absolutely MISERABLE time sharpening

[LkWinnipesaukee]

I need some help. I have an aluminum oxide stone, and am trying to sharpen my cheap SW knife. The only way I can get that 'burr' on the edge is by going in circular motions on the stone. Then I do it on the other side so theres no more burr. Then I repeat a few times on the finer grit. However, its not close to that 'shave hair off the arm' sharpness. I've tried to sharpen it at the smalest angle possible, but ended up scratching the rest of the blade:banghead: Any suggestions?

Also, the stone gets really smooth (clogged??) after about 15 min of sharpening. Anyy suggestions on restoring it, other than sandpaper?



Thanks :banghead:

 

[Valkman]

If you want to keep using the stone then I recommend the FAQ at the top of the page, and using a marker on the edge to tel where you're hitting the stone. But I'd just get a Spyderco Sharpmaker and not worry about it.

 

[stdlrf11]

I have had nothing but problems with cheap S&W knives. Most manucacturers have higher quality knives at the same price range. I like CRKT and Kershaw.

I'd save some heart-ache and buy a sharpening system like the Lansky or Spyderco systems. I can't use a stone worth anything, but my Smith diamond "lansky rip-off" works wonders.

Just my $.02

Hope this helps,
stdlrf11

 

[LkWinnipesaukee]

Thanks guys. Any good etailers you recommend I can get one?
Anyway I've been sitting here playing around with it. Then I really scratched the blade, completely ruining it. So I sharpened the tip as good as I can and now its a sweet paper cutter

back on topic, what is the problem with the cheaper knives that they wont sharpen? Maybe it's me. Not sure. I have another thread about a sailing knife. I'm going to be getting of those shortly. I'll make sure its a fairly high quality one.

Thanks


edit: I did read the thread at the top of the page.

And sorry for the grammar/spelling mistakes in my 1st post. Didnt bother to check

 

[hso]

Steel's too soft in cheap knives. The edge just rolls over and when you flip to the other side you end up moving too much much material too fast and your burr is gone and you've removed more blade than you wanted.

 

[mrmeval]

It can be sharpened and the edge cleaned up. Use a belt sander with 400 - 600 grit for shape and then use a buffing compound for final polish and sharpening. The buffing compound should be able to remove the scratches if not too bad.

http://www99.epinions.com/Shop_Tool_Accessories-Craftsman_7_pc_Buffing_Pad_and_Compound_Kit_29807

 

[Valkman]

http://bestknives.stores.yahoo.net/spydtriansha.html

http://www.thebladeshop.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=370

http://www.knife-depot.com/knife-12797.html

I agree it'll probably sharpen up, as I have an old S&W folder on my bench and I sharpen it up on the Sharpmaker no problem. It may not STAY sharp for long.

 

[Third_Rail]

I know someone who swears by S&W knives. Myself, I like Benchmade, Schrade, etc.

I use Arkansas stones to sharpen with, don't really know how to describe it. I've sharpened knives thousands of times, kitchen knives, pocket knives, etc. Friends, family, everyone who knows me and knows that I can sharpen knives asks now and then. Lost art, I suppose.

 

[22-rimfire]

I sometimes use the Crock sticks. These are ceramic rods that you sharpen knives with. The work very well. You still have to pay attention to your sharpening angle, but it is pretty easy. Various folks make them.

You are starting to see more Chinese steel being used in knives these days. At least for now, their steel is terrible for blades. Japanese steel is good. When choosing a knife, I look to see where it was made if it is a factory knife. I have bought cheap Frost's imported from China, but I knew what they were before buying them. They make cheap first knife for kids. Get the better knife later.

Not sure who makes the S&W knives these days; perhaps United.

 

[Tom Krein]

Here is another vote for the sharpmaker.

If you really want to learn how to sharpen on a stone give me a call and I would be more than happy to talk with you. It can be done with some pointers. I am in the shop Tuesday-Friday...1-479-736-3444

One thing to consider is your stone. You don't mention size or grit. A larger stone is easier to learn on! 2 X 8 is a good place to start. I would recommend a good india stone from norton. Maybe one of the ones with two grits to save some money.

You should be able to sharpen any knife no matter how poor the steel is. It may not hold and edge, but you should be able to get it sharp! I believe A.G. Russell used to sharpen a tin can lid to shaving sharp in his demonstrations.

A consistant angle is the key to sharpening!

Tom

 

[LkWinnipesaukee]

Thanks for the info guys.

What do you think of the Furi Diamond FIngers?


I guess its either that or the sharpmaker.


Thanks!

 

[Fosbery]

If your S&W needs sharpening, you need a new knife. Since they need sharpening out of the box, just don't buy them

Spydercos and Bokers arn't exactly expensive in the States, pick one up.

 

[LkWinnipesaukee]

^^

no no, I have other knives. I just got an SOG Seal Pup that I would like to sharpen with something other than a stone. I guess the SW is just a toy now


Thanks