Free hand chisel sharpening -- AWESOME!

[ken cierp]

I believe this method makes perfect sense -- minimum skill and equipment required.

[dave d]

Thanks for posting this Ken. An excellent video indeed, from a guy that tells it like it is. His similar video on honing a plane blade is just as good. The freehand method takes a bit of practice but once you 'get' his technique of lowering the hands as you push the iron, you'll understand how it creates the camber that he's talking about. I must admit he uses a lot more force when pushing down than I have, and I'm going to have to work on that. I need a bigger strop too. I also use the w/d sandpaper but using glass cleaner as the lubricant is a new tip for me.
Nevertheless I was inspired after watching this to tune up a chisel and plane iron to arm-shaving capability, and was able to easily get some half-thou (.0005") strips about 2' long from the edge of an oak board. So much nicer to use sharp tools.

[Tim Benware]

I use that method (scary sharp) but instead of using the leather strop I use Japanese water stone with my Veritas Honing Guide and yes, it will cut paper just like that.

[RexZim]

Thanks for passing that on Ken. I am just about to get started with the bracing on my 2nd guitar so the timing on this is perfect for me. I'm off to find a source for the glass and the leather! I already own the cheap chisels :)