Suggestions for sharpening system?

B

Burke

Platinum Member
Joined
Feb 25, 1999
Messages
3,312
I'm currently using a set of Spyderco Profile rods which I've had for several years. My problems are 1) they seem to clog up awfully fast 2) they're not real good for big knives 3) I'd like to be able to achieve a more consistent grind angle for reprofiling blades that are thick-edged. I'm wondering what people prefer for putting a good edge on knives. Will diamond stones resist clogging better than the ceramic rods? What brand/size of diamond works well? What grits? Does anyone have any experience with the Skarb system (looks like a good idea)? How does it compare to Lansky, EdgePro, etc? Thanks in advance for any suggestions and advice.
 
Diamond pads do not clog up nearly as fast as ceramic rods in my experience, however they seem to be much easier to damage if you don't use them with care. DMT stones are far superior to Ez-Lap in regards to consistency of abrasive and the lifetime of the hone. There have been detailed comparisons of the various systems in the forums in the past, a search should turn them up.

-Cliff
 
2nd on the diamond stones. Also 2nd on the dmt version. I built a triangular angle guide using some scrap wood and 2 hinges. It adjusts to 3 angles currently, 15, 20, and 30 degrees. Its a vertical system to complement my Spyderco Sharpmaker. Just grind away and wipe the stone surface w/ a cloth every so often to remove the steel particles. The manufacturer recommends using water, but Ive found a dry cloth works well.
I had a Lansky system and didnt really like it. It was probably a user head space error, but it seemed to grind little grooves in front of the choil of my knives. I probably should have just been more careful. Also, getting the same knife in the same position from one sharpening to another was a problem for me. Good luck. BTW arkansas stones dont load up if you dont mind using oil. They cut quite slowly though, so for reprofiling you might need something more aggresive(sp).
 
I prefer Eze-lap. If you are going to pay the money that DMT wants why not buy NORTON diamond stones. You might want to learn to sharpen freehand and get Arkansas stones. Eze-lap products do last a long time and are durable.
 
I got fairly consistent results using my Lansky, just had to take care of the guide rods and keep the 2 halves of the clamp parallel when tightening the blade in place. I don't like using coarse diamond hones, it just feels too aggressive. EdgePro is excellent, think I got it down pat after just practicing on a couple of knives, so the learning curve isn't so steep. Freehand is a good skill to develop, but the convenience and accurcy of a system is hard to beat.
 
Hi Burke,

I just purchased the DMT set that comes with four diamond stones, the angle guide, and a nylon carrying case at the Houston gun show this past Saturday. I think I paid $39 for it.

I tried it out on another Saturday purchase, a BM 710. It was a new knife and you would have thought it would already be pretty sharp, yet it really wasn't. (Several years ago I bought an AFCK and that BM came very sharp out of the box).

Anyway, I DMT stuff did a great job. I took an empy coffee can and filled it with water. I would dip the stone in the water and then work on a side, etc. This kept the surface from getting clogged just fine.

--gordon
 
Originally posted by Burke
I'd like to be able to achieve a more consistent grind angle for reprofiling blades that are thick-edged.
Click to expand...
One word: EdgePro!!

Absolutely rock solid resettable angles. The coarse stone works pretty quickly for reprofiling an edge. The finer grits and the polish tapes will leave a mirror finish if that's your heart's desire. As noted, the units have a very easy learning curve even for us fumblers. Plus, dealing with Ben Dale of EdgePro was one of the best online buying experiences I've ever had. He's super responsive to emails & questions and very willing to pass along info even before you commit to buying his unit.
 
King Grich I did'nt know Norton made diamond stones.I have an 8"India-cystrolon and its great.Could you let me know me where they sell the diamond stones?I have a few DMT's and E-Z Lap but the diamond sharpener I use most often is a 10" Ultimate Edge oval rod.I think its the best quality diamond one.The only thing I don't like is I can only find the fine grit diamond.I have'nt been able to find a medium or coarse one.
 
Norton diamond stone can be found at

http://www.garrettwade.com/

get a FREE catalog from them. They also have natural Arkansas stones including tranlucent ones. One other thing I think Eze-lap has been making diamond stuff longer that DMT or any other maker as well...
 
Until you have tried to sharpen a really good and large knife like a Randall scary sharp, you won't realize how slow and difficult an Edgepro, Spyderco, Diamond hones.....really are. Do yourself a favor and buy a bench grinder. Order those cardboard wheels and amaze yourself and friends.

I'm not trying to take away from those other systems, but they are a league behind the $30 wheels.
 
Another happy Edge Pro Apex owner. I can't imagine anything being better although great success can be had with any of the systems already mentioned - they all have their own learning curve and nuances. And Ben from Edge Pro will provide all of the guidance that you need.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top