I would like to thank SgtMike for this post. He has go me thinking (Which sometimes isn't a good idea, just ask the Mrs. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />) I have been looking for a small fixed blade. I have notice that there are the convex grinds and flat grinds styles. What are the advantages or disadvantages of them in true field use? Which one is preferred? Stay safe.

JAF,

I prefer convexed blades/edges. Once you learn the techniques for maintaining a convex, it's hard to go back to a beveled edge. For field sharpening a convex, I carry a couple sheets of wet/dry sandpaper in my wallet and I wear my strop - the back of my leather LL Bean field belt with a 3" section of the belt charged with stropping compound. If you want to get really fancy with your finish, carry a 3 - 4" piece of brass rod in your PSK to burnish the edge when you're done sharpening.

Here's a great link to a convex sharpening tutorial...

http://home.nycap.rr.com/sosak/convex.htm

M

I totaly agree with Mike on this one. Convex knives are VERY easy to maintain. Problem is not many convex knife makers out there. In my FatBoy pack I keep an Altoids tin that has been modified for sharpening my Bark RIver knife I carry. A tin with a piece of mouse pad attached to the top. Inside is sticky backed sand paper of varying grits for sharpening and 2 pieces of leather with stropping compound on them. Pictures as follows: