It is generally known that you should not press hard when honing. But when I use Tormek leather wheel without the jig, it is effective to press it strong enough. What about your thoughts?
I very rarely use a jig on the leather wheel. I don't feel that I press very hard. More than the weight of the blade. Less than I use for grinding.
Lately, I have been experimenting with hold the knife level and then moving the whole tool down the circumference of the wheel. Kind of like using a paper wheel (I think. I've never used a paper wheel. But that is where I got the idea on to try this.). This also allows me to polish the back of the bevel. So far, I like it, it feels like I have more control. I've only really done it with chisels at this point, my mind may change after doing some long chef knives, though.
I use light pressure.
Quote from: brettgrant99 on November 08, 2017, 03:43:15 PM
I very rarely use a jig on the leather wheel. I don't feel that I press very hard. More than the weight of the blade. Less than I use for grinding.
Lately, I have been experimenting with hold the knife level and then moving the whole tool down the circumference of the wheel. Kind of like using a paper wheel (I think. I've never used a paper wheel. But that is where I got the idea on to try this.). This also allows me to polish the back of the bevel. So far, I like it, it feels like I have more control. I've only really done it with chisels at this point, my mind may change after doing some long chef knives, though.
I do something similar to this... not necessarily holding the knife level, but moving the knife along the circumference till I feel (and hear) when I'm making contact with the edge. Especially on the smaller T-4 wheel, where the knife has to be manipulated to maneuver it. I think it's a good technique.
I would approach this by using two or three of my sharpening chisels, honing them with different pressures and visually comparing them. The large bevels will tell the story.
I know you knife people prefer to use knives with smaller bevels. :) Visually comparing the bevels and some test cuts will tell the tale. For those reluctant to use chisels, I do recommend purchasing at least two identical knives of reasonable quality for learning purposes.
Ken
Ken's post made me think of a key difference in how the honing wheel may be used (and therefore, a difference in pressure). I don't polish with the honing wheel... I just use it to debur and clean up the edge, which is why I prefer light pressure, and only a few passes (usually just one or two per side) to do this.