The video “The Tool Sharpening Trick You NEED to USE! | Sharpening Workshop Tools” is by Newton Makes. In this video, Billy dives into the essential skill every woodworker should master: sharpening chisels. Whether using power tools or hand tools, a sharp chisel is crucial for any woodworking project. Billy emphasizes that one doesn’t need to invest in the most expensive chisels to achieve sharpness, as mid-range options can work just as well.
To start the sharpening process, Billy introduces his sharpening station, which features a flat piece of granite and organized tools. The first decision he faces is whether to use water stones or diamond stones for sharpening—each method has its pros and cons. Billy sets out to demonstrate both, allowing viewers to see the differences firsthand.
Water Stones vs. Diamond Stones
Billy presents three water stones: a 1,000 grit, a 4,000 grit, and an 8,000 grit stone, alongside a lapping stone. He also has diamond stones, specifically DMT Dia Sharp stones, which include a 600 grit fine stone, a 1,200 grit extra fine stone, and an 8,000 grit extra extra fine stone.
When using water stones, it’s important to soak them until the bubbles stop rising, indicating they are fully saturated. Billy then explains the necessity of flattening the water stones regularly, as they can develop grooves from continuous sharpening.
Flattening the Back of the Chisel
The first step in sharpening a chisel is flattening its back. Billy uses the 600 grit fine stone and water to create a flat surface. He suggests using a Sharpie to mark the back of the chisel, which helps identify areas that need more work. The goal is to remove the marker completely to ensure the chisel is flat.
Sharpening the Edge
Once the back is flat, Billy moves on to sharpening the edge using the jig. He sets the jig to a 25° angle and proceeds to sharpen the chisel. He emphasizes the importance of polishing the edge to enhance durability. After several passes, he checks the progress using the Sharpie again, showing that the edge is becoming sharper.
Billy explains that achieving a polished finish is essential for the chisel to hold its edge longer. He continues to refine the edge using the extra fine and then the extra extra fine stones, ensuring a very sharp, polished edge.
Micro Beveling
After sharpening, Billy introduces the concept of adding a micro bevel to the chisel. This involves adjusting the jig slightly to create a secondary bevel on the edge, which can enhance cutting performance. He demonstrates the technique, showing the shiny area that indicates the micro bevel is successfully applied.
Using a Leather Strop
Finally, Billy showcases his favorite tool for maintaining sharpness: a leather strop. He explains that stropping is a quick way to refresh the edge without needing to go back to the stones. By applying a honing compound, he demonstrates how easy it is to keep a chisel sharp during work.
In conclusion, Billy provides a detailed guide on how to sharpen chisels effectively using both water stones and diamond stones. He emphasizes the importance of having sharp tools and encourages woodworkers to practice these techniques to improve their skills. With the right tools and methods, anyone can achieve a razor-sharp chisel that enhances their woodworking experience.