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Hi there,

Take my opinion with a bowl of salt as I have only one day using my T-8, but here is a thought I had when using it: as a beginner, I was going very slooooooowly with everything, which meant that the machine was spinning for most of 3 hours I think. There was a fair amount of heat I could feel, and I remember thinking that I was so happy I spent the extra money to get the T-8 (which permits for continuous running) as opposed to the T-4 (which permits only 30 minutes of run-time each hour).

I like the peace of mind knowing that the T-8 is meant to run for long periods of time and with lots more stress for a total newbie.

Also, it appears the T-8 custom is not good for a first-time buyer. Get the T-8 original package that includes all the basics. Personally, I have added the standard knife jig, the rubber mat, and the rotating base--I bet you will want those three items too, but like me, you may just get the basic model and then decide an hour later that you want to others.

Good luck and happy sharpening

One thing that can cause excessive spillage is having the water reservoir adjusted too high. Try lowering it and use the water line as a guide for keeping it at the proper level.
It should only need to go to the higher positions when the wheel is very worn.

I'll be trying this! Thank you for the idea

Well I promised updates, so why not start with a day 1 update?

Bought a T-8 in the Vancouver, Canada area from Ultimate Tools and got free shipping--I am so happy with their help and professionalism. Incredibly good guys working there--I will be buying everything there from now on. (Although a few gentlemen here recommended Big Bear, I had a very distasteful experience and wouldn't recommend them at all.)

I've watched hours and hours of YouTube videos on the T-8 and felt comfortable getting right into it.

The first knife was a bit tricky getting used to, so the bevel rides a bit higher up the knife on some areas--required a half hour. (30 degrees)

The second knife turned out amazingly well in 5 minutes! (30 degrees)

For the third knife, I wanted to try a 24 degree bevel, but I chose a knife that required a lot of metal removal. That one took me probably 45 minutes to get done, but darn, she is so sharp. I'm shocked at how sharp a total newbie could make these knives.

Here would be my recommendation to anyone who is sharpening in their home as a newbie--get the rubber mat and swivel base. I've already placed the order with Ultimate Tools, and will be getting that stuff in a couple days. There was so much water all over my counter, and the mat is a no-brainer for me. The swivel base is clearly quite important too, and I'm kinda surprised it isn't a stock part included with the T-8 original.

I'll finish the rest of my knives when I get my new parts, and I'll share my thoughts then.

As always, if anyone has any thoughts or tips to share, I'm all ears.

Thanks again guys
Happy sharpening

I would love to see a video on this, describing the pros and cons.

I'll be keeping my eyes open for this or anything similar--good share!

(the name is pretty cool too haha)

Thanks for all the advice, gentlemen.

I stepped into Ultimate Tools in Burnaby (next to Vancouver) and had a great experience talking all things Tormek with them.

The unit is paid for, and it will be delivered (for free!) in a couple days.

I am ready to buy a Tormek today (or tomorrow if I really have to wait).

Living in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Comparing prices.

Anyone know of some excellent promotions or prices in Canada or the US?

Canada is ideal as I can avoid all duties, but if their is a dealer in the US with the right price, I can drive across the border to grab it.

As in my other post, thank you for your help and advice, gentlemen.

I am convinced that the basic T-8 set-up, practiced and learned, is where I must start.

Thank you all very much, gentlemen.

I will take your collective advice and go with the standard T-8 package and learn the craft.

Updates to follow.

Thanks again for your time and thoughts

Leather vs Composite.

Please share your ideas and knowledge with me as I choose which unit to purchase.

Thank you

Hello friends,

I am ready to get a T-8 custom, and I am looking for some advice.
80% of everything I run on my T-8 will be kitchen knives.
15% hunting knives and pocket knives.
5% scissors, shears, and axes

I don't have a budget to own every stone and accessory, but I do have enough to choose between one or two stones.
If I get one stone, I will get the basic SG-250, with the truing tool and the stone grader (obviously).

Here's the big question though!
If I am to get two stones, which two should I get for my needs (as stated above), and why do you feel that pair is the best combination?
(please feel free to share your opinions and wisdom regarding any other purchase options as well)

Thanks, guys


ps. here are a couple thoughts I have after all the videos I've seen online and the posts I've read here on the forum.

1. The diamond wheels are great for using the sides of the wheel and for being able to maintain the same wheel circumference, thus I wouldn't need to relocate my angle when changing between stones, but the diamond wheels (and maybe the blackstone silicon stone too) may be too aggressive for the steep angle required for scissors and shears.

2. The Japanese W.S. (4000 grit) seems highly recommended for a superior quality finish, but may be overkill for my uses.

3. Some people suggest a honing wheel isn't needed if you use the Japanese WS.