> Maybe the edge would last longer if it was flat ground, but > doesn't seem to me to be any big deal. For paring, it won't make much difference. If you start beating on the chisels with hammers, and prying chips out with them, it very well could. > I wish I had the skills to sharpen by hand. Anyone interested in buying > a very nice set of ceramic stones (professional series)? > http://www.shaptonstones.com/ I doubt you're that far from it. It just takes some time and attention, and equating what you feel with what you get. For a low maintenance, very fast and forgiving hand sharpening system, I recommend the Dia-Sharp diamond stones. The 2" x 6" is about right for a general purpose bench stone. I find the course grit cuts like gangbusters for rough (re)shaping and most edge work on chisels and such, and a touch up with a ceramic rod for a shaving sharp edge on the knives, if you like. They stay flat too, and will survive being dropped, if that proves to be an issue. Among many other character flaws, I'm supporting an edge fetish...
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC