Paper Wheels: revisted

[itrade]

Recently someone asked about putting on the initial edge bevel. I mentioned, and recommended, that I use paper wheels.

I must recant, partially.

I've been finishing up my S30V knives and found the same problem I had with CM154: it is almost impossible to get a good burr. If the knife edge is already thin you can, but if it is a thick knife forget it.

I think the problem is the fine grit and slow cutting speed of the first wheel. Those are fine attributes for sharpening on softer steels, but these high wear resistant steels it takes sooooo many passes that you just can't get a perfect edge.

I switched to the belt grinder and raised a perfect burr. Then went back and removed the burr with the second paper wheel (Uses white polish compound).

Wow! Is that sweet.

So for normal steels, touching up edges, removing burrs, and things the paper wheels are great. But for the initial bevel on super steels it's the belt for me. I just wish I had a variable speed motor.

Steve

 

[Nathan House]

If you want to make the edge even sharpen try a leather belt
I brake a new edge over and raise a bur with a 220 belt at low speed
I use the part of the belt just were belt comes over the contact wheel
I go to a felt wheel loaded with 400 grit compound to notch the bur off, then to a paper wheel with white compound then back to the grider with a leather belt,When it is done it is wicked sharp.