Factory Edges - Hand Sharpening Advice

joe90

joe90

Joined
Aug 17, 2001
Messages
346
Hi Guys,
No matter how much I try, I seem unable (incapable? lol) of getting the edge back to factory sharpness.
Don't get me wrong it still cuts well .. but it just doesn't seem the same as that crisp edge that seems to come (more often than not) from the factory.
I've read all the articles, getting the burr and flipping to the other side and doing the same (course to fine), etc.
Still doesn't seem to cut it (excuse the pun).
I'm using decent 8" stones - dry, not wet or oiled (The_Razor_Edge_Book_Of_Sharpening)
Any other hints, suggestions greatly received.
Joe
 
Use a sharpie and mark the edge of the knife. After a few strokes, you'll be able to see where your edge is hitting the sharpening device.
 
Make sure you're holding a consistent angle. If you're raising a burr for the full length of the edge on both sides, you need only remove the burr carefully, with ever lighter strokes and ever finer stones.

But holding a consistent angle is important.
 
I couldn't make progress with sharpening until I got a guided rod system like a Lansky. After a bit, I've been able to transfer the knowledge learned to getting better at freehand. Training wheels that help the learning. Relatively inexpensive.
 
joe90 said:
Hi Guys,
No matter how much I try, I seem unable (incapable? lol) of getting the edge back to factory sharpness.
Don't get me wrong it still cuts well .. but it just doesn't seem the same as that crisp edge that seems to come (more often than not) from the factory.
I've read all the articles, getting the burr and flipping to the other side and doing the same (course to fine), etc.
Still doesn't seem to cut it (excuse the pun).
I'm using decent 8" stones - dry, not wet or oiled (The_Razor_Edge_Book_Of_Sharpening)
Any other hints, suggestions greatly received.
Joe
Click to expand...

There are two threads running currently that might help you out quite a bit with freehand sharpening.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/s...and-sharpening-Maintaining-a-consistent-angle

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/s...-Beginner-to-knife-sharpening-a-few-questions


FWIW, I highly recommend you use some mineral oil or similar when sharpening on most stones. Whatever the perceived downside, it makes a huge difference in keeping the stone surface unclogged, unglazed, and grinding effectively and consistently.
 
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