In this section, you'll find the answers to many of the most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not addressed here, please give us a call at 877-616-9911 or email us.
Can the Wicked Edge be used to create or maintain convex edges?
To create a convex edge with the Wicked Edge™ is easy; you create a series of bevels, each differing by 1 degree and then use the strops to smooth the corners between the various bevels. The convex grind created is beautiful and easy to maintain. To maintain your convex edge, all you need are the strops.
I've heard that it's proper to sharpen into the blade. Why do your videos show the stone moving away from the blade?
With the Wicked Edge™, it is easy to sharpen in either direction and with any particular bias from either tip to heel or heel to tip. It is safer to use an "away" motion. We've tested the sharpening direction on literally thousands of blades and found the practical result to be the same whether sharpnening into the blade or away. Examined under a microscope, the edge has a very similar appearance except that there is less fragmented metal deposited along the bevel of the blade when it is sharpened from the spine outward.
How Long a Knife Can the Wicked Edge™ Sharpen?
You can easily sharpen knives with blades up to 17" without repositioning the knife.
Can the Wicked Edge™ Sharpen Fully Flat Ground Blades?
Yes. Clamping a fully flat ground blade is fairly easy. If the spine of the blade is especially thick and the taper dramatic, extra care must be taken to ensure that the knife is mounted vertically.
Can the Wicked Edge™ Sharpen Serrated Blades?
At the moment, no. We are completing a brand new technology that will make the Wicked Edge™ able to sharpen a serrated knife without changing the serration pattern. We will update this FAQ once we have the new serration accessory available.
Can the Wicked Edge™ Sharpen Straight Razors?
Yes. By turning the collar 90°, the sharpener easily matches the angle for straight razor honing and stropping.
How Thick a Knife Can the Wicked Edge™ Sharpen?
The sharpener easily accommodates knives up to 0.25" thick with the standard hardware package. To sharpen thicker blades you will need to purchase replacement vise screws.
How Do the Diamond Stones Last?
The stones that ship with your sharpener should last you through many sharpenings. The biggest factors are the hardness of the metal you are sharpening and number of knives you routinely sharpen. Our testing has shown a very long useful life for all of the stones, often exceeding 500 knives.
Why Does the Wicked Edge™ Use Diamond Stones?
Diamond was selected as the primary sharpening medium for two main reasons:
Diamond stones work quickly with the super hard steels now on the market, reducing sharpening time
Diamond stones do not dish or deform and do not need to be flattened
Does the Wicked Edge™ Offer Any Other Sharpening Medium?
Vitrified Bond ceramic stones are available in Super Fine grits. Leather strops are available in 14/10 micron and 5/3.5 micron combo packs.
Should I Use Water or Oil on the Diamond Stones?
It is not necessary to use either water or oil while sharpening. It is recommended to clean the stones periodically with a dish brush and soapy water to unclog the pores and remove fouling. After washing, pat the stones with a clean dish towel and then stand them on end to dry.
