Reply To: Sharpening
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I’ve read so many times “There are many methods, so choose a method and stick with it.” I’ve been using Paul’s method, but with a twist. I can sharpen plane blades and 1/2″ and larger chisels freehand on the diamond stones, but I typically can’t get the cutting edge on smaller chisels even close to square freehand. For those I try freehand and when I’m way out of square I break out the honing guide. Unfortunately it’s the type that clamps on the blade from above, and there’s no good way to ensure it is clamped squarely in the guide. If it’s not squarely in the guide, the sharpened cutting edge will not be square to the side of the chisel.
Like anything, it takes practice and then more practice. After three years or so I’m still getting better at it and it does make a noticeable difference in planing and chiseling when the blades are really sharp.