Trying to understand grinds and sharpening

[DogLegArms]

I've learned a lot about knives and sharpening from this forum. I'm having a hard time understanding how to identify the grind so I can sharpen them. These are the knives I use frequently:

ESEE Candiru and Izula 2
Spyderco Native FRN
Condor Bushlore
Mora 511

I've become fond of Mora because of the Scandi grind is simple enough to sharpen. My issue is with my other knives. It seems like they have a secondary bevel. I'm just guessing because I only hear of Mora coming with a factory Scandi grind. So my questions are:

Am I supposed to be able to see a secondary bevel? If so, can I see if it's a V grind or convexed? Or is it a feel thing?

If I get a sharpening kit such as the Sharpmaker or Lansky Deluxe 5, can I sharpen any type of grind?

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

More often than not, you will see a secondary bevel, if it's there. Most aren't much wider than maybe a millimeter or two (a round toothpick is ~ 2mm thick, for comparison). It is possible to have a very, very tiny micro-bevel (hair-thin), that might not be seen without magnification. Unless a bevel is very convexed, you might not actually see a big difference in the appearance of it. Most secondary edges will be at least slightly convex, even from the factory, because they're applied by hand (normally), which introduces some variability in the angle. The difference will be very, very subtle and usually unnoticeable, most of the time.

If looking to maintain a secondary bevel, either the Sharpmaker or the Lansky kit will do fine, as will almost any other tool or system. Metal removal is minimal in sharpening it, so it's about as easy as can be, for maintaining it. The Sharpmaker will be limited to a back-bevel of 40° or less (better if 30° or less); otherwise the rods won't be contacting the edge. A guided sharpener like the Lansky will always form a V-bevel, because the angle is tightly-controlled. If using it to maintain the edge on a convexed blade, it's probably best-used to apply a micro-bevel. A full convex is most easily maintained by using a 'stropping' motion (edge-trailing) on sandpaper over a softish/forgiving backing, like leather. Can also be done on hard stones in the same manner, but that usually takes a little more skill/comfort with the technique.


David

 

[DogLegArms]

Thanks Obsessed with Edges. Very helpful info.

 

[MEJ]

I have a quick question, off-topic, do you wear your izula 2 around the neck? Im planning on buying an izula 2 and want to neck wear it but im wondering if its a bit thick to wear on my neck withought taking off the handles.