I just sharpened my ZT 0551....

[Kalsu]

I am pretty impressed with how the Elmax steel sharpened up. The knife really didn't need sharpened but I wanted to see how it took an edge compared to some of my other knives that are S30v. I used my Wicked Edge sharpener. The bevels were slightly uneven (27 degrees on one side and 25 on the other) so I evened them out.

I am no expert but I was impressed at how easily the Elmax steel sharpened up. I usually sharpen my knives at 40 degrees inclusive so I was interested at how a 50 degree inclusive edge would turn out. Let me tell you this thing is sharp. I mean really sharp. The edge polished up nicely. Now I need to run the knife through its paces and see how the edge holds up.

So far I am pretty impressed with the Elmax steel. To be continued......

 

[Scurvy092]

Wouldn't a 50 degree inclusive be less sharp than a 40? I would imagine at 50 degrees, that edge should hold up quite well.

I think I would go to the other end and do a 30 degree inclusive.

 

[Kalsu]

Wouldn't a 50 degree inclusive be less sharp than a 40? I would imagine at 50 degrees, that edge should hold up quite well.

I think I would go to the other end and do a 30 degree inclusive.

A 50 degree inclusive edge is more obtuse than a 40 degree inclusive edge. That's why I was so curious as to how sharp I could get it. Honestly though the 50 degree edge on my 0551 will shave arm hair and whittle free hanging hair. I am quite impressed at how sharp it really is. I would think that it will hold up quite nicely.

 

[Jason B.]

While its sharp it will dull quickly due to the extreme angle. When it comes to edge retention thinner is better.

 

[Kalsu]

I will have to play wih it. You know find its sweet spot (concerning the angle). It easier to make it thinner than to make it thick again.

 

[Wavester]

Kalsu - I was wondering if you recommend the Wicked Edge sharpener? It's tough for a 100+ knife owner to admit, but I have as yet to sharpen one of my knives for fear that I will ruin it somehow.