Andrew hall
Registered
What are people’s thoughts on this sharpening system and is there any deals available.
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Robert sorby pro edge
- Thread starter Andrew hall
- Start date
I love mine. Easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space which was a consideration for me. The jig for sharpening wood turning gouges works really well but you can also go “freestyle” too if you prefer.
I sometimes use mine for sharpening knives and it works ok but you can’t always get to the very end of the blade near the handle as the handle itself can get in the way so it’s a little awkward. There is a jig available for that too though, at extra cost.
I do think it’s a little overpriced for what it is so maybe look for a pre-loved version. If I was buying again then that’s what I would do, but I’ve no complaints and would recommend.
Cheers
Ash
I sometimes use mine for sharpening knives and it works ok but you can’t always get to the very end of the blade near the handle as the handle itself can get in the way so it’s a little awkward. There is a jig available for that too though, at extra cost.
I do think it’s a little overpriced for what it is so maybe look for a pre-loved version. If I was buying again then that’s what I would do, but I’ve no complaints and would recommend.
Cheers
Ash
Much depends on all the things you’d like to sharpen. Probably the best system if you just want to sharpen wood turning tools. Not so great for other stuff. I’ve used and used to recommend them to wood turners but I actually bought the Axminster version instead. I bought it when it was on special offer (£399) so a similar price to the Sorby at the time. Not so cheap now though.
www.axminstertools.com
It’s a good machine. Variable speed and forward and reverse are handy. It can also be used with all the jigs available for wet grinders like the Tormek as it has a movable 12mm support rod. The Sorby uses a fixed 1/2” rod.
The big advantage to belt grinders is the ability to very quickly switch from say a 60g belt for reshaping tools right up to an 800g belt for honing if required for things like carving tools.
As suggested these do come up second hand from time to time but watch out for scammers. There have been a few warnings on social media about Pro Edge sales. Good luck with whatever you decide.
Axminster Professional Ultimate Edge V/Speed Sharpening System - 230V
Woodwork without a keen edge simply ends up in tears. The Axminster Professional AP50UE Ultimate Edge offers a controlled, repeatable and effective method for sharpening, linishing or polishing on all your edge tools. No one takes up sharpening as a...
www.axminstertools.com
It’s a good machine. Variable speed and forward and reverse are handy. It can also be used with all the jigs available for wet grinders like the Tormek as it has a movable 12mm support rod. The Sorby uses a fixed 1/2” rod.
The big advantage to belt grinders is the ability to very quickly switch from say a 60g belt for reshaping tools right up to an 800g belt for honing if required for things like carving tools.
As suggested these do come up second hand from time to time but watch out for scammers. There have been a few warnings on social media about Pro Edge sales. Good luck with whatever you decide.
pittswood
Fellow
Its the ProEdge for me every time. Used grinding stones before, good, but I like the flat surface left after the grind. I can get perfect edges on any tool, flat, round, square, oval even curved, internally and externally. As an old engineer we had to sharpen everything by hand on any grinding stone, one of the tests one had to pass in old school engineering.
So, if a tool is out there and to make things easer, use it. And always buy from reputable sellers.
Kelvin
So, if a tool is out there and to make things easer, use it. And always buy from reputable sellers.
Kelvin
Spoiler Alert - I used to work for Robert Sorby (and still help out at shows and events) but the info here is very neutral...They have changed how they sell the system last year...as the Pro Edge can be used for so many different tasks so instead of trying to sell you a "one bundle fits all" solution you now buy in effect a "naked" Pro Edge (the basic machine itself) and then add (if you wish) one of three jigs / accessory kits...one aimed squarely at woodturners (the one most of us on here would probably use) a Woodworker kit- aimed at amongst other things plane and chisel blades rather than woodturning tools and a slightly more specialist Knife maker kit.
Just ensure when shopping if any price you see is machine only, or the machine and the appropriate"kit" to fit your needs.
I'm thoroughly biased - (I don't own one personally yet, (although this is due to change soon)) but compared to any other system I have used, which includes Tormek, dry grinders and other sharpening systems, I think this is the bees knees...yup, not cheap (but the best quality stuff never is..) and think...it's an investment in every single tool you've bought to date and in anything you buy in the future!
Tony Kwasniak
Curly
Graduate Member
Welcome to the forum Andrew.
I don't have a belt grinding system but if I were I would be considering a 50x2000/2x72 that are popular with the knife making people. There are a few kits made in Central Europe for around £500 without a motor that you'll have to weld or bolt together and they go up from there. The upside to them is the versatility and variety of abrasive belts available which range from a 1/4 to the same costs as the Pro Edge belts. The belts being longer last longer too. You would need to get tool holding jigs adapted to fit or make your own. The downside is they are bigger, cost more for a good one. If you don't have the skills or desire to complete a kit then they wouldn't be for you. If are interested there are knife making forums that should have threads about them and there are groups on Facebook.
Pete
I don't have a belt grinding system but if I were I would be considering a 50x2000/2x72 that are popular with the knife making people. There are a few kits made in Central Europe for around £500 without a motor that you'll have to weld or bolt together and they go up from there. The upside to them is the versatility and variety of abrasive belts available which range from a 1/4 to the same costs as the Pro Edge belts. The belts being longer last longer too. You would need to get tool holding jigs adapted to fit or make your own. The downside is they are bigger, cost more for a good one. If you don't have the skills or desire to complete a kit then they wouldn't be for you. If are interested there are knife making forums that should have threads about them and there are groups on Facebook.
Pete
alan morrison
Fellow
Welcome Andrew.
Just buy one, it’ll be the best tool in your workshop!
Like others, I have tried the rest and now (I feel) have the best. I loved my Tormek but size and fear of cracking a wheel (frost in my workshop if not heated) worried me....the Sorby does everything my Tormek did (except keep the cutting edge cold) with the addition of quick changing grit size....