Smith's Sharpening System

[L2bravo]

Well, I was going through some stuff today, and came across this. I usually freehand, and use a Sharpmaker. My DPX HEST was in need of sharpening, and I figured I would see if I remembered how this was.

The Smith's biggest downfall to me, is that it only has 20, and 25 degree settings. I believe that these are per side. I have coarse, and fine diamonds. I profiled it at 20, and then micro'd it at 25. This thing got stupid sharp. I forgot how well it did. Is 40, with a 45 micro really too fat, for a working knife?

This makes me think about the Edgepro I am considering. What is the range of angles, that you can get on it? Total inclusive that is. I really like the selection of stones that are available with it. If I liked this precision, I am thinking that I will really love the EP. Opinions? Thanks guys, Josh

 

[wvdavidr]

The clamped systems are notoriously inaccurate for angles vs. what it says it is. That is because the angle will vary with the width of the blade. There's no way to know if your edge is too blunt for your purposes. My guess is that it will work fine at the 20 degrees (per side) setting with a 25 degree microbevel. You'll have to try it and tell us!

I think the Edge Pro will go from 10-35 degrees (per side). It's accurate because the blade is level with the edge of the blade table. It's a big upgrade from the Smith's and has lots of stone options.

Good sharpening,
Dave

 

[Jason B.]

With a 50 inclusive cutting edge your edge retention is going to suck. 40 inclusive should be the max on about anything.

 

[L2bravo]

With a 50 inclusive cutting edge your edge retention is going to suck. 40 inclusive should be the max on about anything.

That's kind of what I thought.

I Am certainly looking at the EP. I like all of the options that is has. And I would feel it safe to say, that we all like options. LOL

 

[Jason B.]

I would recommend some DMT benchstones and the aligner clamp. It will help your freehand game and give you the results of a guided system plus you get to use full size stones which is always better.

 

[L2bravo]

I would recommend some DMT benchstones and the aligner clamp. It will help your freehand game and give you the results of a guided system plus you get to use full size stones which is always better.

I'm good with freehand. I have no problem with getting good edges at all. Sorry if I wasn't clear with that. I was just screwing around with my old Smith's, more for grins than anything.