Problem with Simmons SteelMaster sharpener

[madmaxthc]

Dear TradGangers,

The season is starting in a few days and I am trying to sharpen my spankin' new Simmons... only I cannot get them sharp! I am using the Simmons SteelMaster, trying to be light on the rods... but it seems I can only sharpen the center/back of the blade, while the tip stays dull. Has any of you had a similar experience? Any suggestion on what I may be doing wrong?

Thanks for your help,
Max

[creekwood]

Centaur Archery is a sponsor here.  Go to his web site and look at his edge making system that he offers as an accessory.  I got it and it works well for me. That system is designed for the swept back (concave edge) blades such as the Simmons and will also work well for straight blade broadheads.

[Alexander Traditional]

I have one,and i use the file to get a burr,and then use the rods. I don't like it a lot,but with pressure can get them to cut hair, nut not effortlessly. I bought some rounded stones that I'm going to try in my lansky.

[South MS Bowhunter]

Like Alex stated draw a burr with the half round file that should of come with it and then lightly knock them off with the ceramic sticks.

I have since bought about 3 RADA's and can get a sharper edge quicker with less frustration.

Not convinced the RADA produces a durable edge, but it will get it hair shaving sharp in seconds.

I generally touch up as required due to in and out of the quiver tends to dull the blades, but I only need it sharp for one shot...

[Josh H]

I've used steel master and Rada.

Steel master is good- but takes a lot more time than you think-

For new heads- use Rada- so fast so easy-so sharp.

[madmaxthc]

Thank you everyone for your suggestions, they were very useful. If I use the file on the Simmons, should I use the flat side or the round one?

[Alexander Traditional]

The round one.

[madmaxthc]

Great, Thanks!

[madmaxthc]

Well,

What do you know, it works! Using the round part of  the file without much pressure from the tip to the back, I already managed to put a good edge on it. The rods brought it to razor sharp! But it's true, it took way more than a few strokes.

Gonna try with some straight broadheads next! Thank you again for the advice, everybody!  :D

[jkm97]

I get mine shaving easy with the Steelmaster, but it takes more time for me than the instructions indicate. First I give about 100 light strokes per side with the round file. Then about 100 with the gray ceramic, followed by 100 with the white ceramic. They should be very sharp then.

[DanielB89]

Here is a short video I did last year for some guys.  I am just passing on info I have learned, but I do feel that it is done in a very easy to follow manner and anyone should be able to do it after watching this.  Benefit of a Rada is you can carry it anywhere and use it anytime, even in your stand.