One of the things I find fascinating about the online classes is the way a useful tip in one area can benefit other areas. While demonstrating checking knife sharpness using his thumb nail, Wolfgang casually mentioned also using"an old credit card, which he did not have". As my thumb nails have ridges, the idea intrigued me. In this T2 online class, Johan demonstrates using the lid of the black marker to check knife deburring. I tried it, and am very pleased with the result. Here is a link, starting around 7:00.
https://youtu.be/JFSg_eUYc10?si=zeopFvbvvoiBESZu
While you are watching, Johan shows another good tip at around 5:00. After he has ground both bevels to a burr, he finishes with one very light pass on each bevel to remove most of the bevel.
Ken
Hello Ken,
my favourite method of checking for burrs is the "Q-tip test". Hold the knife with the blade horizontal and the side where the burr is expected to be facing up. Then let a Q-tip glide along the edge. If there is a burr, the Q-tip will be held by the burr (see photo). If there is no burr, the Q-tip will drop. This is also useful for checking for burrs after honing.
Regards, Drilon
Q-Tip_test.jpg
Drilon,
Clever idea! Another example of having a forum.
Ken
Using plastic in the fingers is an excellent method since the tips of our fingers have a lot of nerve endings and are this sensitive to any movement or irregularities. The trick is light pressure. the more gently we hold it the more sensitive that method would be. Holding it too tight will swamp the nerve impulses and dampen any vibration. It is like looking for roughness, very gentle is the trick.
I may have stumbled across this in another forum once upon a time but I use a bright flashlight to check for burrs. This technique works very well and will let you see every blemish.
You could stumble upon the same importance of good light in the handbook.A LED task light is essential and will improve your sharpening.
Ken
I use my Bausch and Lombe loop for edge inspection where above methods indicate a possible burr or other problem.
Quote from: Ken S on December 15, 2024, 11:49:28 AMYou could stumble upon the same importance of good light in the handbook.A LED task light is essential and will improve your sharpening.
Ken
I 100% agree. When I said use a flashlight I shine it from the spine to the apex. If there is any burr, wire edge or fragments they will clearly show up, even when you can't feel them.
Al