Sharpening Products & Accessories
As a professional woodworker in Australia, you know the importance of having sharp tools. Sharp tools not only make your work easier and more efficient, but they also produce cleaner cuts and better results. But with so many different sharpening methods and products on the market, it can be tough to know where to start.
Understanding Sharpening Basics
There are two main types of sharpening: grinding and honing. Grinding removes metal to create a new cutting edge, while honing refines the existing edge and removes burrs.
For most woodworking tools, you'll need both a grinder and a honing stone. Grinders are great for quickly removing large amounts of metal, while honing stones are used to create a polished, razor-sharp edge.
Choosing the Right Sharpening Stones
There are many different types of sharpening stones available, each with its own unique properties. Here are a few of the most popular types:
- Diamond stones: These are the most durable and versatile type of sharpening stone. They can be used to sharpen both hard and soft steels.
- Water stones: These stones require soaking in water before use. They are known for producing very sharp edges.
- Oil stones: These stones are lubricated with oil. They are a good choice for sharpening softer steels.
When choosing a sharpening stone, consider the type of steel your tools are made of and your budget. Diamond stones are a good all-around choice, but they can be more expensive than other types of stones.
Honing Your Technique
Once you have the right sharpening stones, it's important to learn how to use them properly. Here are a few tips for honing your sharpening technique:
- Maintain a consistent angle: The angle at which you hold your tool to the stone is critical for creating a sharp edge. Once you find the correct angle, practice maintaining it throughout the sharpening process.
- Use light pressure: Don't apply too much pressure when sharpening. Let the stone do the work.
- Use even strokes: Move your tool back and forth across the stone with even, consistent strokes.
- Strop your tools: After honing your tools, strop them on a leather strop to remove any remaining burrs.
Popular Sharpening Brands in Australia
Here are a few of the most popular sharpening brands in Australia:
- King: King is a Japanese brand that makes a wide variety of high-quality sharpening stones.
- Suehiro: Suehiro is another Japanese brand that is known for its water stones.
- Tormek: Tormek is a Swedish brand that makes popular sharpening systems that are easy to use.
FAQs
The frequency with which you need to sharpen your tools will depend on how often you use them and the type of wood you are working with
The best way to clean your sharpening stones will depend on the type of stone. Diamond stones can be cleaned with water and soap. Water stones should be allowed to air dry after use. Oil stones should be wiped down with a clean cloth after use.
While grinders can be used to sharpen some tools, they can also remove too much metal if you're not careful. It is generally recommended to use a honing stone to finish sharpening your tools after using a grinder.