D2 hard to sharpen ?

I have 2 knives in D2, a Queen Toothpick and a Queen Whittler. Both came from the factory with less than sharp edges. The Toothpick was a breeze to sharpen. The Whittler, not so easy.
 
D2 has a very low grindability which means it takes a lot to grind off metal using an abrasive. D2 also does not respond well to high finishes at low angles. Much of ease of sharpening is dependent on the initila grind of the knife. If you use a relief grind then you can eliminate grindability as a concern in most cases and thus all you are left with is burr removal. This can be a problem with D2 as most run it soft compared to its wear resistance.

-Cliff
 
I've got some kershaw D2, Benchmade D2 and soon to be dozier D2. The kershaw outcast is heat treated differently due to being used as a chopper. The benchmade folders in D2 seem much harder. The folders go much longer between touchups and take about the same time to do as the larger outcast despite the much larger edge on the outcast. It all depends on the manufacturer, intended use and heat treat.
 
D2 Isn't that hard to sharpen. IF it has been hardened properly. If it has been left on the soft side you can have problems if you don't get the relief grind right out to the edge. I'm not sure why but the edge seems to break off unpredictably if you don't get the relief ground in. HARD D2 takes a bit of grinding on but gives wonderful edges that last and last. It takes a bit of work to get there but it's not difficult just time consuming. Patience is required.

D2 and medium diamond hones go well together. Coarse diamonds I avoid, they seem to leave too deep of scratches which you then spend a ton of time working them out. The big pink brick in water stones is great for knocking in the relief grind, try not to burr it if at all possible.
 
I guess I've been lucky with gettng a good factory job.

But D-2 isn't hard to sharpen on a Sharpmaker if you keep it sharp. It would probably be a real bitch if you neglected the blade and let it get quite dull.

But I think most people that are savvy enough to buy a D-2 blade are savvy enough to keep it properly sharpened.
 
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