WEN Sharpener Review & User Guide | Tormek Knock-Off

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  • čas přidán 25. 10. 2019
  • This is a detailed review of the WEN Wet Stone Sharpening System! The WEN sharpener will provide you with extremely sharp working edges for all your edged tools and knives at a fraction of the price of a Tormek (It's basically a Tormek knock-off). However, there are some drawbacks so make sure to watch this video before making a purchase!
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    Subscribe Here: / @redbeardops
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    ✅Products Mentioned (Note some of these go in and out of stock on Amazon.. Just be patient and they'll come back):
    WEN Water Cooled Sharpener (Link 1) - amzn.to/3vIWSRP
    WEN Jig Kit - amzn.to/423Jd3I
    Tormek TT-50 Dressing Tool - amzn.to/2pdaRx6
    Tormek new KJ--45 Knife Jig - amzn.to/3SmZDRE
    Tormek SP-650 Stone Grader - amzn.to/365YVOu
    ✅Other Similar Sharpeners (These machines were not reviewed in this video, however, the techniques shown could be applied to these units):
    Grizzly Sharpener - amzn.to/2MNZrco
    Triton Sharpener - amzn.to/32PAYsv
    Tormek Sharpener - amzn.to/2qLuUTY
    Larrin Knife Nerd - knifesteelnerds.com/2019/04/0...
    ✅Camera Gear:
    Camera - Panasonic G7 - amzn.to/2SD8ekG
    Microphone - Takstar - amzn.to/36euYLP
    SD Card - 128GB - amzn.to/2tmVfZW
    #knifemaking
    #knifemaker
    #redbeardops
    Instagram: / redbeardops
    Twitter: / redbeardops
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    The information provided on this channel is for entertainment purposes only. Any action you as the viewer takes upon the information on this channel is strictly at your own risk, and I will not be liable for any losses, damages, or personal injuries in connection with the use of this content (including injuries, damages, or losses sustained while you were trying to emulate the actions and projects on this channel). Attempting to emulate any of the actions or projects put forth by this channel should not be done without training and even then, at your own risk.
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Komentáře • 430

  • @RedBeardOps
    @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +17

    What sharpening system do yall use?! - (BTW, I apologize for my watermark being so large in the top left corner... I messed that up in editing.)

    • @esnyd
      @esnyd Před 4 lety +1

      I use stones, apex, mdf system, 2x72, etc. I seem to use the belt grinder the most these days, then use my wheels for touch up. I really like these tormek systems though and will look into the wen. Thanks Brother.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Eric Snyder I’ve heard good things about mdf wheels!

    • @jaykees5424
      @jaykees5424 Před 4 lety +1

      I use Record Power WG250 wet system. Tormek T-8 is too expensive, even though it might be best in the market.. Tormek T-4 is too small for butchering knives. Gap between stone and leather wheel is too narrow.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +2

      @@jaykees5424 Very nice! Yeah.... Tormek is pretty darn proud of their product. Seems like the price is worth it if you're a professional sharpener maybe.

    • @capnmatt41
      @capnmatt41 Před 4 lety +1

      Thanks man, first time seeing the Wen. I have a Tormek and won't switch but good to know the other options for people who want to try but not drop all the dough.

  • @everydaybladesinc
    @everydaybladesinc Před 3 lety +19

    Probably the best review of a product I’ve ever seen on CZcams. Not only informative but you didn’t just trash the product when you had an issue. You showed an easy fix. Great job brother.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety +2

      Appreciate that! I'm still using this guy. It's not perfect, but it can get a blade pretty darn sharp!

  • @amishplumber4251
    @amishplumber4251 Před 4 lety +12

    I own the WEN sharpening system and I like your modifications. I make knives and I’m able to get a really nice edge on my knives with it. I put a baking pan under mine and it takes care of all the water mess.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Heck yeah, that's a good idea. Thanks for watching.

  • @ricksparozic3920
    @ricksparozic3920 Před 4 lety +3

    Loving all your videos dude. Super informative and great camera quality. Came across your shop tour last night and I've been binge watching since. Keep up the great videos!!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Hey man, thanks for your comment! Much appreciated.

  • @NRiggiKnives
    @NRiggiKnives Před 4 lety +2

    Great video and demo. The reference material in the links is interesting. I do "set" my initial edge on the grinder on very low speed with a 220 ceramic. I then strop. That is my standard working edge for any knife that goes out of my shop If someone wants a more refined edge, I use the KME. I also do the edge roll test with a brass rod. I have only once had an edge that deformed under that testing.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Cool deal! It was the first time I'd thought about (when reading Larrin's work). Figured it gave me an excuse to buy a new tool!

  • @stoneblue1795
    @stoneblue1795 Před 4 lety +7

    Well done friend. It's clear you are committed to fully digesting this sport/hobby. It's rewarding to just watch someone reach such levels of excellence, certainly.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      Hey JP, I really appreciate that. It's a great craft for sure! Happy you liked the video.

  • @multifunctionalcompositesa3067

    Thank you, I've had my Wen for almost two years and wish I had seen this before Jan 2024. I figured out the attachments etc on my own and your advice is completely on the mark. 😊

  • @esnyd
    @esnyd Před 4 lety +6

    This is such a good video. If you're on the fence or struggling with getting consistent edge bevels, follow this guide and buy a similar system.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      Eric Snyder thanks sir. I still use this sharpener. I do have some issues keeping it clean when I don’t have a sharpening notch, but that could be user error. Glad you liked it!

  • @jjholl3826
    @jjholl3826 Před 4 lety +3

    Great vid👍 love the pivot pin idea!! Such a simple fix dude!! 🤙🏼

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      Thank you! It makes it way better for hunters like that. Still takes a little practice... all of our kitchen knives are sharp now! LOL

  • @davidemillerjr
    @davidemillerjr Před 3 lety +6

    Appreciate the video. Thought I would throw this out there to help with one of the complaints of your system. Put the Wen in a cookie sheet, drilled a hole in one of the corners and put the hole over the bench so water goes into 5 gal pail waiting below. Helps quite a bit. Again great videos.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety +2

      Good idea sir! I found that I don't get the table wet if I don't over fill the water holder... Sounds obvious, but I was over filling before. Now it's become a non issue. Have a great weekend!

  • @kevinwilkinson1510
    @kevinwilkinson1510 Před 2 lety

    Thanks very much for taking the time to present a detailed review. My particular interest in something like this is for sharpening an American style scythe blade.

  • @denniscraven8438
    @denniscraven8438 Před 4 lety +2

    Great review. Thanks for doing it!

  • @Zerostar369
    @Zerostar369 Před 2 lety

    Thanks for this review and tutorial. I just picked this one up and you have helped a ton already getting me going with it.

  • @ffbrn
    @ffbrn Před 4 lety +1

    Good information! You can use a baking tray or plastic tub or some kind of a container to place the sharpener in, that will make the water mess manageable.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      That is a great idea! I may need to do that!

  • @LarryDMitchell
    @LarryDMitchell Před 4 lety +3

    Great video. I just purchased a WEN off of CL from a guy who used it once! Got a great deal so now I need to use it. Came across your channel while surfing about the WEN and you answered all my questions, including the towels underneath the unit. I would have never thought of that. Since I'm stuck at home that will give me some time to watch some of your other videos. Thanks

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +2

      Cool deal sir! I will stay that I was over filling the water tray. If you keep the water level below the line I don't have any spillage. Cheers

  • @diredesire
    @diredesire Před 4 dny

    Thanks for the informative review. I appreciate the workarounds and the layman's explanations and calling out critical accessories. This will save me a ton of time down the road.

  • @joshlong1397
    @joshlong1397 Před 3 lety

    Thanks for comparing the tormek and wen knife jig accessories, that's what I was looking for!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Glad you got something out of this one Josh!

  • @jasonmills9158
    @jasonmills9158 Před rokem

    Thanks for this video. VERY well done, and pointed out some things about the system I hadn’t considered.

  • @jwilsonhandmadeknives2760

    great video! I do just about all of my sharpening on my 2x72 but have been considering some form of a wet wheel for a long time because it’s sometimes a PITA to get the belt to run flat enough at the edges so that I’m not putting that tiny bit of recurve at the choil.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Hello sir! I'll say it's not perfect. I've done it both ways and currently have been liking the wheel. There's nothing wrong with a 2x72 edge though if you're careful and you set up for it. I do like having the guide so that my bevels are the same on both sides, but by hand you can get them pretty damn close on the grinder too!

  • @deans67pala
    @deans67pala Před 4 lety

    Sweet vid brother! Simple and to the point.

  • @jackdotzman2908
    @jackdotzman2908 Před 3 lety

    Very nice vid and your review is very well done. Appreciate your thoughts and explaining what you liked and disliked.
    Thanks for taking the time.
    From Missouri

  • @s.steele2806
    @s.steele2806 Před 2 lety

    Excellent review of this sharpening system. Thanks so much for sharing.🤘

  • @briantabor7906
    @briantabor7906 Před 4 lety +1

    All your videos have great info. Just bought a Tormek, ouch. Gonna give that pivot mod a shot.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      Cheers Brian! Thank you! Tormek makes a hell of a machine man. I doubt you'll be disappointed! The Pivot mod is still going strong for me!

  • @pittbullcustomleather6509

    Thank you for the helpful review & tips. Much appreciated.

  • @tedgreen1232
    @tedgreen1232 Před 4 lety +5

    Tormek has videos on how to use a wet stone sharpener. They set up the knife holding jig different. Imagine a line from the beginning cutting blade edge (next to handle of the knife) to the blade point. Now set your jig in the middle of blade but angled to match the line described above. Seemed very effective in keeping the correct blade angle, even at the curve just by lifting the handle. Hard to describe , hope this helps

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Good tips and info Ted! Thanks for the comment.

  • @watermain48
    @watermain48 Před 4 lety +3

    That was a fine review. Got you a new sub.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Thanks Bill, glad you got something out of this one. Cheer sir!

  • @libertyordeath1287
    @libertyordeath1287 Před 4 lety

    Nice review. Just ordered one a couple days ago. I wanted the tormek and almost ordered the t-4 but people say that you can't do longer knives. I ordered the tormek accessories with it, small knife holder, stone truing tool, stone grader and angle finder. I figure if the wen turns out to be a dud I will eventually bite the bullet and get a t-8 and still have the tools for it which in this case was the biggest expense.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      That was my thoughts as well! You can also return it for free via Amazon if you hate it out of the box.

  • @jawbaw6471
    @jawbaw6471 Před 4 lety +2

    Mr. Keeton, I learned to grind an edge without using a guide. Edges are excellent.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Good to know! Thanks for sharing. I may need to try this out.

  • @BretChilcott
    @BretChilcott Před 3 lety +1

    Excellent video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

  • @thebigbang4474
    @thebigbang4474 Před 3 lety

    Best video! Very informative and creative. Thanks Mr. Red Beard.

  • @mihaipopa9414
    @mihaipopa9414 Před 4 lety

    Very good video and instructions, thanks!

  • @Asmuk
    @Asmuk Před 3 lety +1

    Damn, this was the most useful video I watched for a long time. Thanks, mate. Good idea on the laser as well.

  • @RGRGJKK
    @RGRGJKK Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks useful vídeo. You gives us critical información about that wen slow bench grinder. Thanks again

  • @ShevillMathers
    @ShevillMathers Před 4 lety +1

    My GMC version came with all the fittings, nothing else to buy, less than $100 Australian, very low cost and with practise, performs very well over many years and well worth the low price. 👍🇦🇺🔭

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Shevill Mathers very cool! Sounds like a hell of a deal!

  • @thirdrail9295
    @thirdrail9295 Před 2 lety

    Very useful. Thank you for putting this out.

  • @jefferyeverly9431
    @jefferyeverly9431 Před 4 lety +3

    JKeetonKnives has it do on karambits , recurves, etc.... for me thats one hardest knives to sharpen is my karambits that I make.... thanks AWESOME REVIEW. thinking of getting one :)

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      I bet it would be difficult for sure to do a recurve. I haven't tried one. I have seen a guy on youtube somewhere demonstrating how to with a tormek. It seems difficult to master but doable. Thanks for the praise on the review and thanks for watching!

  • @patrickgrimes8964
    @patrickgrimes8964 Před 3 lety +1

    Great review. Two thumbs up.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Patrick, glad you enjoyed this one!

  • @conradaquino1406
    @conradaquino1406 Před 4 lety +3

    Great info, especially the mod. Another hack for the stone grader... A regular coarse/fine aluminum oxide combo sharpening stone does the same job at 1/2 the price (or more) of the Tormek stone.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Thanks for the info!

    • @DarkArtsDeepDive
      @DarkArtsDeepDive Před 3 lety

      Does it have to be a particular grit? Will 150/240 work? Thanks for any help

    • @UncleSarkis
      @UncleSarkis Před 3 lety

      @@DarkArtsDeepDive that's very course considering the wheel is already at 220, then you grade to 1000 then strop.

  • @ronjones4069
    @ronjones4069 Před 3 lety +2

    Excellent vide. Thank you, I now feel like an expert!! It is a huge help for me.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Ron, glad you enjoyed it!

    • @ThekiBoran
      @ThekiBoran Před 3 lety

      Have you seen Knife Grinders channel?

  • @gradymcnutt2247
    @gradymcnutt2247 Před 4 lety +1

    Good review thank you sir

  • @jeffcarpenter1891
    @jeffcarpenter1891 Před 4 lety

    OUTSTANDING !!!

  • @danielmiller2886
    @danielmiller2886 Před rokem

    Great info!

  • @CougarClan
    @CougarClan Před rokem

    Best one I've seen by far! TY!!!

  • @jeffstanley4593
    @jeffstanley4593 Před 4 lety +1

    You can sharpen with the wheel turning away from the edge to nearly eliminate the water mess. You can do that on the Tormek anyway, don't know about the WEN. I have the Tormek and that is a major major problem with it. I don't even sharpen knives on it anymore, it was that bad. Kitchen knives are done very well on the Chefs Edge Trizor XV. Interesting to note that you have to use Tormek tools on the WEN.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +2

      That's true. I have tried that method, but I like how the bur is smaller when sharpening towards yourself. For sure Tormek items are of a higher quality and perform their task very well. They supplement the WEN sharpener well. The truing and dressing tool is a must.

  • @gregchapman2634
    @gregchapman2634 Před 2 lety

    Thank you for the awesome review

  • @braddblk
    @braddblk Před 2 lety

    Something I had on hand is a bread tray from a bakery. It has a lip of about 1/2" and it is a couple of feet square and made of fiberglass, water contained!

  • @luizdiaz5196
    @luizdiaz5196 Před 4 lety

    Great demo

  • @CHIBA280CRV
    @CHIBA280CRV Před 4 lety +1

    Fantastic job sir thanks

  • @RoarIsaksen1959
    @RoarIsaksen1959 Před rokem

    I have several stones for my Tormek machine. It is necessary to mount the stone in exactly the same position as when it was centered with the diamond turning tool. I use to make sure that the writing on the side of the stone is completely horizontal and facing the right way every time i tighten the nut holding the stone. If I put the stone upside down, for example, it will be thrown up and down in rotation due to the tiny clearance around the axle

  • @Prixnup
    @Prixnup Před 2 lety

    The laser idea is a keen one 👍🏻👌🏻

  • @e.t.preppin7084
    @e.t.preppin7084 Před 4 lety +4

    I would love to own one. About 35 years ago I worked with a Scottish boat carpenter who had a delta wet wheel. That thing was awesome for sharpening our chisels and block plane blades. I was fairly new to carpentry back then but remember being impressed by the tool. For the last 5 years or so I’ve been looking for something like that wheel. I bought one from Harbor Freight but it was junk. I’m pleased with my when tools so I’ll probably buy this. Couldn’t you just free hand your drop points or any knife for that matter rather than using the tool arm ? I use the edge pro professional model for all my sharpening except my convex grinds in which case I use my edgewright system. Basically sandpaper on a semi soft rubber strip block and sharpen by hand similar to stropping followed by actual stropping with a series of compounds. 👍 thanks J

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      You could go free hand for sure! I bet that would take a little practice. With the laser guide it would be easier. If you want the cadillac get the tormek... but if you want a cheap option this thing will do! Thanks for watching!

    • @e.t.preppin7084
      @e.t.preppin7084 Před 4 lety +1

      I’ll probably go low budget because I will probably be using the Wen for very specific projects. My whole attitude is apt to change because I have never sharpened a knife on a wet stone(wheel). I’ll see and let you know. Thanks for the review

  • @mikeng64
    @mikeng64 Před 3 lety

    Great review, very helpful. When you were using the TT-50 to true the wheel, I noticed you didn't slide the TT-50 all the way across the horizontal bar and secure it against vertical post (I know the TT-50 won't reach across the Wen wheel if you do). My question is, is the TT-50 held securely enough using just the finger lock knob tightened onto the horizontal bar?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety +1

      Hey Mike, it seemed to work pretty good for me.

  • @labrat7357
    @labrat7357 Před 4 lety +1

    I have had two Tormek machines an old 2000 and a T7 . the 2000 motor started alternating between forward and reverse when started (someone sugested that might just be a faulty start capacitor) around the same time the the drive rubber/friction drive packed it in and would no longer drive the unit, the second wheel was down to well under 180mm diameter. So I lashed out and got a T7 plus all the jig sets on offer except the drill sharpener , shaper blade sharpener jig and planner blade sharpener jig. The best choice I have ever made.
    I have used a jet and a schepach knock off and they were both inferior to the Tormek by a big margin. I'm presently looking for an excuse to buy the T8, but my wife is being unreasonable.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Lol, your last sentence there has me cracking up! I agree, everything I've seen points to the Tormek being an excellent machine!

  • @simplemanduke7128
    @simplemanduke7128 Před 4 lety +1

    Great video Sir. Just subscribed

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Heck yeah! Thanks man. Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @riboflavinz
    @riboflavinz Před 3 lety

    Outstanding video and review! I love that it was short and to the point. Too many people try to get cute with these things. BTW what is that knife at the 10:51 mark? Looks cool.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Thank you! Here is video of me making that knife - czcams.com/video/rRqtBagBziw/video.html

  • @awesomegod91
    @awesomegod91 Před 11 měsíci

    Great video, thanks for sharing.

  • @AereForst
    @AereForst Před 4 lety +3

    That laser hack is brilliant. You should patent it then sell it to Wen or Tormek

  • @666THUGNIFICENT666
    @666THUGNIFICENT666 Před 3 lety

    I just bought this system after watching your great, in depth review. Problem is NOBODY has the accessory kit available rendering it useless... any advice would be appreciated.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Hey Dom, if you can't find the accessories I'm not sure what your options are until they come back in stock. Maybe the tormek accessories?

  • @robertmunguia250
    @robertmunguia250 Před 2 lety

    I’m looking at the kit now and it must have been upgraded because it does not have the black knobs anymore. Look good in the picture. Knife jig.

  • @johnpowers8995
    @johnpowers8995 Před 3 lety

    Thanks Red Beard. Great video. Question: Can I use one of my Tormek T-8 stones (SG250) on the Wen and Jet sharpening systems? Thanks for your response.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      I'm not 100% sure since I haven't tried it.... but I've heard that they work.

  • @jamesbenic
    @jamesbenic Před 3 lety

    Your videos have been a huge help to me, what angle do you set for sharpening hunting knives vs kitchen knives? Thanks

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Somewhere between 18 and 20 degrees for most of my knives. Cheers James

  • @nateand3
    @nateand3 Před 4 lety

    Good video man

  • @kirkbrooks9447
    @kirkbrooks9447 Před 3 lety +1

    Back in the early 80's I worked in a big hardware/tool supply store (Pre-Box store days) and we had a few Wen products. Their drills and sanders and such were garbage but they had a pretty good electric chainsaw and they had a wet sharpener that was very good. It had a horizontal wet wheel and a vertical wheel. No strop. It had a water tank on back as well. You could sharpen 12" planer blades for the big contractor grade power planers on that thing and get a really good result pretty quickly. The horizontal jig had a bit of learning curve to it but after that it was nice to have around. Plus you could buy it for under $50 I think. I'd like to find one now.

    • @carlb401
      @carlb401 Před 3 lety +1

      Delta also make those or used to ( 23-710), also makita make a single stone version which can be bought in the USA.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety +1

      Hey Kirk, I can't say they're the best quality, but sometimes the price is right. This sharpener is still going strong for me.

    • @kirkbrooks9447
      @kirkbrooks9447 Před 3 lety

      @@carlb401 After the hardware store I was a service supervisor for Makita. It was a good product but was way overpriced imo. Plus a bit tricky to set up for planer blade sharpening.

    • @kirkbrooks9447
      @kirkbrooks9447 Před 3 lety

      @@RedBeardOps Can't argue with results!!

  • @marcgosik273
    @marcgosik273 Před 3 lety

    In the current model (newer) jig kit, the screw(s) (like you replaced because it would contact the wheel when you flipped to the other side) are different. No plastic knob now. All metal and lower profile.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for the update marc. Good to know!

  • @bawrytr
    @bawrytr Před 2 lety +2

    Even if it doesn't freeze, if you leave the wheel in the water for long periods of time, the water will affect the wheel and it will get out of balance. Just take the tray off the machine and let the wheel dry out as evenly as possible.

  • @armadilloforge
    @armadilloforge Před 4 lety +1

    Good information.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Thank you! I really like this grinder, but sharpening is so individual. Some people love hand stones, some like other systems, etc.

  • @Tyler-ll2ic
    @Tyler-ll2ic Před 2 lety

    I really enjoyed your Wen review. I am just getting into knife making and am trying to decide whether to go with a belt grinder or a wet grinder like the Wen to grind my initial bevels on my blanks. Could I use a wet grinder for initial bevels? I like the idea of a beveling jig. Could I use a beveling jig with a wet grinder? Thanks. Ken

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      100% go with the belt grinder for beveles.

  • @chrisreeves8037
    @chrisreeves8037 Před rokem

    Red, informative video and good job. A question have you heard of anyone sharpening drill bits on the outside face of the stone.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Hey Chris, I have heard of this but never have done it. Sorry about that

  • @rickhall5399
    @rickhall5399 Před 4 lety +1

    The problem I have with the tour mock or the grizzly wet water wheel is that it creates a hollow ground cutting edge which will not last as long as a convex cutting edge or a flat ground cutting edge for that matter if you use a belt grinder you just need to put a cool mist on it when your sharpening and go at low speeds

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Man, I thought the same when I first investigated buying one. Then I drew out the actual dimensions in CAD to get an idea of "how hollow" the grind is. On a 10" I can tell you that it's extremely negligible. Check this out - www.dropbox.com/s/k2v8yik2ocfn8em/WENWheel.jpg?dl=0

    • @rickhall5399
      @rickhall5399 Před 4 lety

      Red Beard Ops Yeah I read that Article as well I always do a convex even though it’s small I would put it up against any knife with a hollow ground or flat ground edge as far as longevity this comes from lessons with Mike Quesenberry who was taught by Tim Hancock I also saw that you referenced Nick Wheeler he was also taught by Tim Hancock to do that type of an edge.

  • @lsittmann
    @lsittmann Před 4 lety +1

    Just found your channel/video... & Tks Much...!!! Have had same model for several months & have done some of the more simpler modifications as shown after purchase.. On the OTHER: flexible really cool more elegant designs you put insert pics up on screen... Is their a place to procure/purchase??? Or were these Saturday mechanic foxfire remedies??? If so, then where might one acquire triangle aluminum stock THAT SIZE or the split shank washer with welded round stock doodad thingy??? (real names please)... Any other suggestions you may have would be even further help (more so) than you've so kindly provided already... Tks Again...

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Yes sir, I learned about those jigs here - www.tormek.com/forum/index.php?topic=3780.0

  • @dirkbaumann9398
    @dirkbaumann9398 Před 4 lety +1

    I have been trying to get the same machine as you have and it is very difficult to find. I per sally prefer the model you have rather than the new model. The machine you have looks very similar to other brand names. Yesterday I looked at the Canadian tire website and in my opinion it looks identical to the old wen. So if anybody wants the similar model CT has them. My question is: Do you have any problems with the arms or the stone not being straight ? I like to thank you for your excellent video

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Cool deal sir, I know it comes in and out of stock at Amazon... Seems to take a while to get back in stock once it goes out of stock. When the arm is seated fully before tightening down I feel like you can make it very repeatable. To true the arm with the wheel you can use the tormek truing and dressing tool. Thanks for your comment sir.

  • @mihaipopa9414
    @mihaipopa9414 Před 4 lety

    Thank you for another great video!

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Really happy you enjoyed it sir! Cheers from Texas

  • @JerrySwatsell
    @JerrySwatsell Před 4 lety +2

    I've always used stones and a leather strop, but this looks like a nice system. Is it something you still use? Do you have any regrets?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +2

      I do still use it! I find that it works best on knives with a sharpening choil (spanish notch). On knives without this I find that it can gum up the plunges if you're not carful. Works great on kitchen knives too. For the price... no regrets.

  • @UncleSarkis
    @UncleSarkis Před 4 lety +2

    Does anyone know if the rikon, jet and grizzly versions are actually out of the same factory wen is out of?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      Man I don't know for sure, but I wouldn't be surprised...

  • @richardleslie410
    @richardleslie410 Před 2 lety

    I could not afford the Tormak machine so I bought this one. I think it has potential but I couldn't get repeatable results. As you mentioned the castings are not precise. after I trued the cutting wheel and set the reference bar to the height for a cut I noticed the bar was no longer level with the cutting wheel. There is a great deal of tolerance in the bushings meaning the guide bar could be as much as 3/8" out from left to right. frustration caused me to shelf the item for now.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      I'm sorry to hear that Richard. I still use this guy. It takes a fiddling with before getting it set the way I want. I found that when I adjust the bar I like putting even pressure down on both "legs" before tightening it. Otherwise it will tilt a little.

    • @richardleslie410
      @richardleslie410 Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps Maybe I'll give it another try,

  • @PLATINIUM1943
    @PLATINIUM1943 Před 4 lety +1

    Where I can by the new DIAMOND for the stone using ?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Hello sir. You can search for Tormek Diamond 10" wheels on amazon. I must say though, that I HAVE NOT TRIED THIS MYSELF.... so try at your own risk. I think it will work, but i'm not 100% sure. Verifying the appropriate size hole and axle would be a good idea.

  • @Feathers147
    @Feathers147 Před 11 měsíci

    Keeping the curve edge of the blade near the laser line seems logical but I did notice the honing angle changes considerably, does this affect the sharpness or thickness of the the edge of the blade thus changing the durability?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 11 měsíci

      If you have a variance in angle then the edge geometry will change. Which will change the effectiveness of cutting and durability

  • @oldrustycars
    @oldrustycars Před rokem

    I saw your video and bought one. Got it yesterday, practicing on old knives. I have it sitting in an old half sheet baking pan to contain the water. I notice you have the wheel running towards the knife, Wen says have it going away from the knife. You opinion please? Thank you.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      I like it coming towards the knife... seems to produce a smaller bur - Cheers sir!

  • @robertmunguia250
    @robertmunguia250 Před 2 lety

    Just got one. Needed to know what else I needed. It did come with the jig kit. Anything else?

  • @CagedSUPERMAN
    @CagedSUPERMAN Před 2 lety

    Can you bring a freshly made knife to an edge with this? Because I leave a flat edge on the knives till I finish them.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      Yes, I use this to bring a 0.010'' flat edge to a knife edge

  • @FrenchieFrench1555
    @FrenchieFrench1555 Před rokem

    I have a question about the Wen; it seems to me that when using the guide bar to sharpen chisels against the rotation of the wheel, the guide bar is too short on the left side. I cannot use about 3/8" to 1/2' of thew grinding wheel on the left side because the hand plane blade support falls off of the guide . Do I do something wrong? Thank you for your help.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před rokem

      Hello sir, I've honestly never used it on anything other than knives. Sorry I don't have any advice for you.

  • @TNUni167
    @TNUni167 Před 4 lety +3

    Hey Red Beard, first time watching videos on your channel and I love your work. Do you know if Tormek wheels can fit on this jig? Could the Tormek diamond wheel fit on this device?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      Thank you sir! I actually do not know. If the shaft is the same diameter I don't see why it wouldn't work. Sorry I don't know the answer to this one.

    • @libertyordeath1287
      @libertyordeath1287 Před 4 lety +1

      I was told that you can use the tormek wheels you just have to add washers for spacers because the tormek has a recessed area and the wen does not

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      @@libertyordeath1287 Good to know!

    • @davidbutler1825
      @davidbutler1825 Před 4 lety

      @@RedBeardOps I hate to bother you about this, but would you mind measuring the shaft? I've looked at lots of sources and can't find the arbor size for the Wen--most wheels are for 5/8" arbors. I don't want to buy the Wen if it can't take the CBN wheels (5/8" arbor). Thanks!!

  • @robertmunguia250
    @robertmunguia250 Před rokem

    I wonder if those tormek reversible base work on the WEN? Oh is there any low profile thumb screws for that bolt that interferes when you flip it over? M6 1.0?

  • @ChristopherSalisburySalz

    You could maybe put the sharpner in a long, wide, and shallowish container to catch the water slop.

  • @bobjohnson8447
    @bobjohnson8447 Před 3 lety

    The truing tool no longer fits, I assume there were some design changes in one, the other, or both. Also, the Wen jig designs have changed to a lower profile nob. However, I just bought mine and haven't used it yet so we'll see if that issue still exists, but i suspect not as the nobs are very low profile now.

  • @joshberens9545
    @joshberens9545 Před 3 lety

    Did you modify the support arm? It looks like you added all thread to get the fine vertical adjustment like the Tormek.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Hey Josh, that is how it came, I did not modify it. I'd say it's not supper refined, but I'm able to get good results with it.

  • @Chris-hp1be
    @Chris-hp1be Před 3 lety

    Great vid I was looking at them on amazon but can’t see spending the 600 and up for the better one. Does the wen have a angle gauge adjustment knob or anything similar like the tormek? Or would I need to purchase a separate angle finder? Thanks for your time and very informative video

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety +1

      Hey Chris, I'd highly suggest the angle finder from Tormek to use with this WEN machine. There is a "fine tuning adjustment" on the Wen but it is crude.

    • @Chris-hp1be
      @Chris-hp1be Před 3 lety

      @@RedBeardOps great……. thanks for the heads up

  • @gregparrott
    @gregparrott Před 2 lety

    Thanks for the review. In addition to knives, would this unit work well on chipper blades? (straight edge, 3 inches long on quarter inch thick, hard steel plate)
    Also, in addition to the grader, truing, and tools used to hold the work piece, would you recommend multiple wheels, each built to a different grit, rather than using one wheel and altering its grit with the grading tool?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 2 lety

      I think it could work for that. I haven't tried it. The wheel that comes with it does a pretty good job. I've seen guys use finer grit wheels, but they generally have 2 machines set up

    • @gregparrott
      @gregparrott Před 2 lety

      @@RedBeardOps Thanks. It's interesting that users prefer multiple machines vs. one machine and multiple grinding wheels.

  • @cvantwout1
    @cvantwout1 Před 3 měsíci

    Any thoughts on the 8 vs 10 wen? Can't quite tell if the one with variable speed would be a better option

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 měsíci

      I'd go for the larger wheel and variable speed if I had to make a choice today on this style of machine.

  • @TheIntern83
    @TheIntern83 Před 4 lety +1

    Do you know if the Wen can fit a Tormek support arm?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Hello sir, I do not know the answer to this. Sorry!

  • @TheSMEAC
    @TheSMEAC Před 3 lety

    Will the Tormek square edge jig SE-77 work on the Wen?

  • @michaelrussell9890
    @michaelrussell9890 Před 4 lety

    Do you use ferric acid to dip your knives and does that protect them from rust?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Michael Russell this is how I stone wash my blades czcams.com/video/761hHVnE9i8/video.html . I like the way it looks and I think it “wears” well over time as the blade is used. Not sure about protection.

  • @CP-xl3tz
    @CP-xl3tz Před 3 lety

    Hey the knife jig mod you had a picture of another mod that fit around the jig and was adjustable where can this be found

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      Hey Chris, those were custom pieces. I don't think they're for sale. I found them on the tormek forums. Someone may be selling them on there.

  • @TheRealKirkHammett
    @TheRealKirkHammett Před 3 lety

    What kind of vise is that you're using to drill a hole with? I've never seen one like that.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      This is the one I use on my mill - Milling Vise - amzn.to/37gPefO

  • @piecetoyou8285
    @piecetoyou8285 Před 3 lety

    Is the spindle that hold the stone stainless steel

  • @Fairchild_forge
    @Fairchild_forge Před 4 lety +1

    Quick question. How does one set specific angles for sharpening different styles of knives such as kitchen vs outdoor knives?

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety +1

      Hey Kyle, this is what I use. Works great - amzn.to/39NLzbT

    • @Fairchild_forge
      @Fairchild_forge Před 4 lety

      Red Beard Ops thanks man that's awesome!

  • @southronjr1570
    @southronjr1570 Před 4 lety +2

    I bought one of these 2 years ago and for its price point, it's worked good for me but the axle was severely out of round making both the stone and strop wobbled pretty bad. On the strop side, I was able to work around it but took a stone dressing tool to true up the stone. It still has a little wobble but nothing I can't work around. I freehand though and can work around it.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Good to know. I feel like with these cheap machines the truing and dresssing wheel is a necessity.

  • @genesmith2416
    @genesmith2416 Před 3 lety

    Will the finer tormek stones working this

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 3 lety

      I haven't tried it, but I'm pretty sure the shafts are the same diameter. I don't see why not

  • @TheCraftWindChimes
    @TheCraftWindChimes Před 4 lety

    Hi, Would this work for grinding glass on the side part of the stone wheel? I'm looking for a grinding option that would dull the bottom of cut wine glass bottles. I currently use a diamond disc that I grind the bottom of the bottle with by hand but would love to find an option like this. Thanks in advance for the reply.

    • @RedBeardOps
      @RedBeardOps  Před 4 lety

      Hey Malou, to be honest I have no idea. I've never ground glass. I would imagine this would work better than doing it by hand though. The stone is not diamond impregnated. The good news is that the unit has free returns on Amazon... so if it doesn't work for you, you can probably return it.

    • @TheCraftWindChimes
      @TheCraftWindChimes Před 4 lety

      Thank you very much 🙂

  • @budchestnut9303
    @budchestnut9303 Před 2 lety

    Get a plant starter tray from your farm supply and position the machine in it to catch splash and water. Don't let too much water depth build up.