I’ve made three significant improvements to the aluminum plate sharpening system. First, the plates themselves are now a half of an inch thick, rather than a quarter. This aids in their stability if used without the holder. Secondly, the plates are now machined with a flycutter, which results in a flat surface and regular pattern. Thirdly, the plate holder has been redesigned. Now, a knurled adjustment knob allows quick and easy flipping and switching of the plates without tools. It now only takes 3 seconds, even if you work slow. The stand is all aluminum with stainless steel screws so there is nothing to rust.
These plates are used the same as any sharpening stones. The plate holder has four rubber feet to keep it from sliding around. I generally use water as a lubricant to keep the metal particles from glazing over.
This is the system I use to make and sharpen all of my knives. People often ask how long each abrasive sheet lasts, and although there are many variables, I’d guess I can generally sharpen about 10 knives on each one. Of course, if you are trying to reshape a bevel angle or repair a major chip you might use up an entire sheet. When a sheet is exhausted, simply peel it off and stick a new one one. You must trim the edges of the edges of the finishing film when you put a new sheet on, so that it does not overhang the edges. Otherwise it may give you one of the nastiest, dirtiest, slow-healing cuts you have ever had, DAMHIKT. 80 micron replacement sheets are available from Rio Grande; the 40, 15 and 5 micron from Tools for Working Wood.
I’m convinced it is the easiest, quickest, and most convenient way to resharpen and keep all your knives and edge tools in peak condition, from scalpels to scimitars. This system is a lightweight, easy to store and unbreakable. Perfect for travel and classroom use.
The system comes with four 11 x 2″ strips each of 80, 40, 15 and 5 micron #3M PSA micro finishing film, a 12 x 2″ Genuine Horsebutt Strop, and 1 oz. bar of green chromium oxide buffing compound. The entire system is 13 x 3 x 2.5″, 3 lbs. 4 oz.
ITEM #SS2: Introductory price $225.00
Tips on sharpening are located here, and tips on stropping here.
Peachey Conservation 