What is the best way to sharpen a newly made knife? 320 grit belt?

[LARRYZ10]

Hi, I would like the opinions of other knife makers on how to put an edge on a new knife. I have been using a 1 x30 belt with 320 grit but go slow around the tip so as to not burn the point or flatten it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you, Larry Lehman

 

[David Loukides]

Hi Larry,
Some of it depends on the thickness I am trying to sharpen. If it is a very fine cutting edge I use 400 grit belt.
If it is a heavy edge I start with 220 grit than proceed to 400 grit.
Either way I go to the cardboard wheel and some white buffing compound to finish up.
Sincerely,
Dave

 

[SBuzek]

David is correct,depends on the thickness of the edge.On my folder blades at ~.005 I start with a 30micron.On hunters and such with an edge at .015 I start with 400 grit.

Stan

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Without a grinder that will go SLOW, the best way is by hand on a DMT plate. 220 followed by 400 followed by 1000 ( or thereabouts) is a good procedure for a fine slicer edge. 220 followed by 400 on a work blade. On hard use camp blades, many just use 220.
Final stropping on leather charged with rouge ( just four or five good strokes each side) will finish the job.