Messages

Mike, Ken

Thank you both for taking time to give advice and encouragement.  I ordered the TT-50 and will go back and work on my technique once I get my SG-200 true. I'll keep you posted.

Tom

Good evening Gents, new user from Florida.  I bought the T4 about 6 months ago and had a few sessions with it and really am impressed with the quality of the system.  I've watch the beginner and advanced knife sharpening videos and know I have a long way to go before I master all the skills necessary but the fun is in trying. 

I made a newbie mistake and bought the SJ-200 Japanese Waterstone thinking it would overcome poor technique and get me to a sharper blade quicker.  It does do a great job and the mirror finish is spectacular but I know I'm missing something, meaning I don't think the blade is as sharp as it should be.  My routine includes setting the WM-200 for 14 deg for a Wustoff knife set and starting with the SG-200 conditioned to the fine setting.  After a few passes each side I change wheels to the SJ-200 and finish it off.  I manage a decent edge but it still doesn't seem as good as it should.  Recently I noticed that the SG-200 has a bit of a wobble and I'm already down to about 195mm diameter.  I know I have to work on consistent light, constant pressure on both sides but I have to address the SG-200 wobble first. 

So my question is, am I a ham fisting and totally doing things wrong or do I need to pay more attention to maintaining a square wheel.  If it's the latter then what is better to keep the wheel true the TT-50 or a flat 1000 grit diamond plate? How about cleaning the SJ-200 which seems to get black very quickly.

I appreciate any comments to help me through my beginner stages.

Thanks

Tom