DMT Aligner tips

L

Lennyo3034

Joined
Nov 27, 2012
Messages
490
So I just got myself a DMT aligner Pro kit, and I'm having trouble getting my knives acceptably sharp on it. I've been able to get knives shaving sharp on a lansky V rods and was hoping these would be better.

My procedure is as follows:

All attempts have been at a 40 degree inclusive angle, close to as acute as you can get on the aligner [a bit dissappointing]. I then run the course stone about 10 times on each side, followed by 5 times alternating sides. I use moderate pressure.

On the fine and extra fine stones, I use the same process, except with lighter pressure.

I finish by stopping it on the back of my belt.

So far I have yet to pop a fair with any of the cheaper knives laying around. I haven't tried my more expensive knives yet.

Any tips? I'm obviously new to sharpening.
 
If you're only counting passes, and not looking for or verifying the creation of a burr from both sides of the edge, that's probably creating most of the trouble. The tips offered by knifenut1013 in the thread he linked are good. Beyond that, it's critical to make sure the burr's being formed. If not, it's likely the edge isn't being apexed, and therefore won't be 'sharp'. The burr is the best indicator that the bevel is fully ground from each side, and therefore the bevels will meet in two straight lines at a perfect intersection (the 'sharp' edge). Stopping short of that means one or both of the bevels may not be fully ground to meet that way, so the apex will be blunt.


David
 
I'm starting to get it, largely thanks to knifenut's explanation. I managed to get a few hairs to pop using a garbage $10 butterfly knife. Still not what I would call shaving sharp though. I'm going to look for a few more knives to sharpen tomorrow before I take it to my M390 BM710.
 
Using Garbage knives for practice is a great way to learn how to use your equipment. However, when you move to some better steel, you will be amazed at the difference in your outcome. If you can get the cheapo steel pretty sharp, the good stuff will be even sharper. Just watch closely while you are sharpening and go slow so no major mistakes are made. Get your routine down on your practice knives, and then you will be better when it comes time for the Good stuff. Sounds like you are getting there.

Blessings,

Omar
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top