Sharpening a convex knife - dull to shaving sharp

How to make a convex edge knife shaving sharp.

This is a very easy to learn sharpening technique that can be used on any blade or knife.

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Howto & Style

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[hunter35474]

I have a pretty dull Gerber Mini Paraframe knife with a 2.25" blade. Its surgical stainless steel. I've been trying to sharpen it with a diamond rod, but I can't get it very sharp. Any suggestions?

[NechakoRiver]

@hunter35474 You can do what I show in the video but start at a coarser grit and work up to the fine stuff if it is really dull.400,600,800,1000,should get a decent edge.You may be having problems with the factory edge being too thick and the diamond rod isn't actually hitting the edge. If so, you need to thin it out for better cutting performance. draw on the edge with a sharpie and make sure all of it gets removed by the sharpener. That is a easy way to make sure you hit the edge.

[NATNWC]

I have a 440 stainless blades about 3 1/2 some tips please

[NechakoRiver]

@NATNWC

If you want a convex edge, do exactly like I do in the video but maybe start with about 600 grit paper and work up to the finer grits.

I have put convex edges on a few 440 steel knives and had great results.

[jackrusselleko]

the blade is staynless steel or carbon steel???

[NechakoRiver]

@jackrusselleko

The larger knife is A2 carbon steel and the small one is 12C27 stainless.

[Spadie1]

Why am I sat at 1am watching someone sharpening a knife?

[NechakoRiver]

@Master8laster

That is just what I consider to be a a dull knife. If it can't shave, it isn't sharp. :)

[jackrusselleko]

@NechakoRiver ok thanks

[NechakoRiver]

@MrHehehe24

That will work no problem. I would finish up with something finer if you want a smoother, less toothy edge.

For a dull knife, it is normal to start at around 400 grit and work up to the finer grits. It speeds up the process and gives you a very good edge.

[MrHehehe24]

could you use 600 grit paper?

[NechakoRiver]

@Skythemime

True, paper isn't the most consistent but it lets you know if there are any small dents or dull spots because it will catch on them.

Shaving is great for that final tuning and seeing the difference with how hairs pop as the knife gets sharper.