Precision Knife Sharpening System Issues
Question via “Ask the Expert“
Why doesn’t the diamond four stone field kit come with a holder that is precise. Mine does not cut within 7 degrees one side to the other. This is when viewed on an optical comparator. Maybe your shop needs one.
Edge Expert Response:
Mr. Keiser,
First, let me thank you for your intriguing observation. I assure you we are aware of the issues with Precision Sharpening Systems and agree with your observation regarding the possibilities of variations in degree of sharpening angles from one side of the blade to the other. Please know that this is a product issue related to all Precision Sharpening Kits that use a vise to hold the knife blade. It is not an issue that is unique to Smith’s® Precision Sharpening Kits. We have identified the following causes as some of the possible sources of this problem:
- A high degree of angle on the side of the blade.
- A slight bend in the rod guide.
- Not placing the blade in the vise properly.
As you can see, there are several possibilities for what could be causing the variations. Obviously, if there is an issue with your rod guide, we will replace any defective parts at our cost. All you would need to do is contact our Customer Service department at 800-221-4156 or visit our website, www.smithsedge.com.
Next, let me further elaborate on the other possible causes and provide some insights into the answer to your question. As you know, the end of the vise (or “holder” as you referred to it) that clamps to the spine of the blade is flat. In order to properly secure the knife blade and create a scenario that would provide a precise and consistent degree of sharpening angle on both sides of the knife blade, the portion of the blade that the vise clamps to also has to be flat on both sides. But with all the various shapes, sizes, and designs of knife blades on the market today, the likelihood of this scenario is low. Most knives today are designed with a slight taper down the side of the blade. In other words, the thickness of the blade is not maintained from the spine of the blade down to the beginning of the cutting edge. This can cause a slight degree change in the angle from which you are intending to sharpen. A 20° degree sharpening angle on one side may now become a 22° or 23° angle on that particular side. Then when the blade is switched to the other side, the combined sharpening angle is compounded. This could be the case with the knife you are trying to sharpen. May I suggest you place the knife you are trying to sharpen on your comparator and measure the side angle (if any) of your blade. It might be close to 7° (3.5° on each side).
Another scenario that could cause variations in sharpening angles from one side of the blade to the other is not placing the knife blade in the vise on a flat portion of the blade. If the vise is attached to a portion of the blade that is not flat, the two metal surfaces will not nest properly. As a result, the blade will tend to rotate one way or the other again causing a variation in the degree of sharpening angle for that side of the blade. When the blade is flipped to sharpen the other side, the angle on the unsharpened side is now even more acute; thus, increasing the variation from the angle on the other side. Hence, the importance of attaching the vise to a flat portion of the knife blade.
Generally, the variation in degree of sharpening angle from one side of the blade to the other side (if known) is accepted by the user because of two reasons:
1) the variation is minimal when divided between the two sides, and/or
2) one of the benefits of sharpening with a Precision Sharpening System is “consistency of angle” so even though you are putting a new degree of angle on the edge, you will get the same degree of angle the next time you sharpen it assuming you use the same Precision Sharpening System and attach the blade to the vise in the same location.
With your knowledge of sharpening, I am sure you know “consistency of angle” is one of the keys to obtaining the sharpest edge.
By now, I am sure you are asking yourself, “how does this correct my problem?” Our goal at Smith’s® is to give you the best edge possible for whatever type of edge you are sharpening. Additionally, we are committed to bringing innovation and improved designs to the sharpening category. Our dedicated Product Engineers are constantly identifying product related issues like the one you have observed and developing products that circumvent these issues. We are currently in the design process of producing a new type of Precision Sharpening System that will allow you to match the angle of your knife’s existing edge (if you so choose) on both sides of the blade or adjust the degree of sharpening on both sides to your desired angle, then consistently sharpen the edge at that angle. This new product is set to be released next year and will not only put an end to your issue but also achieve our goal.
I sincerely apologize for any confusion or inconvenience our Diamond Field Precision Sharpening System may have caused, but we are very grateful for your continued support of our products. When the new and improved Precision Sharpening System is available next year, I will notify you via email. Thanks for your inquiry and astute observation.
Product Being Discussed:
Smith’s Diamond Field Precision Knife Sharpening System
Smith’s Diamond Field Precision Sharpening System offers an easy way to sharpen all types of knives…… INCLUDING SERRATED. The kit comes with a Coarse Diamond Stone, Fine Diamond Stone, Fine Arkansas Stone, Medium Triangular shaped Arkansas Stone for serrated edges only, Diamond Retractable Sharpener, and Premium Honing Solution.
Purchase online now for $49.99
