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.
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.
@@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.
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.
Probably the best review of a product I’ve ever seen on TH-cam. Not only informative but you didn’t just trash the product when you had an issue. You showed an easy fix. Great job brother.
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.
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.
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!
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. 😊
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
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.
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.
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!!
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.
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
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!
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Amazing review! I am going to buy one. Only question, is can I get replacement stones for this, and stones of varying grits? I looked on Home Depot website, and I only saw 4" stones.
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 :)
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!
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.
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
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!
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
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. 👍🇦🇺🔭
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.
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.
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
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!
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.
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 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.
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?
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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?
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.
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
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.
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 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!!
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.
@RedBeardOps would this sharpener be useful to set the secondary bevel? Or would you set the secondary bevel and then use this to sharpen the blade? I ask because setting the secondary bevel on my grinder sometimes gives me inconsistent results...
Hey man, I've used this machine to set the secondary bevel and sharpen the blade. The wheel is a 220 grit wheel and will put a "working edge" on the knife. I'm working on a review of another sharpening system right now that will take the edge to a higher level of sharpenss... but this one can get you a pretty darn sharp knife.
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.
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.
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?
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
I think I would prefer to freehand rather than try to use something to hold the blade, but the truing attachment seems like something anyone would need. Do you think I'm kidding myself about being able to hold the blade at the right angle on the wheel? I've been satisfied with the edge I get with a whetstone, and this just seems easier since I don't need to move the knife back and forth or add water (at the cost of getting water and grit all over my face and clothes). Also, I saw a video where a professional knife sharpener rate the Wen, and liked it enough to recommend it (and use it as a secondary wheel), and he said the $3 two-sided stone from Harbor Freight worked fine for conditioning the Wen. In fact, he wasn't sure the much more expensive Tormek stone was any better,
I've sharpened free hand with this system and it does work pretty well. Did better than I thought. Thanks for your thoughts! Have a great weekend! Cheers
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.
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.
Just picked one of these up. I also got the Tormek truing tool, but when i put it on the horizontal work rest and put the prongs around the vertical post of the work rest, it won't go all the way to the opposite side of the wheel. Did you have this issue?
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.
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!
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
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.
can you use the japanese tomec whetstone with this? they are both 10 inch but I thought maaybe you would have more knowledge on this since you own said tool ;)
@@RedBeardOps I finally got someone to measure for me. The Tormek bars are 9cm apart, center to center, and the bars on the Wen are 10cm center to center. Thought maybe you’d want to know.
Hello, could you please tell me the measurements of the stone, I know that it is 250 mm in diameter, but what is the measurement of width and the measurement of the center of the axis
ok yep you’re right. I was sharpening a full flat ground knife. I found that if I loosen the rear set screw as much as possible and tighten the front screw, there’s no gap between the knife and the clamp anymore and no wiggle. I didn’t realize I had a gap on the one side of the clamp therefore the knife was clamped on an angle. Thanks you saved me $70
Very cool deal..I just bought a worksharp adjust and it works great BUT ...There are flaws that are done on purpose imho, just so they can release the next best version. AKA KEN ONION. They are definitely dumbing down their designs just enough to force feedback which they pre-planned to "fix". If I a simpleton can find instant flaws 5 minutes in I'm certain their designers didn't miss it.
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.)
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.
Eric Snyder I’ve heard good things about mdf wheels!
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.
@@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.
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.
Probably the best review of a product I’ve ever seen on TH-cam. Not only informative but you didn’t just trash the product when you had an issue. You showed an easy fix. Great job brother.
Appreciate that! I'm still using this guy. It's not perfect, but it can get a blade pretty darn sharp!
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.
Heck yeah, that's a good idea. Thanks for watching.
Excellent job with comparing the accessories and showing modifications you used and their outcome. Again, Great Job!!
Glad you found it helpful!
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.
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!
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. 😊
Cheers sir!
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
Good tips and info Ted! Thanks for the comment.
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.
Hey JP, I really appreciate that. It's a great craft for sure! Happy you liked the video.
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.
Glad it was helpful!
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!!
Hey man, thanks for your comment! Much appreciated.
I found your channel about 3 days ago and I love the videos.
Awesome! I'm glad you found the channel and are enjoying them!
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.
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
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
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.
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!
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
Good tip!
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
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
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.
Thanks for this video. VERY well done, and pointed out some things about the system I hadn’t considered.
Glad it was helpful!
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.
Glad it was helpful!
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.
Thanks for the info!
Does it have to be a particular grit? Will 150/240 work? Thanks for any help
@@DarkArtsDeepDive that's very course considering the wheel is already at 220, then you grade to 1000 then strop.
Red, informative video and good job. A question have you heard of anyone sharpening drill bits on the outside face of the stone.
Hey Chris, I have heard of this but never have done it. Sorry about that
All your videos have great info. Just bought a Tormek, ouch. Gonna give that pivot mod a shot.
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!
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.
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.
@@RedBeardOps Maybe I'll give it another try,
Amazing review! I am going to buy one. Only question, is can I get replacement stones for this, and stones of varying grits? I looked on Home Depot website, and I only saw 4" stones.
I think there are some online... I also think the tormek stones may work as well, but I haven't tested this!
@@RedBeardOps thank you!
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 :)
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!
Thanks for comparing the tormek and wen knife jig accessories, that's what I was looking for!
Glad you got something out of this one Josh!
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.
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!
Great video bro, but how do you measure the angle? And how you know the right angle for a knife? I having trouble with that
Tormek sells an angle guide
@RedBeardOps great thanks, is that how you did it on this video?
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
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!
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
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. 👍🇦🇺🔭
Shevill Mathers very cool! Sounds like a hell of a deal!
Mr. Keeton, I learned to grind an edge without using a guide. Edges are excellent.
Good to know! Thanks for sharing. I may need to try this out.
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.
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.
Excellent review of this sharpening system. Thanks so much for sharing.🤘
Glad you liked it!
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
Glad it was helpful! Cheers Jack!
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.
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!
Nice Brad!
Thanks for this review and tutorial. I just picked this one up and you have helped a ton already getting me going with it.
Glad I could help!
Great vid👍 love the pivot pin idea!! Such a simple fix dude!! 🤙🏼
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
That was a fine review. Got you a new sub.
Thanks Bill, glad you got something out of this one. Cheer sir!
That laser hack is brilliant. You should patent it then sell it to Wen or Tormek
Thank you sir! Glad you liked it!
Thanks useful vídeo. You gives us critical información about that wen slow bench grinder. Thanks again
Cheers! Thanks!
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.
Lol, your last sentence there has me cracking up! I agree, everything I've seen points to the Tormek being an excellent machine!
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.
Delta also make those or used to ( 23-710), also makita make a single stone version which can be bought in the USA.
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.
@@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.
@@RedBeardOps Can't argue with results!!
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?
I'm not sure! Sorry about that
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.
Thank you! Here is video of me making that knife - th-cam.com/video/rRqtBagBziw/w-d-xo.html
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
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.
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.
I like it coming towards the knife... seems to produce a smaller bur - Cheers sir!
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.
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?
Quick question. How does one set specific angles for sharpening different styles of knives such as kitchen vs outdoor knives?
Hey Kyle, this is what I use. Works great - amzn.to/39NLzbT
Red Beard Ops thanks man that's awesome!
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...
Yes sir, I learned about those jigs here - www.tormek.com/forum/index.php?topic=3780.0
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.
That is a great idea! I may need to do that!
Your videos have been a huge help to me, what angle do you set for sharpening hunting knives vs kitchen knives? Thanks
Somewhere between 18 and 20 degrees for most of my knives. Cheers James
Damn, this was the most useful video I watched for a long time. Thanks, mate. Good idea on the laser as well.
Thank you sir!
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.
Thanks for the update marc. Good to know!
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?
If you have a variance in angle then the edge geometry will change. Which will change the effectiveness of cutting and durability
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.
Hello sir, I've honestly never used it on anything other than knives. Sorry I don't have any advice for you.
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
100% go with the belt grinder for beveles.
Best video! Very informative and creative. Thanks Mr. Red Beard.
Glad you liked it!
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.
Good to know. I feel like with these cheap machines the truing and dresssing wheel is a necessity.
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?
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.
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
@@libertyordeath1287 Good to know!
@@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!!
Thank you for the helpful review & tips. Much appreciated.
Glad it was helpful!
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.
Good to know, sorry about that Bob
@RedBeardOps would this sharpener be useful to set the secondary bevel? Or would you set the secondary bevel and then use this to sharpen the blade? I ask because setting the secondary bevel on my grinder sometimes gives me inconsistent results...
Hey man, I've used this machine to set the secondary bevel and sharpen the blade. The wheel is a 220 grit wheel and will put a "working edge" on the knife.
I'm working on a review of another sharpening system right now that will take the edge to a higher level of sharpenss... but this one can get you a pretty darn sharp knife.
@@RedBeardOps Thank you for the response! That is exactly what I needed to know.
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.
That was my thoughts as well! You can also return it for free via Amazon if you hate it out of the box.
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.
Yes, I use this to bring a 0.010'' flat edge to a knife edge
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.
I'm not 100% sure since I haven't tried it.... but I've heard that they work.
Will the tormek drill bit sharpening jig work with this machine
I'm not sure! Possibly
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?
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
@@RedBeardOps Thanks. It's interesting that users prefer multiple machines vs. one machine and multiple grinding wheels.
Great review. Thanks for doing it!
Thank you! Glad you liked it!
Any thoughts on the 8 vs 10 wen? Can't quite tell if the one with variable speed would be a better option
I'd go for the larger wheel and variable speed if I had to make a choice today on this style of machine.
Very useful. Thank you for putting this out.
Glad it was helpful!
I think I would prefer to freehand rather than try to use something to hold the blade, but the truing attachment seems like something anyone would need. Do you think I'm kidding myself about being able to hold the blade at the right angle on the wheel? I've been satisfied with the edge I get with a whetstone, and this just seems easier since I don't need to move the knife back and forth or add water (at the cost of getting water and grit all over my face and clothes). Also, I saw a video where a professional knife sharpener rate the Wen, and liked it enough to recommend it (and use it as a secondary wheel), and he said the $3 two-sided stone from Harbor Freight worked fine for conditioning the Wen. In fact, he wasn't sure the much more expensive Tormek stone was any better,
I've sharpened free hand with this system and it does work pretty well. Did better than I thought. Thanks for your thoughts! Have a great weekend! Cheers
Did you modify the support arm? It looks like you added all thread to get the fine vertical adjustment like the Tormek.
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.
Just got one. Needed to know what else I needed. It did come with the jig kit. Anything else?
WEN Jig Kit - amzn.to/31QSV8J
The laser idea is a keen one 👍🏻👌🏻
Glad you liked it!
Is everything still good to go with this machine today 2/18/20
Yep - 100%
Awesome thanks
Where I can by the new DIAMOND for the stone using ?
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.
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?
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.
Great review. Two thumbs up.
Thanks Patrick, glad you enjoyed this one!
Excellent video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Anytime sir! Thanks for watching!
Just picked one of these up. I also got the Tormek truing tool, but when i put it on the horizontal work rest and put the prongs around the vertical post of the work rest, it won't go all the way to the opposite side of the wheel. Did you have this issue?
NVM. I see you just have it floating on the horizontal arm like I did!
I'm not sure I'm visualizing the issue right, but the truing tool worked just find for me on my version of this machine.
Thank you for the awesome review
My pleasure!
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.
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!
Unless I'm missing something, but if the bolts on the jig are in the way of the stone, why not just flip it over? Can that not be done?
You'd have to remove it from the knife
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
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.
@@RedBeardOps great……. thanks for the heads up
Does anyone know if the rikon, jet and grizzly versions are actually out of the same factory wen is out of?
Man I don't know for sure, but I wouldn't be surprised...
can you use the japanese tomec whetstone with this? they are both 10 inch but I thought maaybe you would have more knowledge on this since you own said tool ;)
Hey man, I have not tried to use a different stone, But I think it would work.
@@RedBeardOps ok 👌 thanks for the reply :)
Best one I've seen by far! TY!!!
Cheers! Thank you
Sweet vid brother! Simple and to the point.
Thank you!
How long does it take to sharpen a knife on this wet sharpener?
about 15-30 min
Do you know if the Wen can fit a Tormek support arm?
Hello sir, I do not know the answer to this. Sorry!
Does the Tormek long planer blade jig work with this? (SVH-320)
Hey Bill, I don't know the answer to that one.
Do you know if the space between bars on the Tormek are the same as the ones that come with the Wen?
@@TerrapinCreations666 I do not know
@@RedBeardOps I finally got someone to measure for me. The Tormek bars are 9cm apart, center to center, and the bars on the Wen are 10cm center to center. Thought maybe you’d want to know.
@@TerrapinCreations666 Thanks for the info Bill!
You could maybe put the sharpner in a long, wide, and shallowish container to catch the water slop.
Hello, could you please tell me the measurements of the stone, I know that it is 250 mm in diameter, but what is the measurement of width and the measurement of the center of the axis
Hey Irving, the stone has a 1/2'' arbor hole and is 2'' wide.
What kind of vise is that you're using to drill a hole with? I've never seen one like that.
This is the one I use on my mill - Milling Vise - amzn.to/37gPefO
I think if you put les water in the reservoir it won't be as messy and get you all wet. The stone just needs to skim the water to stay cool.
Man, that is 100% right. I've later found that works well!
Will the Tormek square edge jig SE-77 work on the Wen?
I'm not sure sir.
Has anyone noticed the Wen jig does not produce a symmetrical angle when flipped over? Does the tormek jig resolve that?
I have not noticed this. Make sure the clamp has your blade centered... this could be an issue when clamping on a bevel.
ok yep you’re right. I was sharpening a full flat ground knife. I found that if I loosen the rear set screw as much as possible and tighten the front screw, there’s no gap between the knife and the clamp anymore and no wiggle. I didn’t realize I had a gap on the one side of the clamp therefore the knife was clamped on an angle. Thanks you saved me $70
Great video Sir. Just subscribed
Heck yeah! Thanks man. Glad you enjoyed it!
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
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.
Very cool deal..I just bought a worksharp adjust and it works great BUT ...There are flaws that are done on purpose imho, just so they can release the next best version. AKA KEN ONION.
They are definitely dumbing down their designs just enough to force feedback which they pre-planned to "fix". If I a simpleton can find instant flaws 5 minutes in I'm certain their designers didn't miss it.
Cheers Arik, yeah the knock offs aren't perfect for sure.