how long to start stropping?

[Big_Mack]

Got my KSF hone yesterday along with a new Izula (thanks Derrick) -
How long would it take to sharpen my RC-3 with the strop (I've previously only used a DMT diamond stone (so the edges are flat)? This is the first time I've used a strop.

 

[shotgunner11]

A strop isn't really meant to remove material, it's more used to line up the edge and polish the final grind.

I would continue to use your DMT for material removal and then use the strop on the sharpened edge.

 

[Big_Mack]

thank you sir - i should have been more specific - the knife is already sharpened with the diamond stone. do i need to use the stropping compound?

 

[shotgunner11]

Gotcha, sorry.

It can't hurt and will only polish the edge and make it so it gives less resistance while cutting.

After awhile, your strop will be so loaded with compound that you won't need to apply it anymore.

 

[Gadgetaholic]

thank you sir - i should have been more specific - the knife is already sharpened with the diamond stone. do i need to use the stropping compound?

That sounds like my technique - I have a DMT aligner that I use to do the bulk of the sharpening, then I use a leather strop with green compound for the final polish. The strop alone can sharpen - but only something like sharp=>really sharp. If the knife is blunt then you will need the diamond stone to sharpen it then the strop to refine & polish the edge. The strop with green compound only removes a tiny amount of material, good for the final stage of sharpening and for polishing the edge to a smooth finish.

 

[tradja]

thank you sir - i should have been more specific - the knife is already sharpened with the diamond stone. do i need to use the stropping compound?

Big_Mack, the KSF Hone is a great piece of gear. I'd recommend moving ot the black compound after the diamond stone, then finish up with the green.

Part 8 of Derrick's Sharpening Videos covers the hone specifically, and Part 9 covers when to move between stages.

Good luck!