Convex relief grind with a benchstone?

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kennyj

Joined
Feb 24, 2006
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139
Is this a practical solution, or is a strop/rubber sanding block/mousepad really a much better way to go?

I've already got $50 invested in that Sharpmaker and I like the idea of the actual edge having an accurate V-grind. My intent is to round off the back bevel and get something of a taper going from the edge to the rest of the blade.
 
You can do this readily with a benchstone, most traditional convex edges found on parangs and khukuris are sharpened on stones. Fikes demonstrates this in his video as he freehand sharpens a tanto with a convex bevel with a large DMT benchstone. Generally any bevel you apply with a benchstone will be convex to a degree just due to slop in your angle variance unless you use some kind of jig. Just roll or rock the blade slightly as you draw it across the stone. It isn't as hard as it probably sounds. I would start off with a flat relief and then just blend all the edges together.

-Cliff
 
Generally, even with a soft backing, convex grinds tend to require rotation on the media unless the convex grind is basically flat anyway. If you press hard enough to actually hit the primary you risk rolling the edge.

-Cliff
 
Cliff Stamp said:
Generally, even with a soft backing, convex grinds tend to require rotation on the media unless the convex grind is basically flat anyway. If you press hard enough to actually hit the primary you risk rolling the edge.

-Cliff
Click to expand...

Good point. The last thing you want to do is roll the sandpaper over the edge. You will do more harm than good. But with practice (in my case at least) it is easier with a mouse pad block over a bench stone. Also, I soaked my mouse pad with starch, this stiffened the pad a bit, but is still able to conform to the convex shape needed. With practice.... either will work. Really it's a personal preference. What you are most comfortable using will be best for you. ;)
 
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