I came across an interesting video where the author 3D printed a knife and 3D media holder to make a DIY BESS tester. He bought test media clips from BESS and a $13 digital scale. The only downside is that his scale does not retain highest reading. I think for around double the price you can find a scale that holds the highest reading. He also provides the printer files. He uses an electric knife sharpener for demonstrating which is funny if he is going for a low reading. I may go to the library and have the pieces printed. Here is the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PF_WTo-uLvg&t=360s
Yup. That all the BESS is. A general guide. Indeed IMHO the BESS is over priced and over rated.
It is nice to have if you are making YouTube videos. Another use is if you are going after ultimate sharpness for some reason it gives you an idea of how various techniques work. Our library has a nice 3D printer and the clips for testing are only $21 a bag.
Quote from: John_B on March 07, 2026, 06:45:18 PMIt is nice to have if you are making YouTube videos.
Ha ha - too true.
Quote from: John_B on March 07, 2026, 06:45:18 PMAnother use is if you are going after ultimate sharpness for some reason it gives you an idea of how various techniques work.
Absolutely agree. And well done.