All About Pocket Knives

I need to learn how to properly sharpen my knives. I hate a dull blade (no I'm talking knives not politicians). I have a small sharpener with diamond chips, but I'm not getting good results. Is there a thread on here that covers this?

Thanks, guys.

For sharpening challenged individuals like myself, the Lansky system works well. This issue is covered frequently and you will get a ton of advice. This is mine. It's all about a consistant angle.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KW64B0MZVOE[/youtube]

Welcome to AAPK Jack!
I can give you a quick tutorial on how I sharpen my knives.I find this method works best for me.
I use a Smith's Micro Tool Sharpening Pad.They come in different grits(the yellow is for coarse sharpening and the red is for finer finishing).I prefer the red one.
Take the knife to be sharpened and lay the blade on the tool.Slowly raise the back(spine)of the blade;keeping the edge on the tool until you don't see any gap between the edge and the tool.With a little practice you will be able to feel when the blade reaches this point.Bring the back up just slightly more and you are now in the proper position.With medium pressure on the knife drag it slowly across the stone as if you were taking a small slice of material from the tool;all the while keeping the edge parallel to the tool.
Flip the blade over and repeat the process on the other side.Take it slowly at first and concentrate on keeping the same angle all the way across the stone.Repeat this several times and then examine the edge.You should see a consistent area across the edge where the tool has been.
On sharpening blades that already have a good edge usually only a few strokes are required to return the edge to razor sharpness.On blades that have been nicked or have flat spots in them,more strokes are required.I usually examine the edge visually by looking straight down on it in a good light.That will show up any flat spots in the edge.Another way is to lay the edge on your fingernail(be careful not to contact skin!)and slowly run it across.Any flat spots will be found by the slight dragging on the blade.
A good thing to do with the diamond stones is to wash them periodically in warm water and dishwashing liquid;scrubbing them gently with a sponge to remove any metal particles and drying them with a paper towel.
Hope this helps.

Hi Jack,
The topic of sharpening is one often discussed here on AAPK.
We have a search feature that is very helpful in finding topics and information.

Rather than set down and write s dissertation on knife sharpening I have pulled up a few topics that have discussed different aspects of sharpening, some in great depth.
Click on each of the links below for discussions on sharpening.
Have fun reading & Welcome to AAPK!

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... sharpening

Holy shnikie!! too much info for my little brain. I will try to digest it all and apprise you of the results. I guess I need to go buy some stuff. Thanks for your help.

Jack Reacher to AAPK. Do you have a toothbrush in your pocket?

edgy46 wrote:Jack Reacher to AAPK. Do you have a toothbrush in your pocket?

Yes I do and it reaches ALL the way back. (Hey you asked)

Quick question. There is a Chat Room with an auction that will not let me in. Is there a double secret probation password that I need?