Sharpen D-2?

M

Monashee

Joined
May 26, 2007
Messages
7
Hi guys,I'm looking for some feed back on sharpening my Dozier D-2 skinning knives.I have several,all users as I am a serious hunter.I can get a reasonable edge,but I know I am not getting anywhere near what the steel has to offer.For sharpening tools I have an EdgePro with a full complement of stones and a Sharpmaker.I note that on his website Bob reccomends and sells the DMT diamond stones.Is that the way to go or can I reach my goal with the tools I have?All replies will be appreciated,Thanks.....Monashee
 
Please accept my apology for using the How to Prefix,I meant to ask a question,not offer a tutorial!Mods if you can delete this I will repost my question,Thanks,Monashee
 
I have never used an edge pro but have used a sharpmaker.Once you get the edge you want you could maintain it with the sharpmaker. I get my d2 blade to whittle hair on the paper wheels system and get it shaving sharp with the DMT Course and fine sharpeners.
 
Start with the 120 grit stone and finish with whatever you want. Your 120 grit stone should be thinner than your other stones as it wears out fastest, so setting it at a slightly lower angle (such as 16 degrees if you sharpen at 17 degrees) than your other stones will keep you from going insane (regrinding your 120 grit 19 degree edge with the 220 grit stone set for 17 degrees will take forever and much longer if grinding D2).

Hoping that's helpful.
 
My Dozier K1 responds beautifully to DMT hones. I keep as close as possible to the original edge angle (Bob Dozier knows his stuff). It is my best cutter, bar none. DMT red will produce a superb edge -- some people believe that D2 cuts better with a coarse edge -- but I (perversely) like polished, fine edges, and the Dozier will take one with a bit of extra attention on the ultra-fine (green) DMT.
 
I also like the edge that the DMT red stones give. I also agree with Alberta Ed, keep the same bevels that came with the knife. Dozier really does know his stuff.

If you have an Edgepro, you can certainly use that as well. With a sharpie, it's easy to duplicate Bob's bevels. Try taking one all the way out to 3000 polish to see if you like that. You might, or you might drop back to a coarser grit, depending upon your desires.

I butchered a hog with a Dozier that had a mirror edge out to 3000 grit, and at the end of the job, I could not tell that it had been used. Dozier D2 takes a great edge and keeps it forever.
 
Alberta Ed would you hazard a guess at the angle of Bob's bevel,the Sharpie doesn't show me a lot! Monashee
 
Monashee said:
Alberta Ed would you hazard a guess at the angle of Bob's bevel,the Sharpie doesn't show me a lot! Monashee
Click to expand...

The trick with the sharpie is to take a few swipes with the edge blackened. It will tell you if you are at the correct angle if you take the ink off all the way from start of bevel to edge. If it only comes of the back of the bevel, you are shallowing. If it only comes off the edge, you are too steep. Hope this helps.
 
Monashee said:
Alberta Ed would you hazard a guess at the angle of Bob's bevel,the Sharpie doesn't show me a lot! Monashee
Click to expand...

It would be a WAG (Wild Assed Guess) on my part. Maybe someone here who's better at math :rolleyes: might be able to help out. Dozier's website doesn't specify what edge angle he uses.
 
Alberta Ed said:
It would be a WAG (Wild Assed Guess) on my part. Maybe someone here who's better at math :rolleyes: might be able to help out. Dozier's website doesn't specify what edge angle he uses.
Click to expand...

It is my understanding that the edge is done freehand so I'm sure there will be some variation.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top