Convex edge vs V

It depends... like almost anything else. :)

First you follow the rule: "Sharpen early".

Then you look on the sharpening tools you have.

It is easier to sharpen a V - edge on stones than a convex edge.

It is easier to sharpen a convex edge on a mouse pad with a layer of sand paper on it, than a V edge.

It is easier to me to resharpen a dull V edge on stones freehand, to raise the burr. It works on sand paper too, but to me, the stones are more comfortable.

The advantage of convex edges are to me, that the edge is more durable, so edge maintance is minimised.
 
Yes, theoretically, the convex edge is a smoother transition. However. That is usually not the reason people like or use the convex edge.
First off, most people are only exposed to thick factory bevels that don't cut very well at all. Then when a nice convex edge is their first exposure to thin edge geometry, convex becomes synonymous with sharp, and V with dull.
Secondly. When told to keep sharpening at one precise angle, people get frustrated when they re-discover that they are human beings, and therefore not very good at holding a precise angle.
Methods for sharpening a convex edge, oppositely, tell them not to hold a steady angle, and affirm their humanity in a positive way.

The convex edge is all I ever use, I don't even know how to put a straight bevel on a knife by hand. Chances are it would take way more effort than I'm willing to put in, and isn't even necessary anyway.

The problem is that "convex" gets thrown around so much and is such a blanket term that people start to ignore, and sometimes even deny, the basic principles that actually determine whether or not something cuts well.


You really have no idea how correct you really are. :thumbup:

Add in the cost factor of getting a few sheets of sandpaper and a mouse pad, pennies compared to a good set of Water Stones or a good sharpening system. (That has more to do with the popularity of convex edges than anything else IMO)

It really takes less skill to get a sharp convex edge than it does to get a sharp V edge, a lot less skill.
 
Last edited:
Yes, theoretically, the convex edge is a smoother transition. However. That is usually not the reason people like or use the convex edge.
First off, most people are only exposed to thick factory bevels that don't cut very well at all. Then when a nice convex edge is their first exposure to thin edge geometry, convex becomes synonymous with sharp, and V with dull.
Secondly. When told to keep sharpening at one precise angle, people get frustrated when they re-discover that they are human beings, and therefore not very good at holding a precise angle.
Methods for sharpening a convex edge, oppositely, tell them not to hold a steady angle, and affirm their humanity in a positive way.

The convex edge is all I ever use, I don't even know how to put a straight bevel on a knife by hand. Chances are it would take way more effort than I'm willing to put in, and isn't even necessary anyway.

The problem is that "convex" gets thrown around so much and is such a blanket term that people start to ignore, and sometimes even deny, the basic principles that actually determine whether or not something cuts well.


That's the truth right there :thumbup::thumbup:
 
In theory the convex edge is stronger because there is more meat behind the edge. The convex edge geometry also enhances the ability to change directions while you are cutting. The vee edge and especially the chisel ground edge tend to run in a straight line when slicing. If you are making sushi, use the chisel grind. If you are carving styrofoam use a covex edge. I find the convex edge a little harder to produce, but I haven't spent that much time perfecting my technique.
 
And then some just can't let it go....:confused:

It's a forum. We discuss/exchange information. I just wanted to hear which style the OP was told was better/sharper.

Because everybody knows zero chisel grind is the sharpest regardless of sharpnening technique, sharpening style, blade style, or blade thickness. The science doesn't lie.
 
It's a forum. We discuss/exchange information. I just wanted to hear which style the OP was told was better/sharper.

Because everybody knows zero chisel grind is the sharpest regardless of sharpnening technique, sharpening style, blade style, or blade thickness. The science doesn't lie.

It won't be any sharper. ;)

It's easier to sharpen and will cut better, there is a difference.
 
V grind is sharper
V grind is easier to maintain.

Sorry. It's true.

your_opinion.jpg


Sorry. The Dude speaks true.
 
I prefer rocky road over vanilla any day, that is of course the vanilla isn't covered with other goodies or dunked in root beer or something..

I guess its just a matter of preference, and tastes..:D
 
I prefer rocky road over vanilla any day, that is of course the vanilla isn't covered with other goodies or dunked in root beer or something..

I guess its just a matter of preference, and tastes..:D

I like peanut Butter and Jelly. :)

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. :)
 
Is too sharper! You can't deny! It's been proven by science! Besides, I made some calls and a guy told me so!

Sorry man, but you are wrong. ;)

If the edge is a micron thick or less both will be the same sharpness.
 
It's a forum. We discuss/exchange information. I just wanted to hear which style the OP was told was better/sharper.

Because everybody knows zero chisel grind is the sharpest regardless of sharpnening technique, sharpening style, blade style, or blade thickness. The science doesn't lie.

Obviously neither is better or sharper, but you knew that...I did meet a guy who has a lot of passion around sharpening and he was able to explain the differences and get me going in the right direction for me and my needs...He does it for a living and seems to have a great way of explaining the concepts...Thanks to those who helped me on this thread and back channel...
 
Obviously neither is better or sharper, but you knew that......

Isn't that what I said at the very beginning? :confused: "Sharper", "easier to maintain"? It's all based on what is easiest for you to maintain. It's what everybody has been saying from the outset, son.
 
Isn't that what I said at the very beginning? :confused: "Sharper", "easier to maintain"? It's all based on what is easiest for you to maintain. It's what everybody has been saying from the outset, son.


Thanks Daddy...I should of listened...You are so sweet!!:thumbup:
 
Back
Top