I like pointy tips.

D

dragonist2

Joined
Nov 24, 2012
Messages
226
Hey all

So I just started sharpening on benchstones. I had a hard time at first, but then I put the stones vertical leaning against something just like the sharpmaker is set up, and I'm doing much better. I just have one problem: the tip

I don't know if its because the tip is narrower or what, but I can't seem to get it right like the rest of the blade. Is there something I should be doing specifically to the tip?

Thanks!
 
Pay close attention to the tip and lighten up on the pressure as the tip generally has less metal, and thinner metal. Be conscious of what you are doing when getting near the tip. Do not drag the point off the stone or roll the edge in anticipation of turning the blade over to work the next side. Come to a deliberate and slow stop before lifting the tip to start your next pass on your stone. A lot of people roll or lift the blade just before the end of their stroke when they get into a rhythm of stroking the blade on the stone. You just need to be aware of this and try not to do it.

Blessings,

Omar
 
Thanks. Why shouldn't I drag the point off the stone?

Also, as I get to the tip, should I keep going straight, or should I turn my knife with the curve of the blade?
 
dragonist2 said:
Thanks. Why shouldn't I drag the point off the stone?

Also, as I get to the tip, should I keep going straight, or should I turn my knife with the curve of the blade?
Click to expand...

Allowing the tip to drag off the edge, while still applying pressure, will bend/blunt the tip as it slips over the edge of the stone. Avoid that at all costs.

It's usually good technique to follow the curvature of the edge as you sweep it across the stone. In fact, you MUST do this, else the edge portions in the curved part won't be contacting the stone, and will never be sharpened. On a blade with an upswept tip, this usually means lifting the heel of the blade gradually during the stroke, to keep the bevel in flush contact through the curved 'belly' of the blade and following to the tip. Practice this technique very slowly with light pressure, and even give it a try on something smooth and relatively non-abrasive, like glass. Watch very closely to see the bevel maintain flush contact with the surface, as you sweep through the stroke.


David
 
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