Beginners Guide to the Wicked Edge - Revision history

Cbwx34: /* Additional Setup Tips */

2013-04-01T12:49:39Z

Additional Setup Tips

Cbwx34 at 14:32, 17 March 2013

2013-03-17T14:32:11Z

Cbwx34 at 12:36, 15 March 2013

2013-03-15T12:36:25Z

Cbwx34: /* Clamping the Knife */

2013-03-08T20:31:10Z

Clamping the Knife

Cbwx34: /* Setup */

2013-02-14T15:02:43Z

Setup

Cbwx34: /* Setup */

2013-02-14T14:55:54Z

Setup

Cbwx34: /* Additional tips */

2013-02-14T14:29:06Z

Additional tips

Cbwx34: /* My knife isn't as sharp as I thought... */

2013-01-20T17:48:15Z

My knife isn't as sharp as I thought...

Cbwx34: /* My knife isn't as sharp as I thought... */

2012-12-23T17:20:49Z

My knife isn't as sharp as I thought...

Cbwx34: /* Additional tips */

2012-12-23T17:18:26Z

Additional tips

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:49, 1 April 2013
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	While not necessary, consider lightly sanding the bottom screw of the clamp. This screw pushes against the opposite clamp, and if it has any rough edges, can dig into the clamp. (Note: this does not cause any sharpening issues... more of a cosmetic issue).		While not necessary, consider lightly sanding the bottom screw of the clamp. This screw pushes against the opposite clamp, and if it has any rough edges, can dig into the clamp. (Note: this does not cause any sharpening issues... more of a cosmetic issue).
		+
		+	Also consider adding a small drop of lubricating oil to the end of the bottom screw. Makes tightening much easier. (Be careful not to overtighten!!)

	For a location, pick an area free from distractions, and with good lighting. The sharpener should be comfortable to work, the base usually a little above waist level.		For a location, pick an area free from distractions, and with good lighting. The sharpener should be comfortable to work, the base usually a little above waist level.

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:32, 17 March 2013
Line 44:		Line 44:

	Always record your settings, so you can quickly and easily repeat the previous sharpening!		Always record your settings, so you can quickly and easily repeat the previous sharpening!
		+
		+	=== Using the Digital Angle Gauge ===
		+
		+	AN angle cube allows one to set the angle EXACTLY.
		+
		+	Here's how:
		+
		+	1. Set your knife in the sharpener and decide the angle (ie. 18 per side.)
		+
		+	2. Put the angle cube on the base of the sharpener and zero it.
		+
		+	3. Put the stone on the sharpening rod and set the pre-marked scale to 18 degrees.
		+
		+	4. Lay the stone against the knife as if you were going to start sharpening
		+
		+	5. Put the Angle Cube on the side of the sharpening stone that is not against the knife .....
		+
		+	6. READ THE ANGLE. It probably will NOT be 18 (due to inherent differences in the height of each knife being sharpened.)
		+
		+	7. Adjust the angle until it reads 18 on the Angle Cube
		+
		+	You now have a true 18 degrees.
		+
		+	(Posted by R.JeffreyCoates in the forum.)

	== '''Sharpening''' ==		== '''Sharpening''' ==

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 This page is a guide for the new user in setting up and using the Wicked Edge.  It provides more detail as well as links to other pages of interest.
-== Setup ==
+== '''Setup''' ==
 Make sure you have all the parts, and the Wicked Edge is correctly assembled.
@@ Line 15: / Line 15: @@
 For a location, pick an area free from distractions, and with good lighting.  The sharpener should be comfortable to work, the base usually a little above waist level.
-== Clamping the Knife ==
+== '''Clamping the Knife''' ==
 Most knives clamp without issue.  Set the depth using either the upper or lower holes on the clamp.  The angles are calibrated for a knife that extends 5/8" (15.875mm) above the clamp.  Insert the depth key with the horizontal alignment guide ruler at the appropriate height.  Consider taping the spine of the knife, especially when learning, so that, if the knife slips in the clamp, it won't scratch the sides.
@@ Line 29: / Line 29: @@
 One knife that some users have trouble with, is the "Full Flat Grind" (FFG), which is a knife that tapers from spine to tip.  If you pay attention, you can clamp the blade by insuring that it stays vertical as you tighten the screws.  Additionally, you can use a small piece of foam tape on the clamps, or use a thin piece of leather or moleskin wrapped around the spine where it is clamped.  Additional tips can be found here:  [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=78:can-the-wicked-edge-sharpen-fully-flat-ground-blades&catid=31:general&Itemid=46 Sharpening a Fully Flat Ground Blade].
-== Setting the Angle ==
+== '''Setting the Angle''' ==
 Determining the angle to sharpen at, is one of the most asked questions.  When starting, there are two methods.  One method, is to follow the suggestions in the User's Guide.  The 2nd method, and perhaps the one recommended for new users, is to match the angle that is currently on the knife.  This is done by marking the edge with a Sharpie, or other marker, making a light pass with a fine stone and adjusting the angle until the stone removes the marker from the majority of the bevel.  A description of this method can be found here:  [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=69:how-to-find-your-angle&catid=38:instructions&Itemid=89 How to Find your Angle].  By matching the angle that is on the knife, you can concentrate on the sharpening process, and achieve a sharp knife without spending a lot of time (and maybe becoming a little frustrated).
-== Sharpening ==
+=== The Calibration Points of the Wicked Edge ===
 Sharpening is pretty straightforward.  Begin on one side at the heel (back) of the knife, with the stone as low as it will go.  Using light pressure, move the stone down the edge, at the same time going up the rod.  Stop as you reach the tip.  Be careful not to rotate the stone around the tip or you can grind it off.  Go slow... speed comes with experience.  It doesn't take long to learn the technique and pick up the pace, it will take longer to "unlearn" a wrong technique.
@@ Line 49: / Line 61: @@
 - Wipe the blade between stones, and especially between strops, so that you don't cross contaminate them.
-== My knife isn't as sharp as I thought... ==
+== '''My knife isn't as sharp as I thought...''' ==
 Some users, after sharpening a couple of knives, don't get the results they expect, especially after watching a few videos where other users are getting shaving or "hair whittling" edges.  There are a few reasons for this.
@@ Line 67: / Line 79: @@
 - Check this page, [http://wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=118:i-just-got-my-wicked-edge-and-sharpened-my-first-knife-its-not-as-sharp-as-i-thought-it-would-be-whats-going-wrong&catid=31:general&Itemid=46 My knife isn't as sharp as I thought...] for more information.
-== Additional Resources ==
+== '''Additional Resources''' ==
 A [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=71:basic-knife-sharpening-instructions&catid=38:instructions&Itemid=88 Basic Instructions] page for using the Wicked Edge

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:31, 8 March 2013
Line 18:		Line 18:

	Most knives clamp without issue. Set the depth using either the upper or lower holes on the clamp. The angles are calibrated for a knife that extends 5/8" (15.875mm) above the clamp. Insert the depth key with the horizontal alignment guide ruler at the appropriate height. Consider taping the spine of the knife, especially when learning, so that, if the knife slips in the clamp, it won't scratch the sides.		Most knives clamp without issue. Set the depth using either the upper or lower holes on the clamp. The angles are calibrated for a knife that extends 5/8" (15.875mm) above the clamp. Insert the depth key with the horizontal alignment guide ruler at the appropriate height. Consider taping the spine of the knife, especially when learning, so that, if the knife slips in the clamp, it won't scratch the sides.
		+
		+	Set the width of the clamp, so it's the same as, or just slightly wider than the knife. Tighten the top screw first, then the bottom screw, to lock the blade in.

	You also need to set the knife so that the amount of metal removed as you approach the tip is consistent with the rest of the bevel. To do this, the knife is adjusted horizontally, (changing the distance from the clamp to the tip). This can be done by marking the edge with a Sharpie (see "Setting the Angle" section), and adjusting the knife so the marker is removed along the entire bevel, or center of the bevel, as you approach the tip. A description of this method can be found here: [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=91:finding-the-sweet-spot-positioning-your-knife-from-front-to-back&catid=38:instructions&Itemid=81 Positioning your Knife Front to Back].		You also need to set the knife so that the amount of metal removed as you approach the tip is consistent with the rest of the bevel. To do this, the knife is adjusted horizontally, (changing the distance from the clamp to the tip). This can be done by marking the edge with a Sharpie (see "Setting the Angle" section), and adjusting the knife so the marker is removed along the entire bevel, or center of the bevel, as you approach the tip. A description of this method can be found here: [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=91:finding-the-sweet-spot-positioning-your-knife-from-front-to-back&catid=38:instructions&Itemid=81 Positioning your Knife Front to Back].

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:02, 14 February 2013
Line 12:		Line 12:

	While not necessary, consider lightly sanding the bottom screw of the clamp. This screw pushes against the opposite clamp, and if it has any rough edges, can dig into the clamp. (Note: this does not cause any sharpening issues... more of a cosmetic issue).		While not necessary, consider lightly sanding the bottom screw of the clamp. This screw pushes against the opposite clamp, and if it has any rough edges, can dig into the clamp. (Note: this does not cause any sharpening issues... more of a cosmetic issue).
		+
		+	For a location, pick an area free from distractions, and with good lighting. The sharpener should be comfortable to work, the base usually a little above waist level.

	== Clamping the Knife ==		== Clamping the Knife ==

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:55, 14 February 2013
Line 6:		Line 6:

	A pdf page with a packing list, and setup instructions can be found here: [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/files/Pro-Pack%20II%20Assembly%20-%20Web.pdf Pro Pack II Assembly]. (It also contains a part list for the Pro Pack I and II).		A pdf page with a packing list, and setup instructions can be found here: [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/files/Pro-Pack%20II%20Assembly%20-%20Web.pdf Pro Pack II Assembly]. (It also contains a part list for the Pro Pack I and II).
		+
		+	For your first couple of sharpenings, consider selecting a practice knife that is fairly easy to sharpen, and not a high end or custom knife. A 3-4 inch kitchen or pocket knife, or small hunting knife is a good choice. It should also be a knife you can practice on, without worry of messing up. This gives you the opportunity to become familiar with the system, as well as give your diamond stones the opportunity to break in.

	=== Additional Setup Tips ===		=== Additional Setup Tips ===

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:48, 20 January 2013
Line 52:		Line 52:

	- Too much pressure. Another technique to pay attention to, is how much pressure is applied. Lighter is better, and its often lighter than you think. It doesn't take much for the diamond stones, ceramics or strops to do their work.		- Too much pressure. Another technique to pay attention to, is how much pressure is applied. Lighter is better, and its often lighter than you think. It doesn't take much for the diamond stones, ceramics or strops to do their work.
		+
		+
		+	Here's an excellent quote from Geocyclist:
		+
		+	''DO NOT be disappointed with your first or 5th knife. A.) It takes 5 - 10 or so knives to break in the diamond stones. The first knife will probably not blow your mind. B.) Your technique will improve. It took me to about my 7th knife to finally say I had a Wicked sharp edge, with mirror polish, even bevels, etc.. My first two knives I was worried I had wasted my money. By knife #5 I wasn't worried any more about if I had wasted my money on the WE. Your first two knives or so should be ones you don't care much about or worry about messing up.'' [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&func=view&catid=2&id=8628&Itemid=63#8637 (Reference)]
		+

	- Check this page, [http://wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=118:i-just-got-my-wicked-edge-and-sharpened-my-first-knife-its-not-as-sharp-as-i-thought-it-would-be-whats-going-wrong&catid=31:general&Itemid=46 My knife isn't as sharp as I thought...] for more information.		- Check this page, [http://wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=118:i-just-got-my-wicked-edge-and-sharpened-my-first-knife-its-not-as-sharp-as-i-thought-it-would-be-whats-going-wrong&catid=31:general&Itemid=46 My knife isn't as sharp as I thought...] for more information.

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:20, 23 December 2012
Line 52:		Line 52:

	- Too much pressure. Another technique to pay attention to, is how much pressure is applied. Lighter is better, and its often lighter than you think. It doesn't take much for the diamond stones, ceramics or strops to do their work.		- Too much pressure. Another technique to pay attention to, is how much pressure is applied. Lighter is better, and its often lighter than you think. It doesn't take much for the diamond stones, ceramics or strops to do their work.
		+
		+	- Check this page, [http://wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=118:i-just-got-my-wicked-edge-and-sharpened-my-first-knife-its-not-as-sharp-as-i-thought-it-would-be-whats-going-wrong&catid=31:general&Itemid=46 My knife isn't as sharp as I thought...] for more information.

	== Additional tips ==		== Additional tips ==

@@ Line 55: / Line 55: @@
 == Additional tips ==
-A page with Basic Instructions for using the Wicked Edge:  [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=71:basic-knife-sharpening-instructions&catid=38:instructions&Itemid=88 Basic Instructions]
+A [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=71:basic-knife-sharpening-instructions&catid=38:instructions&Itemid=88 Basic Instructions] page for using the Wicked Edge
-The Wicked Edge FAQ page:  [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&id=31&Itemid=75 Wicked Edge FAQ
+The  [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&id=31&Itemid=75 Wicked Edge FAQ]
-The Wicked Edge Forum [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&view=listcat&Itemid=64 Wicked Edge Forum]].  Here you'll find many members, both new and experienced, ready to help with any questions you might have.
+The [http://www.wickededgeusa.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&view=listcat&Itemid=64 Wicked Edge Forum].  Here you'll find many members, both new and experienced, ready to help with any questions you might have.  Join today!