Sharpening Kit

[Captain_Bandaid]

While in Colorado Springs last week, I visited the Woodcraft store and found a new gadget from Flexcut. It is a small block with gouge and chisel profiles in it. It also has two surfaces covered with leather. Included is a small block of a polishing compound to use withe the block. It sold for $10 so I tried it. The stuff works so well, I went back and bought a larger stick of the the compound. I have always found it diffucult to get the inside edges of my tools properly stropped and this little gadget used with the Flexcut Gold compound works very well.

I know which one you are talking about, I bought one at a carving show in Fort Collins....and you're right it is easier!

[Colin-Partridge]

Captain,
I brought the same kit about a month ago great invention especially for the flexcut gouges for the reciprocating carver.
I also agree that yellow compound is great as well.
Colin

Captain,

The flexcut block/kit was my first and only 'purchased strop' and I LOVE flexcut gold as a finishing compound!

Good whittlin, Cliff

Hello

I have the Flexcut Gold Compound only, but not the kit.
I have purchased a separated strop and a water stone with chisel and gouge profiles.

This is the Bütz Strop with Angled And Curved Edges


And this is the water stone


And all together works fine for sharpening ans finishing all gouges, chisles and knives.

[Callynne]

I have the Flexcut strop thing too, I love it, really does a nice job on my tools! Wouldn't be without my 2000 grit wet/dry sandpaper either! Sharp tools really do make a huge difference, thank goodness for everything that helps make and keep them that way! Callynne

i like to use the OAR sharpening guide to keep the same angle all the way through the stroke. i use it on the oil stone and also the 2000 grit wet/dry . I then follow it up with the flexcut block with the gold compound applied. it works great!!
one caution though, don't get the gold compound on any of your clothing because it will stain it and take forever to get it out.

papa

[Kenny_S]

I went to the Tulsa Ok Woodcraft store but they did not have one. Got the Woodcraft cat and I will be ordering one.
Thanks for the info.

Safety first, then Enjoy Carving,

Kenny S

[Captain_Bandaid]

AzPaPa, I warned you about stropping your knives on your blue jeans, now didn't I?

While in Colorado, I decided it was a good idea to find a piece of thick leather to put over my knee when I am free carving. I went to a boot and saddle repair shop and asked if they had any remnants for sale (do not ask for free scraps. There is no such thing). He found me a piece of Mule Hide he took off of a farriers apron. I asked how much and he said I could have it for free if I just got it out of his shop. Ok, it is really ugly and worn but it has a lot of character. And yes, you can get a free piece of leather, just don't ask for it.

[Captain_Bandaid]

Today I made a strop just for the Flexcut gold compound. The Butz strop is nice but cost around $30! I cut out a piece of 1/2' thick poplar hobby wood I bought at Lowes for about $4. Used the old bandsaw to cut a piece 2' x 14', including the handle, glued a piece of suede (I got it in a grab bag of leather pieces at Michaels for $6) onto the wood and I have a nice strop for a LOT less than the Woodcraft price.

I am finally in the painting stage of my latest relief carving. It is an old blacksmith shop in NY State. When I finish it, I am swapping it for a hand-forged blacksmith hammer made by the smith who runs the shop. Works for me!