Hi my first post here. I've got the T4 with diamond stones and the 906 tool kit. loving the experience.
My question is, how do i sharpen a clever, the blade is about 8cm just over 3 inches. Is there another piece of kit i need?
Thanks.
Welcome to the forum, Kev.
Several years ago, the handbook said that knives could only be honed freehand with the T4. Looking critically at my T4, I realized that the problem was caused by the the locking screws of the knife jig, sleeves(the horizontal tubes which hold the support bars and a high spot on the knife jig bumping into the support bar. The easiest way to prevent this is with the Tormek MB-102. In addition to being a Frontal Vertical Base, the MB-102 also allows accurate flat grinding with diamond wheels using the side.
If the knife is too long for the standard US-103 support, the longer US-430 support bar will correct this. For my tests, I was able to both grind and hone (using the knife jig and leather honing wheel) with my T4 and a ten inch chef knife.
I am reluctant to push people into purchasing more jigs and accessories. In your case, since you already have the diamond wheels, I believe the MB-102 will do double duty. Watch the online class covering it. If any of your knives are too long for your support bar, the US-430 will fill the bill and also be a useful second support bar.
Keep us posted.
Ken
Cleavers can be sharpened very well using a small knife rest.
Problem is that at this time you would have to make one yourself, as Tormek still doesn't offer such an item.
Edit: for thicker bladed cleaver a convex edge would be a better option, but you can't make these correctly with a Tormek.
In general i do these by hand on wet & dry paper on glass and/or benchstones.
Thanks for the replies, i've looked at the jigs and saw how they would work. As in other things in life of good quality you have to keep throwing money at them. As i'm learning the 'Tormek system' i've got some ideas that i will make for myself in the future.
Kev,
Yes, it is possible "to keep throwing money at the Tormek system", if you choose to do so. However; that is not the only choice available. Two of the most expensive Tormek items are the 4000 grit SJ wheel and the DBS-22 drill bit jig. The SJ will do a superb job with shelf princess knives and tools. For most working tools, it is overkill. The DBS-22 is Tormek's most advanced jig, capable of more versatility that only a specialist or Tormek junkie needs.
For basic woodworking tools and knives, only a very few basic jigs and the standard issue SG wheel are all that is needed. I have a knife jig from before 1992 which still functions as well as when it was new and a square edge jig made before my T7 in 2009. I have chosen to purchase newer jigs which are easier to use; however, that was my choice, and not a requirement.
Do a computer search for "kenjig instructions". You will find the PDF I wrote describing the kenjig knife setting tool I invented many years ago. While largely eclipsed today, in my opinion, it remains the fastest way to set knives. It is essentially one small piece of plywood. Early versions and "one offs" for things like my vegetable cleaver are quickly made of cardboard.
I have made several small knife platforms and bushings from plastic pipe.
You can choose to throw lots of money at a Tormek system if you wish to. However; many Tormeks approaching fifty years of service are still in use, being powered by electric drills. I consider the Tormek to be a good longterm investment.
Ken
PS If you discover any useful homemade accessories, please sharethem on the forum. Over the years, many useful ideas have begun on the forum.