http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71R3Yc7ewAL._AA1500_.jpgThe Eze-Lap diamond sharpener. The instructions that came with it are not enough for my poor brain to run with.
"Lay blade flat on diamond surface ... elevate blades spine slightly ... rub in a circular motion ... periodically alternating sides."
OK. I'm not sure what that "rub in a circular motion" is supposed to mean. I must be stupid. I think I was envisioning a tool where you hold the knife in one hand, and then scrape the sharpening tool along the edge with the other hand. But that doesn't appear to be what the instructions are describing. I'm confused. The website doesn't offer any more detailed instructions. A video demonstrating how to use this thing on their website would be nice, but they don't have one.
Haertig,
"circular motion" is an effective way to remove metal-
1st step in sharpening it remove metal. Instead of picking the knife up, moving it to the other end of the block, make a circle.
1) it removes metal in all directions, not just one.
2) you do not risk losing the angle by picking up your hand
3) it is easier to make sure you touch the full edge
4) you get a unique pattern to the metal removal. This makes it easier to see the pattern when you change from metal removal to setting the edge.
Keep in mind, you still need to make sure you remove the same amount of metal from both sides- When I use this, I will do the same number of circles on both sides.
I prefer to do this type of sharpening with a stone, as you get more surface area, but it applies to a rod as well.
Once the metal is removed to the point that a burr is forming on the FULL EDGE when you finish the circles, you move from metal removal to setting the edge. At this point, raise the angle VERY SLIGHTLY, any pressing lightly, use straight strokes in the direction of cutting, alternating sides.
Getting geeky- your metal remove is creating the primary bevel, the straight stroke are creating the micro bevel.
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