The best finish for a very sharp edge is to polish the grind. Think not removing material. More of straightening the edge while polishing it.
I don’t know if it will work but, it didn’t for me. But, I couldn’t find 1200 grit paper when I tried it. I never could get the edge gone enough on the sander. Still having to finish with a steel.
I’ve since bought quality diamond stones and run them to 1200 until the won’t get any sharper, the metal hone them until they do.
From comments I don’t think my idea is real workable with a belt sander- fast motor rpm and heat on metal destroying the temper of the steel.
I always love avoiding “the manual process” if possible. Sometimes it’s hard to escape the “manual.”
Thanks for sharing.
Are you running 2 blades at a time, perpendicular to the sanding belt?
I used the fine belt on my Work Sharp. Ran BH perpendicular to the belt, sharpening 2 blades at a time and then rotating. The honed, finished sharpness is exactly what I was looking for. I tested on both VPA and Woodsman Elite.
Thank you Two Feathers for the suggestion.
What works for one person may not be the better option for another. That's one reason I've tried so many different ways.
I've never been satisfied with the results after changing the blade angle. I prefer sharpening them two sides flat. What I use now, and have for several years, is a two sided diamond stick. Course on one side and fine on the other. Then usually finish with polish on leather.
Depending on what shape the head is in, I'll use more strokes with the course side first(heavy at first then lighter as I proceed), then turn and use the fine side(same process continuing with lighter strokes) using fewer strokes per side. Then finish with polish on leather.
It doesn't take long, way less tools involved, and I can do it in the field. I can get the results I'm very satisfied with using this method.
I think many folks don't get the results they want because they use TOO much pressure through the process. NO, they aren't scalpel sharp, but I don't thinkfeel that result is necessary.
Anyway...... no harm or shame experimenting with different tools and ways until you are satisfied. Good way to learn. :-)
Good luck.
The best solution I found for the 3 blades is to lay them over your knee still on the shaft and strop them with a triangle chock stick(about $12) This lets the blades rotate so you get perfect pressure on each bevel.
If they are really dull, I start with just the BH on a long fine flat diamond stone.
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