In the world of sharpening, whether you're working with knives, axes, or precision tools, knowing the exact sharpness of your edge is crucial. This is where the Edge-On-Up BESS (Brubacher Edge Sharpness Scale) sharpness testers come in. Using these devices allows you to quantify sharpness in a precise, consistent, and repeatable way, providing objective data that guides your sharpening process. In this blog, we'll explore why using the Edge-On-Up BESS sharpness tester is beneficial and discuss the best practices for utilizing these devices to their full potential.

Why Sharpness Matters

Before diving into the details of the BESS sharpness testers, it's important to understand why sharpness matters:

• Performance: The sharper the tool, the better its cutting performance. This translates into cleaner, more efficient cuts, reducing wear and tear on both the tool and the material being cut.
• Safety: Using dull tools can lead to slips, increased force during use, and potential injuries. A sharper edge allows for controlled, effortless cuts.
• Precision: Sharp tools produce finer, more precise results, which is crucial for intricate tasks like woodworking, cooking, or crafting.
• Longevity: Regularly testing and maintaining sharpness extends the life of the blade, preventing excessive damage from dulling and minimizing the need for aggressive sharpening.

Why Use the Edge-On-Up BESS Sharpness Tester?

1. Objective Measurement

Traditional sharpness tests—like cutting paper, shaving hair, or even the thumbnail test—are subjective and inconsistent. The Edge-On-Up BESS sharpness testers provide a quantitative measure of sharpness, expressed in grams of force. This objective reading allows you to see the difference between a barely sharp edge and one that is razor-sharp, eliminating any guesswork.

2. Consistency and Repeatability

Consistency is key in sharpening, especially if you're maintaining multiple tools or creating professional results. The BESS tester enables you to track your sharpening progress with repeatable results, ensuring that you hit your desired level of sharpness every time. Whether you're sharpening for personal use or running a professional sharpening service, this consistency builds reliability and trust.

3. Easy to Use

Despite its high precision, the Edge-On-Up BESS sharpness tester is straightforward to use, making it accessible to both beginners and experts. Its user-friendly design means you don't need an engineering degree to get accurate readings, and the intuitive setup makes the testing process quick and easy.

4. Versatile Application

The BESS tester can be used on a wide variety of tools, including knives, axes, chisels, and even scissors. This versatility means you can standardize your sharpening process across different tools and applications, making it an invaluable addition to any workshop or sharpening station.

5. Saves Time and Resources

By testing your blade sharpness at precise stages of your sharpening routine, you avoid over-sharpening or under-sharpening, which can save you time and reduce the wear on your sharpening stones and equipment. Knowing exactly when to stop can lead to more efficient use of your resources and a more productive workflow.

How to Use the Edge-On-Up BESS Sharpness Tester

To make the most out of your Edge-On-Up sharpness tester, follow these best practices for accurate and reliable results:

Step 1: Setup and Preparation

1. Stabilize the Tester: Make sure the BESS tester is on a flat, stable surface to prevent any movement during testing. Unstable setups can lead to inconsistent readings.
2. Install the Test Media: Use the proprietary BESS test media, a fine filament that provides consistent resistance for each test. Ensure it is securely in place and taut.

Step 2: Positioning the Blade

1. Hold the Blade Properly: Hold the blade at the same angle you would use for cutting, usually around a 90-degree angle to the filament. Avoid tilting or twisting the blade during the test.
2. Center the Edge: Ensure that the edge of your tool is directly above the filament and centered. This precision guarantees the test will measure the sharpness at the exact point you're interested in.

Step 3: Performing the Test

1. Slowly Lower the Blade: Gradually lower the blade onto the test media with a steady hand. The key is to apply a slow, controlled motion to avoid force spikes that could lead to inaccurate readings.
2. Record the Reading: Once the filament breaks, the tester will display the force required to sever it, measured in grams. Lower numbers indicate a sharper edge, with readings below 100 grams indicating an extremely sharp, razor-like edge.

Step 4: Interpret the Results

• 0-200 grams: Extremely sharp, suitable for high-precision tasks like surgical blades or specialized woodworking tools.
• 200-350 grams: Very sharp, excellent for chef’s knives, hunting blades, and professional tools.
• 350-500 grams: Sharp enough for general-purpose cutting tasks, including utility knives and everyday carry blades.
• Above 500 grams: Dull to moderately sharp, suitable for rough work but in need of further sharpening for fine tasks.

Step 5: Sharpen and Re-Test as Needed

1. Refine the Edge: If your readings fall outside your desired range, continue sharpening and retest until you reach the target sharpness level.
2. Track Your Progress: Keeping a log of your sharpness test results can help you monitor the performance of your sharpening technique and see how different sharpening stones or techniques affect the outcome.

Tips for Accurate Testing

• Clean the Blade: Make sure the blade is free of any debris or oil before testing, as residue can affect the readings.
• Use Consistent Test Media: Always use the same type of test filament for consistency. Different brands or types of media may yield different results.
• Control Environmental Factors: Avoid testing in areas with significant air movement, vibration, or temperature fluctuations that might influence the tester's sensitivity.

Final Thoughts

The Edge-On-Up BESS sharpness tester is a game-changer for anyone serious about sharpening. Its ability to provide objective, repeatable measurements allows you to fine-tune your sharpening skills and achieve a level of precision that would be impossible to gauge with traditional methods. Whether you're a hobbyist looking to get the most out of your tools or a professional seeking to deliver consistent results, the Edge-On-Up tester is an essential tool for confirming sharpness.

Using the best practices outlined above, you can ensure that your blades are always performing at their best, giving you confidence in your sharpening process. Remember, precision sharpening is not just about the feel of the edge—it's about the numbers that back it up.