Question for the belt sharpeners out there: how would you suggest getting started with knife thinning?

Joined
Jul 2, 2025
Messages
113
Question for the belt sharpeners out there: what would you suggest for getting started with knife thinning?

What tips, tricks, tools would you suggest for someone just getting started on this phase of the journey?

FYI: The tools I have include a 2 * 42 belt grinder and a Work Sharp KO Mk2 belt grinder for the main metal removal and some bench wheels/buffs to address the finish after metal removal.

Thank you in advance!
Bruce
 
Use marking fluid or sharpie permanent marker to figure out exactly what material you are taking off and from where on the blade. It will help you figure out how to set up your passes.
 
Watch the Charlie Mike videos posted here but watchable on YouTube .
RIP
He used a relatively inexpensive / easily obtainable hand held wide belt sander (he mounts it to the work bench ) . That's what I use for only knives I mod for myself (I'm zero competition for the knife makers here) .

Also watch Shawn BBB videos , also on YouTube . He's doing it on a whole 'nother level (the right way) but with that comes the price of some serious equipment and some pricy belts .

Or just buy his knives and enjoy them .
 
Well I tried to find some old vids of CM but failed .
I'll blame it on the "new" Google . I swear it is less useful .

I'll leave the BBB vids up to you and him ; if he wants you to see them .
 
I've been practicing on some old knives... what a mess. Thinning takes the steel from the knife and repositions it all over my shop.
Thinning seems to be fairly intuitive. Check your progress every pass. Keep an eye on your tip, I found it easy to over thin that area.
 
Back
Top