Wicked Smarts: Knife Sharpening Tips & Tricks

Sharpen like a pro with this curated catalog of quick tips, sharpening techniques, and video tutorials. Whether you're new to Wicked Edge or looking to level up your skills, this collection is designed to help you get the most out of your precision knife sharpener.

Sharpening Basics

• Sharpening Instructions – A quick-start overview for using your Wicked Edge system.
• Knife Anatomy – Understand blade parts before sharpening.
• Standard Vise – How to use the Standard Vise screws to secure your knife.
• Maintenance – Tips for maintaining your sharpener and diamond stones.

Finding and Setting Your Angle

• Angle Finding – How to find the right angle for your blade.
• Determining Angles – Choosing the correct angle for performance and durability.

Stone Motions and Techniques

• Edge Leading – Motion technique for diamond stones.
• Edge Trailing – Motion technique for strops, lapping films, and convex handles.
• Burr – Why detecting a burr matters for effective sharpening.
• Sharpness – How to test the sharpness of your blade.
• Touch Ups – How to perform a quick edge refresh.

Blade Shapes and Specialty Clamping

• Curved Blades – Best practices for clamping and sharpening curved knives.
• Recurved Blades – Adjustments for recurved edges.
• Chisel Grind – Sharpening single-bevel, chisel-ground knives.
• Blade Stops – How to use blade stops with the Standard Vise (Version 2).

Finish Options and Grit Progressions

• Finish Options – What finish types you can achieve and why they matter.
• Working Edge Progression – Grit progression for a practical working edge.
• Polish Progression – Step-by-step guide to creating a mirror finish.
• Convexing – What a convex edge is and why it's beneficial.
• Convex Progression – Which progression to use to achieve a convex edge.

Advanced Tips

• High Carbon/Super Steel Sharpening – Techniques for tough steels and premium knives.
• Stone Break-in – How to tell when your diamond stones are broken in and performing at peak.

Still Have Questions?

If you’re looking for a tip that’s not covered here, we’d love to help! Email support@wickededgeusa.com with the subject line "Wicked Smarts" and our team will get back to you.

Learn more about Wicked Edge precision sharpeners here.