Here is an easy way to get consistent and fast results when sharpening plane blades and chisels. Creating a microbevel using a stone or abrasive paper on glass takes only a few strokes if the blade is set to the exact right angle. To set the blade at the right angle consistently, I now use a magnetic digital angle gauge.

To use the gauge, I zero it on the same flat surface that the blade will be honed on. Then I place the magnetic base on the blade in the honing guide and move the blade in and out of the guide to set the angle. The gauge shows the angle to one-tenth of a degree. When the angle is right, I write it on the plane blade with a fine-tip felt pen so that there is no guesswork next time I need to hone.

Drawings by Jim Richey

Drawings by Jim Richey

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Rockler Silicone Sharpening Stone Tray

At 6 in. wide, with plenty of length for standard waterstones, they have grippy dimples that keep the stones stable and level, plus wide channels all around to catch the water. They also lock together, side by side, so I can have all of my stones available at the same time.

Buy at Rockler

Norton Water Stones

This kit includes everything you need to sharpen all of your blades, with water stones in four grits and a separate stone to keep them flat.

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Mist Coolant System

A mister for keeping tools cool while you hone them on your grinder. This mister has a base that can be screwed to a support near your grinding wheel or drill press. It conveniently hooks up to a small shop compressor, and by charging it with coolant, you can keep tools rust free.

Buy at Amazon