like?
I'll put up a pic tomorrow for you

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Great!
I'll post comparison pics thereafter.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 09:51:05 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
What does the stone side look like?
I'll put up a pic tomorrow for you

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Great!
I'll post comparison pics thereafter.
Cool How much did your version cost if you don't mind me asking?

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 23, 2018, 09:53:00 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
What does the stone side look like?
I'll put up a pic tomorrow for you

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Great!
I'll post comparison pics thereafter.
Cool How much did your version cost if you don't mind me asking?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Complete set + delivery at my doorstep: €15
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 09:57:26 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
What does the stone side look like?
I'll put up a pic tomorrow for you

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Great!
I'll post comparison pics thereafter.
Cool How much did your version cost if you don't mind me asking?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Complete set + delivery at my doorstep: €15
Can't really beat that price But since I'm a bit impacient at times I bought mine at a sport/outdoors store so I could get it right away and go home and try it

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 23, 2018, 09:59:49 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
What does the stone side look like?
I'll put up a pic tomorrow for you

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Great!
I'll post comparison pics thereafter.
Cool How much did your version cost if you don't mind me asking?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Complete set + delivery at my doorstep: €15
Can't really beat that price But since I'm a bit impacient at times I bought mine at a sport/outdoors store so I could get it right away and go home and try it

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
No need to explain why you bought the real thing when I bought a knock-off...
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 10:02:08 PM
Dang my copy of the deluxe system looks close to the real deal...
I think that is a good thing

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
What does the stone side look like?
I'll put up a pic tomorrow for you

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Great!
I'll post comparison pics thereafter.
Cool How much did your version cost if you don't mind me asking?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
Complete set + delivery at my doorstep: €15
Can't really beat that price But since I'm a bit impacient at times I bought mine at a sport/outdoors store so I could get it right away and go home and try it

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk
No need to explain why you bought the real thing when I bought a knock-off...
Haha, maybe you are right

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Fuzzbucket on March 23, 2018, 10:41:19 PM
Excellent kit RF52!  :salute:
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 23, 2018, 10:43:59 PM
Excellent kit RF52!  :salute:
Thanks Very pleased with how well it functioned

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 25, 2018, 09:12:51 PM
Here are photos of the stone side with and without flash, hopefully you can see something (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180325/251e13901fbc1b186de701665640c31d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180325/ef1fa9ee43cb75d85923200b7b5b567f.jpg)

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Gerhard Gerber on March 26, 2018, 05:29:18 PM
My Lansky setup & accessories....including DIY stand made using a drill bit  :whistle:

(https://s9.postimg.org/ikfsx3tv3/20180326_172616_1.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Mechanickal on March 26, 2018, 05:39:23 PM
Oh right,
My turn!

The box as delivered:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/e5284cca5bf7a2e140a1ede2c0fe1d52.jpg)
Cardboard coverbox removed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/7b4c7a994f7d8c4e263b1dbaf9d3b4d1.jpg)
Box opened and protective foam + manual removed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/a2ee15202668209fc045de7e5ceb60ce.jpg)
Stones reversed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/a720ccc54472ce9d8d5ed4adb770b830.jpg)
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 26, 2018, 07:14:57 PM
My Lansky setup & accessories....including DIY stand made using a drill bit  :whistle:

(https://s9.postimg.org/ikfsx3tv3/20180326_172616_1.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
I need to make a stand for mine too looks good

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 26, 2018, 07:16:51 PM
Oh right,
My turn!

The box as delivered:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/e5284cca5bf7a2e140a1ede2c0fe1d52.jpg)
Cardboard coverbox removed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/7b4c7a994f7d8c4e263b1dbaf9d3b4d1.jpg)
Box opened and protective foam + manual removed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/a2ee15202668209fc045de7e5ceb60ce.jpg)
Stones reversed:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180326/a720ccc54472ce9d8d5ed4adb770b830.jpg)
Looked very similar And as long as it's working the way you want it doesn't matter what it is

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Marcellus on March 27, 2018, 03:46:11 AM
My Lansky setup & accessories....including DIY stand made using a drill bit  :whistle:

(https://s9.postimg.org/ikfsx3tv3/20180326_172616_1.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
I need to make a stand for mine too looks good

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Good choice. You're all set for the majority of blades.
The smaller pen blades can be a challenge if you set the fixture on 17 or 20 degrees, but can usually be sharpened at 25 degrees.
The blade will still get plenty sharp.
Use the sharpie method to check if you are honing the edge.
Practise and use your thumb or eyes to " chase the burr".

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: jaya_man on March 27, 2018, 08:48:47 AM
I also use the Lansky Deluxe Sharpening System... So far its working great for me... I’ve used it to sharpen my SAKs (except the 58mm), MT’s, folders and kitchen knives... and strop afterwards...

Seldom use the extra course hone except when I need to reprofile edges... The coarse hone I use on blades which have been used regularly... otherwise, its normally just the medium to extra fine hones for touch-ups...

Also thinking of getting the special hone for serrated edges...

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 27, 2018, 09:03:02 AM
I also use the Lansky Deluxe Sharpening System... So far its working great for me... I’ve used it to sharpen my SAKs (except the 58mm), MT’s, folders and kitchen knives... and strop afterwards...

Seldom use the extra course hone except when I need to reprofile edges... The coarse hone I use on blades which have been used regularly... otherwise, its normally just the medium to extra fine hones for touch-ups...

Also thinking of getting the special hone for serrated edges...
Great

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Gerhard Gerber on March 27, 2018, 02:43:05 PM
Also thinking of getting the special hone for serrated edges...

When I started looking at Lansky  I figured I'd buy the basic kit and then get those rounded stones for recurves.....which I "need" for my Kukri  :facepalm:

After getting the 4 diamond stones I feel a bit over-invested, plan on rather getting a Spyderco Sharpmaker, and where that doesn't work the belt grinder will have to suffice.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 27, 2018, 02:55:33 PM
I do recommend freehand as well, just so you learn it abd get a feel for it, ypu can use your Lansky stones for it. And also learn stropping! Do NOT underestimate the power of the strop  :D
Especially if you have a couple of them with some compound on one of them!
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 27, 2018, 06:17:24 PM
I do recommend freehand as well, just so you learn it abd get a feel for it, ypu can use your Lansky stones for it. And also learn stropping! Do NOT underestimate the power of the strop  :D
Especially if you have a couple of them with some compound on one of them!
I have been thinking of getting/making a strop or two

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Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 27, 2018, 11:03:23 PM
I do recommend freehand as well, just so you learn it abd get a feel for it, ypu can use your Lansky stones for it. And also learn stropping! Do NOT underestimate the power of the strop  :D
Especially if you have a couple of them with some compound on one of them!
I have been thinking of getting/making a strop or two

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I went to K-Rauta and got a plank which they even helped me saw into proper lengths, and then I ordered Bältes Läder at slojd-skinn.se at 4cm and just made strops with contact glue. Easy peasy! :)
I recommend this compound:https://www.sliqhaq.se/strigelpasta-micron-p-521.html?cPath=4_32_114
Just a size of a green pea will cover a rather big strop.

First strop with the compund and then strop with raw leather, then you can shave with it!
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 27, 2018, 11:33:14 PM
I do recommend freehand as well, just so you learn it abd get a feel for it, ypu can use your Lansky stones for it. And also learn stropping! Do NOT underestimate the power of the strop  :D
Especially if you have a couple of them with some compound on one of them!
I have been thinking of getting/making a strop or two

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I went to K-Rauta and got a plank which they even helped me saw into proper lengths, and then I ordered Bältes Läder at slojd-skinn.se at 4cm and just made strops with contact glue. Easy peasy! :)
I recommend this compound:https://www.sliqhaq.se/strigelpasta-micron-p-521.html?cPath=4_32_114
Just a size of a green pea will cover a rather big strop.

First strop with the compund and then strop with raw leather, then you can shave with it!
Thanks!

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Gerhard Gerber on March 28, 2018, 11:40:13 AM
The Strop is powerful indeed  :salute:

Most of my sheaths are thermo-molded plastic covered with leather, people are amazed when I show them how to use the sheath as a strop.......they all think stropping starts and ends in a barber shop  :like:
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 28, 2018, 07:40:30 PM
The Strop is powerful indeed  :salute:

Most of my sheaths are thermo-molded plastic covered with leather, people are amazed when I show them how to use the sheath as a strop.......they all think stropping starts and ends in a barber shop  :like:

Yes, it is so underrated in my opinion! It is so powerful, imho at least as important as the sharpening/apexing itself.
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 28, 2018, 08:49:15 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 28, 2018, 08:54:51 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 28, 2018, 08:57:03 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 28, 2018, 09:04:22 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I have an old belt I made into a couple of strops as well, works just as good as any other leather I tried!
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 28, 2018, 09:05:18 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Btw, don't use that much pressure when stropping, the weight of the knife plus a tiny bit more, maybe 1.5-2X the weight of the knife is lagom!
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 28, 2018, 09:10:47 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Btw, don't use that much pressure when stropping, the weight of the knife plus a tiny bit more, maybe 1.5-2X the weight of the knife is lagom!
Good to know

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 28, 2018, 09:12:01 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Btw, don't use that much pressure when stropping, the weight of the knife plus a tiny bit more, maybe 1.5-2X the weight of the knife is lagom!
Good to know

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I don't know if I have to say it, but don't "cut" into the leather do it the other way, away strokes and use the same angle as when sharpening the knife, if you do 20 degrees each side when sharpening and putting the apex on the knife, use the same angle when stropping :)
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 28, 2018, 09:15:12 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Btw, don't use that much pressure when stropping, the weight of the knife plus a tiny bit more, maybe 1.5-2X the weight of the knife is lagom!
Good to know

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I don't know if I have to say it, but don't "cut" into the leather do it the other way, away strokes and use the same angle as when sharpening the knife, if you do 20 degrees each side when sharpening and putting the apex on the knife, use the same angle when stropping :)
I knew about not cutting the leather but good info about the angle, didn't think about that.

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: aikon2014 on March 28, 2018, 09:22:47 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Btw, don't use that much pressure when stropping, the weight of the knife plus a tiny bit more, maybe 1.5-2X the weight of the knife is lagom!
Good to know

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I don't know if I have to say it, but don't "cut" into the leather do it the other way, away strokes and use the same angle as when sharpening the knife, if you do 20 degrees each side when sharpening and putting the apex on the knife, use the same angle when stropping :)
I knew about not cutting the leather but good info about the angle, didn't think about that.

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

And most of all, even with very little stropping you will usually notice a huge difference!
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: RF52 on March 28, 2018, 09:23:41 PM
Do you use the "rough" side or the smooth side of the leather to strop?

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I use both, don't really think that it matters because as far as I know, it's small silicon particles in the leather that does the "sharpening", so it should be equal whatever side. But I know that others like to put compound on the suede rough side because it sticks easier and do the raw leather stropping on the flat smooth side.
Thanks I have an old belt I'm going to make into a strop, should be long enough for a couple so I can try both and see

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Btw, don't use that much pressure when stropping, the weight of the knife plus a tiny bit more, maybe 1.5-2X the weight of the knife is lagom!
Good to know

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

I don't know if I have to say it, but don't "cut" into the leather do it the other way, away strokes and use the same angle as when sharpening the knife, if you do 20 degrees each side when sharpening and putting the apex on the knife, use the same angle when stropping :)
I knew about not cutting the leather but good info about the angle, didn't think about that.

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

And most of all, even with very little stropping you will usually notice a huge difference!
Great!

Sent fra min FRD-L09 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Gerhard Gerber on March 29, 2018, 08:35:35 AM
It blows peoples' minds if they see how a strop puts back a paper slicing edge with a few passes......the trick is to not let the edge get away from you.

This is true for all the older simpler steels.......
Title: Re: Sharpening help.
Post by: Aloha on March 29, 2018, 04:24:57 PM
I've been looking at my edge bevels thru my mag glass more and more.  I don't like the lines that I see from factory.  I like to strop to the finest smoothest finish I can.  Even under the magnification of my mag glass I can see the "toothy" edge which I just don't like.  I used to round over my apex when I first began stropping.  I wasn't "getting it" till I watched a few videos.  I'm currently working on my Skeletool CX blade.  It has lines on the bevel which I am currently removing by stropping.   Some may not want to or feel they need to do this and thats fine but I enjoy the process more than anything.  Secondly, my high carbon blades benefit much like the highly polished SAK blades do in keeping rusting to a bare minimum if at all.  Lastly, I do enjoy the level of sharpness I am able to achieve.  Its quite rewarding.