Vadim Kraichuk

[Steven]

I agree with you.

A few years ago I bought his book and it is indeed an incredible resource.

Thank you for your help and above all, happy sharpening.

[Steven]

Hello, a few days ago I bought the angle calculators that Vadim sells on his website and that are still available. I'm not able to open the software—my computer tells me to contact the owner of the application, which, as you can imagine, is impossible. I was wondering if any of you are still using his calculator, and if so, how do you get it to work? Thanks in advance.

[Ken S]

Steven,

I suggest you contact paypal and request a refund. Vadim passed away in January of 2022. I am surprised that a transaction went through on the Knifegrinders website.

There are several programs available. Also, take a look at the new Tormek KS-123 knife setting jig. Using it, no program is necessary.

Ken

[Steven]

Excellent, thank you very much. I'll try to get the software working, and if I manage to, I'll let you know. It seems that Vadim had developed a formula that takes into account the metal removed during sharpening in order to adjust the angle for stropping. It's a small improvement, but one that seems interesting to optimize the BESS score.

Have a great week, and thanks again for your response.

[Ken S]

Having a full beard for the last thirty plus years, I have no practical use for BESS 50 edges. BESS 100 range is more than good enough for my requirements.

Experience and attention to good technique will gradually bring down your BESS numbers. For the record, I am a long time believer in BESS, when used in a practical way.

Keepus posted.

Ken

[John_B]

Stephen, the software will no longer work on IOS devices. The software allowed you to set your desired sharpening angle and another for stropping based on the type of steel you are sharpening. I now use the KS-123 for sharpening and stropping with outstanding results. When going for more sharpness I do a second strop on another Tormek wheel with 1µ diamond spray.

[Ken S]

I noticed in several of Vadim's videos that his Projection was often (usually?) 140mm. If you usually use a bevel angle of 15°, or whatever you prefer, the diameter of the leather honing wheel does not change. Therefore, for any knife with 140mm Projection and whatever your preferred bevel is, the distance from the support barto the leather wheel will remain constant. Marking your first knife with the black marker and making a gage block will keep your distance constant. A simple cardboard gage will get you started at no cost. Mark it with your Projection and bevel angle.

Vadim's too early demise was most unfortunate. I believe hehad many more innovations inside of him.

Ken