Sharpmaker, F vs. UF - How can you tell ?

A

almtiba

Joined
Aug 29, 2003
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468
Hi Guys,

I sharpen all of my knives free hand, but today, trying to rebevel a recurve blade, I went for my sharpmaker...
But when I got it, I saw my Fine and ultrafine rods got mixed up, they're both white and I can't tell one from another... Is there a way to know wich one is the F or UF ?

Thanks in advance,

Andre Tiba - Brazil
 
Being that the UF is (presumably) intended to finish to a higher polish than the Fine, I'd think it'd be possible to put them side-by-side, and pick a knife or any other metal object to rub on each, then compare the finish (perhaps under a magnifier, with good lighting). If there's not enough difference to see this way, I'd question the purpose/value of the EF in the first place.
 
There's a difference in how they feel. If you can't tell them apart that way you may be able to feel the difference when you sharpen. The fine seems to have a little more friction than the UF. A knife seems to slide off the UF more than on the fine.
 
I had the same problem. When actually using the UF is slicker to the feel. Close your eyes and you will be able to tell.
 
Definately a different feel (and even a finer scratching sound) when sharpening.
I'd say your best bet is to sharpen up a knife and feel for the differences.
 
If you drag a fingernail across the stones you will be able to feel the difference. (And your wife won't be mad at you.)

Bruceter
 
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