Messages

Nick,

I like your Premium Knife Sharpening Edition idea.

As an old woodworker who only sharpened chisels and plane irons, I agree with your idea that knives were somewhat of an afterthought, as long as the word "somewhat" is included. After all, the original Tormek idea was a Christmas present from Torgny to his father, who was a woodworker.

I also think it is fair to say that the blue "woodworking machines" are evolving greatly for knife sharpening, especially with the new KS-123 and KJ-45.

Ken

Nick,

Goodidea! I have long advocated getting to know a good local machinist. I would change that recommendation to include getting to know a good 3D printer or developing 3D design or printing skills. I believe the 3D printing benefits for Tormek sharpeners are only limited by our imaginations.

I would point out one possible constraint in your design. The out of round shape of the bore is a patented design held by Tormek called Torlock. I don't believe making a platform for your personal use would be problematic; however, anyone wanting to manufacture them for sale would face breach of patent legal action. Using a round hole would circumvent this issue, although with reduced holding power.

Ken

I agree. Anyone doing serious kitchen knife sharpening should not place a
US-430 too far in the future. I was active in the user movement to revive the out of production US-400 (essentially an extended support without the extension of the side legs).Tormek agreed to produce a limited number of US-400s, which quickly sold out. Tormek eventually included the US-430 as part of the line. Even today, while the US-103 and 105 are included with every Tormek, the US-430  remains a small production item. I believe this is the reason for the large price difference.

Ken

Fredrik,
If you are working in a limited space, the "maybe in the future" argument seems logical. The standard US-103 support can handle knives with blades up to 200mm
(8 inches).

Ken

The difference is to adjust to the difference in wheel thicknesses. The US-105 is designed for the 50mm thickness of the SG-250 and other 250mm diameter wheels. The US-103 is specifically designed for the 40mm thickness of the SG-200 and other T4 wheels. Many years ago, we had a forum post by a member whose chisel was falling off the edge of his support bar. He was using the shorter US-103 with the thicker SG-250 wheel.

I agree with TGB about the onger US-430 support bar. It is a must for knives longer than eight inches.

Ken

https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/?Amount=50&From=USD&To=AUD


I live in the US and know very little about marketing in Australia. However, I have seen numerous examples of excessive pricing in the US by Internet "dealers". The ads often claimed to offer a "discount" from inflated "list" prices. The ads often claim "free shipping"

When I want an accurate price in the US, I always check Hartville Hardware and Sharpening Supplies. I know and trust both of these establishments. I suggest you look around and compare. Check the Tormek website for Australian resellers. You will want to establish a long term customer relationship based on trust and good service. We have numerous Australian members on this forum. Use their experience and wisdom.


Ken

Per,

I look foreard to seeing your upcoming ideas! It was a pleasure meeting you in Sweden. The combination of a sharpener and an industrial engineer/inventor is a much valued part of this forum!

Ken

The new KS-123 jig is impressive. I predict that it will soon become the preferred method of knife setting. However, like most of the improved Tormek jigs and accessories, there are some cases where the present tools and techniques may be better suited. I will not be discarding my modified SVM-45s and kenjigs. Nor will I be deleting Calcapp. They are still as useful as they always were, even if in many cases the KS-123 is more useful.

Ken

Sebastien and Hugo, well done class!

Ken

I enjoy Ukulele Jay's videos. In this video, he demonstrates how he skillfully uses his T1. His technique is not idetical to Tormek's. It is close and it is effective.

https://youtu.be/CRoeRtjUymE?si=Kx0ZHCgb_8lFcvs5

Enjoy.

Ken

Hugo,

Thanks for posting the notice about the KS-123 Online Class. I am definitely looking forward to it, as are many forum members. The KS-123 is long anticipated.

Some of the members are unsure if tomorrow's class will be part of Tormek's youtube channel. Some reassurance from you would be most appreciated.

Ken

PS I enjoyed meeting you last summer.

I suspect any CBN wheel can be used wet, preferably with aan anti corrosion agent such as Hone Rite Gold or Tormek ACC. One of the CBN vendors I emailed several years ago insisted that his wheels must be used dry or the warranty was voided. I thought the numerous warranty claims he received were from careless users who left their wheels soaking. I do not believe there would be any problem if the wheels were left to dry when not being used.

I agree with you. I would not use CBN wheels dry. I use mine wet with Hone Rite Gold. If you can not get Hone Rite Gold in Australia, use Tormek ACC.

Ken

Any idea of price point?

$50 in US (per Tormek Inc)
Ken

Dutchman,

If there would ever be a Tormek Forum Hall of Fame, you certainly deserve to be a key member. Your tables made all that followed possible. I am pleased that Håkan chose you to test the prototype jig. No one understands knife angle setting better than you.

For the record, I do not believe Håkan lost interest in the project. When Håkan announced his desire for early retirement, Samuel, the new CEO, very wisely offered him a part time position as a technical consutant focusing on new roduct deveopment. Håkan has a wealth of knowledge and experience.

One of the high points of my visit to Tormek was being included in a meeting of the Design Committee. The committee included three Tormek employees: Tim, who I had not known before; Håkan, with whom I had shared emails; and Mats, the head of support. I suspect Mats can do any job in the shop. He has helped me innumerable times.

I was one of two guests at the meeting. The other guest was Per Ericson (Perra on the forum), a retired Swedish Industrial Engineer, who had independently designed a jig similar to the KS-123. Per is very personable, experienced, and smart. He fit right in with the group. I felt very honored to be included, like having the chance to discuss the early church with the apostles.

Ken

Over the years, I have seen improvements in most of the Tormek jigs.  i saw a prototype version of the new KS123 demonstrated when I visited Tormek last summer. This new jig is not just an improved Anglemaster; it is an entirely new concept which will change the way we set knife bevel angles.

I highly recommend that all knife sharpeners watch this class. I found the jig easy to use AFTER just a little good instruction.

Ken