this may be an odd question but i have to ask...

SkaerE · Mar 21, 2003

how do each of you hold a blade when grinding it?

im sure there are a LOT of different styles, but i need some input.

i have a hard time putting even pressure on the all of the blade (does that make sense?)

i try to hold it with one hand on the tang and the other hands thumb putting pressure along the part that is touching the belt (ie, i slide my thumb along) but then i need a better way of keeping the knife in the same spot (vertically) do you guys use the tool rest when grinding the bevels? (if that helps, i guess i'll have to build one)

any and all input would be great. pictures would be better

thanks

Nathan House · Mar 21, 2003

I do use a tool rest,I only use it for my hogging and to get the bevel set,once you get a hollow set you can keep it in there(Hollow grinding)I use a push stick to put even pressure on the blade.
When I go from hogging to finner grit I don't use a push stick
I like to feel the blade.I grind setting down,I can control a blade better that way.I know most people stand.Here is a good way to learn without spending alot of money.Go get some lething strips and profile some knives out and grind them,they grind quick and do not burn up belts,this will let you see what you are doing.thumb high on the blade eats into the edge,thumb lower on the rib make the grind line move up.it is all in the feel,with a little pratice you will be on your way.

C L Wilkins · Mar 21, 2003

I have calluses on both index fingers between the first and second joint on the "thumb side" of the finger. This is from resting the spine of the blade there while grinding. I grind with no gloves and I have a bucket of water underneath the grinder to dip the blades. My thumbs have calluses on the tips as well from applying pressure to the blade. I don't recommend any of this but it is just an old habit that I can't break. I wish I could use gloves but just can't.

misque · Mar 21, 2003

My thumb provides the pressure against the blade and the blade's spine rests on my index finger. Needless to say my thumb and index fingers on both hands have thicker skin than the rest of the hand. Like CL, I also have a bucket of water within easy reach to dip the blade.

Bruce Evans · Mar 22, 2003

I also hold mine in this fashion.But You have to lock your arms and not move them,only the body so that way you get a even grind and you are holding even pressure all the time.If this makes sense..
Bruce

misque · Mar 22, 2003

Bruce Evans wrote:

But You have to lock your arms and not move them,only the body so that way you get a even grind and you are holding even pressure all the time

An excellent point Bruce. Keeping the arms locked into one's side and rocking the body will give a more consistantly even grinding pass. I grind standing or sitting(especially after getting home from the day job) and locking the arms to your side and rocking the body is still the way to go. I haven't found any other way that works quite as well for me.

All the best,
Mike U.

tom mayo · Mar 22, 2003

"How to Make Knives" by Bob Loveless explains this better than I could ever tell you!

John Andrews · Mar 22, 2003

I like the way Nate said it, too. Exact repetition movement is next to impossible by just trying to use your arms, dangerous, and very tiring.I remember trying to grind by just using arms when just starting making, and your foot stance is wrong,too.Hard on the back for us old codgers, too.