Japanese Chisels

[Ron Nossaman]

> Maybe the edge would last longer if it was flat ground, but 
> doesn't seem to me to be any big deal. 

For paring, it won't make much difference. If you start beating on 
the chisels with hammers, and prying chips out with them, it very 
well could.


> I wish I had the skills to sharpen by hand. Anyone interested in buying 
> a very nice set of ceramic stones (professional series)? 
> http://www.shaptonstones.com/

I doubt you're that far from it. It just takes some time and 
attention, and equating what you feel with what you get. For a low 
maintenance, very fast and forgiving hand sharpening system, I 
recommend the Dia-Sharp diamond stones. The 2" x 6" is about right 
for a general purpose bench stone. I find the course grit cuts like 
gangbusters for rough (re)shaping and most edge work on chisels and 
such, and a touch up with a ceramic rod for a shaving sharp edge on 
the knives, if you like. They stay flat too, and will survive being 
dropped, if that proves to be an issue.

Among many other character flaws, I'm supporting an edge fetish...