Benchmark Knives dis-continued clamp-on angle guide

[Jason Fowler]

I've been using Razor Edge systems sharpening stones and guides for years. My only complaint is that the guides tend to wear down due to their scrubbing across the stone along with the blade. I've replaced them a couple of times over the years b/c they were getting so worn the head of the clamp adjustment screw was starting to contact the stone! The RES folks told me that maybe I'm pushing too hard on the clamp and thus wearing it out prematurely (?). I don't think so.
Then I saw a picture in Steven Dick's excellent book on folding knives of a clamp by Benchmark Knives with a rolling wheel that simply rolls over the stone.Brilliant! Is benchmark Knives still in business? Is the clamp still made?
I live in Canada and haven't had any luck contacting them.
Anyone got any light to shed on the clamps availability and/or staus of Benchmark knives?
Jason F.

 

[Will Fennell]

Jason,
When I was with BENCHMARK, many years ago, they were trying to bring out that sharpener. I was with the company about a year, and they never did get to ship any, but they may have after I left. Neat concept. We were trying to have the different size wheels injection molded, but never did get it done[while I was there]. The only ones I ever saw were prototypes with aluminium wheels, like shown in Steven Dick's book.

I could be wrong, but I don't think it ever reached production.

The "old" Benchmark, went out of business a few years back. The name has been purchased by another person, and they are marketing a few knives under the name, all BLackie Collins' designs. One is a VERY unique auto.


Best Regards,

Will Fennell
CAMILLUS CUTLERY
[Former Sales Manager, BENCHMARK KNIVES]