TSPROF KO3 or KO4?

[Diemaker]

Fixed tables are inherently stiffer than rotating clamps, and have the edge in quality of end product. The two types have their strengths and limitations, which don't overlap much, so you need one of each to cover the gamut. Fixed tables need a flat surface to reference, so convex or hollow grinds can be a problem. Rotating clamps have so many connections in the system that they can't hold the blade as rigidly. The clamps themselves are a whole other topic.

 

[Zylok]

The K4 is high quality, well made and a great system but in all honesty it does exactly the same job, with the same repeatability and accuracy as the K03. Either system would be a solid choice.

You need to examine the following: ability to adjust the height/sharpening angle inthree separate ways down to a level of 0.01mm - can’t do with k03. The stone thickness compensator is refined as is the position of the rotation knob to the back, much more accessible. You can also remove the clamp bar with knife attached. These are all K4 unique features not on k03

 

[Tensaw]

Is the K4 available in states yet or do you have to buy direct from TSPROF?

 

[Skane24]

Is the K4 available in states yet or do you have to buy direct from TSPROF?

You can purchase it through tsprof asia, that's what I did, there is a link for it on the tsprof.us website, that redirects to the tsprof asia website. It's like 200 shipping and 80 ish import fee. When I spoke with the US customer service, they said they originally wanted to have it in by late november but were now targeting december/the holidays for it to be purchasable directly from the US website.

The process of getting it from asia was actually pretty crazy, I thought it would have been harder/more complex but DHL was pretty good about everything

 

[Zylok]

Fixed tables are inherently stiffer than rotating clamps, and have the edge in quality of end product.

A distinction without a difference i.e. the purported movement in the K4 system is virtually zero. The clamps don’t rotate, the arm they are bolted to is what rotates. In know of nothing that supports your claim regarding quality of the edge.

 

[MacGuyVR]

The main things I really liked about the K4 that lead to me buying it was that their is a stone thickness compensator, and being able to adjust the angle by 0.01 per click on the adjustment wheel. Taking the entire like clamp assembly off probably isn't something I will do much, but maybe it could be useful if taking it off to go examine under a microscope or something. Looking forward to testing out the quick clamps though, also picked up the quick fillet clamps.

Realistically, did I need to upgrade to the K4 from the K03? Definitely not, but, I couldn't resist.

I don’t have either yet, but I definitely hear you. I’m probably going to just go ahead and fork out the extra dough and get the K4 as well. The same point as with the knives I’ll sharpen with it, I just want the best option available. Plus, I know if I were to get the K03, I would kick my butt every time I saw the newer one or someone mentioned it! ;-}. MM

 

[MacGuyVR]

I'd love to have the K4! But my Edge Pro Professional uses a table instead of a clamp which offers the same benefit.

Can someone explain what is meant by “table” vs clamp, regarding how the knife is held? I know what clamps are, obviously, but never heard of “table” (other than what the sharpening system would be sitting on). Thanks! ;-}. MM

 

[777 Edge]

Can someone explain what is meant by “table” vs clamp, regarding how the knife is held?

It's a platform, normally magnetic and with a knife guide behind the spine of the knife for accurate positioning.

 

[Rob Babcock]

The simplest way to understand is to look at a picture of the Edge Pro. There's no clamp, you rest the knife blade on the machine itself. There's a guide that keeps the edge at a consistent distance from the edge but the knife moves freely along the table.