Great review Mike, I purchased my Pro Edge as the first major investment after my first lathe, for me it was a game changer. I purchased most of the optional attachments available at the time, but have not used them all yet. I’ve always felt as though there are not enough tutorials online so your video helps to fill that gap. I was lucky enough to spend a couple of days with Chris Pouncy from Sorby recently and he helped hone my skills (pun intended). Thanks for sharing.
Thanks William, I am well happy with it. I do intend to have a chat with Chris Pouncey at MC, in the hope he can do for me what he did for you :) See you soon. Cheers Mike
Sorry to be offtopic but does someone know of a trick to log back into an instagram account? I stupidly lost my password. I would love any assistance you can offer me!
@Clark Nikolai i really appreciate your reply. I found the site thru google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff atm. Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.
Welcome to the world of the machine that saved my woodturning life. I couldn’t replicate angles on a grinding wheel, since I bought a pro edge I never looked back.
Hi, Mike - great review The Proedge is the only system that I've had. I saw Clive from Robert Sorby demonstrate it and bought one - absolutely no regrets. I moved to the Trizact belt but do not think the cost worth it for ordinary woodturning, so am now buying another 120 G Ceramic belt. I got fed up with the metal dust over the bench when re-profiling or batch touch - ups, so placed a couple of small rare earth magnets below the belt, and they collect the dust very well. Cheers, Brian
Hi Brian and thank you. Like you I was looking for a solution to the "dust" and a friend suggested magnets, and I agree they work a treat and catch the majority. Thanks for watching Cheers Mike
Hi Mike I watched both your vid here and on the record power grinder. I commented and bought the 8 inch record power grudgingly because of the cost difference. What a mistake, its wheels where so unbalanced it shook half my workshop. Luckily I could return it. I saved a couple of months more and am a proud owner of the pro edge. I bought second hand tools and just sorted out the worst skew in 10 min to a perfect edge. What a tool it's just amazing and no blueing on the chisel either, just had to share. If your reading this go buy it, it's worth every cent. Thankyou for this vid it sent me down the right path
Thanks Mike, I've been using this system for 18 months and do find it so simple. I think it's the repeatability that makes it easy. Thanks for sharing with us.
Thanks for all the tips and advice from a newbie Turner, got myself a pro edge deluxe, then followed the guides to reprofile my tools, the difference I have found is fantastic gone from hard work turning to nice ease to turning. The time to reprofile did take time, but by doing it let’s you get comfortable using Pro Edge. Once again many thanks for your teaching videos
Hi Mark, so glad you found the video useful. I am still amazed how much I love using the Pro Edge compared to my much more expensive old CBN set up. Take care Mike
Thanks Mike after having had one for 4 year now I can at last (following your advice and demonstrations) get a good edge on my skews . Many thanks, keep the videos coming.
This machine has been responsible for improving my standards and enjoyment of wood turning in equal measure. I would not be without it. Thanks for sharing
I've been looking at sharpening systems trying to choose the right one for me and your review and your enthusiasm for this system has really helped me decide which one to go for - many thanks Mike!
Mike, I've had the pro-edge for 2 years now and I agree with every word and every sentiment you expressed. Because of the ease of use and the how quickly it sharpens, I use it without thinking . Putting the tool to the pro-edge is as natural as putting it to the work. I would add that you don't need a pot of water for cooling as there is very little heat. (Maybe yes for major reprofiling, but even there it is only to prevent you fingers getting uncomfortable, nothing to do with the steel). Thanks.
Mike , I was wanting to up my sharpening game and after much consideration I went for the Robert Sorby Pro Edge. I really replied on your video to make my decision and I must say your advice was "Spot On" !! Thanks for sharing your knowledge!! Keep it coming!!
purchased the Pro-Edge and could not be happier. Have been using the slow speed grinder and CBN for quite a while but made the switch because I wanted the best thanks for the in-depth review.
I bought a proedge three years ago and I have not had any problems at all, its a great versatile machine. Incidently, although there us an arrow on the belt it is not a directional arrow for users, the belt can be fitted either way. Thanks James
Glad you concur with my thoughts James. Thanks for the tip re the belt, as I have been careful to ensure the arrows run "upward", good news as I won't have to worry in future. Take care Mike
I'm delighted this purchase has worked well for you. I noticed that the attachments seem to have tighter tolerances than the original type I have and I could see no slop in the boss and leg attachment so that's a big improvement. I agree on the belts... I use 60/120 ceramic and nothing else and find that the belts last a very long time. I clean mine with one of those belt rubber things from time to time and it does seem to improve performance. Happy sharpening. Best Wishes, Brendan.
Hi Brendan, I am more impressed than I honestly thought I would be. there is a slight "slop", but I have found no issues with it. Totally agree with the belt grits too. Thanks for adding your thoughts mate, much appreciated. Take care Mike
Excellent review Mike. I’ve had mine for almost three years & it’s been the best investment my wife has made (lol !!) & one of the best birthday presents I have received - ever. Cheers Geof
Agree Mike, its a great bit of kit. If I have one slight gripe it is that in my unheated garage workshop the bright metalwork is more prone to surface rust, than other iron metalwork, including the lathe bed, and needs oiling to reduce it.
Thanks for the review - saw the light (as they say) and bought the Pro Edge Deluxe! Robert Sorby suggest 120g for sharpening (60g for profiling) HSS woodturning tools and 240g for sharpening carbon steel chisel/plane blades. They suggest the relative longevity of the belts is 1x Aluminium Oxide, 2x Zirconium and 4-6x for Ceramic, so the slightly more expensive Ceramic belts are really the best value (as replacement) belts for HSS woodturning tools. The "lengths" for different angles for the fingernail profiler jig were not documented in the manual, however the Pro Set and long arm jig were "freebies", which makes a complete woodturning setup. Perfect results!
Thanks for posting the link Mike, Just put my order through this morning, although they are currently waiting for stock to be delivered the guy I spoke to was a very pleasant chap & assured me they would be in next week & he'd give me a call if there was any holdup.
Thank you, Mike. Although I am only a few months into woodturning I have come to the conclusion that sharpening by hand is not my forte'. Sometimes my gouge cuts like a knife through butter, then after another sharpen, it's almost useless. I have been thinking about the Sorby for a few weeks now, listened to Martin and now your thoughts on this system and I'm sold. Getting one next weekend.. Thank you for your thoughts and explanations.
Great review with bags of info, thank you. I got my Pro Edge today and look forward to getting out in the workshop to use it and improve my skills at a perfect edge, something I struggled to do with a grinding wheel and jig. I will be re-watching this video no doubt!
Entirely agree with you I have just purchased the deluxe model from Yandles & Son it is a superb machine as I was having trouble with my wet stone grinder as I have arthritis in my hands, this sharpener is very easy to use and I am delighted. Brilliant video very well explained thanks for sharing .
Thanks for a great review, Mike. I love my Pro Edge, too, and, probably more by luck than judgement, have come to the same conclusions as you regarding grits, bevel angles, etc. A useful addition to the video would be a demonstration of re-profiling a standard grind bowl gouge to a swept back grind. Thanks again.
Hi Anthony, I am pleased to hear you concur with my findings. I did a reprofiling video a while ago, although it was on the grinder set up, the method is virtually the same. Thanks for watching. Cheers Mike
Quite possibly one of the most used tools in my workshop! I use it for everything. It makes a brilliant job of sharpening drill bits, restoring screw driver tips and general metalwork grinding duties. The 3000 belt gets blades to scary shaving sharpness. I have the buffing mop spindle and use it with buffing and scotch mops to restore even the most neglected of tools back to fine useable condition. The build quality of the machine is top notch and of very high quality materials. It is easily up to hard daily use in a busy commercial workshop. Mine will never be up for sale! ,at new price it's a real bargain.
Hi Mike!! Looks like a good bit of kit that , Robert sorby has always been good quality. Their factory is just down the road from where I used to live in Sheffield. I have at long last filmed and edited my 1st video and am attempting to get it onto UA-cam, I am not very good at tech stuff. I will let you know the title if I manage it, ha ha. All the best.....Andy
H Andy, I am well pleased with the system/ Great news re the channel and video, I'm going there now, as you have given the details below. Take care Mike
Thanks for this educational video. I am considering buying this Pro Edge. Problem is that we do not have a wide variety of Robert Sorby products in South Africa and importing products from UK is very expensive. How often would one need to replace these belts and will the aluminium belts be okey for sharpening my HSS tools?
Hello Mike, Calling you from Pennsylvania USA.... I've been a free hand tool sharpener for my turning tools for decades. No systems used. Your video convinced me to purchase the pro edge deluxe with all the accessories. I love the repeatability! I'm doing a lot of reprofiling of coarse. Can you please share with me your nose angles for bowl and spindle gouges? Also, the top angle settings for the different fingernail grinds? I could probably bury you with a lot of pro edge questions but this is a start. Not enough detailed videos about this system on you tube. You video is awesome! I wish you all the best, be safe. I enjoy all you videos! Thank you very much, Gary
Thanks Mike, for 25 mins. of solid and valuable information. I have been musing over such a system for some time, but being one who cannot resist a design challenge, at the expense of turning time, I had built up my own comprehensive equipment for
Thanks for this video I had the same setup you had with the CBN wheels for about 6 months, but I just sold it on Kijiji and getting the Sorby deluxe system...thx
@@MikeWaldt I just got it yesterday and set it up with ceramic belts 60 and 120, the ceramic belts work very well. I used the other 60 grit belt that came with it and its not as efficient as the ceramic one. I love the small footprint and I'm going thru reshaping all my tools now.......very nice system. I have the exact same setup as you do . I love your work and enjoy your videos greatly....If i'm ever in your side of the pond I would love to meet you....all the best & STAY SAFE!!!!!!!!! Cheers from Toronto,Canada
Great review Mike. When reprofiling a bowl gouge, Sorby recommend creating a half moon by grinding the gouge upside down, at 45 deg for a standard grind, then using that half moon as a guide for reprofiling. My question is - if you use the long grind jig, the actual angle is now not 45 deg but 50 or 55 - so when you reprofile do you create the half moon at 50 or 55 rather than 45? Hope this not too confusing.
I know what you mean Bill, but I tend to eyeball the half moon to approx what I'm aiming for, I don't get too hung up about exact angles on my gouges, as long as there within a degree or two that's fine for me.
Thanks for sharing Mike, waiting for ProEdge to arrive here in Australia. Unfortunately, the accessories for the Bowl Gouge Long Grind are not in stock for at least 6 months at all the places I could order those from here. Looking at making my own, Sid (Sid's Re-purposing has helped me out with measurements). Looking forward to upgrading from a grinder, CBN wheel, and my broken jig (overuse I think fatigued the alloy of the bowl gouge jig).
Well, been meaning to take the plunge also and just might now. Too many modifications got a bench grinder this machine is ready out of the box to sharpen anything. Nice!
Thank you taking the time to make this very informative video. It was the deciding factor for me before making the purchase. I got a great deal on eBay and also purchased the other two parts.
Superb review as usual Mike. I bought my Pro Edge about 6 months ago but am not yet convinced that it produces as good an "edge" as my old CBN. I cant come to terms with the bounce you get as the joint in the belt passes over
Thanks Jonas, I had no real issues with my CBN set up (apart the cost to build it to what I had), but much prefer this personally. I think we all have our preferences, what works for you is the best solution. thanks for watching and your input. Cheers Mike
Thanks Mike- as a new turner I asked around at my club and the dominant view was the Pro Edge so I went with it and it is exactly as you say - simplicity itself to use and very effective. However you showed me some new things today I didn't know and not in the manual- thank you. By the way I have now been using the FU230 for several weeks and it is brilliant= thanks a million. The only real issue I now have is splitting wood- I was given four trees about two months ago- have started to make into bowl blanks and turned the first one yesterday into a rough bowl - about 12 inches- it split on the lathe over night!. What do I do? I have a turned a mortice but a crack has gone into it from the rim so presume it is now not safe to turn? another great video - Thanks again , Mark
Hi Mark, I'm very pleased to hear that you like the Stratos. When turning "wet" wood be mindful that as you shape the bowl you are allowing the moisture present to escape quicker so if you leave it overnight it will crack as a result. I find that if you enclose the piece in either cling film, or even a plastic bag, and tape the end, the moisture level remains, hence less chance of splitting, then you can continue the next day. Also make sure that you wrap the bowl in the same way, or in shavings in a bag to allow it to dry slowly, again reducing the chance of major cracking. Hope this helps. Cheers Mike
Hi Mike. I've got one of these and wondered if there is any benefit to changing the angle on some my gouge's. They are primarily Robert Sorby gouges with 45 degree angles and I've tended to stick with that. Thanks for the demo as I have learnt a lot already about using it. E.G. I've been using the V Block to sharpen my bowl and splindle gouges when maybe I should be using jigs.
Hi Jerry. Bevel angles are a very personal thing. If you're happy with the grind and bevel angles you have there is no need to change for changes sake. As you progress maybe experiment to see what suits your turning style the best. Cheers. Mike
I took the plunge with the Pro edge at the Newark show as I wasn't happy with the wet stone system I had......Boy its made a difference....Great unbiased review
Great review Mike! I'm using the grinder, CBN wheels, and wolverine system and it does a good enough job, but I like how quickly you can you get repeatable results on the Pro Edge. Looks like my wish list just grew by one! - Ed
Thanks Ed, I have used a grinding system of one sort or another since I started … nothing at all wrong with them at all. I just have fallen in love with this :) Thanks for watching Mike
What an awesome sharpening system, Mike. Unfortunately, SWMBO thinks my Tormek will have to do. How very narrow minded. She's also the reason I'm not driving that Lamborghini. Then again, she may be the reason I'm able to drive anything! She seems to think I buy too many tools!!! Did I say narrow minded?? Great review, Mike! Take care, .....Gord
Hi Gord and it sure is. Having said that so is the Tormek :) Each to their own my friend. I think sensible is the word you're looking for … not narrow minded ...lol Take care and thanks for watching. Cheers Mike
Apart from the tracking, I totally agree with you. My machine always needs a little adjustment when I change belts but I keep the Allen key in the tommy bar hole and all it needs is a little tweak and job done
hi, you seem very pleased with your Sorby sharpening system, there is just one thing I would like to meton, with your grinder and CN wheels, this is a one time purchase , but with the sorby system, you will have to replace the belts from time to time, in the long run this will cost you more to run than the CN wheels , I was very surprised to hear you say that you have sold the grinder and CN wheels, now you have left your self with no backup. Just my opinion, keep up the good work.
Hi John, I hear what you say .... but .... to put together the system I had would now cost in excess of £600 ... which is way higher than the ProEdge, the belts are not expensive (except the Diamond), and will no way cost more than the savings made, plus the ease of set up and use are a huge plus. Thanks for your input though, a very valid point to make. Thanks for watching. Cheers Mike
I have mine 3 yes, yes a game changer, Re metal dust, I took the round magnet from a magnetic tray from Aldi/Lidl and placed it on the base under the bottom of the belt. It collects 95% .
Mike, an excellent review. Really more of a tutorial I think. You are very clear in your explanations. I have a CBN / Wolverine system and am mostly pleased but you demonstrated several points on the Sorby that overcome my few objections to the Wolverine. I don't think I am ready to make a change but when and if I ever do the Sorby will be at the top of the list of possibilities. I do think that the adjustment of the table angle could stand a bit of improvement. Perhaps replace the tightening arm with a large knurled knob. Thank you for sharing. One question: Why do you not use the 240 grit belt? Wouldn't that give a bit finer edge?
Thank you Glen, I agree with your idea re the table, but it is a small gripe. The 204 will indeed give a finer edge, but I find the 120 more than adequate for a quick touch up, and the edge from the 120 will last a little longer. Take care Mike
Many thanks for this review. I’ve been thinking about the Proedge. I went over to a CBN wheel on my grinder last year and have been pleased with the edge I get. It is fiddly to change the angles. I wondered about this Proedge and whether it would be easier and still give as good results. Many club members use them. Reckon that you’ve sold on the fact that it’s pretty much idiot proof which is what I need being the town clown. Me thinks I’ll need to find some shekels! Thanks again.
I am well impressed with it Graham, much more than I would have expected, hence the CBN set up has been sold. Like you an idiot proof set up is one of the star features for me too … lol. Speak soon and take care mate. Cheers Mike
Thanks mike what a great info video on the pro edge. I have just ordered mine a few days ago as I have been using the bench grinder which I haven’t been happy using. I have been looking at the pro edge for a while now but like you unsure about its capabilities but after talking to a few people at makers central I thought I would take the plunge. Now I have seen this video i and think I have made the right choice. Thanks again for the great information.
Thank you for a comprehensive and well presented video. However, , have to disagree on the skew chisel. Invariably the motor housing top right protrusion fouls the handle. Laying it flat does does not change the relative position of that boss to the platform . I have had the product for a while and other woddturners have met the same problem and have had to modify their skews to have detachable handles . This is a major challenge and inconvenient for most turners. Im surprised Sorby have not modified the product. If I had my time again, I would go for a slow speed grinder with a cbnwheel and the usual profiling jigs. Similar price, no expense on belts and no problem with skews
I tend to agree with you Ewan, although I do have quick release handles so the issue was not so much of a problem. I have to add that a couple of years ago I went back to CBNs on a slow speed grinder. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Hi Mike, I'm so glad you've done a review on this - I have one already, and have had for a year or so now. Despite loving it I always wondered what the differences would be to the cbn system like the one you had. Anyway, fantastic review and I'm so pleased you are finding it such a benefit! :)
Hi Matt, I have to be honest I am amazed that I prefer it to the CBN set up ... I didn't think I would. Every time I use it I can't help a little smile :) Take care Mike
Mike that was an amazing review thanks for sharing ! i was about to get one of those one day but a friend gift me the Tormek T8 that is also good !!! thanks for sharing !!
Looks great Mike, I can see you're well satisfied. Am I alone in being impressed with the maual having a colour cover. I thought it was mandatory for all manuals to be photo-copied black and white in lots of languages with English being poorly translated. 😉
Great review of a very versatile tool. I'm not much of a wood turner and just use a home made head in my metal lathe. I usually used my grinder for my chisels which again are home made ( and could be harder), I have always found the radius only requires touching very occasionally and is handy for stoning the edge with my little Arkansas stone due to the tiny amount of material needing to be removed and the easy seating on the heel and edge. Is there any need for stoning with thjs device. Thanks Mike.
Thanks David, no real need to hone after touching up on the system, but sometimes I'll hone my skews, and use a diamond card on my scrapers while turning, but then touch up on the system before the next session. Cheers Mike
I have had this system for a year now, and I can say it is tops and I rarely use my slow speed CBN wheels now. But it still does not help me with my skew chisel technique ;)
I'm still over the moon with my Pro Edge Scott ... but find the same as you ... the skew is easier to sharpen for sure ... but it still has a mind of it's own on frequent occasions!! ;) Take care Mike
Hi Mike, great review, now thinking of selling my Tormek T7 (not everything is great with the hollow grind) and getting one of these. 1 question...when sharpening the skew, could you not have put the guide in upside down to grind the other side of the gouge, this would have negated the need to lower the bed as you would have been going from the same side, or have I got that mental picture wrong...or does it not fit upside down ??
I have had my Sorby system for over three years and love it. I did notice a difference in the fingernail grind jig. Maybe the difference is the UK vs the USA. But it looks like your jig is a better or newer design. What I have is a circular brass plug that registers on the flats of the gouges.. my jig is limited. I can not sharpen my 3/4” bowl gouge. Also some of my spindle and bowl gouges are getting short. My jig will,not register on the round shank. Also my jig has a collar vs yours is a larger diameter leg. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Regards Pete
Hi Peter, I too have some short flute gouges due to age and use, I tend to eyeball its position on the bar until I get an even grind both sides. A bit hit and miss I grant you ... but it does work 🙂
Mike Waldt Thanks for your response. I would also like to know about the difference in the fingernail jig. Is this a UK jig design or a new And improved a Sorby jig.
Jon Siegel, who is primarily a spindle specialist recommended belt sharpening a decade or so ago. I'll never go back to a wheel system, after trying sharpening just once with a lowly Harbor Freight 1x30 machine and silicon carbide belts. And for tools that work best without a hollow ground edge, the belt system is superior.
Great review Mike. I really enjoy your channel. I am new to turning and I’m thinking about purchasing this machine. I am curious as if you’re still liking and using it. Thanks
Thank you Michael ... yes I am still loving it. Wish I had got it years ago honestly. It's easy to set up, quick and easy to use, and above all accurate repeatability 🙂
A very helpful and great review for me, thank you Mike. I bought this nice machine at Olivers Woodturning due to your recommendation and I'm quite happy for the fast and reliable service. A happy new year and best wishes from Germany.
Great video Mike, this the second time I have watched it. I got my pro-edge system about a year ago. What do you do when you are trying to set your spindle gouge to the 40° setting length and the flutes are beyond where the brass bar no longer sets on the flutes. Gouge is getting shorter, much use.
Thanks Dan, I alter the jig leg angle and that seems to help, failing that I would eye ball the centre of the bar until it was sharpening evenly on both sides.
Only just found this machine as a sharpening system, I was thinking tormeck, would this be suitable for drawknives?, plane irons?, chisels? Thanks for any help, regards Darren
Hi Darren, I only use it for turning tools and bench chisels, and have no experience with the other blades you mention. My advice would be to get in touch with Sorby and see what their opinions are. Hope this helps a bit. Cheers Mike
Thanks for the great demo Mike. I definitely want one to replace my inadequate home made system. When I'll be able to afford a Sorby system is another matter all together. ☹️
@@MikeWaldt Well Mike you were absolutely right. I got one and it has made a huge difference to my enjoyment of woodturning. I find it much easier to sharpen my chisels and can do it in a lot less time than before with repeatable angles every time and with the ease of being able to sharpen quickly, it is no problem to just give the chisels a tickle up when needed. I have even taken over our Guild's sharpening duties as they have one too. Thanks so much for the video and helping me decide.
Hey Mike. I’m having trouble even with doing a standard gouge grind with the V groove. Once I hit the belt I seem to get some sort of vibration because it’s hard to keep the gouge seated in the groove. This leads to an uneven grind. Any recommendations?
They last a good while, I haven't counted the actual amount of sharpenings per belt. A good way to go if budget allows is Diamond Belt, they will last many years Gary. Cheers. Mike.
Mike, a great presentation as usual, to play devils advocate here, this system doesn't do anything different to grinder sharpening, to set one up from scratch is as good as setting up a grinder system. The Tormec stuff, while being very good is also very expensive so this is where the Sorby system is a better set up option. As you point out you replaced your old with the Sorby at little or no cost. Regards Stephen
Thanks Stephen. I "personally" prefer this system to my grinder system, and I never thought I'd hear myself say that. After selling my old system I am actually well in pocket, but it's not all about cost, it's value for your investment, and I from now on would recommend serious consideration to the ProEdge over a grinder … but as I always say it's down to personal preference. Thanks also for your regular input and support, both very much appreciated. Take care Mike
I have a question, what would you recommend for a bowl scraper? I use a sorby heavy duty bowl scraper but it doesnt always give me the finish I think its capable of. I currently just us an 80 degree bevel with no negative rake. Would a 25 degree negative rake and an 80 degree bevel be better or should I do 25/50 or 25/40? Mostly working on hardwood bowls, I find tearout takes a while to shift.
Hi Spence, I have found that experimenting with the negative rake angle is the way to go, as everyone has their own preference. I have my heavy duty scraper at a 30°/30° grind and it works really well for me :) Cheers Mike
Great review Mike, I purchased my Pro Edge as the first major investment after my first lathe, for me it was a game changer. I purchased most of the optional attachments available at the time, but have not used them all yet. I’ve always felt as though there are not enough tutorials online so your video helps to fill that gap. I was lucky enough to spend a couple of days with Chris Pouncy from Sorby recently and he helped hone my skills (pun intended). Thanks for sharing.
Thanks William, I am well happy with it. I do intend to have a chat with Chris Pouncey at MC, in the hope he can do for me what he did for you :)
See you soon.
Cheers
Mike
Sorry to be offtopic but does someone know of a trick to log back into an instagram account?
I stupidly lost my password. I would love any assistance you can offer me!
@Max Lennon Instablaster :)
@Clark Nikolai i really appreciate your reply. I found the site thru google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff atm.
Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.
@Clark Nikolai it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy!
Thanks so much you saved my account!
Welcome to the world of the machine that saved my woodturning life. I couldn’t replicate angles on a grinding wheel, since I bought a pro edge I never looked back.
LOL ... it's good to be in this world I assure you Alan ... this sharpening world that is ;)
Take care
Mike
Hi, Mike - great review The Proedge is the only system that I've had. I saw Clive from Robert Sorby demonstrate it and bought one - absolutely no regrets. I moved to the Trizact belt but do not think the cost worth it for ordinary woodturning, so am now buying another 120 G Ceramic belt. I got fed up with the metal dust over the bench when re-profiling or batch touch - ups, so placed a couple of small rare earth magnets below the belt, and they collect the dust very well. Cheers, Brian
Hi Brian and thank you.
Like you I was looking for a solution to the "dust" and a friend suggested magnets, and I agree they work a treat and catch the majority.
Thanks for watching
Cheers
Mike
Great tip about the magnets thanks
Hi Mike
I watched both your vid here and on the record power grinder. I commented and bought the 8 inch record power grudgingly because of the cost difference.
What a mistake, its wheels where so unbalanced it shook half my workshop. Luckily I could return it.
I saved a couple of months more and am a proud owner of the pro edge.
I bought second hand tools and just sorted out the worst skew in 10 min to a perfect edge.
What a tool it's just amazing and no blueing on the chisel either, just had to share. If your reading this go buy it, it's worth every cent.
Thankyou for this vid it sent me down the right path
Glad you found the video helpful in making your choice. Thanks for watching.
Thanks Mike, I've been using this system for 18 months and do find it so simple. I think it's the repeatability that makes it easy. Thanks for sharing with us.
Totally agree with your thoughts, and thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
Thanks for all the tips and advice from a newbie Turner, got myself a pro edge deluxe, then followed the guides to reprofile my tools, the difference I have found is fantastic gone from hard work turning to nice ease to turning.
The time to reprofile did take time, but by doing it let’s you get comfortable using Pro Edge.
Once again many thanks for your teaching videos
Hi Mark, so glad you found the video useful.
I am still amazed how much I love using the Pro Edge compared to my much more expensive old CBN set up.
Take care
Mike
Thanks Mike after having had one for 4 year now I can at last (following your advice and demonstrations) get a good edge on my skews . Many thanks, keep the videos coming.
Glad that you found the video useful Martin, and thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
This machine has been responsible for improving my standards and enjoyment of wood turning in equal measure. I would not be without it. Thanks for sharing
Glad you like it as much as I do max, it's a well made and thought out system.
Cheers
Mike
I've been looking at sharpening systems trying to choose the right one for me and your review and your enthusiasm for this system has really helped me decide which one to go for - many thanks Mike!
Mike, I've had the pro-edge for 2 years now and I agree with every word and every sentiment you expressed. Because of the ease of use and the how quickly it sharpens, I use it without thinking . Putting the tool to the pro-edge is as natural as putting it to the work. I would add that you don't need a pot of water for cooling as there is very little heat. (Maybe yes for major reprofiling, but even there it is only to prevent you fingers getting uncomfortable, nothing to do with the steel). Thanks.
Hi Kevin, happy to hear that you concur with my thoughts 🙂
Mike , I was wanting to up my sharpening game and after much consideration I went for the Robert Sorby Pro Edge. I really replied on your video to make my decision and I must say your advice was "Spot On" !!
Thanks for sharing your knowledge!! Keep it coming!!
Glad your pleased and enjoy your new kit 🙂
purchased the Pro-Edge and could not be happier. Have been using the slow speed grinder and CBN for quite a while but made the switch because I wanted the best thanks for the in-depth review.
Great to hear Dutch.
Hi Mike,
What a great informative video. I’ve just bought my ProEdge Delux and this is a perfect tutorial. Thanks a million.
I bought a proedge three years ago and I have not had any problems at all, its a great versatile machine. Incidently, although there us an arrow on the belt it is not a directional arrow for users, the belt can be fitted either way.
Thanks
James
Glad you concur with my thoughts James.
Thanks for the tip re the belt, as I have been careful to ensure the arrows run "upward", good news as I won't have to worry in future.
Take care
Mike
I'm delighted this purchase has worked well for you. I noticed that the attachments seem to have tighter tolerances than the original type I have and I could see no slop in the boss and leg attachment so that's a big improvement. I agree on the belts... I use 60/120 ceramic and nothing else and find that the belts last a very long time. I clean mine with one of those belt rubber things from time to time and it does seem to improve performance. Happy sharpening.
Best Wishes, Brendan.
Hi Brendan, I am more impressed than I honestly thought I would be. there is a slight "slop", but I have found no issues with it. Totally agree with the belt grits too.
Thanks for adding your thoughts mate, much appreciated.
Take care
Mike
Excellent review Mike. I’ve had mine for almost three years & it’s been the best investment my wife has made (lol !!) & one of the best birthday presents I have received - ever.
Cheers
Geof
Thanks Geof, glad you love yours as much as I love mine :)
Cheers
Mike
Agree Mike, its a great bit of kit. If I have one slight gripe it is that in my unheated garage workshop the bright metalwork is more prone to surface rust, than other iron metalwork, including the lathe bed, and needs oiling to reduce it.
Hi Bryan, time will tell if the problem is a fault with the steel used. Thanks for the heads up, and of course for watching and commenting.
Cheers
Mke
Thanks for the review - saw the light (as they say) and bought the Pro Edge Deluxe! Robert Sorby suggest 120g for sharpening (60g for profiling) HSS woodturning tools and 240g for sharpening carbon steel chisel/plane blades. They suggest the relative longevity of the belts is 1x Aluminium Oxide, 2x Zirconium and 4-6x for Ceramic, so the slightly more expensive Ceramic belts are really the best value (as replacement) belts for HSS woodturning tools. The "lengths" for different angles for the fingernail profiler jig were not documented in the manual, however the Pro Set and long arm jig were "freebies", which makes a complete woodturning setup. Perfect results!
Glad you concur with my thoughts Simon, I was actually surprised how much I like it :)
Take care
Mike
Thanks for posting the link Mike, Just put my order through this morning, although they are currently waiting for stock to be delivered the guy I spoke to was a very pleasant chap & assured me they would be in next week & he'd give me a call if there was any holdup.
From another newbie who has just bought the proedge, Thanks, a cracking video Mike👍👏👏😀
Thank Dougie.
Very handy review Mike looks a great setup
Thanks for stopping by Andy.
Cheers
Mike
Great information Mike, thanks. As a new woodturner I found a very gentle learning curve for the pro edge and still gives good results.
Thank you, I totally agree with you.
Take care
Mike
Thanks Mike I used the tormek 8 and have just bought the pro edge ,now to sell the tormek
Thank you, Mike. Although I am only a few months into woodturning I have come to the conclusion that sharpening by hand is not my forte'. Sometimes my gouge cuts like a knife through butter, then after another sharpen, it's almost useless. I have been thinking about the Sorby for a few weeks now, listened to Martin and now your thoughts on this system and I'm sold. Getting one next weekend.. Thank you for your thoughts and explanations.
You won't regret it Buster I assure you.
Cheers
Mike
Great review with bags of info, thank you. I got my Pro Edge today and look forward to getting out in the workshop to use it and improve my skills at a perfect edge, something I struggled to do with a grinding wheel and jig. I will be re-watching this video no doubt!
Thank you much appreciated. Enjoy your new toy! 🙂
Entirely agree with you I have just purchased the deluxe model from Yandles & Son it is a superb machine as I was having trouble with my wet stone grinder as I have arthritis in my hands, this sharpener is very easy to use and I am delighted. Brilliant video very well explained thanks for sharing .
Glad to hear that you agree, I for one wish I had gone for it in the beginning of my turning journey.
Thanks for watching.
Thanks for a great review, Mike. I love my Pro Edge, too, and, probably more by luck than judgement, have come to the same conclusions as you regarding grits, bevel angles, etc. A useful addition to the video would be a demonstration of re-profiling a standard grind bowl gouge to a swept back grind. Thanks again.
Hi Anthony, I am pleased to hear you concur with my findings. I did a reprofiling video a while ago, although it was on the grinder set up, the method is virtually the same. Thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
Quite possibly one of the most used tools in my workshop! I use it for everything. It makes a brilliant job of sharpening drill bits, restoring screw driver tips and general metalwork grinding duties. The 3000 belt gets blades to scary shaving sharpness. I have the buffing mop spindle and use it with buffing and scotch mops to restore even the most neglected of tools back to fine useable condition. The build quality of the machine is top notch and of very high quality materials. It is easily up to hard daily use in a busy commercial workshop. Mine will never be up for sale! ,at new price it's a real bargain.
Hi Andrew, and thanks for your valuable input. I don't see me changing, I have sold my grinder, and am still in pocket!
Take care
Mike
Hi Mike!! Looks like a good bit of kit that , Robert sorby has always been good quality. Their factory is just down the road from where I used to live in Sheffield. I have at long last filmed and edited my 1st video and am attempting to get it onto UA-cam, I am not very good at tech stuff. I will let you know the title if I manage it, ha ha. All the best.....Andy
Check out Andy Paramore...turning an English Yew toadstool.😉
H Andy, I am well pleased with the system/
Great news re the channel and video, I'm going there now, as you have given the details below.
Take care
Mike
can you do a video on your process of turning wet log in to blank and how you store your wood and how you stop the wood from cracking.
Hi Daniel, I have already done one my friend, and here is the link if your interested:
ua-cam.com/video/Gt6ayCpGyVw/v-deo.html
Cheers
Mike
Thanks for this educational video. I am considering buying this Pro Edge. Problem is that we do not have a wide variety of Robert Sorby products in South Africa and importing products from UK is very expensive. How often would one need to replace these belts and will the aluminium belts be okey for sharpening my HSS tools?
Very good sharpening system...does not leave concavity in the chiesel...
Greetings Mr. Mike
Brilliant Mike, you really brings out the value of this immense sharpener. I dug deep, early on, to get one and have never looked back.
Thanks Owen, I wish I'd taken the leap of faith much, much sooner :)
Thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
Hello Mike, Calling you from Pennsylvania USA.... I've been a free hand tool sharpener for my turning tools for decades. No systems used. Your video convinced me to purchase the pro edge deluxe with all the accessories. I love the repeatability! I'm doing a lot of reprofiling of coarse. Can you please share with me your nose angles for bowl and spindle gouges? Also, the top angle settings for the different fingernail grinds? I could probably bury you with a lot of pro edge questions but this is a start. Not enough detailed videos about this system on you tube. You video is awesome! I wish you all the best, be safe. I enjoy all you videos! Thank you very much, Gary
Hi Gary if you send me an email I will get back to you in as much detail as possible. Are you in the UK per chance, if so we could chat .
@@MikeWaldt Thank you Mike. Not in the UK, USA Pennsylvania.... My email is pagarybrown@gmail.com... Thanks so much for the help! Gary
Having just bought one of these, this was an extremely helpful video, many thanks. 🙂
Glad you found it useful Paul. Cheers. Mike
Hello Mike, I bought the ProEdge from Olivers Woodturning. Superb! Only had it a week and it is really great.
Glad you like it Peter.
I’ve had one for years and I love it.
We agree on something then Brian … lol ;)
Take care
Mike
Thanks Mike, for 25 mins. of solid and valuable information. I have been musing over such a system for some time, but being one who cannot resist a design challenge, at the expense of turning time, I had built up my own comprehensive equipment for
Thanks Bernard, I'm sure that your system is every bit as capable.
Always grateful for your input and support.
Take care
Mike
Mike, brilliant review on this sharpening system. Have fun at Makers Central.
Thank you Alex, I was hoping to meet you again … I will miss the laughs we had.
Take care
Mike
@@MikeWaldt soon enough we will get together for several laughs. I am bummed I won't make it to makers. Take care mate
Thanks for this video I had the same setup you had with the CBN wheels for about 6 months, but I just sold it on Kijiji and getting the Sorby deluxe system...thx
My personal view Danny is that you won't regret making the change.
@@MikeWaldt I just got it yesterday and set it up with ceramic belts 60 and 120, the ceramic belts work very well. I used the other 60 grit belt that came with it and its not as efficient as the ceramic one. I love the small footprint and I'm going thru reshaping all my tools now.......very nice system. I have the exact same setup as you do . I love your work and enjoy your videos greatly....If i'm ever in your side of the pond I would love to meet you....all the best & STAY SAFE!!!!!!!!! Cheers from Toronto,Canada
Great review Mike. When reprofiling a bowl gouge, Sorby recommend creating a half moon by grinding the gouge upside down, at 45 deg for a standard grind, then using that half moon as a guide for reprofiling. My question is - if you use the long grind jig, the actual angle is now not 45 deg but 50 or 55 - so when you reprofile do you create the half moon at 50 or 55 rather than 45? Hope this not too confusing.
I know what you mean Bill, but I tend to eyeball the half moon to approx what I'm aiming for, I don't get too hung up about exact angles on my gouges, as long as there within a degree or two that's fine for me.
Thanks for sharing Mike, waiting for ProEdge to arrive here in Australia. Unfortunately, the accessories for the Bowl Gouge Long Grind are not in stock for at least 6 months at all the places I could order those from here. Looking at making my own, Sid (Sid's Re-purposing has helped me out with measurements). Looking forward to upgrading from a grinder, CBN wheel, and my broken jig (overuse I think fatigued the alloy of the bowl gouge jig).
You won't regret the change Duemen I assure you.
Well, been meaning to take the plunge also and just might now. Too many modifications got a bench grinder this machine is ready out of the box to sharpen anything. Nice!
A very good piece of kit with easy repeatability .... you won't be disappointed.
Thank you taking the time to make this very informative video. It was the deciding factor for me before making the purchase. I got a great deal on eBay and also purchased the other two parts.
Happy to hear your happy with it Nkosi.
Superb review as usual Mike. I bought my Pro Edge about 6 months ago but am not yet convinced that it produces as good an "edge" as my old CBN. I cant come to terms with the bounce you get as the joint in the belt passes over
Thanks Jonas, I had no real issues with my CBN set up (apart the cost to build it to what I had), but much prefer this personally. I think we all have our preferences, what works for you is the best solution.
thanks for watching and your input.
Cheers
Mike
Thanks Mike- as a new turner I asked around at my club and the dominant view was the Pro Edge so I went with it and it is exactly as you say - simplicity itself to use and very effective. However you showed me some new things today I didn't know and not in the manual- thank you. By the way I have now been using the FU230 for several weeks and it is brilliant= thanks a million. The only real issue I now have is splitting wood- I was given four trees about two months ago- have started to make into bowl blanks and turned the first one yesterday into a rough bowl - about 12 inches- it split on the lathe over night!. What do I do? I have a turned a mortice but a crack has gone into it from the rim so presume it is now not safe to turn? another great video - Thanks again , Mark
Hi Mark, I'm very pleased to hear that you like the Stratos. When turning "wet" wood be mindful that as you shape the bowl you are allowing the moisture present to escape quicker so if you leave it overnight it will crack as a result. I find that if you enclose the piece in either cling film, or even a plastic bag, and tape the end, the moisture level remains, hence less chance of splitting, then you can continue the next day. Also make sure that you wrap the bowl in the same way, or in shavings in a bag to allow it to dry slowly, again reducing the chance of major cracking.
Hope this helps.
Cheers
Mike
Hi Mike. I've got one of these and wondered if there is any benefit to changing the angle on some my gouge's. They are primarily Robert Sorby gouges with 45 degree angles and I've tended to stick with that. Thanks for the demo as I have learnt a lot already about using it. E.G. I've been using the V Block to sharpen my bowl and splindle gouges when maybe I should be using jigs.
Hi Jerry. Bevel angles are a very personal thing. If you're happy with the grind and bevel angles you have there is no need to change for changes sake. As you progress maybe experiment to see what suits your turning style the best. Cheers. Mike
I took the plunge with the Pro edge at the Newark show as I wasn't happy with the wet stone system I had......Boy its made a difference....Great unbiased review
Glad to hear that you agree, wish I'd made the choice years ago.
Cheers
Mike
Great review Mike! I'm using the grinder, CBN wheels, and wolverine system and it does a good enough job, but I like how quickly you can you get repeatable results on the Pro Edge. Looks like my wish list just grew by one! - Ed
Thanks Ed, I have used a grinding system of one sort or another since I started … nothing at all wrong with them at all. I just have fallen in love with this :)
Thanks for watching
Mike
What an awesome sharpening system, Mike. Unfortunately, SWMBO thinks my Tormek will have to do. How very narrow minded. She's also the reason I'm not driving that Lamborghini. Then again, she may be the reason I'm able to drive anything! She seems to think I buy too many tools!!! Did I say narrow minded?? Great review, Mike!
Take care,
.....Gord
Hi Gord and it sure is. Having said that so is the Tormek :)
Each to their own my friend. I think sensible is the word you're looking for … not narrow minded ...lol
Take care and thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
Well when memsahib saw the price an eyebrow did go up lol 😁
Apart from the tracking, I totally agree with you. My machine always needs a little adjustment when I change belts but I keep the Allen key in the tommy bar hole and all it needs is a little tweak and job done
Glad you agree Peter, I am very pleased indeed with how it performs.
Cheers
Mike
I love using my Pro-Edge, wouldn’t be without it. See you soon mate.
Cheers
Jim
We're both in love then mate … lol.
See you next weekend :)
Cheers
Mike
Evening Mike, excellent video, one of the best I have seen on the ProEdge.
Thank you very much, really appreciate you saying that.
Cheers
Mike
hi, you seem very pleased with your Sorby sharpening system, there is just one thing I would like to meton, with your grinder and CN wheels, this is a one time purchase , but with the sorby system, you will have to replace the belts from time to time, in the long run this will cost you more to run than the CN wheels , I was very surprised to hear you say that you have sold the grinder and CN wheels, now you have left your self with no backup. Just my opinion, keep up the good work.
Hi John, I hear what you say .... but .... to put together the system I had would now cost in excess of £600 ... which is way higher than the ProEdge, the belts are not expensive (except the Diamond), and will no way cost more than the savings made, plus the ease of set up and use are a huge plus.
Thanks for your input though, a very valid point to make.
Thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
I have mine 3 yes, yes a game changer, Re metal dust, I took the round magnet from a magnetic tray from Aldi/Lidl and placed it on the base under the bottom of the belt. It collects 95% .
Thanks for the tip Kevin.
Mike, an excellent review. Really more of a tutorial I think. You are very clear in your explanations. I have a CBN / Wolverine system and am mostly pleased but you demonstrated several points on the Sorby that overcome my few objections to the Wolverine. I don't think I am ready to make a change but when and if I ever do the Sorby will be at the top of the list of possibilities. I do think that the adjustment of the table angle could stand a bit of improvement. Perhaps replace the tightening arm with a large knurled knob. Thank you for sharing. One question: Why do you not use the 240 grit belt? Wouldn't that give a bit finer edge?
Thank you Glen, I agree with your idea re the table, but it is a small gripe. The 204 will indeed give a finer edge, but I find the 120 more than adequate for a quick touch up, and the edge from the 120 will last a little longer.
Take care
Mike
Many thanks for this review. I’ve been thinking about the Proedge. I went over to a CBN wheel on my grinder last year and have been pleased with the edge I get. It is fiddly to change the angles. I wondered about this Proedge and whether it would be easier and still give as good results. Many club members use them. Reckon that you’ve sold on the fact that it’s pretty much idiot proof which is what I need being the town clown. Me thinks I’ll need to find some shekels! Thanks again.
I am well impressed with it Graham, much more than I would have expected, hence the CBN set up has been sold.
Like you an idiot proof set up is one of the star features for me too … lol.
Speak soon and take care mate.
Cheers
Mike
Thanks mike what a great info video on the pro edge. I have just ordered mine a few days ago as I have been using the bench grinder which I haven’t been happy using. I have been looking at the pro edge for a while now but like you unsure about its capabilities but after talking to a few people at makers central I thought I would take the plunge. Now I have seen this video i and think I have made the right choice.
Thanks again for the great information.
I assure you it will not disappointed, I would not believed how much more I prefer it to the grinder set up I had.
Thanks for watching
Cheers
Mike
Thank you for a comprehensive and well presented video. However, , have to disagree on the skew chisel. Invariably the motor housing top right protrusion fouls the handle. Laying it flat does does not change the relative position of that boss to the platform . I have had the product for a while and other woddturners have met the same problem and have had to modify their skews to have detachable handles . This is a major challenge and inconvenient for most turners. Im surprised Sorby have not modified the product. If I had my time again, I would go for a slow speed grinder with a cbnwheel and the usual profiling jigs. Similar price, no expense on belts and no problem with skews
I tend to agree with you Ewan, although I do have quick release handles so the issue was not so much of a problem. I have to add that a couple of years ago I went back to CBNs on a slow speed grinder. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Hi Mike, I'm so glad you've done a review on this - I have one already, and have had for a year or so now. Despite loving it I always wondered what the differences would be to the cbn system like the one you had. Anyway, fantastic review and I'm so pleased you are finding it such a benefit! :)
Hi Matt, I have to be honest I am amazed that I prefer it to the CBN set up ... I didn't think I would. Every time I use it I can't help a little smile :)
Take care
Mike
Hi Mike! Convenient sharpening machine!
Thanks Aleksey, it is a great bit of kit.
Cheers
Mike
Mike that was an amazing review thanks for sharing ! i was about to get one of those one day but a friend gift me the Tormek T8 that is also good !!! thanks for sharing !!
Thank you Kostas … as long as you can sharpen your tools … all is good.
we all have different methods to achieve the same end result :)
Take care
Mike
Looks great Mike, I can see you're well satisfied. Am I alone in being impressed with the maual having a colour cover. I thought it was mandatory for all manuals to be photo-copied black and white in lots of languages with English being poorly translated. 😉
It is great Gordon ... the manual surprised me too ... would have been nice in Welsh though ...lol ;)
Take care
Mike
Amazing video thank you. Was unsure whether to buy this system but seeing this video I have no doubt and now know exactly how to use it. Thank you
Thank you Matt .. you won't regret it.
A great review, Mike - helpful and informative and very clear, as always. I love my proedge!
Thanks Stewart, I have now firmly joined the "love my ProEdge" club too :)
See you next weekend mate.
Cheers
Mike
Hello Mike, nice demonstration. Can you tell me where you got that dinky little flexible light from? Best regards.
Thanks John. I got it from IKEA years ago ... actually got six as they were a tenner each back then 🙂
Ikea eh? I'll have a peep there. Thanks. Best regards.@@MikeWaldt
Aside from a lesson from Martin Saban-Smith the ProEdge has had the biggest impact on my turning, it really is an awesome piece of kit!
I totally agree it is a great system Paul.
Cheers
Mike
Great review Mike. I love my pro edge. I us the diamond belt which is amazing
Thanks John, it is really a great system, and what impressed me was the ease of use right out of the box.
Thanks for watching mate.
Cheers
Mike
Great review of a very versatile tool. I'm not much of a wood turner and just use a home made head in my metal lathe. I usually used my grinder for my chisels which again are home made ( and could be harder), I have always found the radius only requires touching very occasionally and is handy for stoning the edge with my little Arkansas stone due to the tiny amount of material needing to be removed and the easy seating on the heel and edge. Is there any need for stoning with thjs device. Thanks Mike.
Thanks David, no real need to hone after touching up on the system, but sometimes I'll hone my skews, and use a diamond card on my scrapers while turning, but then touch up on the system before the next session.
Cheers
Mike
Great video Mike! I have been using the pro edge for years and I refuse to ever use a grinder again.
Thanks Nick, I wish I'd taken the plunge a long time ago … would have saved me a few quid too … lol.
Cheers
Mike
I have had this system for a year now, and I can say it is tops and I rarely use my slow speed CBN wheels now. But it still does not help me with my skew chisel technique ;)
I'm still over the moon with my Pro Edge Scott ... but find the same as you ... the skew is easier to sharpen for sure ... but it still has a mind of it's own on frequent occasions!! ;)
Take care
Mike
Hi Mike, great review, now thinking of selling my Tormek T7 (not everything is great with the hollow grind) and getting one of these. 1 question...when sharpening the skew, could you not have put the guide in upside down to grind the other side of the gouge, this would have negated the need to lower the bed as you would have been going from the same side, or have I got that mental picture wrong...or does it not fit upside down ??
I haven't tried that Graham 🙂
Thanks Mike I have had the pro edge for a while now but never knew how to do a skew 😁👍
Glad to be of service Graham … there's a first then eh … lol ;)
thanks for watching mate, always appreciated.
Cheers
Mike
I have had my Sorby system for over three years and love it.
I did notice a difference in the fingernail grind jig. Maybe the difference is the UK vs the USA.
But it looks like your jig is a better or newer design. What I have is a circular brass plug that registers on the flats of the gouges.. my jig is limited. I can not sharpen my 3/4” bowl gouge.
Also some of my spindle and bowl gouges are getting short. My jig will,not register on the round shank. Also my jig has a collar vs yours is a larger diameter leg.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Regards
Pete
Hi Peter, I too have some short flute gouges due to age and use, I tend to eyeball its position on the bar until I get an even grind both sides. A bit hit and miss I grant you ... but it does work 🙂
Mike Waldt
Thanks for your response. I would also like to know about the difference in the fingernail jig.
Is this a UK jig design or a new And improved a Sorby jig.
Great video , i ve had several systems , this looks great , maybe i would try it
John
Thanks John it is a really great bit of kit, well made, easy to set up and use, and repeatable grinds every time.
Fantastic video on the Pro Edge System, I now and a owner of one.
Thanks Bill glad you found the video useful and thanks for watching.
Another great video Mike, well done, and yes I'm looking at sources here for the Pro Edge because of your video, demonstration and recommendation
Thank you, much appreciated. Let me know what you think when you've sourced one.
Take care and thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
Jon Siegel, who is primarily a spindle specialist recommended belt sharpening a decade or so ago. I'll never go back to a wheel system, after trying sharpening just once with a lowly Harbor Freight 1x30 machine and silicon carbide belts. And for tools that work best without a hollow ground edge, the belt system is superior.
Couldn't agree more, thanks for watching and your input.
Great review Mike. I really enjoy your channel. I am new to turning and I’m thinking about purchasing this machine. I am curious as if you’re still liking and using it. Thanks
Thank you Michael ... yes I am still loving it. Wish I had got it years ago honestly. It's easy to set up, quick and easy to use, and above all accurate repeatability 🙂
thank you , it was a nice and complete review, probably i'm gonna buy Pro Edge
Thank you Alireza much appreciated.
Nice review Mike Glad your loving your ProEdge
Thanks Ed … I am indeed mate, no doubt about it :)
Cheers
Mike
A very helpful and great review for me, thank you Mike. I bought this nice machine at Olivers Woodturning due to your recommendation and I'm quite happy for the fast and reliable service. A happy new year and best wishes from Germany.
Glad your happy with the system Torsten.
The same to you and yours my friend.
Cheers
Mike
Great video Mike, this the second time I have watched it. I got my pro-edge system about a year ago. What do you do when you are trying to set your spindle gouge to the 40° setting length and the flutes are beyond where the brass bar no longer sets on the flutes. Gouge is getting shorter, much use.
Thanks Dan, I alter the jig leg angle and that seems to help, failing that I would eye ball the centre of the bar until it was sharpening evenly on both sides.
Only just found this machine as a sharpening system, I was thinking tormeck, would this be suitable for drawknives?, plane irons?, chisels?
Thanks for any help, regards Darren
Hi Darren, I only use it for turning tools and bench chisels, and have no experience with the other blades you mention. My advice would be to get in touch with Sorby and see what their opinions are. Hope this helps a bit.
Cheers
Mike
@@MikeWaldt thanks Mike I'll do that, great idea
The only really good review and use video for the pro edge! Thank you for your time.
Thank you very much Jon really appreciate you saying that.
Thanks for the great demo Mike. I definitely want one to replace my inadequate home made system. When I'll be able to afford a Sorby system is another matter all together. ☹️
It is a great system T, thanks for watching.
Cheers
Mike
An impressive system and performance mike
Thanks again for watching Ian
Cheers
Mike
Excellent as always thanks Mike. I am currently seriously thinking about getting one of these and this review has really helped thank you. 😊
Thank you Dave you won't regret it I assure you. Thanks for watching.
@@MikeWaldt Well Mike you were absolutely right. I got one and it has made a huge difference to my enjoyment of woodturning. I find it much easier to sharpen my chisels and can do it in a lot less time than before with repeatable angles every time and with the ease of being able to sharpen quickly, it is no problem to just give the chisels a tickle up when needed. I have even taken over our Guild's sharpening duties as they have one too. Thanks so much for the video and helping me decide.
Do you recomend the hooner wheel? Great video ,
They are available for the machine ... but I have never thought it necessary for turning tools ... my opinion obvious 🙂
Hey Mike. I’m having trouble even with doing a standard gouge grind with the V groove. Once I hit the belt I seem to get some sort of vibration because it’s hard to keep the gouge seated in the groove. This leads to an uneven grind. Any recommendations?
I can only say thar maybe you are applying to much pressure to the belt. Gentle is the key, just the weight of the tool is all that is needed.
A very thorough review, Mike. Thanks! See you at MC!
Thank you, look forward to meeting you at Makers :)
Cheers
Mike
A great review very detailed. Im thinking of moving that way myself thanks for your review
It really is a great piece of kit Bernie.
What direction is the belt moving? Is it coming down on the cutting edge of the gauge?
Yes it is.
Question: Why is there an open square slot at the bottom of the lower belt pulley?
You can fit the optional honing wheel on the spindle of the bottom pulls Robert.
How long do the belts last? How many sharpenings can you get on the 120 grit?
They last a good while, I haven't counted the actual amount of sharpenings per belt. A good way to go if budget allows is Diamond Belt, they will last many years Gary. Cheers. Mike.
Hello instead of the proset can you use the tormek setter
I don't know I'm afraid Trev.
Great review Mike, I look forward to purchasing one in the future 👍👍👍👍
Thanks Mark, you really won't regret it.
Cheers
Mike
Mike, a great presentation as usual, to play devils advocate here, this system doesn't do anything different to grinder sharpening, to set one up from scratch is as good as setting up a grinder system. The Tormec stuff, while being very good is also very expensive so this is where the Sorby system is a better set up option. As you point out you replaced your old with the Sorby at little or no cost.
Regards Stephen
Thanks Stephen. I "personally" prefer this system to my grinder system, and I never thought I'd hear myself say that. After selling my old system I am actually well in pocket, but it's not all about cost, it's value for your investment, and I from now on would recommend serious consideration to the ProEdge over a grinder … but as I always say it's down to personal preference.
Thanks also for your regular input and support, both very much appreciated.
Take care
Mike
Fabulous review Mike. Might have to break into the piggy bank for this upgrade, but can't wait to add this to my shop. Regards!
It is a worthwhile investment in my opinion Tony … wish I got one when I started :)
Cheers
Mike
I have a question, what would you recommend for a bowl scraper? I use a sorby heavy duty bowl scraper but it doesnt always give me the finish I think its capable of. I currently just us an 80 degree bevel with no negative rake. Would a 25 degree negative rake and an 80 degree bevel be better or should I do 25/50 or 25/40? Mostly working on hardwood bowls, I find tearout takes a while to shift.
Hi Spence, I have found that experimenting with the negative rake angle is the way to go, as everyone has their own preference. I have my heavy duty scraper at a 30°/30° grind and it works really well for me :)
Cheers
Mike