Stropping: An explanation of various strops and compounds

[@griftopherhitchens9926]

Thanks for this very useful info.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@griftopherhitchens9926 🙏

[@leomartinez8063]

Hey brother, man, you’re great. I’ve been watching you recently newly discovered you. I just bought some of your gunny juice. For any of the super steals because of the hardness and the carbide is diamond compound a must?

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thank you! Sorry cor the delayed response. Sometimes these get buried with other videos in my feed. For high Vanadium carbide steels only diamond and CBN will actually cut the vanadium carbides. Now if you don’t go down to 3.5 micron or less it doesn’t matter as much. You do get better bite with diamonds or CBN on any steel though

[@John..18]

Just found your channel, and wanted to say, I've learned more in the last half hour, watching this video, than all the other stropping videos I've seen put together. Thank you so much,, Obviously I've subbed, on the strength of this video,, gonna work my way through your back catalogue now, 👌, and look forward to seeing new videos soon.. All the best from England... John......

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thank you! I am glad the video has helped. I hope the others do too.

[@billybudz]

Interesting perspective friend! Are you saying stropping compound fills the microscopic voids in the grain of the knife edge? And when preparing Sushi, will this compound eventually contaminate your food? 💯✌️🦚

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@billybudz the compound rolls around loosely in between the microscopic serrations in the edge. No just wash/wipe the blade off. The compound doesn’t stay on the steel permanently. A lot of times you can see the dust on the edge. I rinse/wipe a blade off even if I use a ceramic for a touch up because microscopic bits of steel are removed. So I clean the blade to insure there’s not any foreign or loose material on my blade

[@Hexsyn]

I love all the in depth info. For some reason I'm having a hard time finding granular information on this subject with other youtube videos

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Because most do not know. Abrasives whether in stropping compounds, stones, sandpaper, belts etc. I would prefer the standard be a combination of micron size and abrasive concentration.

[@Grabthembypussycat]

Why is your company or product called gunny are you a gunnery sergeant? Saying that always reminds me of FMJ “ I am gunnery Sergeant Hartman your senior drill instructor” anyways I’ve really been wanting to try your product so bad (no homo) but the one I want is it of stock from most knife online stores the ones I shop from at least the the 3 micron

[@GunnysSharptalk]

3 micron came in this weekend and will be shipping this week. My last name is Gunn. So just a nickname

[@Grabthembypussycat]

@@GunnysSharptalk awesome my nickname was ass eater “Eden haas” “eatin ass” it’s unfortunate but think my parents growing up in the being teens in the 60’s really thought about that at least I hope I’m a nobody but if you wanna send some of that compound out for review I would more than love to do it lol maybe a 5ml sample lol just kidding but im also not

[@kvernesdotten]

There is no doubt you know how to make some nice edges, but I do find that theres quite a few statements being made here that is scientifically unsubstantiated, such as polycrystalline doing a "much better" job than mono where all data ive seen indicates that this is not true as the fracturing doesnt really affect the blade and what really matters is concentration. Or that thing with diamond compound getting in between serrations and sharpening there, which I have not seen at all but I have seen the oposite. But hey both are functionally true I guess, buying better compound absolutely does a better job and using a strop correctly gives a vastly superior edge! Good video though, I just have a feeling some gaps are being filled in here and there.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@kvernesdotten I appreciate your feedback. However, polycrystalline diamonds have proven to remove stock and polish more efficiently in suspensions due to the spherical shape and larger number of cutting facets

[@kvernesdotten]

@@GunnysSharptalk I see, do you have a source on that? These claims I know to be true in industrial applications, but according to the ScienceOfSharp website as well as Dr Ion Beneas paper on the topic, along with numerous people testing it anecdotally and posting their results, this is only true when significant mechanical stress is introduced. Far, far more than what we apply when stropping a knife, we are talking industrial lapping machines and such here. I know im sounding like an ass right now, and I will admit that im not an expert on this topic at all. The topic does however interest me enough that ive read quite a bit on it, mainly triggered by me trying both poly and mono after being told poly is superior, and really not finding any difference in result. I did more testing, and came to the conclusion that buying good quality compound with a high concentration of good quality diamonds in it is absolutely worth it (like the gunny juice), but as far as poly being superior I just cant say ive found that to be true. And all the data Ive found on it says it is true in some applications, but stropping a knife is not one of them. Especially not on leather, a soft surface. Im more than willing to learn more about this if theres something ive overlooked here, but as long as my experience 100% lines up with the data, im having a bit hard time believing in it tbh

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@kvernesdotten I’m not as concerned about the fracturing honestly as I am about polishing, speed of stock removal and edge quality. Polycrystalline diamonds have a more rounded uniform shape that’s shown to remove stock more aggressively as in stropping. Mono crystalline diamonds I prefer to be fixed and not roll around. Like for stones and such. Here are different manufacturers suggestions. www.kemet-international.com/us/products/diamond-products/diamond-suspension-for-metallography grish.com/diamond-suspensions-polishing/ consumables.alliedhightech.com/Water-Based-Diamond-Suspension-s/1925.htm This is just a couple manufacturers explanations. I am out and about and on my phone so I didn’t dig very deep for you. Maybe we can continue this discussion by phone, messenger or email when I am in a better position to help you with the information that you are looking for. Again I am not bothered by questions and I appreciate you bringing questions to me. I replied now instead of a later time because I didn’t want you to feel like I was ignoring you or unwilling to engage in a conversation asking for clarification on the science.

[@morehn]

What about the different types of leather? Shell cordovan vs cowhide, sheep, kangaroo, full grain, top grain, etc.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@morehn shell cordovan doesn’t do well with most compounds. The leather is too slick and tight grained. It works well with every leather I have tried. Unless the leather has a lot of wax or oil on it. Then the product doesn’t want to stick to it. Cowhide works great to around 1 micron. Below that I usually prefer kangaroo or something with small pores

[@morehn]

@@GunnysSharptalk what would happen if you don't use any compound? And if you want a perfectly smooth edge, does compound create teeth?

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@morehn every scratch pattern creates teeth. The less you can see scratches the smaller the teeth. If you magnify an edge enough and they all create teeth. Not using compound you can remove a burr, but you won’t really refine the edge any further

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@morehn so not using compound whatever micro serrations the last stone creates will be the micro serrations that will be on the final edge

[@morehn]

@@GunnysSharptalk is compound needed to take out microabrasions even after using a finishing stone of 12,000+ grit?

[@rctrue]

The only thing better than your videos are your edges. They slice like none other

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thanks man.

[@micgalovic]

Thank you for the videos. They are very educational.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thanks I appreciate the feedback

[@columbiabuzz]

You should use images to support your opinions. Watching your hands and table loses the viewer early on. Maybe some comparative high-resolution photographs. Images of the surfaces, or electron micrograph of crystal shapes to support your opinions. Maybe some sort of demonstration...

[@GunnysSharptalk]

I have other videos with demonstrations. I am simply providing information. Do with that what you wish. Or better yet create a channel and please help contribute to the community. We would love to see your demonstrations and share your wisdom. As the title says it’s an “explanation” not a demonstration. I do however appreciate the feedback

[@MrMZaccone]

I'm curious to know if you're familiar with the work of Dr. Vadim Kraichuk? There are a number of concepts I'd like to discuss with you but It will be useful to know that they are not just being pulled out of thin air and are backed by some serious, verified research, as yours also seem to be.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Message me on FB messenger anytime

[@Cwilson-ds5pf]

Read my mind. This is a question on my list to ask.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Cool. I figured it should answer a few questions. This stuff is easily in the top 5 that I get asked.

[@kadenmoses2180]

Fantastic video. Best explanation of stropping I’ve seen

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thank you

[@stepheno.2730]

Excellent information here. Thank you.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thanks man

[@morati1963]

Excellent tutorial, thank you! Curious about your KO2.......What is the lowest angle you can achieve on it with a small 3" folder? I take some of mine down to 11-12 dps so need a rig that can do this.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

I would have to check. The blade shape will make can make a little difference. I regularly go to 15dps and still have clearance. So you should be able to get close. And you can always buy a small knife attachment that Tormek sells for small blades and clamp that attachment in. I will through a 3” in later and see if it will go that low without hitting the clamp. You might have to use the filet clamps for it.

[@morati1963]

@@GunnysSharptalk Thank you Sir. Stay safe!

[@GunnysSharptalk]

morati1963 Absolutely! You too. I will let you know when I get to my work bench the lowest that I can go with a Spyderco Positron.

[@Riyame]

Hmm, never heard of that micropore tape before. Have you ever tried it on an aluminum blank like a custom lapping film or would it not have enough give or cause issues with the aluminum?

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Yes. The micropore tape doesn’t perform well on the aluminum.

[@ColossalSwordFormAndTechnique]

Here: 1.) sharpen a dull or brand new factory blunt edge - second cut file 2.) 400 to 1000 grit whetstone to touch up the edge 3.) naniwa whetstone to strop the burr 4.) leather strop with green compound to finish the edge deburring

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Do whatever gives you the edges that you want. If you are happy with the edges you get that way then that’s exactly what you should do. If you listen to my videos I always say that there’s more than one way to get something sharp. Personally I get much better edges using diamond compounds for stropping.

[@Bravo-Too-Much]

If you take your blade to a strop once or twice a week, or at the end of the day if you use your knife a lot, you’ll find that you hardly ever need to take your knife to a stone. It’s incredible how long you can maintain an edge with a minute or two of stropping once or twice a week. Unless I roll, chip, or heavily use an edge, I rarely have to use stones. I’ve never put my Strider SnG on a stone and it’s been shave sharp for over a year just with stropping. Obviously I use compounds on my strops.

[@shaneseachris5546]

What sharpening system is that on your work bench?

[@GunnysSharptalk]

TSPROF

[@panzerkiller13]

Gunny, do you have any idea what kind of strop that double-sided is? Or was it made special for you by William?

[@GunnysSharptalk]

It was made from shoe sole leather by Northwest Knife Guy. I think he only made 2. I have one and Michael Christy has one.

[@TylrVncnt]

For some reason I had it in my head for the longest time that momocrystaline Diamonds were the more desirable ones. All about the intended purpose and use case 👍 Cheers

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Correct. The intended purpose and results will determine which diamonds and concentration are the best for use

[@randomstranger2472]

Use a coffee filter on a hard flat surface to burnish the wood. You'll be amazed how well it works. If I remember right, plain coffee filters are ~40 microns

[@GunnysSharptalk]

I like to sand it to a 5k. But I will try that. I prefer using 3M micropore tape on the wood. Really works great

[@NPonlamuangsri]

Man, you’re so knowledgeable. You should come out with a compound of your own 😂😂😂

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Maybe one day. 🤷‍♂️

[@swiggamortis5521]

Pumping out great stuff!

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Swigg's Shank Shack thanks man. I’m trying to go through a list of stuff in my head.

[@dadadadave100]

SEMPER FI GUNNY

[@ureasmith3049]

Good info, thanks. What do you recommend for getting the sharpest hand plane blades? I assume digging into wood means very high grit not practical, am I right?

[@GunnysSharptalk]

A high polish does dig in better. Using my Gunny Juice 1 micron and below will give amazingly smooth cuts

[@ureasmith3049]

@@GunnysSharptalk Thanks

[@Chappa36]

Only at 5 min Best explanation I have head

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thank you 🙏

[@arictjlover2093]

Awesome video. I learned a lot 😊

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thank you 🙏

[@jasonedwardledburynewzeala9897]

Do you use Kangaroo leather? If so, how do you clean , refresh and maintain your leather? I would appreciate any advice or Tips, thanks jas

[@GunnysSharptalk]

I do. I reapply compound on top of the other compound until it gets too thick. Then I use alcohol wipes to clean then

[@jasonedwardledburynewzeala9897]

@@GunnysSharptalk Thanks brother appreciate your reply and advice.😊👍👏👏👏

[@GunnysSharptalk]

@@jasonedwardledburynewzeala9897 anytime

[@banner9694]

Professional~ And we manufacture diamond compound as well, OEM supported. If any need, please feel free to contact..

[@NORTHWESTKNIFEGUY]

Hey, some good content you're posting, hope you keep it up. BTW, that strop is one of two I made a while back for Will, stained African mahogany with 1/4" soling leather.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thanks man. I plan on continuing to post videos. I have been sharpening a longtime so I should have plenty of videos in me. I love that strop. I think Michael Christy has the other one.

[@NORTHWESTKNIFEGUY]

@@GunnysSharptalk Looking forward to them. If you like the surface of the leather and ever want to refinish it lmk, a certain process I use that leaves a really nice finish on the leather.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

NORTHWEST_KNIFE_GUY thank you. I will definitely hit you up on that eventually. That leather holds up really nicely

[@matthassin9943]

Hey Mr. Northwest I was curious if you make those sole strops for sale. After seeing Mr. Scott’s, I would love to try one out. If you do could you please get in touch with me. [e-mail] thank you for your time sir.

[@NORTHWESTKNIFEGUY]

@@matthassin9943 Hello, if possible please contact me via Reddit or IG.

[@chriswebb3018]

I just found your product on dlt and wow do they work great. I didn't buy them because i wasnt happy with my current use but i always want better. So i looked you up and found that your not only providing a great product your willing to tech us and that is very helpful. Also ive read about people talking about the price of your product being expensive. Well based on my use and research i think the price is very fair. Thanks

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thank you 🙏. I really appreciate the support and feedback. If you ever need help just message me on FB

[@barkingspider2007]

Giving more attention to some parts of the edge makes complete sense to me. When I sharpen damaged areas take more time to bring back the edge. I can hear and feel the condition of the edge as I go. You just have to pay close attention to what is happening. Your gunny emulsion is the first product that has worked out for me. I have had mixed results with pastes and bar type compounds. Nice to meet you at Blade Show. 😎👍

[@GunnysSharptalk]

I was happy to be able to meet with so many people.

[@petervu9773]

great info ty ! 🍻

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thanks. I have a long detailed video up at FB group Spyderco Millie, PM2, Para3 Club where I did a live stream if you want more information

[@mikeypolekal7598]

Hey man nice video quick question where can I buy the nano cloth strop and what compound should I use for a mirror

[@GunnysSharptalk]

For a mirror you will want a progression. Nanocloth can be purchased from Jende Industries or Gritomatic. What’s your highest grit stone.

[@JohnDoe-zb7dz]

RIP Ken Shwartz

[@laurentaouate3114]

Lots of informations. Thank you

[@MichaelE.Douroux]

Very informative. Just received your Gunny Juice in 1, 3 & 6 microns. After applying with a brush, do you rinse the brush with water or isopropyl alcohol or just leave them to dry, using separate brushes for each micron? Thanks!

[@GunnysSharptalk]

I use a different brush for each micron. I wash them with alcohol. They don’t have to be perfectly clean because they have the same diamonds on them that you will use in the future

[@MichaelE.Douroux]

@@GunnysSharptalk 👍

[@petersymons7817]

Thank u

[@augustwest3575]

Great video. Thank you

[@GunnysSharptalk]

August West thanks!

[@johnmaher4431]

Great vid!

[@vitusbering6453]

Sometimes i use a regular painter's tape with diamond paste over the glass base.

[@GunnysSharptalk]

I have done that too. If you like that then you really should try this micropore tape from 3M.

[@Hvac.tools_]

Hey, I’ve been using Gunny juice. Love it! I do have silly question, I accidentally put 6m juice on a 1x6 balsa w aluminum back that already had 0.1 m. Will it still cut like 0.1m being that 0.1 is a higher grit or will the course emulsion dominate over the fine emulsion. I remember you mentioning contamination but I just want to be sure. Thanks

[@GunnysSharptalk]

The course will dominate over the fine emulsion. That’s now a 6 micron strop

[@GunnysSharptalk]

And I do appreciate the support

[@CockatoobirdmanBill]

Best vid. I have seen on strops and componds I use micropore tape for all kinds of stuff good tape ( P.S. it's good to use if you slip with your knife LoL).....Be well and be safe...

[@GunnysSharptalk]

Thank you 🙏