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My custom has become watching all of the online classes multiple times. I absorb more knowledge with each viewing, even with classes covering tools I do not sharpen. There is value in cross training.

For some reason that I don't remember, I must have neglected the multiple watching of this episode. I must have watched it live, as I submitted a question which was answered. This episode has the best comparative coverage about the six grinding wheels of any of the episodes. I am glad I watched it again today and would highly recommend it to all of you. The use of the microscope to compare the edges is especially informative. Here is a link:

 https://www.youtube.com/live/Gg4R9jxtKfI?si=jBYZUx0r8It5TSpv

Ken

One of our most frequently posted questions is, "Should I get a T4 or a T8?" Those of youwho have read my posts over theyears may remember that I have long been an advocate for the T4. Recently I have become much more likely to recommend the T8. Neither machine has changed over the years. What changed my mind was a strong feeling was that the person asking the question really wanted encouragement to purchase the T8. While he might raise the lower cost of the T4, the final cost difference is negligible. Buy the model you want. And, if you have your heart set on the Black Edition, just buy it.

No, I am not trying to upsale anyone. The typical user who sharpens knives and woodworking tools will be very well served with the T4. The fifty year warranty with the Black Edition sounds like bragging rights, and it is a limited edition.
I expect my T4 and regular T8 to last as long. Tormek has now added the three diamond wheels in 200 mm.

You won't go wrong with a T4 or either of the T8 models.

Ken

Although I would have preferred a Tormek version, Ihave had good success using an eight inch 46 or 80 grit Norton 3X wheel. Adapting them to fit a Tormek takes a little fiddling, however, this can be done in a home workshop. A strong point with these wheels is cost. These wheels cost around $70US, and one is enough.

Ken

Good question. However, a better question would have two parts. Would a standard issue T8 improve your sharpening over a T4? And, would a Black Edition T8 improve your sharpening over a standard T8?

Comparing machine to machine, all T8s are identical. Except for the warranty, there is nothing in the Black Edition to extend its longevity.

Please ignore the old "thirty minute duty" myth. This was a regularity issuehaving nothing to do with real world performance.

Tormek now carries the full grit range of diamond wheels in both sizes.

If having a limited edition model would please you, by all means purchase the Black Edition. Don't buy it for any sharpening improvement. The choice is yours.

Ken

Point well taken.

Ken

Welcome to the forum, Thinc. Here is a link to the part you need. I suspect most dealers would need to order it. I would suggest emailing Tormek support. You may get quicker service directly from Tormek (support@tormek.se)

For reference, the thread is M6, as are most Tormek screws. (I just checked it with mine.)If you decide to pick up a local replacement, just take the angle setting part to your local hardware store. Tormek Inc, Tormek's US subsidary, told me the part number starts with "R" for replacement. (Now we both know. 

Here is the link:

https://www.sharpeningsupplies.com/search?q=r1185

Ken


https://www.sharpeningsupplies.com/search?q=r1185

There is plenty of room on the forum for new ideas. Dutchman saw an opportunity for making bevel angles and posted his grinding angles tables. Herman designed his homemade small platform. Every serious knife sharpener should have one.

Let's  keep the good ideas coming!

Ken

John,

I wish I could go with you; it should be an enjoyable day, either way. I hope you will get a good chance to chat with John and Darren. Please be sure to give them my best wishes.

At the hotel breakfast the first day in Sweden, I shared a frustration with them. With some of the unboxing videos, the transportation spacer was considered a throw away item. I have made several. with a piece of plastic pipe and a drill press, it's not a big deal. I have always thought many Tormek users would prefer just to purchase a spacer instead of trying to cobble one together. I suggested it woul be a nice service to their customers if they carried them. Shortly thereafter, I noticed them listed in the spare parts. High marks for customer service! I ordered one and they emailed me to inform me that there would be no charge. In my book, that's a class act!

Please post your open house thoughts!

Ken

Why so quiet? I don't have the answer, although some possibilities come to mind.

We now have a greater variety of learning methods. Our old stalwart, the handbook, is still a contender. Mine is much read and underlined. When I purchased my first Tormek in 2009, the two outstanding sources of youtubes were Jeff Farris and Alan Holtham. These two sources are as good as ever, although, I believe they have been largely eclipsed by Tormek's online classes.

Ken

John,

If I lived nearer Wisconsin and could travel more easily, I would certainly make every effort to attend this open house for several reasons. During my week at Tormek, I was one of six from the US. Our group included John and Darren from Sharpening Supplies The time I spent with them was pure pleasure. We still stay in touch occasionally via email.
I also enjoy the Sharpening Supplies instructional videos. I like the focus on sharpening, including broadening the focus to include other methods of sharpening. I am a real believer in the benefits of cross training.

For over fifty years, I lived within fifteen minutes of Hartville, Ohio. At first, the woodworking shows were a great source of tool discounts. Gradually my emphasis shifted to gaining knowledge, specifically Tormek knowledge. I always spent a little time enjoying the show; however, the real draw was spending the day with Steve Bottorff or Stig. During busy times, I watched and listened. During slow times, I had essentially private tutoring.

For any of us who can attend the sharpening open house, I highly recommend it. Plan to make a day of it.

Ken

Interesting topic. I am not aware of any new pending developments. However; last night I was thinking about some conversation topics I have been wanting to post. This slow period might be the best time to do so. Give me a day or so. Stay tuned.

Ken

Kiki,

From one 75 year old to another, welcome to the forum. Your chisel memories will soon return. A fairly recent innovation at Tormek originally caused by the Covid shut down in the Tormek Online Classes, an ongoing series of more than twenty video clases. The third class deals specifically with chisels. Here is a link:

https://www.youtube.com/live/wMATay8ITE8?si=y04P72TrUBb2GqGN

The classes are taught by Tormek's top trainers. One of their primary advantages is the ability to be watched multiple times. I find that I learn more from each watching. The chisel class is a very good starting point, although, I believe you will benefit from many of them.

A second suggestion is to register your Tormek online (www.tormek.com). Registration allows you to view and download the latest version of the handbook, a valuable reference. There is no charge for either the online classes or the online handbook. Incidentally, the online classes are available in Swedish, English, French and German and the handbook is available in at least a dozen languages.

Please keep posting. You are among friends. We are all learning.

Ken

"and they don't require a water bath". The problem with not using a water bath (ideally with an anti corrosion additive) is grinding dust. That's why experienced
 dry grinders generally wear dust masks.

Ken

This discussion with two knife experts struck me as interesting.

https://youtu.be/XaQiejPkYn8?si=vWJ5y4nZz2-Cafp2

Ken

I have no doubt that the individual methods described will yield superior results; however, we should not overlook Wootz' (Knifegrinders) simple but precise all Tormek method. He demonstrates how to teg a BESS reading of 75 using the SG-250 wheel and leather honing wheel with Tormek PA-70 honing paste. No fancy extra steps, just solid technique. Here is a link:

https://youtu.be/UckPmizllk0?si=zMJU3YwknIIg8R0M

Ken