Sharp-Edge sharpening

08/01/2026

06/30/2026

Wow!! That’s amazing

A powerful storm swept through Highmore, South Dakota, producing a reported wind gust of 131 mph that caused significant damage across the community. At one Catholic church, the storm tore open the roof in a way that allowed a beam of sunlight to shine directly onto the crucifix at the front of the sanctuary.

The striking photograph quickly spread across social media, with many wondering whether it was AI-generated. Local residents and photographer Joseph Mat confirmed that the image is authentic.

The timing and appearance of the photo have captured the attention of thousands. While the beam of light is naturally explained by the opening in the roof and the position of the sun, the image has reminded many people of the hope found in Christ even after devastation. In moments when storms leave behind brokenness, the cross still stands as a symbol of God’s faithfulness and the victory of Jesus.

📖 “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5

👉 What was your first thought when you saw this photo?

06/28/2026

125 Bess before sharpening, now mirror finish 40 Bess

06/28/2026

Mirror edge finish, from a 115 Bess to a 45 Bess

06/28/2026

How to check and correct
Your Angle
• The Sharpie Trick: Color the existing bevel (the slanted edge) with a black marker. Take one or two strokes across the stone, then check where the ink is gone.

• If ink is removed at the top (near the spine): Your angle is too high; lower the spine closer to the stone.

• If ink is removed at the bottom (near the edge): Your angle is too low. Raise the spine very slightly until the stone removes ink evenly
across the entire bevel

This method can be used for whatever you are sharpening on, jus lower angle or raise angle til you have an even bevel

06/27/2026

Under 10 Degree Angles

The lowest angles are reserved for edges that are typically cutting softer materials. In this case, the edges are not subject to abuse so the lower angle can be maintained without damage or edge failure. The lowest angles that we typically see are on straight edge razors. These are sharpened to an angle that is roughly 7 to 8 degrees (although the back of the blade is used as a guide so knowing the angle isn’t important and it is not adjustable). A straight razor has a very delicate edge that is very easy to damage. In proper usage, a straight razor would never see the type of use that would damage the edge.

If you're sharpening straight razors at these low angles, water stones are going to be the most effective way to sharpen. With delicate edges on straight razors, we generally don't recommend anything coarser than 1000 grit.

06/11/2026

Outdoor Guide to Blade Profiles 🔪🏕️