[Plain_Ol_Ed]

That in and out could very well be the problem. You would have to keep constant pressure, as well as a consistant angle, during the complete stroke/s. Try just a side to side motion, like your cutting a slice off of the stone/sandpaper, there is much less chance of error. I use a circular motion, just because that's the way I learned too many years ago to remember (I was taught by lumber jacks sharpening axes so had a bit of a transition to make), not recommended though. Too much chance of error.

[squbrigg]

Brian/Smalljaws brings up a good point....sharpening is a seperate set of skills, or hobby. One we all should master before we put edge to wood. I've always considered a third too as married to carving.......photography. It in itself is a wonderful hobby, and I have enjoyed it for many years...but linked with carving, they make a great set. As one fella told me on one woodworking board once...."If you don't show us a picture of what you've done, it don't exist!" So , if you're going to show a picture, make it a good likeness!

Bob

[Sam]

SmallJawz,

try this link http://www.pinewoodforge.com/catalog.html to see the Harley knife - No, it isn't a Harley Davidson. Like I said this is my favorite to do everything from roughout to detail. Harley Refsal designed the knife and uses it for his Flat Plane carving.

[SmallJawz]

Well Thats sure a nice looking knife. Now I know why you guys have hundreds of them.....I think I might have to try it out.

[rick-in-seattle]

Just a couple thoughts on this thread;
The "hook" is a result of sharpening; it will only show up if you carve and sharpen a lot. I noticed it happening to my carving knife last week.

The solution is simple, hold the knife with the sharp edge against the stone and re-flatten the cutting edge; then carefully resharpen it.

As far as favorite knives go, I have close to fifty that were once favorites.

It is not the knives that change, it is the wood carver; our ability, style, and preferences are in constant transition.

I stock 20 different knifemakers with 150+ different styles of knives; and I continue to receive orders of custom made knives. Go Figure.