Right side or left side on a kiridashi?

[Sprayman]

Greetings:

I've got some smaller pieces of 1084 that I'd like to use for kiridashi blades, which I've never made before (well, once, but that one doesn't count....or cut). I don't know which side to put the edge on. Doesn't it matter if it's being made for a right-handed or left-handed person?

While I'm at it, do you have any advice for grinding the blade?

Thanks.

 

[Tenebr0s]

A right-handed kiridashi has the bevel on the right side (point facing out from you). Imagine if you're whittling wood with it; you want the flat back on the bottom while cutting.

Properly, a kiridashi should be slightly hollow-ground on the back too (urasuki), with only the very perimeter resting flat on the sharpening stone.

 

[timos-]

Traditionally, beveled side should face away from you when you are cutting. They work well with double bevels too, just not traditional that way.

 

[Sprayman]

Timos, Tenebros:

Thank you both for the responses. It's obvious to me now why I (right handed) can't get much cut with my first kiridashi (left handed). I guess I'll go find a lefty to give it to and then step back up to the grinder.