Universal Sharpening Device for Shoemakers, Cobblers, and Leathercraft Professionals
Purpose
This professional sharpening device is designed for precise maintenance of cutting tools commonly used in shoemaking, leatherwork, and haberdashery. It allows consistent sharpening angles that are difficult to achieve by hand, especially on tools without dedicated sharpening systems.
Compatible Tools
Specifically engineered for use with all Starko tools, including:
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SK series
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SH-M
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FK-A
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WK-A
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RZ-K
The clamping system and knife platform are also compatible with many third-party blades. While compatibility is highly likely, it cannot be guaranteed for all models.
Main Components
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8 mm solid steel base with anti-slip silicone feet
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Rear vertical post with lift and fine-tuning nut
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Stone holder on a precision guide rail
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Front support post with height adjustment and sliding roller
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Clamping platform for tool fixation
Technical Specifications
Sharpening Methods
1. Using Sandpaper
Ideal for thin and flexible blades such as feathering or welt knives.
Recommended grit sequence:
400 → 800 → 1500 → 5000, then polish the edge using a strop or a polishing block with compound.
Tip: Use one sheet per grit per sharpening session.
After sharpening:
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Check for a burr on the reverse side.
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If no burr: proceed to polishing.
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If burr remains: lightly touch up with 1500+ grit and polish again.
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Never break burrs manually — polish until fully removed.
For major restoration or damaged edges, begin with 240-grit paper or a diamond file.
2. Using Sharpening Stones
The same grit logic applies. Stones are not included in the kit but are highly recommended.
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Preferred brands: Boride, and Ukrainian-made abrasive stones.
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Avoid cheap stones — they wear out quickly and lack performance.
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Always use proper lubrication.
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Regularly flatten stones using silicon carbide powder on glass.
Hybrid approach:
Use stones for reshaping (240 - 800 grit), then finish with fine sandpaper (800–5000 grit) for polish.
Included in the Kit
Not included:
To start, I recommend sticking paper tape on it so that the knife is better fixed on the table.
How to Use
1. Tool Fixation
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Four types of clamps included; most knives require two.
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Secure blade to the platform — extend ~0.5–1 mm beyond the edge.
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Apply masking tape for added grip and stability.
This is probably the only option for fixing the FK-A.
⚠️ Please note. The small clamp must be clamped first and firmly, and the long clamp must be clamped carefully so as not to damage the knife height limiter on which the clamp presses.
In a knife makes a 3mm cut, this protrusion is especially thin.
When sharpening with a sandpaper holder - if the back stand prevents you from fixing the knife, simply change it.
2. Angle Adjustment
For sharpening stones:
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Zero the digital angle gauge on the blade.
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Set desired angle on the rod and lock it with the screw.
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Fine-tune using the adjustment nut.
For sandpaper sharpening:
Place the protractor on the long clamp pad and set the desired angle by pulling the rod and tightening the locking screw.
Using the fine adjustment device, set the required angle and tighten the locking screw.
To set the angle when sharpening with sandpaper:
Set the protractor to zero while it is mounted on the table.
Turn the table lift nut to set the angle, tighten the locking screw.
3. Sharpening
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Use smooth, controlled strokes.
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Reduce pressure with finer grits.
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Clean roller and blade between grits to avoid contamination.
During the sharpening process, wipe the roller and knife with a napkin so that coarse abrasive from the previous sandpaper does not get on the new one.
4. Final Polishing
Additional Notes
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The front roller support can be rotated 180° and lowered when not in use.
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When idle, the guide rail holder can be stored vertically using its built-in magnet.
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For better grip during sharpening, apply masking tape to the platform.
Important: Never force components during adjustment — the system is designed to move smoothly when aligned correctly.
Parking the Front Platform with Roller
When the front roller support is not needed for sharpening, it can be rotated 180° and parked out of the way. To do this:
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Lower the roller platform by turning the adjustment nut until it is near the bottom.
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At the lowest point, the platform will reach a position where it can freely rotate around its axis.
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Gently rotate the roller platform 180° until it rests in the parked position.
⚠️ Do not apply force. The roller platform should turn smoothly when aligned correctly. Rotate nut slowly to find the point where it can pivot without resistance.
Standard free shipping.
The national postal operator Ukrposhta, Nova Poshta is used, delivery by courier services is possible by arrangement.
