My new sharpener.

[redhawk44p]

I bought a wet dry sharpener at Lowes this afternoon and I have been working with it. It runs at a low speed and keeps the blade wet so there is no danger of temper loss. The low RPM allows very good control of the sharpening angle. I attached blocks to the guides. I used 1000 grit sandpaper on one block and stropping compound on the other block. When I get the angle and basic sharpening done I move to the 1000 grit block and polish the burr then I move to the block coated with chromium oxide for that hair popping finish. This system works great for me and saves hours grinding on stones.
Here is the sharpener-
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=229668-46069-US1150W&lpage=none

 

[BluesStringer]

I bought a wet dry sharpener at Lowes this afternoon and I have been working with it. It runs at a low speed and keeps the blade wet so there is no danger of temper loss. The low RPM allows very good control of the sharpening angle. I attached blocks to the guides. I used 1000 grit sandpaper on one block and stropping compound on the other block. When I get the angle and basic sharpening done I move to the 1000 grit block and polish the burr then I move to the block coated with chromium oxide for that hair popping finish. This system works great for me and saves hours grinding on stones.
Here is the sharpener-
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=229668-46069-US1150W&lpage=none

Wow Redhawk, that's exactly the kind of thing I've been looking for! Would it be possible for you to either describe or provide pics of how you attach the sandpaper/compound blocks to the guides? I'm easily confused and got lost there. Just checked online and that machine is available at the Lowes right around the corner from here. Think I'll pick it up in the mornin'. Thanks for the tip!

 

[redhawk44p]

It s easy Blue. I just drilled two holes in the guide platforms and attach the wood with screws. Then I took a very flat 1.5" by 6" piece wood and attached the sandpaper to it with carpet tape I bought at Wally World and trim it to fit the block. I use cardboard like you get when you buy a new shirt and attach it to the block with carpet tape then apply the C/O buffing liquid.

 

[James Duxbury]

Redhawk, This sounds great! I have had one of these for years now. Got it at Sears. I'll have to do these refinements. The thing is slow but does a good job on the fine work.

 

[redhawk44p]

Glad you like the idea James. I turned the angle guides around backward. That way they extend away from the stone and are easier to reach. I started using my wife"s kitchen knives till I got it down then sharpened my knives. It works great.
I have a D2 steel knife that I had tried to give a sharper bevel to on a stone without success. This outfit made it easy. For the hard to grind steels it is the way to go IMHO.