How do you determine the factory edge of a knife?

[holymolar]

I recently got a Wicked Edge Sharpening System and want to start with the factory edge of some of my knives to sharpen them rather than re-profile all of them. The various websites of knife companies don't give the factory edges of their knives. Is there a way to determine the factory edges of knives or is eyeballing it the only way? Do I have to call each company and ask what degree edge they used for each of my knives?

 

[Orion's Belt]

Mark the edge with a Sharpie and make light strokes. If the stone is removing all of the Sharpie from the edge, you've got the right angle. If not, adjust the angle until it removes all of the Sharpie.

 

[singularity35]

Mark the edge with a Sharpie and make light strokes. If the stone is removing all of the Sharpie from the edge, you've got the right angle. If not, adjust the angle until it removes all of the Sharpie.

This.

 

[REK Knives]

^ +1 .... I think everyone would agree on these forums about this.

 

[eKretz]

Yep, ^^^at least they should.

 

[Komitadjie]

Yup, that's how you do it! With the WEPS, start that with the 600 paddles so you don't scuff things up too badly, then switch out to whatever you want to use to actually do the sharpening. Also, do not be at all surprised if the two bevels are not identical. I'd quite normally expect to see a degree or so difference from the left side to the right.

 

[RubiconSS]

Yes to everything already offered and I will add. Start at 20*as your first point. With the exception of a few that is a good launch. You will get to know companies from there. Spyderco 15*, CRK 20*, HINDERER 22* Etc.

 

[evert67]

+2

In addition you can use a goniometer. See a couple of posts on th Wicked Edge forums.

 

[eccvets]

there are a few ways to do this via using a laser but the sharpie method probally works the best. no matter what the company says, no grind is gonna be exactly at that angle.