How do you use a ceramic rod to hone or "steel" the edge when away from the house?

[CrimsonTideShooter]

I plan to keep the rod that comes with the edge pro in my backpack to keep my blades sharp when away from the house, but I'm not sure how to use it. Do you stroke edge leading or trailing? And also does the angle need to be shallow or obtuse, or match the angle of the bevel on the knife? If someone can answer these questions, or just generally tell me how to use the ceramic to "steel" the edge I would much appreciate it. Thanks.

 

[Noctis3880]

I tend to use it edge leading at a slightly higher angle. The point being to put a slight microbevel at the edge.

 

[singularity35]

I tend to use it edge leading at a slightly higher angle. The point being to put a slight microbevel at the edge.

Yes to this.

 

[kelbro]

I tend to use it edge leading at a slightly higher angle. The point being to put a slight microbevel at the edge.

I keep one in my RV and that's how i do it.

 

[Emerald]

They are supposed to be used with very light pressure. The EP Ceramic stick has a rubber end, that sits on a table (rock, ground or whatever). The plastic sheath has a metal end inserted to fit precisely on the ceramic rod, so your hand is well away from the action.

Tilt the rod to the angle you want to acheive (slightly greater than your finished bevel) then, with your edge striaght (perpendicular) lightly draw the knife, from heel to tip) down the rod. Switch sides every pass. This is not meant to be a sharpener, it realigns the edge. It does have a honing abrasive (1200 grit) so it will mill some.

Use it lightly and you will always have success. Oh, one other thing, those ceramic rods break easily so make sure you have a good spot in your pack that won't put pressure on it.

Good luck!

 

[sodak]

I put the shoulder on the rod, and rotate the knife until the edge makes contact, then sharpen edge leading.

 

[grizzled gizzard]

Not only i the rod very frgile, it's also big and awkward to peck. There are a kiriad of things hat you culod













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[grizzled gizzard]

Not only is a ceramic rod very big, it's also very fragile. I would not carry one
for any means.

Growing up hunting from a very young age, to 44, I've seen a fare amount of killing. Not a single time has anyone ever sharpened their knife in my presences. If you think you may need extra cutting ability (which is extremely unlikely), bring another knife instated. That is far more likely to be useful and life saving . If your knife won't go through a moose, bear, a couple of elk , or several deer, you need a beter knife, plain and simple. Sharpen your knife before you leave home, and the chances of you sharpening in the field are virtually nil. If you need a boning knife, take one. If you need a caping knife, take one. These are not what a hunting knife is for anyway.

By the way, why would your sharpening tehchnique change when you leave home anyway?

 

[st8yd]

I always carry a knife bag with me in the truck, which has diamond stones and a porceline stick, if my steel was shorter I'd carry it.
While cleaning game or fish I regularly stroke my blade on a steel, it makes a difference. I've had the oppertunity to work beside numerouse butchers and they hit the steel regularly.

If I had to pack light I'd carry a fine diamond stone.