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Edge Pro Apex or Freehand..

J

JJaggar

Joined
Jan 15, 2015
Messages
253
I'm looking to start sharpening my knives, I'm going towards just getting an Edge Pro from what reading and research I've done it just seems accurate and will be able to give me any type edge I could want. I'd like to hear from any Edge Pro users/owners on how they use this system, or if just going freehand sharpening has more/less benefits so that I can make a final educated decision.
 
Freehand takes time to develop the skill to get a good edge, a guided system will provide consistent edges for less money, in some cases.
I am waiting on my Deluxe Lansky system, that I got in a trade for my stones, since I don't have the patience. :rolleyes:
There is certainly a tradeoff
 
Another important question. ..will the water stones that come with the Edge Pro Apex be able to handle sharpening of my D2, S30V, S35VN knives?
 
I use the stones that came with my Edge Pro to sharpen a D2 blade from Benchmade. They work great!

I've never tried it with S30V or S35VN.
 
I have the Apex and sharpen (CRK) S30V as well as (Busse) Infi on it no problem
 
If you can afford the EP, it has a good reputation - I still would pick up a few bench stones to learn freehand. Ultimately you will want to learn to freehand passably anyway, as there are tools that cannot be done on an EP efficiently, and the EP cannot go everywhere with you.
 
Just got my EP in Friday. LOVE THIS THING.
Ive sharpened 5 knives already and am totally satisfied.
 
I picked up an edge pro professional for a great price used.
So far I have been able to get amazing edges with it.
I have done away with the polishing tape though and made my own balsa strops on aluminum backing plates and have loaded them with DMT Dia Paste.
I have also upgraded the guide and use a Tiltbox to set the angle more accurately as well as use the drill collar trick.
It has definitely been worth the price for me.
 
I went ahead and bought an angle cube, drill collar, and magnets to help hold the blade as well.
Its worth the money I think. Like they say, "you cant buy piece of mind."
Its satisfying knowing I can hit the same angle every time I re-sharpen; and knowing I can put an edge on any knife I encounter.
 
JJaggar said:
Another important question. ..will the water stones that come with the Edge Pro Apex be able to handle sharpening of my D2, S30V, S35VN knives?
Click to expand...

Yes, easily. The EP is by far the best investment that I ever made in the knife world. Hands down, bar none. You will also find your freehand skills will improve considerably once you see an edge by the EP, and what you need to strive for.

I've re-profiled S90V with no problem just using the supplied waterstones.
 
I use a guided system, a KME, to get my bevels even and get a new knife where I want it.
Once that is done I maintain them freehand on stones or with the Sharpmaker.

Guided systems are great but there is also great satisfaction in learning to use stones freehand.
When at work I carry a Fallkniven DC-3 and that will keep my blades sharp on the go.
 
I learned to freehand, then got an EP, then went back to freehand and sold the EP. While freehand won't be as precise as an EP, you can get close enough and there are lany advantages for freehanding: "cheaper" stones, more versatility, transference of skill, etc.
 
For those who have an Edge Pro, im currently selling some quality granite bases for the machine to sit on at pretty reasonable price.

Just go to For Sale: Knifemaking Supplies & Tools and check them out if your interested.
I have a lot of different colors and patterns available. More than just is pictured.

Thanks
 
Edge Pro is a great system but if yo are sharpening the types of steel you mentioned, I would get the Shapton glass stones for premium steel.
 
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