Thread: Keen Kutter

Keen Kutter

I have a CC Simmons Keen Kutter. I can't get this thing sharp. I am using a Norton 4 stone system (220,1000,4000,8000)
I have sharpened about a dozen other blades of different makes, but this one I just can't seem to get it sharp.
Does anyone have one of these? What has been your experience?
Also, stamped on the back is something about silver steel. Does this take an edge differently than others?

I have a few of them. I'm sorry to say that I did not notice anything out of the ordinary with them.

Is it possible to narrow your comments about "sharp"??

Is it the bevel that won't kick in? Is it smooth on the test shave, but not cutting hairs as it should? What's it like with arm hair?

never had any issue with them.
1 in 100 could have some issues.

Why did it need a 220 Norton? Was it a rusty old restoration. ?

I used a 220 because it was a buy from the bay, and under a loupe it was rough.
define sharp? well, it just doesn't cut as well as some other blades I have. One test I use when honing to see if I am getting a sharp edge is to move the blade thru my arm hair without touching the skin. If the hairs just lay down in front of the blade I keep going. If the hairs pop, I've got a pretty good edge.
But the real test is the shave. Does it pull? DOes the sound change significantly from one pass to the second?

Honed up two last night. Both were great, no troubles.
Have you tried resetting the bevel?

What technique do you recommend for setting the bevel?

Did you check the edge under the loupe after shaving. If it was a corroded & rough originally it may be degrading as you shave.
Maybe more steel removal if that's the case.

Originally Posted by Utopian

I have a few of them. I'm sorry to say that I did not notice anything out of the ordinary with them.

This is my experience also. Any chance another member is in your area? Maybe can help?