GB: Recommendations on how to sharpen

dro57

dro57

Joined
Mar 6, 2002
Messages
168
In my search for the most ruggedly built folder, I ended up selecting the GB and ordered one from Phil @2theHilt (my first Strider).

Has anyone got a recommendation on how to maintain the edge? I have both a Spyderco Sharpmaker and a GATCO sharpening system, but would like to know what works for those of you who own one. Any and all input would be appreciated.

dro57
 
I dont have alot of money to spend on sharpening stuff. i just use the spyderco sharpmaker rods and do it by hand on my DB.
 
L.O.,
Appreciate the info. Can you suggest where I can pick up an Edge Pro?

Thanks,
dro57
 
I've used the sharpmaker with great success on my gb-i just don't let it get too dull. I use the 40 degree angle.
and I don't go past the "triangle of death"
i actually find the gb's easier to sharpen than the ar's since the gb's edge is more "flat"
you'll love it.
cheers,
Derek
 
Thanks. I took a look at the Edge Pro website and saw their system. Does the knife blade just rest on that flat rack or does it affix to it by a clamp? It looks like a variation on the GATCO system, but with a fancier holder for the blade.
 
dro57, if you decide to get an Edge Pro, let me know. I learned some good tricks sharpening my DB. The main edge on that little beast (all 1.9" of it) is truly scary sharp now. I just barely slid it across my thumb the other day, and it cut DEEP. Even the tip/primary edge is fairly sharp now.
 
L.O.,
Which model of the Edge Pro do you own and what are some of your tips on using it to sharpen the GB? The price difference between the Pro model and the regular one is pretty big.

dro57
 
I have the Apex. IMHO, it's all the Edge Pro anybody needs.

Tips for sharpening Strider Tantos... I've never sharpened a GB, just my DB, my BT-SS and my old Benchmade Stryker. I sharpened my BT-SS the first time tonight. The long edge on my BT-SS looks fantastic now.

First, use the "marker method" to find the existing angle. This is described in the docs that come with the Apex. Until you see the Apex, my explaining the process would be pointless. Anyway, you want to keep the existing angle. Mick & Duane know what they're doing.

Sharpen the main (long) edge first. Follow the Apex directions. That edge is easy.

The front edge is the tricky one. On my DB, I simply laid the flat of the blade on the bed of the Apex, in such a way that the front edge is parallel to the front of the bed. Then I adjusted the angle to the max, I believe about 35 degrees. Once I was through, I still had a tough edge that is reasonably sharp and matched the "triangle of death" beautifully.

That process will probably work on a GB. It wouldn't work on my BT-SS however. All I did to the front edge of my BT-SS was strop it.

Before you do any of this, practice on every expendable knife in the kitchen. Read ALL the instructions. Ben Dale supplies excellent instructions. The Edge Pro is easy to use, but you'll need practice before you want to do your GB.
 
L.O.,
Appreciate the info. I figured the Apex would do just as well as their Professional model. Edge Pro's sells them direct for $125 plus shipping. I've got a kitchen full of knifes to practice on before it touches the GB.

Thanks,
dro57
 
I'll second the Edge Pro Apex. As already noted try to learn the system using cheaper knives. It took me about 15 knives or so to really perfect the techniques. It's now really a snap and I, like many others, will sharpen a knife as sharp, uniform and perfectly finished as is humanly possible.
The enclosed directions are exceptional, but you must call or email Ben if you're not sure of something as he'll gladly clear it all up in a second.
 
anyone use diamond stones? i got a set of flat stones recently. i must say they really removed metal quickly, even compared to the ceramics. they are expensive. i think you could get by with a fine, and medium stone.
 
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