Sorry, another convexing question.

B

Brad Greulich

Joined
Feb 4, 2006
Messages
739
I know this topic has been beaten to death but after all my reading I have one question.

now, I have never sharpened a convex edge before, but I own a few Fallknivens and there starting to get dull.

Now, my question: I plan on using the sand paper/ mouse pad meathod but I dont have access to leather or polishing compound, and the finest paper I have is 1500.

Will this be good enough? I dont need knives that will push cut phone book paper, but I like my bush knives to be at least able to shave. Will stropping on 1500 paper give me a nice edge? or will I need to find some leather? (I dont need a shiny edge, my knives are always covered in either mud or sap so it dosn't need to look good, just work)

Thanks for your help.
 
Although Leather would give you a sharper, longer lasting, and finer edge. You hsould be able to shave with 1500 sandpaper EASILY. Some people say you should be able to shave with a V edge at 300 (not comfortably). Convex is similar. 1500 should shave.
 
On a real dull knife, I start withabout 400-600 grit. I usually finish with 2000-3000 grit but 1000 or 1500 should give you a good finish. Especially after some wear on the paper. I don't usually use leather or compound but many do and I am sure it will improve the edge. Don't use to much pressure, that is probably most beginners first and main problem. There are some good videos floating around that will really help. Knifenut1013 can give you some good info, read whatever he writes about.:thumbup: Or send him your knives.:D
 
[youtube]oG2QqhCTqT8[/youtube]

This M. Carter youtube video is helpful to you around 6:50 for a cardboard strop. You can watch the whole thing, but it is not convex sharpening. I'm just making suggestions for stropping options.
 
Leather belt? felt? You can use cardboard with any metal polish, or without. 1500 wet-dry will give you a very good edge.
 
Convexing can be confusing at times because of the pressure needed or used, blade grind also plays a HUGE part. The pressure you use is what makes the convex and all blades will require different amounts of pressure, light pressure is not always best.

Not all grits of sandpaper will get the same amounts of pressure either, usually you use progressively lighter pressure as the grit gets higher but this is usually because of paper thickness and the "give" it allows.

Check out leevally.com they should have some things you need.

ps. 1500 should yield a hazy mirror polish and should be sharp enough to clean shave arm hair in a very smooth way.
 
Great, thanks everyone. I'm glad to know that I'm good to go. Thanks for the damp cardboard advice Bushman5, I was thinking about trying thin cardboard as well to finish but I didn't know making it damp would further help. :thumbup:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top