Q:

Many woodworkers talk about using a secondary bevel on their chisel and plane blades. Why would I want to do this? It seems like more work than using a single bevel.

Brad Perry, Valdosta, GA

A:

Actually, using a secondary bevel takes less time because you are honing a much smaller area. For a blade to be sharp, both surfaces that form the cutting edge must be polished and free of defects, even the slightest nicks. On a single bevel you must hone the entire surface area of the bevel, a job that takes much time and effort. However, if you raise the blade a few degrees to form a secondary bevel, the area that must be honed is greatly reduced, so you get that flawless cutting edge much more quickly and easily.

 

 

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Honing Compound

This honing compound is great for loading into a buffing wheel and polishing an assortment of metals.

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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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Wen Diamond Grinding Wheel

Diamond grinding wheel is perfect for flattening grinding wheels before honing chisels and plane blades

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