General Question about the use of Workshop WSKTS

N

Noobieknifeuser

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Apr 6, 2016
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So, I want to buy the WSKTS or the Ken Onion Edition but my father (BTW I'm 18) told me that their will be metal dust everywhere and it will be bad for my health. I do understand that metal dust is really bad for your lungs and cause cancer. Before I get it, should I get dust respirator first? I really do care about health and safety.
 
Just sharpened an entire block of kitchen knives yesterday (15 or so) and dust is not an issue in terms of health. I lay a towel under the sharpener and it does collect some dust but not much. I then wipe down the sharpener with a damp paper towel. Short answer, it does create dust but nowhere near enough to ever be a concern.

Edit: Be sure to spend a little extra for the Ken Onion edition. Much better sharpener than the standard model. Wider belts, better motor, angle guides.
 
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You don't need a respirator to use a worksharp. There will be cleanup required though.

If your concerned about inhaling what little dust it kicks up into the air, cheap paper masks from the local pharmacy work fine.

If you decide to turn the belt loose on some g10 or carbon fibre though, a respirator's not a bad idea. Long sleeves too, CF's itchy.

Save a little extra to get the blade grinder attachment for the Ken Onion. Makes it much more useful.
 
Your concerns aren't a problem IMO. Be sure and practice on some older/cheap knives that you don't care about...

make your mistakes and learn on knives you don't care about. I made the mistake of not taping everything but the edge and scratched

the blade of 1 knife. The KOWS is a Great product....enjoy!
 
I will just echo what the others said- very little dust.

The Ken Onion design is much better- read the instructions, watch the Video, and practice on cheaper knives.

I sharpen my immediate relatives kitchen knives- they don't treat them nicely- and it takes so much time out of sharpening. (However, it's still enjoyable to sharpen knives with)
 
I do not see it as a problem but, in an abundance of caution, and to keep you father's concerns at bay, you could place a large magnet under the device and wear a dust cover over your mouth. Both are minor concessions in exchange for the benefits of the WorkSharp.
 
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