veritas mk11 honing guide

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide is a versatile tool designed for precise sharpening and honing of edge-cutting tools, ensuring repeatability and consistency for both professionals and beginners.

1.1 Overview of the Veritas MkII Honing Guide

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide is a precision tool designed for sharpening edge-cutting tools with exceptional accuracy. It accommodates blades from 1/2″ to 2-7/8″ in width and up to 15/32″ in thickness, making it versatile for various applications. The guide features a blade registration system that squares and sets the blade in one step, ensuring consistent results. It allows for bevel angles from 15° to 54° and back bevels from 10° to 20°, catering to both high-angle and standard-angle tools. This system is ideal for professionals and beginners alike, offering reliability and ease of use.

1.2 Importance of Honing in Tool Sharpening

Honing is a critical step in tool sharpening, ensuring a razor-sharp edge for optimal performance. It refines the blade’s edge, removing micro-scratches and achieving precision. Consistent honing enhances edge retention, reduces tool wear, and improves overall woodworking quality. The Veritas MkII Honing Guide simplifies this process, enabling precise control over bevel angles and back bevels. By mastering honing, woodworkers can achieve professional-grade results, making it an essential skill for both beginners and experienced craftsmen.

Key Features of the Veritas MkII Honing Guide

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide offers precise angle settings, accommodating various blade sizes, and a user-friendly design for consistent sharpening results.

2.1 Blade Registration System

The Blade Registration System of the Veritas MkII Honing Guide is a standout feature, ensuring precise alignment and squaring of blades. This system streamlines the sharpening process by centering and securing the blade within the guide, eliminating guesswork. Its intuitive design allows users to set primary bevel angles and back bevels with accuracy, making it ideal for both professionals and beginners. The system’s repeatability ensures consistent results, enhancing the overall sharpening experience.

2.2 Bevel Angle Range and Adjustment

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide offers an impressive bevel angle range of 15° to 54°, allowing for precise sharpening of various tools. It also accommodates back bevels from 10° to 20°, enhancing versatility. The guide features numbered and color-coded settings for clarity, making angle adjustments straightforward. A three-position eccentric roller enables quick and accurate micro-bevel adjustments, ensuring consistent results. This system is ideal for sharpening chisels, plane irons, and other edge-cutting tools with ease and precision.

2.3 Accommodation of Various Blade Sizes

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide is designed to accommodate a wide range of blade sizes, ensuring versatility for different tools. It can handle blades as narrow as 1/2″ and as wide as 2-7/8″, with thicknesses up to 15/32″ for bevel-edge chisels and 11/32″ for square-edged chisels. The Narrow Blade Mark II variant clamps blades from 1/8″ to 1-1/2″ wide, making it ideal for specialized tools. This adaptability ensures precise sharpening for various blade types and sizes, catering to both professional and amateur woodworkers.

Models and Variants of the Veritas MkII Honing Guide

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide is available in three models: Standard, Deluxe, and Narrow Blade, each designed to cater to different sharpening requirements and tool sizes.

3.1 Veritas MkII Standard Honing Guide

The Veritas MkII Standard Honing Guide is an essential tool for sharpening edge-cutting tools, offering precise control over bevel angles and back bevels. It supports bevel angles from 15° to 54° and back bevels from 10° to 20°, making it versatile for various tool types. Designed to accommodate blades as narrow as 1/2″ and as wide as 2-7/8″, it is ideal for both professionals and beginners. Its robust design ensures repeatability and ease of use, making it a reliable choice for consistent sharpening results.

3.2 Veritas MkII Deluxe Honing Guide Set

The Veritas MkII Deluxe Honing Guide Set is an upgraded version of the standard guide, offering enhanced versatility and convenience. It includes the standard honing guide, an additional blade registration jig, and a camber roller assembly for added functionality. Priced at $172.50, this set is ideal for professionals and serious woodworkers seeking precision and adaptability. The deluxe set accommodates a wide range of blade sizes and angles, ensuring consistent results. Its comprehensive design makes it a valuable investment for those who require advanced sharpening capabilities and ease of use.

3.3 Narrow Blade Mark II Honing Guide

The Narrow Blade Mark II Honing Guide is specifically designed for sharpening narrow blades, accommodating widths from 1/8″ to 1-1/2″. It features canted parallel jaws that clamp blades securely, ensuring precise alignment and control. This guide is ideal for tools like narrow chisels and small plane irons, offering a self-centering mechanism for consistent results. Built for precision, it handles blades up to 15/32″ thick for bevel-edge chisels and 11/32″ for square-edged ones, making it a specialized tool for woodworkers requiring exacting control over narrow-edge sharpening tasks.

How to Choose the Right Veritas MkII Honing Guide

Assess your sharpening needs, such as blade size and desired angles. Choose the Standard for general use, Deluxe for added features, or Narrow Blade for specialized tasks. Consider budget, ease of use, and user reviews to select the best model for your woodworking requirements.

4.1 Determining Your Sharpening Needs

To choose the right Veritas MkII Honing Guide, assess your tool sharpening requirements. Consider the types of blades you work with, their sizes, and thicknesses. Evaluate the range of bevel angles (15° to 54°) and back bevels (10° to 20°) you need. Think about your sharpening frequency and skill level—beginners may benefit from the Standard Guide’s simplicity, while professionals might prefer the Deluxe Set’s versatility. Also, consider whether you need specialized features like narrow blade accommodation or micro-bevel capabilities.

4.2 Comparing Standard, Deluxe, and Narrow Blade Models

The Standard model is ideal for general sharpening needs, accommodating blades from 1/2″ to 2-7/8″ wide. The Deluxe Set includes additional accessories like a camber roller for specialized sharpening. The Narrow Blade model is designed for thinner blades (1/8″ to 1-1/2″), perfect for chisels and small tools. Choose based on blade size, sharpening frequency, and specific features required. The Standard is cost-effective for basic use, while the Deluxe offers versatility for professionals, and the Narrow Blade caters to unique tool sharpening needs.

Setting Up and Using the Veritas MkII Honing Guide

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide is easy to set up and use, featuring a blade registration system that ensures precise alignment and angle control for consistent sharpening results.

5.1 Initial Setup and Calibration

Setting up the Veritas MkII Honing Guide begins with attaching the blade registration system, which squares and aligns the blade effortlessly. Ensure the guide body is securely fastened and the blade stop is set to the desired position. The angle settings are color-coded for clarity, allowing quick adjustments between 15° to 54°. Secure the chosen angle with the locking knob to maintain consistency. For cambered edges, the optional Camber Roller Assembly can be installed, enabling precise curvature control. Proper calibration ensures accurate and repeatable sharpening results.

5.2 Step-by-Step Sharpening Process

1. Secure the tool in the Veritas MkII Honing Guide, ensuring proper blade alignment using the registration system.
2. Set the desired bevel angle by adjusting the guide’s angle selector, which offers precise increments from 15° to 54°.
3. Position the sharpening stone or steel on the tool’s edge, maintaining consistent contact as you move it across the blade.
4. Repeat strokes, checking progress regularly to achieve the desired sharpness and edge geometry.
5. Adjust the guide or stone as needed to refine the edge, ensuring accuracy and repeatability throughout the process.

5.3 Tips for Consistent and Accurate Honing

• Always ensure the blade is properly secured in the guide to maintain alignment and prevent movement during sharpening.
• Use the blade registration system to square the tool, ensuring precise angle setup for consistent results.
• Apply consistent, light pressure on the sharpening stone to avoid uneven wear and maintain the desired bevel angle.
• Regularly inspect the edge geometry and adjust the guide as needed to achieve the perfect sharpness.
• Keep the sharpening stone clean and free of debris to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the tool.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regularly clean the guide and sharpening stones to maintain performance. Lubricate moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. For troubleshooting, check blade alignment and adjust the registration system if misaligned. Inspect for wear on the roller or jaws and replace as needed. Store the guide in a dry place to prevent corrosion. Refer to the user manual for detailed maintenance and repair instructions to extend the tool’s lifespan and ensure optimal functionality.

6.1 Cleaning and Storing the Honing Guide

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away metal shavings and debris from the guide’s surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they may damage the finish. For storage, keep the honing guide in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. Consider using a protective case or pouch to prevent dust accumulation and potential damage. Proper storage maintains accuracy and prevents corrosion, ensuring the guide remains reliable for future sharpening tasks.

6.2 Resolving Common Issues with the Guide

Common issues with the Veritas MkII Honing Guide often relate to blade misalignment or roller wear. If the blade isn’t seating properly, check the registration system for dust or debris and clean it gently. For roller wear, consider replacing it with the Camber Roller Assembly. Calibration issues can be resolved by resetting the guide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lubricating moving parts periodically ensures smooth operation. Addressing these issues promptly maintains the guide’s accuracy and extends its lifespan, ensuring consistent sharpening results.

Accessories for the Veritas MkII Honing Guide

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide offers essential accessories like the Camber Roller Assembly for curved edges and additional blades, enhancing its versatility and sharpening capabilities significantly.

7.1 Camber Roller Assembly

The Camber Roller Assembly is a valuable accessory for the Veritas MkII Honing Guide, designed to add curvature to blade edges. It replaces the standard roller with a barrel-shaped one, allowing side-to-side rocking motion. This feature is particularly useful for cambering plane irons, enabling a more efficient cutting action. The assembly is interchangeable with the standard roller, making it easy to switch between straight and curved edge sharpening. It’s a must-have for woodworkers needing precision control over edge geometry.

7.2 Additional Blades and Attachments

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide supports various additional blades and attachments to enhance versatility. These include specialized blades for specific tasks, such as skewed or curved edge tools. Attachments like jigs for particular tool types ensure precise sharpening. The system accommodates a wide range of blade widths and thicknesses, from narrow chisels to broad plane irons. These extras allow users to adapt the guide for different projects, making it a comprehensive sharpening solution for woodworkers seeking precision and adaptability in their craftsmanship.

Veritas MkII Honing Guide vs. Other Sharpening Tools

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide excels with its precise blade registration system and repeatable angle settings, offering superior accuracy compared to many other sharpening tools on the market.

8.1 Comparison with Other Honing Guides

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide surpasses other guides with its advanced blade registration system, ensuring precise angle control and repeatability. Unlike many competitors, it offers a wide bevel angle range (15° to 54°) and adjustable back bevels (10° to 20°), accommodating various tools. The Deluxe Set includes interchangeable components for added versatility, while the Narrow Blade Guide excels with thin blades. Its durability and ergonomic design make it a top choice for professionals and beginners alike, outperforming simpler or less adjustable alternatives on the market.

8.2 Advantages Over Traditional Sharpening Methods

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide offers superior precision and consistency compared to traditional sharpening methods. Its blade registration system ensures accurate angle control, eliminating the need for freehand sharpening. This reduces the learning curve for beginners and saves time for experienced users. The guide’s ability to set precise bevel and back bevel angles enhances repeatability, while its ergonomic design makes the sharpening process faster and more reliable. It delivers sharper, more consistent edges with less effort, making it a significant upgrade over conventional sharpening techniques.

User Reviews and Testimonials

Professional woodworkers and beginners alike praise the Veritas MkII Honing Guide for its precision, ease of use, and ability to consistently deliver sharp, precise edges with minimal effort.

9.1 Feedback from Professional Woodworkers

Professional woodworkers consistently praise the Veritas MkII Honing Guide for its precision, ease of use, and ability to consistently deliver sharp, precise edges. Many highlight its robust construction and intuitive design, which simplifies the sharpening process. The blade registration system is particularly commended for ensuring accuracy and repeatability. Professionals also appreciate its versatility, accommodating a wide range of blade sizes and angles, making it indispensable for both high-angle and standard tools. Its reliability and efficiency have made it a staple in many workshops.

9.2 Experiences from Beginner Woodworkers

Beginner woodworkers often praise the Veritas MkII Honing Guide for its intuitive design and ease of use, which simplifies the sharpening process. Many find the blade registration system and preset angles to be particularly helpful, eliminating guesswork and building confidence. The guide’s ability to consistently produce sharp edges has made it a favorite among those new to sharpening. Its forgiving nature and clear instructions make it an excellent tool for learning proper sharpening techniques, ensuring reliable results and reducing the intimidation factor of tool sharpening.

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide is a reliable and efficient tool for sharpening, offering precision and ease of use for woodworkers of all skill levels, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.

10.1 Final Thoughts on the Veritas MkII Honing Guide

The Veritas MkII Honing Guide stands out as a superior tool for precise and consistent sharpening. Its innovative blade registration system and adjustable bevel angles ensure accuracy, while its durability and versatility make it suitable for both professionals and beginners. The guide’s ability to accommodate various blade sizes and its optional accessories, like the Camber Roller, add to its functionality. Overall, it is an excellent investment for anyone seeking to elevate their sharpening skills and achieve razor-sharp edges effortlessly. Its reputation as a reliable and efficient tool is well-deserved.

10.2 Recommendations for Potential Buyers

For those considering the Veritas MkII Honing Guide, it is highly recommended for both professionals and beginners. The Deluxe Set is ideal for those needing versatility, while the Standard Guide is perfect for essential sharpening tasks. Beginners will appreciate its ease of use and repeatability, making it a great value for the price. Additionally, the optional Camber Roller is a worthwhile investment for those requiring specialized edge shaping. Check prices at retailers like Woodcraft or Axminster for the best deals, ensuring a worthwhile investment in consistent, razor-sharp results.