Wives always want to waste money on groceries, shoes for the kids, stuff like that. <img src="/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" />
That seriously eats into my buget for firearms and equipment <img src="/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

Randjack,

I used Google images to find a picture that looked good. Then I opened that image in a new window. Then I selected see full size image. Google puts just the image in a link. Then copy and paste the link in the Image option on this page.

Randjack,

Please tell us how to put a convex edge on our knives.

Thanks!

Ironsraven,
Where do you find the seizure and state/federal surplus stuff on eBay??? Pardon my ignorance, but I dont know what you are talking about. Thanks

Thank you.

I use neoprene backed mouse pads and/or heavy leather as the base, and wet/dry sandpaper. The Cold Steel had to be started out with 200 grit, then 400, 600, 1000, 1200, and finally 1500. Then, strop with red/green/black compounds. You can get the compaounds through Bark River Knives or quitea few other sources.

The technique is to lay the blade flat on the surface, and lift the spine only 10 to 15 degrees, moving the blade spine first edge trailing, naturally. Change the angle of the blade relative to direction of stroke so that every 10 strokes or so the 'scratches on the blade are at an angle to one another.

There are a lot of refinements on the technique, but that is basicly it. It is a bit of a commitment, and it takes the original finish completely off the blade, but the result should be mirror-like.

And don't do it on hollow grinds until you know what you are doing.

Yes, sometimes you can get decent tools refurbished or closeout from places like that. Its the no name chinese stuff that you usually want to avoid or you might as well just throw your money in the trash. My n laws are bad for that, I couldn't even begin to add up all the stuff they have had to rebuy over and over again because the cheap stuff they buy doesn't last more than one use. They will be the first to call me a tool snob but all the halfway decent stuff I have bought I still have and still use.

Over at http://outdoors-magazine.com they have a number of good articles about all things outdoorsy Old Jimbo has an article on convex sharpening.
http://outdoors-magazine.com

Where do you find such fine sand paper?

Use the wet and dry sand paper that they use in auto body shops. My local Lowe’s sells every thing but the 1500 if I remember correctly.