How to Prevent Rounding the Tip of Your Blade When Sharpening
Rounding the tip is one of the most common mistakes when sharpening a knife, but it’s easy to avoid once you understand the cause. The key lies in maintaining consistent technique—especially as you transition across the tip of the blade.
What Causes Tip Rounding?
Tip rounding typically happens when the sharpening stones rotate inward or downward as they move past the tip. This changes the sharpening angle and removes too much metal from the tip, softening the point.
Sharpening Tip: Keep the Motion Consistent
As you sharpen, the stones should travel in the same plane as they do along the straight edge of the blade. Don’t let them dip or roll as they come off the tip.
Use Your Thumbs for Stability
- Hold the stones with your fingers behind and thumbs in front.
- Apply equal pressure with both thumbs—especially as you approach the tip.
- This balance prevents the stone from tilting or curving inward, which is the main cause of a rounded tip.
Practice and Muscle Memory
It may take a few sharpening sessions to develop the right muscle memory. Try slowing down your strokes at first and pay close attention to your hand position and pressure as you cross the tip. With practice, your strokes will stay smooth and even all the way to the end of the blade.
Learn more about mastering Wicked Edge sharpening techniques on our blog.
