new to sharpening

[hyge]

I'm having trouble sharpening my Cold Steel mini lawman (AUS 8 steel i think). I'm using the Smith diamond stone. Should I use a different stone? Thanks.

 

[HeavyHanded]

I'm having trouble sharpening my Cold Steel mini lawman (AUS 8 steel i think). I'm using the Smith diamond stone. Should I use a different stone? Thanks.

NO! Use a different (cheaper) knife till you get your form down. What color Smith's is it? There's a multitude of sharpening stones and methods out there. The Smith's will work fine, and Aus8 is not picky about what it's sharpened with. Use a sharpie and color the edge so you can tell where you're grinding, go edge forward like you're trying to cut a slice from the top of the stone, elevate your hand a little as you approach the tip.

I'm sure other advice will be along shortly.

 

[hyge]

The color is yellow.

 

[HeavyHanded]

That's their coarse stone, approx 320 grit. It should grind fairly aggressively, use a light touch. You might want to buy something a little more refined down the road, but it'll put a very usable edge that should be capable of shaving some arm hair. Light touch, sharpie, and use something cheap to practice on. Also, keep looking on the web and watching videos of how other folks sharpen. It will take some practice, so bring plenty of patience. Always sharpen standing up at a counter or bench that's at a good height. I have the Smith's coarse stone (had it well over a decade), it'll do a very good job.

HH