Thread: A disappointing shave...

My Butcher didn't pass the morning shave test....

Had to clean up with the wapi this morning. It looks like it's going to take me a few tries to learn how to hone this one. I really like the heft of the full wedge and I think I'm going to like the flexibility that the smile seems to give in setting the angle to the face but the only good thing about this mornings shave was I didn't cut myself.

I may have to sharpen up the rest of my Wapi's just to make myself feel better.

-Bob

Honing a wedge, especially something as big as a W&B is kind of like putting a shave edge on a garden hoe. I have one small wedge that I got to try out and it takes quite a bit more time and passes on the stones to get it HHT. But once there, it is easy to maintain. I would actually like to get another one.

I notice a lot of guys singing praises to their wedges. I had a nice one that I cleaned up and then promptly sold, kind of wish I hadnt of now. I'm sure I'll acquire another one down the line though.

I chickened out and went to my wapi this morning. Maybe tomorrow.

-Bob

honing a wedge or a large hefty blade like a greaves / WnB etc etc is really a unique skill that goes beyond honing a fully hollow blade. add on top of that restoration which can change the exact perfect shape of the beast in front of you and your in for a new learning challenge. sometimes a regrind is a good option as is will correct the shape/angle of the steel for easier honing. sharpening one of these large thick blades is a good learning sequence for advanced restorers or honemeisters. it really is a unique challenge. many times the bevel on wedges/thick blades is wider. this is ok and to be expected often. stick with it, take it down to a lower grit hone till you have the bevel correct or you won't get the entire edge shave ready, only part of it. the middle usually comes easier than the toe/heel. you can do it!

-J