A Finer Edge

Specialties

I sharpen at your place in my van. I sharpen knives, scissors, lawn mower blades and lawn & garden tools. I am a certified sharpener, licensed, a member of the Better Business Bureau and have been asked to sharpen for the students at both Johnson & Wales University and the culinary program at CPCC.

History

Established in 2009.

I started my sharpening service after getting laid off from an architectural firm in May of 2009. Knowing that there would not be any available positions in what I have been doing for the last 30 years, I fell back on what I have been doing since I was 5: sharpening. I started sharpening after my grandfather showed me the basics of sharpening a pocket knife.

I cashed in my 401k and flew to California to get my sharpening certification. After coming back, my sister helped select a company name and logo. I bought a large van and had a professional install in the van a large generator, cabinets, countertops, outlets and lighting. I applied for and got my business license.

On August 2, 2009, the Charlotte Observer printed a ¾ page article on me because I had been laid off and chose to start my own business.

Since starting in August, 2009, I have sharpened for hundreds of homes and dozens of businesses. I have just been approved to sharpen for the students and Johnson & Wales and CPCC.

Meet the Business Owner

Gary G.

Business Owner

I am detail oriented and build wood model ships, plank by plank.

Remember: a dull knife really is more dangerous to use than a sharp one. That is because you have more control with a sharper edge.

If you are wondering which knives are the best to use, I like an old-​fashioned carbon steel knife like your grandmother used. That is because I can create a sharper edge on it than stainless steel knives. Carbon steel is harder than stainless steel, allowing a stronger, longer-​lasting edge.

And yes, I sharpen Japanese style knives, with the long bevels, made with very hard carbon steel. This includes knives made by Kai and Shun.

I sharpen knives using Tru Hone machines: one for sharpening and one for honing, using 1,000 grit ceramic sharpening wheels.