Question about flat grinding.

dsgibbs1

dsgibbs1

Joined
Nov 1, 2005
Messages
325
Being new to forging I have seen many things that provoked many questions. Several months ago I was lucky enough to become a helper to a bladesmith. After several months of helping and several forgings. I was able to start grinding and shaping the k.s.o.'s I have forged. Mr. Short ( bladesmith I am working with on the weekends) Took the time to show me his grinding technique. It was most unusual. I know that as a newbie I am not considered a expert in the least. However, I have read and watched that flat grinding was done on a platten. Mr. Short used an 8in wheel on his Wilton. Hence my question. Is this unusual? Is this a common way that is used? Any comments are welcome and appreciated. Thanks......
 
I assume he is grinding the blade parallel to the wheel? I've seen some makers do that on large blades.
 
He is indeed grinding that way. He just keeps the blade moving up and down. I was interested in the way it worked. I will try to get some pictures next time.
 
It takes skill to avoid getting dips and ripples down the blade when grinding that way. I do it like that to rough grind some large knives, and then switch to standard flat grinding to clean things up.
 
I was just watching on youtube some of the videos about flat grinding and didn't see anyone using the wheel. May have to watch a little closer from now on. Thanks for the comments.
 
Using the wheel to flat grind requires 3 steeps to git it to finish hand sand. First run the blade straight parallel with the wheel. next turn the steel about 30 degrees an repeat. turn the steel to a 270 degree and repeat. this evens out the dips and valleys. Go to a finer grit and keep repeating the process.
 
I like most others use the flat platen. However, I do use the wheel at times to grind in flat-ground clips/swedges the way you describe it.

--nathan
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top