"M-Power PSS1"
For most sharpening methods, you stroke a tool back and forth across an abrasive surface. But the M-Power Precision Sharpening System (PSS1) turns that method on its side. Here, the tool is held in place in the base and the abrasive is rubbed side to side across the bevel, as in the drawing at right.
Diamond Power. To accomplish the honing, a small diamond plate is mounted in the carriage. It’s held in place by a magnet, as shown in the photo at right. Two plates (220-grit and 450-grit) are included with the system. And three other grits are available separately, as shown in photo below.
Click to Expand
The angled ends of the carriage are fixed at 25° and 30°. Along with the built-in side stops, you’re guaranteed an accurate bevel that’s perfectly square every time.
No-Fuss Use. Using the PSS1 is about as simple as it gets. All you need to do is set the blade in place on the bed and against one of the side stops. Slide the blade forward until you see the carriage lift a bit. This provides the clearance you need to sharpen the tool.
Now it’s just a matter of stroking the carriage and honing plate across the bevel. I was surprised at how fast the small diamond plates cut. It only took a handful of strokes on each stone before the tool was ready to get back to work. I did find the bed had a tendency to slide around a bit. So I used a stop on my workbench to hold the PSS1 in place while I was working (photo below).
Click to Expand
Remove Wire Edge. After you’ve worked through all the grits, there will be a noticeable wire edge on the back of the blade. To remove it, take a few passes across the back face with the finest plate.
Not for Grinding. Like a typical honing guide, I wouldn’t recommend trying to remove a lot of material with either system. That would be a tedious, time-consuming task. Large nicks and chips are best removed with a powered grinder first.
Still, each of these honing systems will give you good, sharp edges in a short time. And that means you’ll have more time to spend on your projects.
| 
