So in the spirit of running for the porch I thought I would start a discussion on something that most everyone has an opinion on. What is your favorite sharpening method, equipment, special technique, etc. I myself am a noob to sharpening but have been dulling blades for years cutting things. I am a 16 year practicioner of Pilipino Martial Arts. I have been playing with and had an affinity to sharp pointy objects for a while and have just recently started learning how to restore the points and edges. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

regards,
Joe

This would be some good info from the guys here on the yard, I only use a honer and leather strop.

As for me I am currently experimenting with different types of stones and hand sharpening. I currently have a set of Norton Water Stones and a mini set of DMT Diamond stones. I have to say I still haven;t been able to create a scary sharp edge yet. Any suggestions.

Wish I could help on this one, I have used arizona stones, honers, strops but like you really dont get scary sharp if i let blade get too dule.

Free handing with diamond stones.

Yeah I keep trying but no luck so far. The best I have been able to achieve is a serviceable edge.

Nice. Any tips. I'm still pretty new at this.

Remember your trying to raise a bur at the edge. Make sure your grind shoulders don't become to steep and ruin your edge angle

I now exclusively use a belt sander following Ban's methods. I have a wicked edge, various stones, sharpmaker, and different Stropping methods, but get the best edges freehand on the belts.

I'm currently looking for a sander set up.

Paper wheels for me

I have been meaning to try paper wheels. Ray Ennis uses those.