sharpening Randalls

[basalt]

I've got an early 90's #1 I would like to bring to a much sharper edge without affecting the value. I've tried a few srokes on the Sharpmaker 204 but the main part of the blade does not seem to respond. The curve and tip are already shaving sharp and were nearly there before I touched that area. I guess the main straight portion of the blade is finished greater than 20 degrees. Is this an intentional grind from the shop given the intended use for a #1? Do I just need more patience with the Sharpmaker?

I've noticed Randalls from the shop are seldom scary sharp. Does Randall intentionally do this? The ones I've had this way new from the shop include this early 90's #1, an 89ish #14's, a 90ish #18 and a recent vintage #25. I'm not too surprised at the 14 and 18 since they are designed as heavy knives that might be subjected to some chopping. The 25 though I thought would be much sharper and probably the #1 as well. In going to a knife show this weekend I noticed the same thing - none of the new unsharpened Randalls regardless of vintage were as sharp as most of the other makers. I'm sure there is a reason for this but I've never had it explained to me. TIA

 

[Loki]

I think it may depend on who's doing the sharpening when your knife comes up. I've received some of mine very sharp and some so-so. I just use my 204 and touch up the edges where necessary. Works for me.

 

[jimsbowies]

I've got some 14's and 1's....which as you doubtless know, are really designed to be hearty, heavy-duty knives..and they came razor-sharp...hell, they'd cut ya at 50 paces!

then, I've got some of the "hunting" styles...designed for skinning, etc...and they needed a little "help".

I'm inclined to think it is a function of whomsover sharpened the knife as it headed out the door...