I've only taken my knives to be sharpened by two people. One local knifemaker ruined a knife. He couldn't put an edge to save his life. The other George Tichbourne (RIP) did a great job. I ended up teaching myself how to freehand. I can get a decent edge now, but I've definitely messed up a few times. Oh well, I'd rather damage a knife myself than pay someone to do it for me.
I'm confused. Why would someone who is willing to spend $600 on a pocket knife not do their own sharpening? Clearly anyone who spends that kind of money is, shall we say, a blade enthusiast. If you are that into knives, why wouldn't you take the time to learn to do your own sharpening? You can get the equipment to do a really top notch job for a fraction of what that one knife costs, and nobody who owns a $600 custom knife is going to have just one blade.
lancer D It's not like it's hard to get decent sharpening supplies. You can sharpen almost any knife using sandpaper and a home made strop or find a decent (expendable and crappy but I like them anyway) 1000 grit water stone and use corrugated cardboard with black and grey stropping compound to get a near mirror edge. But then again if you're spending the amount of money you might spend on a low level laptop, or pretty decent handgun or hunting rifle on a single pocket knife maybe you only own it for bragging rights.
It depends on the person. For instance, its not that rare to find people who started to get into knives by purchasing a high-end knife. With that said, they might feel better about sending their knife to be serviced (sharpened etc.) through the manufacturer of the said knife, instead of trying to sharpen it them selves (especially if they never sharpened a blade before). As for my self, I use to send my higher end knives to be sharpened. But eventually, I found interest on sharpening blades and started out by sharpening cheaper knives before trying to sharpen my expensive ones. Ever since I got the Triangle Sharpmaker from Spyderco, I am comfortable sharpening any knives (thanks to the easy-to-use process) with great results. But for blades that need to be refined for a new bevel or blades that been chipped, I prefer to service them manually with either diamond rod or stones ( and after get it to where I want, I will up keep the blade with Triangle Sharpmaker). I only have couple knives that I prefer its edge to be more than 20 degrees. And for those I will also sharpen them using stones.
+냄새꾸리꾸리한 발까락 Also, having a blade razor sharp does not equate better cutting performance on all blades. For instance, I can put a razor sharp edge on a thicker blade such as a Tactical, but it wont cut for jack - .
+냄새꾸리꾸리한 발까락 I had the same opinion until I tried other steels. I have a n690co blade that's almost 1/4" thick that slices like my flat ground spydercos. It could be the steel or you may not be sharpening the cutting edge. Have you tried marking the edge with a sharpie? It makes it easier to see your passes.
"and he says Hey what knife you carrying! Let me see it!" and then he goes to town with his belt sander between his legs, just hit him. do not let him touch your knife." hahaha
I made that mistake too.I gave my ka-bar to a guy who was a "professional" knife sharpener to sharpen it. The knife came back duller than before I sent it in. he used power tools and completely ruined it. The grind lines he made are completely un-even, and he accidentally nicked the coating of the blade with his belt sander. It doesn't look like he tried at all.
I'm always practicing my sharpening skills, and a great way I found to get my form down is to sharpen these little junky folding knives the ACE Hardware near me sells for about $2 a piece. They are made by Force or whatever that brand is, and they are pure junk off the shelf. However, given some time, they get a razor edge, and the gut-hook/serrations on the trailing edge also allow me to practice sharpening concave edges. If I mess up, I'm out $2. I don't consider the 2-3 hours of meticulous sharpening a loss, because we learn from our mistakes as much (if not more) as our triumphs. My KA-BAR USMC 7" straight edge fighting knife will need to be sharpened eventually (it holds a heckuva edge), and I intend to be excellent in skill when that time comes. These skills also transition to archery as well, and even fishing (razor sharp hooks are how fishermen can show compassion to the fish they catch and release). Anyway, I enjoyed the video. Stay strong, and stay sharp.
This is the video that made me reluctantly give up my Work Sharp (except for machetes and cheap-o's) and I ended up buying the Edge Pro. I've had it about a month and am not nearly to your level, but my edges shine and last WAY longer. Thanks Rob, really. Still considering sending in one to you so I can see your work.
Absolutely! I have used my Edge Pro to undo a TON of rookie sharpening moves. It is completely worth it. The only thing I can think of better than this is the undisputed Wicked Edge, but that's far in the future for me.
Thanks for the reply, I haven't tried the Work Sharp before :-) I have the KME Sharpener, but something draws me towards the Edge Pro for some reason. A Wicked Edge would be cool too, but that is a little outside my budget right now, lol
I would agree that it isn't the cleanest use of a belt sander and buffer, given the intended use of these knives, if anyone actually used theirs then the damage to the aesthetics of the finish and even to the edge/wear can easily be more than the issues caused by the sharpening. Yes it isn't the greatest sharpening job, but I would be more concerned about the heat used by the belt sander and buffer than any aesthetic issues.
It is an honor which comes with a certain amount of trepidation to see that Cliff Stamp has weighed in with a comment on one of my sharpening videos, I must say. On some level I have dreaded this day, LOL! Every time I think I have sharpening figured out, I hear something you say that makes me feel like an ignorant newbie. But on topic, I knew you would say that if you ever watched this video -- no kidding! I've always admired how you just make any knife cut, with almost total disregard for aesthetics. I must admit, I just can't make myself to that, especially on a knife this expensive. So, I try to make it cut... AND make it look as good as it can... which isn't always such an easy thing to do. I think I did mention the heat issue somewhere in this video, and it is a huge concern for me, which is why I use no power equipment in sharpening. I do make judicious use of a belt sander and Dremel when making certain modifications, but always with cool water nearby and constant attention to steel temp. Thanks for taking the time to watch, Cliff. I admire you very much!
TheApostleP Everyone has their own perspective, without it the world would be a very uninteresting place. I do a lot of sharpening for hillbillies, and I am one, and it shows in my perspective on sharpening which is very utility based. However there was discussion on your sharpening service on my forum awhile ago and I noted if I was to attempt to do what you were doing when you sharpen I don't think I could do it in an hour, it is a very different goal which has a significant aesthetic function. I can build a chair for example but my grandfather was a furniture maker, they are not the same thing at all aside from the fact you can sit in both. Nice video on the Edge Pro Apex (the tips video), I had that system a few years back. You obviously have put a lot of time into getting the most out of it and have an appreciation for detail that not a lot of people have such as the tape on the bench preventing the slow wear from slurry which will eventually force it out of flat.
I just popped over to the forum, of which I'm embarrassed to say I'm not a registered user. I did just register though,so I'll be anxiously awaiting moderator approval. I think some participants in that thread might not be potential customers of mine. LOL! Frankly, it surprises me how much value some folks perceive in what I do. But we have to realize that not everyone who loves knives cares to learn the art of sharpening, and owners of higher-end knives expect a lot from an edge, both functionally and aesthetically. But I understand the point of view of the guys who "poo poo" my service. I'm probably more like them than I am my customers... which is why I'm the guy who sharpens their knives. To take the position that my service is somehow a ridiculous waste of money follows the same logic that says no one should pay $1,000 for a knife when he can learn to make one himself. It was an entertaining thread, but it's frankly a little weird for me to be the subject of something like that :)
TheApostleP Ha, the guys there can be hyper critical. It isn't an openly promoted forum so it is only known to the people who visit it who tend to be a bit of the hyper practical side and there is a bit of a closed-group mentality. However they are all fairly decent if you get to know them and there are all kinds of users there with all kinds of knives.
Rob Does great work, and even though I consider myself a blade enthusiast who does sharpen His own knives, its nice to have Rob start with a clean edge that is easy to sharpen there after, Great Video Rob!
I would have assumed that owning a knife like that you would know how to sharpen your knife on your own...but even still a good example of why to not trust just anyone
+Eric Creache That's like assuming someone who drives a Ferrari is also a mechanic. It was years between starting in the knife hobby and becoming a decent sharpener for me. Now I find that I enjoy sharpening more than adding to my knife collection and it costs a lot less.
Im just saying that when most come to knife collecting they start with kershaws knives like that then start moving up as they appreciate more and more about well made knives. They usually realize its time to start learning about sharpening so you dont ruin your knives..and that was the case with me and my friends not trying to be a dick
Love this video Apostle P!! This is one of the best videos I've seen telling nothing but the truth of the horrible edges those guys do at the gun and knife shows. I love this channel. Between your channel and Soloknifereviews def you guys school the masses. Keep up the excellent work.
I know this is an older video but have been watching the how to sharpen. That was really a good example of a bad sharpening. I've gotten some Arkansas stones recently to help me keep an edge. It's not easy to do like you see in the videos. Lots of practice is needed. I found your channel from Zelrick who recommend watching some sharpening tips.
I almost always read everyone's comments before I throw my 2 cents in, and Toad, Brother, you took the words right out of my mouth. And I got hot under the collar too, as Rob told the story. "Nice SAVE" Rob. You know what else gets me? Surely, this isn't the first knife that "blade terrorist" got his hands on in that shop. And to think ANY shop would harbor such a hack. I'm happy the owner sent it to Rob. Way to go buddy!
I agree power equipment is a horrible way to sharpen. I have a Lansky system. I use 4 different stones and a strop at the end. It takes a lot of the problems away having that system. I always get a consitant edge and is sharp and shiny. I would love to be able to get a richer edge, deeper (like your edges). I usually sharpen my knifes at a 25 degree angle any suggestions? I have a Benchmade Griptilian and ZT0450......
I'm in agreement with most everything u said. I do mirror polishing with my Wicked Edge system for friends and acquaintances as favors, not really charging money. I'm seeing MANY knives ruined by WorkSharps lately. Last week one of my dearest friends handed me a $225 Benchmade that looked just like that poor Hinderer. I do believe those cheesy belt sanders have their place with people that either own cheaper knives that aren't really worth the time it takes to put a precision edge on or the guys that just dont want to spend the time or money to have it done. Guess what i'm saying is i'd rather have a cheap knife with a ganked up edge than a cheap knife with no edge at all
John S you have to know how to use one, you can put a thorough and consultant edge on any knife if you use the 1x18 belt attachment. Work sharp as is not so great........
Nice on showing the before shot in this one as it really helped to tell the story. Just goes to show the miracle that you were able to work here. I've seen the "sharpening" guys you were referring to that sit by there belt sanders at shows trying to call in customers. Reminiscent of barkers at a carnival side show. Their dirty fingers will never touch any of my blades.
Eh. Caring about how a knife looks takes away from its value as a tool. Does it cut well? That's all I want to know. And as cliff said, did the power sharpening cause any edge damage?
I've owned an Edge Pro for eight months now. It might not look like it from watching the UA-cam videos, but using an Edge Pro requires some skill and has a learning curve. I find that I'm still getting better at it. By now, I've sharpened every knife in my house, my sisters' houses, my daughter's house, and some of my friends'. Sharpening knives can be tedious or meditative, depending on your orientation. I can understand why some people might choose to hire an expert. For the amount of time it takes to properly sharpen a good knife, TheApostleP's rates seem reasonable.
There are some people that can use power tools to great effect to sharpen knives and such, but obviously the guy that murdered that edge could not. lol I like sharpening freehand myself and no power tools touch my edges, but that is because I know I don't have the skill or experience needed to do it otherwise. BTW, that was a beautiful edge you put on that Hinderer. Almost makes me want an Edge Pro. ;)
There is a reason I have devices like 2x72 wet compound grinders, a few wicked edge devices, about 2k invested in japanese natural stones and ceramic compound/bonded stones, strops ect. doesn't ruin a knife. And years of training under my belt certainly helps
"Wise Words from a Wise Man" Hi Rob, I guess that blade was in contention for the Dubious Accolade of the Ultimate "Nightmare Grind" If this video serves to save just one more blade from the hacks it's done it's job! Great work my friend! "The expectations of life depend upon diligence; the mechanic that would perfect his work must first sharpen his tools" Confucius Grace and Peace Brother, Lee
There is a guy at my work who says he is a sharpener. Super nice guy, and doesn't charge much. I saw his work on another co-workers spyderco manix2, and It was FUBAR! The tip was ground off and rounded, and the edge was horrible. Needless to say he uses belts, and shouldn't be offering his services. This video really hit a nerve, and I hope more people are warey about who sharpens their knives.
The knife put on that knife originally was probably done with a machine. I agree mostly but variable speed belts with multiple grits can make an edge beautoful followed by stropping afterward.
Automotive paint prep grit (600, 1000) sandpaper and a flat desk. Slow work for sure, but makes a wicked shaving sharp edge (1000 grip for razor sharp); but no mirror finish. Can wrap it around stuff for different grinds.
My xm-18 had the same problem. I emailed hinderer to complain about it and someone from hinderer knives replied and told me that the knife was perfect. I showed him pictures but still he insisted that the knife was perfect. I also complained about the weak detent and still he insisted that the knife was perfect. Now i know what a perfect hinderer knife looks like.
is it sharpened with convex edge, all by hand or was a apex sharpener used, let me in on your secret i am good , been doing it since early eighties but could always learn more
Nice job, looks much better. Had a Buck knife ruined by a gun show sharpener, got mad and learned to freehand because of him. Now I think he actually did me a favor, I have since upgraded the knives I carry but I also enjoy maintaining and sharpening them myself. Enjoyed the video.
Rob, is the spyderco sharp maker a good buy for a novice sharpener like myself? I want to learn to sharpen and these have good reviews. It is also affordable. I would practice on my cheap knives. Thanks again for your videos!
I've gotten an edgepro (fairly recently) and I've been watching far too many of your videos.. Is there a way to contact you more directly than youtube comments?
+Andris Kompelien I actually preferred the aluminum when I was using them. The slight bit of give in the aluminum helped clean up scratches from lower grits, but it also made them prone to digging and tearing. I now use a Shapton Glass 2K grit stone in place of the tapes.
That's an amazing job of fixing and beveling that blade. Was that a Tanto point before the guy with the belt sander got ahold of it? Or did you say Spanto? As in a spear tipped tanto?
I was at a cook out had a guy at a table ask what knife I was carrying. ..pulled it out n handed it to him n he ran my benchmade tanto stryker thru a v notch pull thru piece of shit before I realized what he was doing ....lucky he was a friend's friend in a setting with lots of children!
Do you have any videos you'd recommend for a newb? I just bought a couple of knives, some honing oil, and 3 sharpening stones (will, it's one block with 3 stones on it), and I had the little yellow deal and the accusharp blue/white handle thing, both of which got good reviews on Amazon, but I hear they aren't good and I'm hearing that it's better to have an edge-pro type system because doing it by hand can be very unreliable. Thoughts?
TheApostleP ok, thanks! I've tried sharpening my own knives with no luck. I'll have to look into getting an edge-pro type set-up. Too much variation doing it by hand.
May I suggest Spydercos Triangle Sharpmaker? This product eliminates sharpening angle guessing by having a set degree angle on its platform ( 40 degree ((20 each side)) and 30 degree ((15 each side)) ). Its easy as just stroking the knife against the rods (after you decide which angle you want). The kit also cows with ceramic rods for fine honing purpose.
I was at Ross Cutlery in Los Angeles and the guy there offered to sharpen my knife. They offer a professional service so I said sure. I was still a newb at the time and didnt know that meant he was going to rape my knife. Not only did he put mismatched bevels but he ground off a shitload of material making it thick behind the edge as well as grinding part of the tip down at an uneven angle. My beloved griptilian is now unusable for the most part.
+Daniel Heller wow that's interesting to hear, Ross Cutlery is a small mom and pop store that has decades of experience sharpening blades, and usually services local barbers. You should take it back and explain what happened, I am sure they will make it right.
Brother i enjoyed the video and you brought that blade back the way it should be.The blade steel on mine that i could not think of is duratech 20cv.I went and looked it up after my comment.My you and all have a very blessed day and it is so goodto have GOD fearing people and viewers on you tube Randy.
Do you have any tips for sharpening, i tried on some cheap garbage knives that i bout six of for $5 at a flee market and i practiced on those but i did a pretty crappy job. But they were sharper than when i got them, so any tips for a beginner?
+ANDROID HACKING 101 buy a loupe, it's the most important thing you can have to understand how to sharpen correctly. check my video on how I sharpen my knives, I use wet stones but you'll get the general idea. Went from a worthless blade edge to pretty damn sharp.
i took apart a buck 290 rush and springs went flying and i couldn't get it back together so i sent it to buck and had to pay a $10 warranty reinstatement fee for having disassembled my knife, then without me asking or them asking me, they sharpened my knife and literally ground off 1/3 of the blade. it had a hair popping razor sharp edge on it still when i sent it. i was very upset.
no, the damage was done and if they had done something like replace the blade i would have been more upset because it was one with the idaho date stamp on it which was why i bought it in the first place as i am a proud resident of idaho. also, i have since gifted the knife to a good friend who really loves it and i resharpen it for him when need be.
Some quick advice is needed. I just recently bought a Kershaw that has a re-curved blade. I own a Lansky sharpening system that goes from extra course down to an ultra fine ceramic. Because of the natural re-curve of the blade, will I be able to use this system to sharpen it? If so, do you have any pointers or advice to do it right?
Mike Jones You certainly can use the Lansky system to sharpen recurve blades. The trick is to ride the corners of your stones while in the recurve area, so you're only making contact where you want to make contact, and not creating any low spots where you don't want them or missing the apex of the recurve. Hope that makes sense...
TheApostleP Yes, that makes complete sense, and I probably would've never thought of that. Thanks a lot for the reply. I'll give it a go, and come back if I need some more help. Cheers mate
I'm having a hard time getting my spanto fatty sharp at the transition. I got it to 20 degrees per side because I don't want a huge looking edge on it and it slices nice before the spanto but it begins to tear a bit once I get there. Is this the best I can expect to get it at 20 degrees with no micro bevel?
Dr Fear & Co. Hard to say on that one. That spanto transition is very thick, especially on the Fatty. It is possible that the wedge profile is actually forcing the paper to tear before the edge has a chance to cut it.
On the heel of the knife where extra material needed to be removed to be even with the rest of the knife, how did you remove that to get to get it all even?
ive allways been into knife sharpening, depinding on what im doing with the edge i have a 70 grit stone for knives i receive that have a horribly damaged edge and i slowly work my way up from that to 6000 grit then strop it at the same angle with 100,000 grit Dimond paste
I never said it was me. I was making a statement about knife sharpeners that use belt grinders, Rob was kind of slamming them there. I have only sharpened two Hinderer knifes and on both of those I used my edge pro, needed to mask off the blade so I did not scratch it any. I do own a ZT 0560, I use my Worksharp belt grinder on it all the time, same with my Strider SMF, I bought them for hard use and that is what they get. I have to admit, I did grind my ZT 0560 thumb studs a bit! That is why on expensive customer knifes I take my time and use the stones. Both my Strider and 0560 have a 17 degree bevel, 6000 grit mirror polish. But like Rob said, if a customer brings me a high end knife, I will usually stray away from power equipment, but there are just some knifes I need my Worksharp belt grinder, have you ever reprofiled Elmax, S90V, M390? Using my Edge Pro, with a 120 grit stone it takes 30 minutes or more to raise a burr! But the edge pro is always symmetric and consistent. With the belt grinder and NO beer, it is still easy to cause permanent damage. I have not messed up my SMF, probably because there is about an inch from the handle to the cutting edge!, but if a customer brought me one, it would be done on my edge pro.
i almost had that experience at a show with a guy claiming a hand v drag thru will sharpen any bevel even serrated guy gave their knives and they were happy. if i had a knife on me i did not care about i would do it but not the spyderco sage one, i love that knife
they are illegal in my country.. we are not allowed to own spring loaded knives. (or butterfly knives) ps: that knife seems polished after sharpening.. did he really do that? powertool polishing?
wanted to say that u do an excellent job sharpening knives. ive watched ur videos and admire the way u review the knives that u do. i have practiced sharpening since i was a kid and have always been the type of guy that wants my own edge on my knife, whether it turns out good or bad, ill learn from my mistakes. but in the end i want absolute perfection and nothing less. that being said, i think there are very few that can sharpen knives on a belt sander and do it right, without burning, destroying the tip, removing too much metal, but it can be done. takes years of practice and determination but not impossible. i totally agree that no one should ever hand their knife to some guy with a belt sander and buffing wheel. way too easy to make mistakes no matter how good they are, once the metal is gone its gone. i would never sharpen anyone elses knife that way but my own.
this happened to me here in utah.. brought my swamp rat to a guy with a home based sharpening business. he was talking my language with convex edge for this particular knife.. worst excuse for a convex I've ever seen.. edge was twice as obtuse and uneven. when I contacted him he said it was extra hard to sharpen due to cheap steel..lol ...like Jerry Busse's legendary sr101 is cheap.. pretty sad..
I like to use a buffing wheel sometimes. With cheap knives I will put them on my edge pro up to maybe 600 grit or less, then just buff the shit out of the edge on a wheel with white rouge. It produces a very smooth thick edge sort of like a factory edge. On my more expensive blades I will take my time and do a full mirror polish. Some people are very good with grinders just all depends.
I'm really sorry about your knife. It's a shame what that person did to a great knife like that. I recently just got into knives and I do my best to sharpen my knives with care always feeling and knowing what I'm doing to make sure that I'm doing an efficient job not taking off a lot of steel on the blade. Again, I'm sorry about the blade. At least the blade is fixable though. I hope all ends well though.
I need some advise please :) at some point, I will get an Edge Pro or a Wicked Edge but I just haven't been able to through the money down on one just yet. But I was give a WorkSharp Knife and Tool Sharpener (Belt Sharpener). Is that going to destroy my blades over time. I only use is for my knives that need re-profiled and my larger fixed blades..........any thoughts. (For everything else I use the Spyderco Sharpmaker) any advise would be great :) Be safe and God bless brother :)
I've never used a Worksharp, but from what I've seen and studied, it does pretty well for what it is, which is a low speed belt sander with an angle guide. This will produce a semi-precise angle, about like a Sharpmaker, and might be a good tool for roughing out a reprofiled edge, assuming you can get to the desired angle. I wouldn't use one, personally, but for axes, mower blades and inexpensive working knives, I can see how it would be helpful.
basically........Upgrade to something higher quality and more precise ASAP lol thank you for the advise, its very helpful. And thank yo for all the videos, you do a great job and thank you. God bless you and your family
I'm that guy with the belt sander that charges 5 bucks. I have never ruined a knife, i certainly have never removed 25% of one, the edges are symmetrical and mirror polished. I made $580.00 dollars on Saturday doing kitchen knifes, Over half was repeat business, word of mouth new customers. I have customers with Microtech, Benchmade, ZT, I take my time on those, use my edge pro, 5 stones up to 1200, mirror edge, I am not an elitist that thinks if it's not a Hinderer, CRK, or a 940, then it's below me. for a 10" fixed blade I don't need to have a discussion with the customer, I sharpen it. Me and my belt sander just reprofiled 2 rather expensive Shun chef's knifes that had been used to cut bones, 1/4 inch chunks missing. Me and my belt sander made them look new, customer could not believe it, We made 80 bucks for under an hour's work.
Dont completely dismiss the a belt sander though. I sharpen all my knives and customer knives with a belt sander with results on par with a wicked edge. Granted I have a variable speed 2x72 and considerable practice at freehanding edges. Your average joe schmoe will completely ruin a knife on a belt grinder, but someone who makes knives for a living is without much skill if they cant make a nice clean edge that whittles hair with a belt sander. I started freehanding with dmt stones then moved to the grinder and will never look back. Its all about technique, belt selection, belt tension, and a whole lot of empty mind. Best of all it takes less than 5 minutes
vdub5818 I use a belt only for grinding in a new edge on a knife I'm making from scratch or axes and cleavers with very thick blade stock and totally destroyed edges with heavy chipping and a flat plane where the edge should be. That said, my belt is pretty slow and runs over a flat bed, so I can do a flat grind and not just convexed. I also do all the finishing and polishing by hand once a rough edge is achieved on the sander. So my two cents are that belt sanders aren't the devil, but they are very situational and limited in how they should be applied.
c +lancer D yea and thats what I was getting at about my grinder specifically. Its a 3 phase motor driven by a vfd so it makes it a dream for really fine work. Most of the time I use the portion just behind the top wheel on my flat platen and have the belt tension really high. So its just barely convexed almost to where you ant tell it is. Or on the flat platen if I want a true flat faced edge. Or hell my 10" wheel if I were so inclined lol Every now and then I still break out the dmt stones and freehand a blade or two. But most of my sharpening is done post some sort of blade refinishing and freehanding can take some time to get a keen edge after tumbling for example. So thats why I love the grinder. Makes my life so much simpler and gives me more time to do way more important things than sharpening.
+SuperScalemaster When you buy a 250 dollar knife sharpener, it gives you a false sense of thinking you are a 250 dollar knife sharpener. Just my two cents, I've met a lot of people with expensive knife sharpeners that think they are the best knife sharpeners out there. A pro sharpener with three 30 dollar whetstones and a strop will do much better then an beginner with a 250 to 800 dollar sharpener.
That knife is a little over priced in my opinion. I just got a Benchmade Contego made of CPM M4 steel for $169.99 and it's built tough as nails with a great fit and finish. The ZT has a stronger lock up I'm sure but I don't think it's worth all that. Especially the $500-700 range even if it's a limited run. That's in the custom spectrum of pricing, just my opinion. It's a nice knife though.
$500-$700 is if buying from a dealer or secondary market. From Hinderer they are $385. Also, this is a thicker knife, a frame lock, and Titanium. Oh and it's a Hinderer, not a ZT.
I sharpen knives for $5. I do it all by hand and I leave a perfect mirror polished edge on the knife capable of whitling hair whether it costs $5 of $500. Take pride in your work.
it looks like the knife was made to have what i forgot what it was called "maybe stone tumbled blade that chris reeves did this so if you get a scratch it wont show easy. i stopped sandpaper with my knives i use nainwa ans shapton stones but i use your sand paper method to bring back a nice satin blade face
what always makes me cringe are the guys selling all the different knife sharpening gadgets at the shows. Last time I encountered one I asked to see his knife after he had sharpened it and finished his tomato cutting demo. The edge was unbelievably jacked it only cut because it was effectively a serrated edge once he was done.
Spencer Stagg I saw one recently who was selling paper wheels to mount on a bench grinder. He offered to let me test his work and it was... an acceptable working edge. It wasn't a mirror polish and it pulled at my arm hairs, but it did shave them after a couple of passes, so it was almost there. When I told him that I usually get mine sharper than that by hand I could see him start to get a little pissed until I added that it would take a lot longer than the minute or so that it took him to do the job.
You did a fine jod on that knife given what you had which was an embarrassing terrible edge. Like you I my edge pro for all my knives from a $30 ontario rat and tenacious to $500-$650 customs ans oay just as much attention to every knife. Like Cliff mentioned thecworst thing about grinder sharpening is usually it buikds up to much hest and burns the heat trest so you're left with an ugly, unfunctional edge that will have decreased wear resistance. I remember last gun show I went tomtherecwas a gug with a homemade jig on a grinder and someone in front of me handed him his newly bought sebenza, I cringed. I looked over as his $10 job took 5 minutes and I guess it was kinda sharp but he never once quenched the blade. He looked at me and asked,"want me to do your knife next buddy?". I pulled out my mirror polished m390 military, took a piece if his phonebook paper and made a pushcut against the grain and said, "Nah, I think im good".
koda Smith if you click the link that pops up at about the 2 minute mark if any of my vids, that video will spell it all out. Also, you can email me at rob.bixby65@yahoo.com. Thanks!
I've only taken my knives to be sharpened by two people. One local knifemaker ruined a knife. He couldn't put an edge to save his life. The other George Tichbourne (RIP) did a great job.
I ended up teaching myself how to freehand. I can get a decent edge now, but I've definitely messed up a few times. Oh well, I'd rather damage a knife myself than pay someone to do it for me.
Man, the edges you put on knives are a thing of beauty.
I'm confused. Why would someone who is willing to spend $600 on a pocket knife not do their own sharpening? Clearly anyone who spends that kind of money is, shall we say, a blade enthusiast. If you are that into knives, why wouldn't you take the time to learn to do your own sharpening? You can get the equipment to do a really top notch job for a fraction of what that one knife costs, and nobody who owns a $600 custom knife is going to have just one blade.
lancer D It's not like it's hard to get decent sharpening supplies. You can sharpen almost any knife using sandpaper and a home made strop or find a decent (expendable and crappy but I like them anyway) 1000 grit water stone and use corrugated cardboard with black and grey stropping compound to get a near mirror edge. But then again if you're spending the amount of money you might spend on a low level laptop, or pretty decent handgun or hunting rifle on a single pocket knife maybe you only own it for bragging rights.
It depends on the person. For instance, its not that rare to find people who started to get into knives by purchasing a high-end knife. With that said, they might feel better about sending their knife to be serviced (sharpened etc.) through the manufacturer of the said knife, instead of trying to sharpen it them selves (especially if they never sharpened a blade before).
As for my self, I use to send my higher end knives to be sharpened. But eventually, I found interest on sharpening blades and started out by sharpening cheaper knives before trying to sharpen my expensive ones. Ever since I got the Triangle Sharpmaker from Spyderco, I am comfortable sharpening any knives (thanks to the easy-to-use process) with great results. But for blades that need to be refined for a new bevel or blades that been chipped, I prefer to service them manually with either diamond rod or stones ( and after get it to where I want, I will up keep the blade with Triangle Sharpmaker). I only have couple knives that I prefer its edge to be more than 20 degrees. And for those I will also sharpen them using stones.
+냄새꾸리꾸리한 발까락
Also, having a blade razor sharp does not equate better cutting performance on all blades. For instance, I can put a razor sharp edge on a thicker blade such as a Tactical, but it wont cut for jack - .
+냄새꾸리꾸리한 발까락 I had the same opinion until I tried other steels. I have a n690co blade that's almost 1/4" thick that slices like my flat ground spydercos. It could be the steel or you may not be sharpening the cutting edge. Have you tried marking the edge with a sharpie? It makes it easier to see your passes.
if I had a 600 dollar knife, i'd sure as hell want it sharpened by an expert who knows a hell of a lot more than I do.
A little piece of me died when I first saw that edge. :(
So glad you were able to save it. Nicely done sir! Sure wish it'd flip though. ;-)
"and he says Hey what knife you carrying! Let me see it!" and then he goes to town with his belt sander between his legs, just hit him. do not let him touch your knife."
hahaha
I made that mistake too.I gave my ka-bar to a guy who was a "professional" knife sharpener to sharpen it. The knife came back duller than before I sent it in. he used power tools and completely ruined it. The grind lines he made are completely un-even, and he accidentally nicked the coating of the blade with his belt sander. It doesn't look like he tried at all.
I'm always practicing my sharpening skills, and a great way I found to get my form down is to sharpen these little junky folding knives the ACE Hardware near me sells for about $2 a piece. They are made by Force or whatever that brand is, and they are pure junk off the shelf. However, given some time, they get a razor edge, and the gut-hook/serrations on the trailing edge also allow me to practice sharpening concave edges. If I mess up, I'm out $2. I don't consider the 2-3 hours of meticulous sharpening a loss, because we learn from our mistakes as much (if not more) as our triumphs. My KA-BAR USMC 7" straight edge fighting knife will need to be sharpened eventually (it holds a heckuva edge), and I intend to be excellent in skill when that time comes. These skills also transition to archery as well, and even fishing (razor sharp hooks are how fishermen can show compassion to the fish they catch and release).
Anyway, I enjoyed the video.
Stay strong, and stay sharp.
"What did that knife ever do to you?" -It cut me
It sure damn did, many times.
FpsArts / Gh0st
My knife puts a smile on my face
TEXASBLAZE 101 "Let's put a smile on that face :)"
This is the video that made me reluctantly give up my Work Sharp (except for machetes and cheap-o's) and I ended up buying the Edge Pro. I've had it about a month and am not nearly to your level, but my edges shine and last WAY longer. Thanks Rob, really. Still considering sending in one to you so I can see your work.
+MidnightSundowns Do you like the way straight V-edges cut compared to the convex ones you get on the Work Sharp?
Absolutely! I have used my Edge Pro to undo a TON of rookie sharpening moves. It is completely worth it. The only thing I can think of better than this is the undisputed Wicked Edge, but that's far in the future for me.
Thanks for the reply, I haven't tried the Work Sharp before :-) I have the KME Sharpener, but something draws me towards the Edge Pro for some reason. A Wicked Edge would be cool too, but that is a little outside my budget right now, lol
Do it man, take the plunge and you'll never look back.
What was your problem with the work sharp?
I would agree that it isn't the cleanest use of a belt sander and buffer, given the intended use of these knives, if anyone actually used theirs then the damage to the aesthetics of the finish and even to the edge/wear can easily be more than the issues caused by the sharpening. Yes it isn't the greatest sharpening job, but I would be more concerned about the heat used by the belt sander and buffer than any aesthetic issues.
It is an honor which comes with a certain amount of trepidation to see that Cliff Stamp has weighed in with a comment on one of my sharpening videos, I must say. On some level I have dreaded this day, LOL! Every time I think I have sharpening figured out, I hear something you say that makes me feel like an ignorant newbie. But on topic, I knew you would say that if you ever watched this video -- no kidding! I've always admired how you just make any knife cut, with almost total disregard for aesthetics. I must admit, I just can't make myself to that, especially on a knife this expensive. So, I try to make it cut... AND make it look as good as it can... which isn't always such an easy thing to do. I think I did mention the heat issue somewhere in this video, and it is a huge concern for me, which is why I use no power equipment in sharpening. I do make judicious use of a belt sander and Dremel when making certain modifications, but always with cool water nearby and constant attention to steel temp. Thanks for taking the time to watch, Cliff. I admire you very much!
TheApostleP Everyone has their own perspective, without it the world would be a very uninteresting place. I do a lot of sharpening for hillbillies, and I am one, and it shows in my perspective on sharpening which is very utility based.
However there was discussion on your sharpening service on my forum awhile ago and I noted if I was to attempt to do what you were doing when you sharpen I don't think I could do it in an hour, it is a very different goal which has a significant aesthetic function.
I can build a chair for example but my grandfather was a furniture maker, they are not the same thing at all aside from the fact you can sit in both.
Nice video on the Edge Pro Apex (the tips video), I had that system a few years back. You obviously have put a lot of time into getting the most out of it and have an appreciation for detail that not a lot of people have such as the tape on the bench preventing the slow wear from slurry which will eventually force it out of flat.
Thanks so much, Cliff. I really appreciate the kind words -- it means a lot!
I just popped over to the forum, of which I'm embarrassed to say I'm not a registered user. I did just register though,so I'll be anxiously awaiting moderator approval. I think some participants in that thread might not be potential customers of mine. LOL! Frankly, it surprises me how much value some folks perceive in what I do. But we have to realize that not everyone who loves knives cares to learn the art of sharpening, and owners of higher-end knives expect a lot from an edge, both functionally and aesthetically. But I understand the point of view of the guys who "poo poo" my service. I'm probably more like them than I am my customers... which is why I'm the guy who sharpens their knives. To take the position that my service is somehow a ridiculous waste of money follows the same logic that says no one should pay $1,000 for a knife when he can learn to make one himself. It was an entertaining thread, but it's frankly a little weird for me to be the subject of something like that :)
TheApostleP Ha, the guys there can be hyper critical. It isn't an openly promoted forum so it is only known to the people who visit it who tend to be a bit of the hyper practical side and there is a bit of a closed-group mentality. However they are all fairly decent if you get to know them and there are all kinds of users there with all kinds of knives.
Rob Does great work, and even though I consider myself a blade enthusiast who does sharpen His own knives, its nice to have Rob start with a clean edge that is easy to sharpen there after, Great Video Rob!
I would have assumed that owning a knife like that you would know how to sharpen your knife on your own...but even still a good example of why to not trust just anyone
+Eric Creache That's like assuming someone who drives a Ferrari is also a mechanic. It was years between starting in the knife hobby and becoming a decent sharpener for me. Now I find that I enjoy sharpening more than adding to my knife collection and it costs a lot less.
Im just saying that when most come to knife collecting they start with kershaws knives like that then start moving up as they appreciate more and more about well made knives. They usually realize its time to start learning about sharpening so you dont ruin your knives..and that was the case with me and my friends not trying to be a dick
Real talk. Nice of you to give some shout-outs to other sharpeners too.
Love this video Apostle P!! This is one of the best videos I've seen telling nothing but the truth of the horrible edges those guys do at the gun and knife shows. I love this channel. Between your channel and Soloknifereviews def you guys school the masses. Keep up the excellent work.
+Michael Myers Thanks, Michael! I appreciate the encouragement!
Rob, I can't wait to see how you sharpened my new magnacut 940🙏🏼
thanks again. you have been a great hands on teacher your passion for knives and their care. you make us better knife owners and enjoy them more
I know this is an older video but have been watching the how to sharpen. That was really a good example of a bad sharpening. I've gotten some Arkansas stones recently to help me keep an edge. It's not easy to do like you see in the videos. Lots of practice is needed. I found your channel from Zelrick who recommend watching some sharpening tips.
I almost always read everyone's comments before I throw my 2 cents in, and Toad, Brother, you took the words right out of my mouth. And I got hot under the collar too, as Rob told the story. "Nice SAVE" Rob. You know what else gets me? Surely, this isn't the first knife that "blade terrorist" got his hands on in that shop. And to think ANY shop would harbor such a hack. I'm happy the owner sent it to Rob. Way to go buddy!
I agree power equipment is a horrible way to sharpen. I have a Lansky system. I use 4 different stones and a strop at the end. It takes a lot of the problems away having that system. I always get a consitant edge and is sharp and shiny. I would love to be able to get a richer edge, deeper (like your edges). I usually sharpen my knifes at a 25 degree angle any suggestions? I have a Benchmade Griptilian and ZT0450......
I'm in agreement with most everything u said. I do mirror polishing with my Wicked Edge system for friends and acquaintances as favors, not really charging money. I'm seeing MANY knives ruined by WorkSharps lately. Last week one of my dearest friends handed me a $225 Benchmade that looked just like that poor Hinderer. I do believe those cheesy belt sanders have their place with people that either own cheaper knives that aren't really worth the time it takes to put a precision edge on or the guys that just dont want to spend the time or money to have it done. Guess what i'm saying is i'd rather have a cheap knife with a ganked up edge than a cheap knife with no edge at all
John S you have to know how to use one, you can put a thorough and consultant edge on any knife if you use the 1x18 belt attachment. Work sharp as is not so great........
Nice on showing the before shot in this one as it really helped to tell the story. Just goes to show the miracle that you were able to work here. I've seen the "sharpening" guys you were referring to that sit by there belt sanders at shows trying to call in customers. Reminiscent of barkers at a carnival side show. Their dirty fingers will never touch any of my blades.
Eh. Caring about how a knife looks takes away from its value as a tool. Does it cut well? That's all I want to know. And as cliff said, did the power sharpening cause any edge damage?
That secondary bevel looks a little steep. It might cause drag cutting through thick media. Did you micro bevel the edge to help fix that?
I've owned an Edge Pro for eight months now. It might not look like it from watching the UA-cam videos, but using an Edge Pro requires some skill and has a learning curve. I find that I'm still getting better at it. By now, I've sharpened every knife in my house, my sisters' houses, my daughter's house, and some of my friends'. Sharpening knives can be tedious or meditative, depending on your orientation. I can understand why some people might choose to hire an expert. For the amount of time it takes to properly sharpen a good knife, TheApostleP's rates seem reasonable.
There are some people that can use power tools to great effect to sharpen knives and such, but obviously the guy that murdered that edge could not. lol I like sharpening freehand myself and no power tools touch my edges, but that is because I know I don't have the skill or experience needed to do it otherwise. BTW, that was a beautiful edge you put on that Hinderer. Almost makes me want an Edge Pro. ;)
There is a reason I have devices like 2x72 wet compound grinders, a few wicked edge devices, about 2k invested in japanese natural stones and ceramic compound/bonded stones, strops ect. doesn't ruin a knife. And years of training under my belt certainly helps
"Wise Words from a Wise Man"
Hi Rob,
I guess that blade was in contention for the Dubious Accolade of the Ultimate "Nightmare Grind"
If this video serves to save just one more blade from the hacks it's done it's job!
Great work my friend!
"The expectations of life depend upon diligence; the mechanic that would perfect his work must first sharpen his tools"
Confucius
Grace and Peace Brother,
Lee
Thanks, Lee. It was pretty gratifying to see this one turn out so well. I wasn't very optimistic to start with.
There is a guy at my work who says he is a sharpener. Super nice guy, and doesn't charge much. I saw his work on another co-workers spyderco manix2, and It was FUBAR! The tip was ground off and rounded, and the edge was horrible. Needless to say he uses belts, and shouldn't be offering his services. This video really hit a nerve, and I hope more people are warey about who sharpens their knives.
The knife put on that knife originally was probably done with a machine. I agree mostly but variable speed belts with multiple grits can make an edge beautoful followed by stropping afterward.
Automotive paint prep grit (600, 1000) sandpaper and a flat desk. Slow work for sure, but makes a wicked shaving sharp edge (1000 grip for razor sharp); but no mirror finish. Can wrap it around stuff for different grinds.
This looks like a job from the Fort Wayne area
My xm-18 had the same problem. I emailed hinderer to complain about it and someone from hinderer knives replied and told me that the knife was perfect. I showed him pictures but still he insisted that the knife was perfect. I also complained about the weak detent and still he insisted that the knife was perfect. Now i know what a perfect hinderer knife looks like.
is it sharpened with convex edge, all by hand or was a apex sharpener used, let me in on your secret i am good , been doing it since early eighties but could always learn more
Now that was worth seeing the finished edge!!
Nice job, looks much better. Had a Buck knife ruined by a gun show sharpener, got mad and learned to freehand because of him. Now I think he actually did me a favor, I have since upgraded the knives I carry but I also enjoy maintaining and sharpening them myself. Enjoyed the video.
What do you think about the Spyderco Triangle Sharpmaker? I got a zt0566, that didnt come that sharp.
Rob, is the spyderco sharp maker a good buy for a novice sharpener like myself? I want to learn to sharpen and these have good reviews. It is also affordable. I would practice on my cheap knives. Thanks again for your videos!
***** That's a great place to start!
I've gotten an edgepro (fairly recently) and I've been watching far too many of your videos..
Is there a way to contact you more directly than youtube comments?
I don't know if you still use the polishing tapes Rob, but do you prefer the aluminium or glass blanks for them?
+Andris Kompelien I actually preferred the aluminum when I was using them. The slight bit of give in the aluminum helped clean up scratches from lower grits, but it also made them prone to digging and tearing. I now use a Shapton Glass 2K grit stone in place of the tapes.
+TheApostleP Oh, that's interesting, I hadn't thought the aluminium blanks had that effect. Thanks for the reply! :-)
Worst thing about those belt sander guys is that they use something as coarse as 220 grit to start with.
I love the look of the eighteen degree bevel
can you strop a knife on the newspaper?
i got stainless steel knife, but dont know the metal type
That's an amazing job of fixing and beveling that blade. Was that a Tanto point before the guy with the belt sander got ahold of it? Or did you say Spanto? As in a spear tipped tanto?
believe it It's a standard Hinderer "Spanto."
I was at a cook out had a guy at a table ask what knife I was carrying. ..pulled it out n handed it to him n he ran my benchmade tanto stryker thru a v notch pull thru piece of shit before I realized what he was doing ....lucky he was a friend's friend in a setting with lots of children!
Ian mauk chucks of metal
Ian mauk oh my god o.O
Maybe I'm the only one that feels this way but I just think it's crazy that anyone would spend that much on a knife
There's a right way to sharpen a knife and a wrong way. However there are multiple ways of achieving it.
Do you have any videos you'd recommend for a newb?
I just bought a couple of knives, some honing oil, and 3 sharpening stones (will, it's one block with 3 stones on it), and I had the little yellow deal and the accusharp blue/white handle thing, both of which got good reviews on Amazon, but I hear they aren't good and I'm hearing that it's better to have an edge-pro type system because doing it by hand can be very unreliable.
Thoughts?
+Roman Fox Check out the Knife How To Videos playlist on my channel page. It might give you some useful information.
TheApostleP ok, thanks!
I've tried sharpening my own knives with no luck.
I'll have to look into getting an edge-pro type set-up.
Too much variation doing it by hand.
May I suggest Spydercos Triangle Sharpmaker? This product eliminates sharpening angle guessing by having a set degree angle on its platform ( 40 degree ((20 each side)) and 30 degree ((15 each side)) ). Its easy as just stroking the knife against the rods (after you decide which angle you want). The kit also cows with ceramic rods for fine honing purpose.
Have you ever made a video on how to maintain an edge between major sharpenings?
Very nice repair buddy. That edge was aweful.
This is an awesome video, but I cant help but thinking... "How did I find my way into this weird part of youtube again?"
Because you maybe also like unusual knives like me? :D
You're a light c:
+GravitiBoy late reply, but this knife isn't unusual
Halo Content It isnt? Oh well, for me it will always be an unusual knife aslong as its not looking like a bread-knife :D
I was at Ross Cutlery in Los Angeles and the guy there offered to sharpen my knife. They offer a professional service so I said sure. I was still a newb at the time and didnt know that meant he was going to rape my knife. Not only did he put mismatched bevels but he ground off a shitload of material making it thick behind the edge as well as grinding part of the tip down at an uneven angle. My beloved griptilian is now unusable for the most part.
+Daniel Heller wow that's interesting to hear, Ross Cutlery is a small mom and pop store that has decades of experience sharpening blades, and usually services local barbers. You should take it back and explain what happened, I am sure they will make it right.
Cali_Knife Guy I've bought knives from them too and there is always just something slightly wrong. I can list them if you want.
O. M. G.!!!
Good job there, as always!
How did you fix that if you could
Brother i enjoyed the video and you brought that blade back the way it should be.The blade steel on mine that i could not think of is duratech 20cv.I went and looked it up after my comment.My you and all have a very blessed day and it is so goodto have GOD fearing people and viewers on you tube Randy.
Amen, brother! That 20CV is pretty tough stuff. You should be able to thump on it for years and years :)
the thousands of gun shops i walk into.....never seen a knife sharpener
but good points never the less
omg...what a world of difference. good job man!
Thats some crazy kill right there , how did you get that convex out ?
Do you have any tips for sharpening, i tried on some cheap garbage knives that i bout six of for $5 at a flee market and i practiced on those but i did a pretty crappy job. But they were sharper than when i got them, so any tips for a beginner?
+ANDROID HACKING 101 don't apply too much pressure.
+ANDROID HACKING 101 buy a loupe, it's the most important thing you can have to understand how to sharpen correctly. check my video on how I sharpen my knives, I use wet stones but you'll get the general idea. Went from a worthless blade edge to pretty damn sharp.
how much do you charge for a knife
Love my wicked edge hate it when knives come in like that always tell them if they need to be taught how to sharpen themselves ill teach them
Great vid Rob. Do you know of anyone (personally) in the UK who is able to do work to your standards?
i took apart a buck 290 rush and springs went flying and i couldn't get it back together so i sent it to buck and had to pay a $10 warranty reinstatement fee for having disassembled my knife, then without me asking or them asking me, they sharpened my knife and literally ground off 1/3 of the blade. it had a hair popping razor sharp edge on it still when i sent it. i was very upset.
Have you tried to contact them
no, the damage was done and if they had done something like replace the blade i would have been more upset because it was one with the idaho date stamp on it which was why i bought it in the first place as i am a proud resident of idaho. also, i have since gifted the knife to a good friend who really loves it and i resharpen it for him when need be.
Some quick advice is needed. I just recently bought a Kershaw that has a re-curved blade. I own a Lansky sharpening system that goes from extra course down to an ultra fine ceramic. Because of the natural re-curve of the blade, will I be able to use this system to sharpen it? If so, do you have any pointers or advice to do it right?
Mike Jones You certainly can use the Lansky system to sharpen recurve blades. The trick is to ride the corners of your stones while in the recurve area, so you're only making contact where you want to make contact, and not creating any low spots where you don't want them or missing the apex of the recurve. Hope that makes sense...
TheApostleP Yes, that makes complete sense, and I probably would've never thought of that. Thanks a lot for the reply. I'll give it a go, and come back if I need some more help. Cheers mate
Mike Jones Lansky also makes stones that are rounded that work great for recurve blades.
Really? Can you get it off their website?
Ahhh yep I see. Just went to their site. Cheers mate!
I'm having a hard time getting my spanto fatty sharp at the transition. I got it to 20 degrees per side because I don't want a huge looking edge on it and it slices nice before the spanto but it begins to tear a bit once I get there. Is this the best I can expect to get it at 20 degrees with no micro bevel?
Dr Fear & Co. Hard to say on that one. That spanto transition is very thick, especially on the Fatty. It is possible that the wedge profile is actually forcing the paper to tear before the edge has a chance to cut it.
How do I send a knife to you to be sharpened? I have a few I would like worked on.
On the heel of the knife where extra material needed to be removed to be even with the rest of the knife, how did you remove that to get to get it all even?
Tom Speirs Just with a sharpening stone and elbow grease... extra passes in that area.
+TheApostleP did you just use the 400 grit on the edge pro?
ive allways been into knife sharpening, depinding on what im doing with the edge i have a 70 grit stone for knives i receive that have a horribly damaged edge and i slowly work my way up from that to 6000 grit then strop it at the same angle with 100,000 grit Dimond paste
I never said it was me. I was making a statement about knife sharpeners that use belt grinders, Rob was kind of slamming them there. I have only sharpened two Hinderer knifes and on both of those I used my edge pro, needed to mask off the blade so I did not scratch it any. I do own a ZT 0560, I use my Worksharp belt grinder on it all the time, same with my Strider SMF, I bought them for hard use and that is what they get. I have to admit, I did grind my ZT 0560 thumb studs a bit! That is why on expensive customer knifes I take my time and use the stones. Both my Strider and 0560 have a 17 degree bevel, 6000 grit mirror polish. But like Rob said, if a customer brings me a high end knife, I will usually stray away from power equipment, but there are just some knifes I need my Worksharp belt grinder, have you ever reprofiled Elmax, S90V, M390? Using my Edge Pro, with a 120 grit stone it takes 30 minutes or more to raise a burr! But the edge pro is always symmetric and consistent. With the belt grinder and NO beer, it is still easy to cause permanent damage. I have not messed up my SMF, probably because there is about an inch from the handle to the cutting edge!, but if a customer brought me one, it would be done on my edge pro.
i almost had that experience at a show with a guy claiming a hand v drag thru will sharpen any bevel even serrated guy gave their knives and they were happy. if i had a knife on me i did not care about i would do it but not the spyderco sage one, i love that knife
they are illegal in my country..
we are not allowed to own spring loaded knives. (or butterfly knives)
ps: that knife seems polished after sharpening.. did he really do that? powertool polishing?
Very high grit sharpening stone.
It isn't spring loaded, fully manual. Also he does his own polishing without power tools, just using stones on a guided system
wanted to say that u do an excellent job sharpening knives. ive watched ur videos and admire the way u review the knives that u do. i have practiced sharpening since i was a kid and have always been the type of guy that wants my own edge on my knife, whether it turns out good or bad, ill learn from my mistakes. but in the end i want absolute perfection and nothing less. that being said, i think there are very few that can sharpen knives on a belt sander and do it right, without burning, destroying the tip, removing too much metal, but it can be done. takes years of practice and determination but not impossible. i totally agree that no one should ever hand their knife to some guy with a belt sander and buffing wheel. way too easy to make mistakes no matter how good they are, once the metal is gone its gone. i would never sharpen anyone elses knife that way but my own.
this happened to me here in utah.. brought my swamp rat to a guy with a home based sharpening business. he was talking my language with convex edge for this particular knife.. worst excuse for a convex I've ever seen.. edge was twice as obtuse and uneven. when I contacted him he said it was extra hard to sharpen due to cheap steel..lol ...like Jerry Busse's legendary sr101 is cheap.. pretty sad..
Risen from the ashes, indeed!
Nice work, Rob! 8D
I like to use a buffing wheel sometimes. With cheap knives I will put them on my edge pro up to maybe 600 grit or less, then just buff the shit out of the edge on a wheel with white rouge. It produces a very smooth thick edge sort of like a factory edge. On my more expensive blades I will take my time and do a full mirror polish. Some people are very good with grinders just all depends.
I'm really sorry about your knife. It's a shame what that person did to a great knife like that. I recently just got into knives and I do my best to sharpen my knives with care always feeling and knowing what I'm doing to make sure that I'm doing an efficient job not taking off a lot of steel on the blade. Again, I'm sorry about the blade. At least the blade is fixable though. I hope all ends well though.
Do you sharpen serrated knifes?
Amazing job. Looks great
Hey ApostleP, I'm wanting the mirror finish on two of my knives one is a kershaw blur s30v and a spyderco native 5 s35vn any recommendations?
+gojo197zero Send 'em on in! I'll be happy to oblige ;)
just curious how much and does it matter they are factory sharpened to a stupid sharp?
What are your thoughts on worksharp
I need some advise please :) at some point, I will get an Edge Pro or a Wicked Edge but I just haven't been able to through the money down on one just yet. But I was give a WorkSharp Knife and Tool Sharpener (Belt Sharpener). Is that going to destroy my blades over time. I only use is for my knives that need re-profiled and my larger fixed blades..........any thoughts. (For everything else I use the Spyderco Sharpmaker) any advise would be great :) Be safe and God bless brother :)
I've never used a Worksharp, but from what I've seen and studied, it does pretty well for what it is, which is a low speed belt sander with an angle guide. This will produce a semi-precise angle, about like a Sharpmaker, and might be a good tool for roughing out a reprofiled edge, assuming you can get to the desired angle. I wouldn't use one, personally, but for axes, mower blades and inexpensive working knives, I can see how it would be helpful.
basically........Upgrade to something higher quality and more precise ASAP lol thank you for the advise, its very helpful. And thank yo for all the videos, you do a great job and thank you. God bless you and your family
Thanks, Luke! May He bless you and yours as well :)
I'm that guy with the belt sander that charges 5 bucks. I have never ruined a knife, i certainly have never removed 25% of one, the edges are symmetrical and mirror polished. I made $580.00 dollars on Saturday doing kitchen knifes, Over half was repeat business, word of mouth new customers. I have customers with Microtech, Benchmade, ZT, I take my time on those, use my edge pro, 5 stones up to 1200, mirror edge, I am not an elitist that thinks if it's not a Hinderer, CRK, or a 940, then it's below me. for a 10" fixed blade I don't need to have a discussion with the customer, I sharpen it. Me and my belt sander just reprofiled 2 rather expensive Shun chef's knifes that had been used to cut bones, 1/4 inch chunks missing. Me and my belt sander made them look new, customer could not believe it, We made 80 bucks for under an hour's work.
Jay Culley Present company excluded, of course ;)
+Jay Culley you... I like you.
+Jay Culley So if it was you who sharpened this Hinderer, what excuse do you have for the awful result?
Not me!
Jay Culley
Why did you say that it WAS you then?
I don't trust myself sharpening my good stuff, but the China knives I'll experiment on.
Do you have a video on how to do touch ups on sharpened knives?
Just strop it with a fine compound
Dont completely dismiss the a belt sander though. I sharpen all my knives and customer knives with a belt sander with results on par with a wicked edge. Granted I have a variable speed 2x72 and considerable practice at freehanding edges. Your average joe schmoe will completely ruin a knife on a belt grinder, but someone who makes knives for a living is without much skill if they cant make a nice clean edge that whittles hair with a belt sander. I started freehanding with dmt stones then moved to the grinder and will never look back.
Its all about technique, belt selection, belt tension, and a whole lot of empty mind. Best of all it takes less than 5 minutes
vdub5818 I use a belt only for grinding in a new edge on a knife I'm making from scratch or axes and cleavers with very thick blade stock and totally destroyed edges with heavy chipping and a flat plane where the edge should be. That said, my belt is pretty slow and runs over a flat bed, so I can do a flat grind and not just convexed. I also do all the finishing and polishing by hand once a rough edge is achieved on the sander. So my two cents are that belt sanders aren't the devil, but they are very situational and limited in how they should be applied.
c +lancer D yea and thats what I was getting at about my grinder specifically. Its a 3 phase motor driven by a vfd so it makes it a dream for really fine work. Most of the time I use the portion just behind the top wheel on my flat platen and have the belt tension really high. So its just barely convexed almost to where you ant tell it is. Or on the flat platen if I want a true flat faced edge. Or hell my 10" wheel if I were so inclined lol
Every now and then I still break out the dmt stones and freehand a blade or two. But most of my sharpening is done post some sort of blade refinishing and freehanding can take some time to get a keen edge after tumbling for example. So thats why I love the grinder. Makes my life so much simpler and gives me more time to do way more important things than sharpening.
Great great great warning. You did that knife right in the end.
When you buy a 5 dollar knifesharpener ,you end up with a 5 dollar knife.
+SuperScalemaster When you buy a 250 dollar knife sharpener, it gives you a false sense of thinking you are a 250 dollar knife sharpener. Just my two cents, I've met a lot of people with expensive knife sharpeners that think they are the best knife sharpeners out there. A pro sharpener with three 30 dollar whetstones and a strop will do much better then an beginner with a 250 to 800 dollar sharpener.
my edc is a Gerber E-Z Out Jr. and i have butchered the edge over the years. still "sharp" but deserves better after being with my mom during OIF
Who would take a knife that expensive and high-end to a something as abusive as a BELT SANDER. That's even worse that than just taking carbide to it.
How do i find your shipping info?
If you go to my video "TheApostleP Sharpening Service..." all my shipping, contact and pricing info is in the description.
wow thats expensive. does look good with a polished edge though.
That knife is a little over priced in my opinion. I just got a Benchmade Contego made of CPM M4 steel for $169.99 and it's built tough as nails with a great fit and finish. The ZT has a stronger lock up I'm sure but I don't think it's worth all that. Especially the $500-700 range even if it's a limited run. That's in the custom spectrum of pricing, just my opinion. It's a nice knife though.
$500-$700 is if buying from a dealer or secondary market. From Hinderer they are $385. Also, this is a thicker knife, a frame lock, and Titanium. Oh and it's a Hinderer, not a ZT.
I sharpen knives for $5. I do it all by hand and I leave a perfect mirror polished edge on the knife capable of whitling hair whether it costs $5 of $500. Take pride in your work.
+Robert Briggs know where I can find a guy in my area?
+Roman Fox Probably not.. I mainly just keep to myself and chat with other local knife sharpeners.
Thanks for the advice dude 👍👍
Wow that was a terrible sharpening job. good job on saving it. master sharpener!
it looks like the knife was made to have what i forgot what it was called "maybe stone tumbled blade that chris reeves did this so if you get a scratch it wont show easy. i stopped sandpaper with my knives i use nainwa ans shapton stones but i use your sand paper method to bring back a nice satin blade face
what always makes me cringe are the guys selling all the different knife sharpening gadgets at the shows. Last time I encountered one I asked to see his knife after he had sharpened it and finished his tomato cutting demo. The edge was unbelievably jacked it only cut because it was effectively a serrated edge once he was done.
Spencer Stagg I saw one recently who was selling paper wheels to mount on a bench grinder. He offered to let me test his work and it was... an acceptable working edge. It wasn't a mirror polish and it pulled at my arm hairs, but it did shave them after a couple of passes, so it was almost there. When I told him that I usually get mine sharper than that by hand I could see him start to get a little pissed until I added that it would take a lot longer than the minute or so that it took him to do the job.
You did a fine jod on that knife given what you had which was an embarrassing terrible edge. Like you I my edge pro for all my knives from a $30 ontario rat and tenacious to $500-$650 customs ans oay just as much attention to every knife. Like Cliff mentioned thecworst thing about grinder sharpening is usually it buikds up to much hest and burns the heat trest so you're left with an ugly, unfunctional edge that will have decreased wear resistance. I remember last gun show I went tomtherecwas a gug with a homemade jig on a grinder and someone in front of me handed him his newly bought sebenza, I cringed. I looked over as his $10 job took 5 minutes and I guess it was kinda sharp but he never once quenched the blade. He looked at me and asked,"want me to do your knife next buddy?". I pulled out my mirror polished m390 military, took a piece if his phonebook paper and made a pushcut against the grain and said, "Nah, I think im good".
Did you end up fixing it?
Did you end up watching the video?
I'm getting better with a wet stone and steel because I hate paying someone to do something I learn
can I send a few knives to you? where do I go to get it sharpened
koda Smith if you click the link that pops up at about the 2 minute mark if any of my vids, that video will spell it all out. Also, you can email me at rob.bixby65@yahoo.com. Thanks!
TheApostleP thanks so much I'll send through some photos just waiting on a few more knives to come in