Question 1

What is best grinding wheel for hockey skate sharpening?

Accepted Answer

Popular grinding wheels for hockey skate sharpening are 8VBP / 8MXRUBY / 8AS / 8GC.8VBP tends to be the most popular.However it really does come down to personal choice.Want to know more about our wheels? Head over to our post   "Why Blademaster 8” Grinding Wheels Are a Game-Changer".

Question 2

What grinding wheel is best for figure skates?

Accepted Answer

The 88R grinding wheel is excellent for figure skate sharpening. The steel used on figure skates is harder than hockey skates. The 88R has a finer grit, meaning it will react better to harder steels than other ceramic-based wheels. You'll remove more material using the 88R without burning the steel and will leave a better finish on the wheel.

Question 3

When is it time for a new grinding wheel?

Accepted Answer

Great question! Depends on whether you have a variable speed finishing head.Variable speed machine - customers with machines with variable speed finishing heads can use the wheel down to the blotter and still achieve the same cutting pressure and surface finish with a 5” wheel as they do with an 8” wheel.  Without variable speed machine - customers can use the wheel down to the blotter however it will not cut as quickly. This means more passes and the finish is not going to be as nice as on an 8” wheel. Typically customers without variable speed finishing heads will stop using a wheel once it gets down to the 6” mark.

Question 4

How long do wheels last?

Accepted Answer

That answer depends on the wheel selected and how frequently it's dressed. Approximately 200 pairs on average is a conservative answer. However to reiterate, this depends on the wheel selected and how frequently it's dressed.

Question 5

How many wheels in a box?

Accepted Answer

There are 6 wheels in a box. When you purchase 6 of the same wheel, you get a discount!

Question 6

How many grinding wheels come in a box?

Accepted Answer

A box of grinding wheels holds 6. Wheels ordered in quantities of 6 or more get a discount, calculated and shown in the cart and at checkout.

Question 7

Do you have a replacement center part of the grinding wheel?

Accepted Answer

We do carry replacement parts - please contact customer service at guspro@guspro.com to discuss further.

Question 8

What grinding wheel provides the absolute best finish?

Accepted Answer

Our 8AS Grinding Wheel provides the absolute best finish and optimal edge retention.

Question 9

What are the dimensions of the different eyelet sizes?

Accepted Answer

Please head over to our Rivets & Eyelets page for more information and sizes.Please note: #9 rivets are thicker. #11 rivets are thinner.

Question 10

Do you have specific eyelets or rivets for specific skate brands?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not have specific information for what eyelets / rivets to use on specific skate brands. Please review the eyelet and rivet sizes over on our information page.

Question 11

What eyelets are thinner? #9 or #11?

Accepted Answer

#9 rivets are thicker. #11 rivets are thinner.You can review the dimensions of our rivets & eyelets on our Rivets & Eyelets Info page.

Question 12

What size of eyelet do I need for my skates?

Accepted Answer

We are not able to provide information about specific eyelets are required for different skates. The skate manufacturer may have more information on their website. You can measure the size of the current eyelets & rivets on the skates and compare them to our eyelets & rivets sizes on this page.

Question 13

How do I get started sharpening skates?

Accepted Answer

Visit our Skate Sharpening 101 page for the steps to sharpen skates and for answers to commonly asked questions.You can also head over to our YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/@blademasterskatesharpening and browse our videos. Please note: we are in process of recording new videos on skate sharpening.

Question 14

What skate sharpener should I purchase?

Accepted Answer

There are many factors to be considered when deciding on a machine.Is this for personal use or will it be a business?What is your budget?Do you want to do standard sharpening or contouring?What about BFD Flat Bottom?Our customer service staff can help you make the best decision when purchasing a skate sharpener that best meets your needs!Contact us at guspro@guspro.com or call 1-888-648-7776 for more information.Our business hours are 8am-5pm EST, Monday to Friday.

Question 15

What is the Radius of Hollow (RoH)?

Accepted Answer

Skate sharpening is based on creating a radius of hollow (RoH) in a skate blade, which enables the skater to skate on two sharp, square edges. There isn’t one magic RoH for every skater. Each hollow has its advantages and disadvantages, and each skater makes an evaluation as to which is best for them.

Question 16

How do I know which Radius of Hollow (RoH) is best suited for me?

Accepted Answer

The ideal RoH is best determined by the skater’s comfort level on the ice. Because you can transfer essentially any number of profiles onto your blade, you really need to determine for yourself what edge you prefer to skate on. Here are some common recommendations to get you started:

Question 17

How often should I be sharpening my skates?

Accepted Answer

This depends on how often you are skating as well as the condition of your blades. Hockey players that are often on the ice will insist on sharpening their skates before every game. Others only require sharpening monthly. Most blades should be sharpened if there are signs of rust or nicks in the blade as it will compromise the edge on your blade. Be sure to wipe down your blades before storing them as moisture left behind will result in rust buildup.

Question 18

Should I mount the skate heel-to-toe, or toe-to-heel when sharpening?

Accepted Answer

Though it isn't bad form to choose one way or the other, Blademaster always recommends that you sharpen from heel-to-toe. This is to stay consistent with contouring operations, which must be mounted heel-to-toe with the operator sharpening right to left to move with the wheel.

Question 19

What is BFD Flat Bottom?

Accepted Answer

Blademaster’s BFD system optimizes the trade-off between bite and glide. We have reduced the area between the “flat” portion of the skate blade and the ice. This reduces the build up of ice/snow/water and improves gliding. However, we have done so without compromising the strength and integrity of the sharpened edges.Learn more on our BFD Flat Bottom page.

Question 20

Do you have skate sharpening videos?

Accepted Answer

We are in process of updating our skate sharpening videos. You can find our videos over on our YouTube Channel: Education Series

Question 21

What does a good skate sharpening look like?

Accepted Answer

Great question! Good skate sharpenings have the following three qualities:Even edge heightSharp edgesSmooth & shiny surfaceLearn more about these on our What is a good sharpen page.

Question 22

What is the difference between the bronze clamp TSM1630 and the bronze clamp SH6075A?

Accepted Answer

The different clamp assemblies are used on different holders. In this case: the TSDM1630 is used on the SH1000/SH2000/SH3000/SH4000 holders while the SH6075A is used on SH6000/SH8000 series holders.

Question 23

What is SLICK-IT used for?

Accepted Answer

SLICK-IT provides a dry, yet slippery and slick surface, helping the skate holder to slide with less friction. Spray SLICK-IT directly onto the skate sharpening table top surface.

Question 24

What is Gusto Glide used for?

Accepted Answer

Gusto Glide is a synthetic lubricant that is applied to the skate blade edge that allows for cooler, cleaner skate sharpening on final pass plus a superior finish. It has anti-weld agents to keep the wheel free cutting.

Question 25

Is cross grinding necessary in the sharpening process?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Though it may not be required with every skate prior to sharpening, the purpose of cross grinding is to remove the old edge, which may have become dull and damaged, and to establish a grind pattern. Cross grinding acts as a blank canvas for a suitable lie and radius on your blade (similar to the contouring process)

Question 26

Why deburr after sharpening? Is it required?

Accepted Answer

After sharpening, there is a burr on the steel that needs to be removed. Use one of our hones to remove that burr on both sides of the blade. Deburring is highly recommended, if not required for clean edges and optimal performance for your skater.

Question 27

Can blades like MK blades, John Wilson and Paramount blades be sharpened on Blademaster skate sharpeners?

Accepted Answer

Some blade have very little steel exposed and a runner/holder that isn’t flat. If there’s enough steel on the blade for a skate holder to clamp on to, then you can absolutely sharpen on our machines. If not enough steel exposed, then it be difficult to sharpen.  These blades can be sharpened with the correct wheel and skate holder. Skate holders like SH6500 and SH7000 should work.

Question 28

What's the differences between the SPB portable skate sharpener models?

Accepted Answer

The differences between the SPB950, SPB850 and SPB750 models are:different skate holdersdifferent grinding wheelsThe other items in the bundles are the same.

Question 29

What is the benefit of the variable speed motor?

Accepted Answer

Variable speed drives allow you to increase the spindle speed to match the size of the wheel so that no matter what the size of the wheel is, the cutting pressure is the same. Variable speed motors allow the operator to get consistent sharpening throughout the lifespan of the wheel, increasing efficiency and performance.

Question 30

What is the difference between the diamond dressers?

Accepted Answer

The difference between the TSM687 diamond dresser and the TSM688 diamond dresser is a larger diamond for longer life.Both are made from the highest quality industrial diamonds on the market and are made in North America, set to our exacting standards for concentricity and shank length. A precise radius on the grinding wheel every time minimizes the need for holder adjustments.

Question 31

Can Matrix blades be used with Blademaster skate holders?

Accepted Answer

As long as the aluminum support is flat and has the same height across the length of it - Blademaster skate holders should work.

Question 32

What is SLIK STIK used for? How often should I use it? Does it increase the longevity of the blade?

Accepted Answer

SLIK STIK provides the same function as Gusto-Glide but in wax stick form. SLIK STIK gets applied to the bottom of the blade for the finishing pass. It allows more time to be spent on the wheel with a cooler, cleaner cut - providing a superior surface finish. It is applied on the last pass of every skate. Application of SLIK STIK provides a cleaner cut and results in a better-defined edge. This makes the edge stronger and increases the durability & lifespan of the edge. Skaters will get more hours on the ice before needing to have their skates sharpened again (assuming no blade damage).

Question 33

What skate sharpeners do profile sharpening?

Accepted Answer

The following machines do profile sharpening:CROSS GRIND SKATE SHARPENER - BENCH MODEL (BRPCG1B)2-IN-1 COMBO SKATE SHARPENER - BENCH MODEL (BRC2005B)2-IN-1 COMBO SKATE SHARPENER BUNDLE - TRAVEL MODEL (BRC2005)

Question 34

Are there special grinding wheels for black steel blades?

Accepted Answer

In regards to grinding wheels, there are no special considerations for black steel blades. When it comes to honing though - rubber hones are the way to go. They won't scratch the black surface.

Question 35

What direction should you grind the skate blade in? In the direction of the grinding wheel rotation? Is it acceptable to grind the skate blade against the rotation?

Accepted Answer

Blademaster recommends moving the skate holder in the same direction as the wheel is turning. It is possible to grind against the wheel, but be aware it is more aggressive, removes more steel faster and will heat up the blade more.

Question 36

What are witness marks? Why do I need them?

Accepted Answer

Witness marks are light touches of the heel of the skate blade and the toe of the skate blade against the grinding wheel. It helps to determine how to slightly adjust the skate holder. The witness marks are to be in the direct center of the blade. Too high, adjust the holder up. Too low, adjust the holder down.

Question 37

Do you have service representatives?

Accepted Answer

Please contact customer service at guspro@guspro.com or call 1-888-648-7776 to discuss service calls. With the advancement of technology, we are able to provide remote assistance. If on-site assistance is required, that can be discussed / arranged.

Question 38

How can I tell if my holder is centered and properly aligned with the finishing wheel height?

Accepted Answer

Check out our video about calibrating your skate holders on your own machine over on our YouTube channel - timestamp at 8:41.Start with a straightened blade. If your blade is bent, you will not get an accurate reading. With your skate heel-to-toe in the skate holder, you’re going to create “witness marks” (known as the “touch method”) on both the heel and toe ends of the blade. To do so, you’re going to lightly and swiftly make contact with the wheel on both ends of the blade. It should look like this:If your skate holder is already centered, your witness marks should be directly located in the center of your blade.

Question 39

My witness marks aren’t centered. How do I adjust my holder so I can center my skate holder?

Accepted Answer

Check out our video about calibrating your skate holders on your own machine over on our YouTube channel - timestamp at 8:41.(a) IF YOUR SKATE HOLDER HAS CAM HANDLES: If your witness marks are not centered, you’re going to want to adjust the cam handle on the end of the blade that isn’t centered – either adjust them up or down depending on where your witness mark is currently located on your blade.If the blade is TOO HIGH, then you would be adjusting your cams DOWN.If the blade is TOO LOW, then you would be adjusting your cams UP.Once you have adjusted your cam, create two new witness marks on each end of your blade. Continue to make these adjustments until your witness marks on both ends are centered on your blade. Once centered, you’re going to make one swift and complete pass (maintaining even pressure) across the wheel. If your blade is straight, you will see the hollow grind centered all along the entire length of your blade. If you have achieved this, you are ready to sharpen your skates.(b) IF YOUR SKATE HOLDER HAS THREE (3) DETENT (OR "CLICK") KNOBS:If the witness mark is too high on one side, lower that side by turning the knob on at that side of the blade clockwise.If the witness mark is too low on one side, raise that side by turning the knob on that side of the blade counter-clockwise.If the entire blade is too high, lower by turning the rear knob counter-clockwise.If the entire blade is too low, raise by turning the rear knob clockwise.Note – Our High Performance family of holders (i.e. SH6000, SH7000, SH8000 etc.) are designed to work with our BR100 & BR1000 skate gages. Two clicks of the detent knobs are relative to one graduation line shown on the gage.

Question 40

We recently purchased a BHC2005 height comparator gage, but I can’t find the center line of the grinding wheel.

Accepted Answer

Be sure to calibrate your gage to the correct specs! Start by dressing your wheel to 3/8”. When you have done this, clean your table top of all debris. Once completed, set the height comparator gage in front of the finishing head and slowly move it so that the two bearings are cradling both sides of the wheel. Now lock the magnet in place. Once locked into place loosen the bezel clamp and begin turning the face of the bezel until you have reached the zero (0) indicator. Retighten the bezel clamp. Now that the gage is calibrated, you need to adjust your skate holder. Lock the gage to the table top where it is clear of everything. With your skate in its holder, touch the heel of your blade to the gage’s bearings. Adjust the holder until your bezel reads zero (0). Do the same of the toe of your skate. Once both sides of your skate reads zero (0), your skate holder has been centered and you are ready to sharpen.

Question 41

I have sharpened my skate but I am not achieving square edges.

Accepted Answer

Check out our video about calibrating your skate holders on your own machine over on our YouTube channel - timestamp at 8:41.You may want to check for the following if you’re experiencing issues with edge squareness:• Is your blade straight? If your blade is bent, you will not have square edges after sharpening.• Have you properly centered your holder? Refer to the above tips on how to center your skate holder.• Could I have over-tightened my clamp? If you over-tighten your bronze clamp assembly you will warp your skate blade.• Have I properly removed all burrs from my blade after sharpening? These little fibers of steel can be a contributing factor to uneven edges.If you have checked the above and are still experiencing issues, you can contact our Customer Service department at toll-free 1-888-648-7776.

Question 42

I’m getting a poor finish on the blade. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Check the condition of your diamond tip! It should not be rounded, but have a sharp point. Be sure to turn the tip with each dress to get a different facet of the diamond dressing the wheel. Make sure there is no play in the dresser arm or slides. Check the spring loaded end of the dresser arm for play. The finish of your dress relates directly to the finish on the blade. You should also apply a cutting coolant to the blade prior to the last pass and then go slower on the last pass to ensure the cleanest cut edges and best finish on the blade.

Question 43

What causes chatter on a skate while sharpening?

Accepted Answer

Loose wheel nutSolution - Ensure nut is tight using the TSM390 Wheel Wrench and the TSM395 Tommy Bar.Bad dress on wheelSolution - Redress the wheel ensuring rotation of diamond and that diamond contacts full thickness of wheel.Bad/worn diamondSolution - Replace diamond if needed (TSM687 or TSM688) and redress the wheel.Steel impregnated on wheelSolution 1 - Redress wheel.Solution 2 - Try different type of wheel (suggestion: 8VBP or 8GC).Skate Holder MisalignedMake sure Skate Holder Clamp isn't too loose or too tight (2-finger rule).Solution 1 - Replace Glide Pad on Bottom of Holder (SH60656, UG2006).Solution 2 - Bring holder back to factory default using machinist square.Imbalanced WheelSolution - Put on new wheel that is not from the same box as the one that was experiencing vibration and dress it.Bearings goingSolution - Send to Blademaster for Diagnostic & Repair.Vibration on tabletop (portables)Solution - Place portable on sturdy desk/bench to eliminate vibration.

Question 44

When does the diamond need to be changed?

Accepted Answer

Indications the diamond needs to be replaced are: While dressing the wheel you get a lot of skipping and inconsistent contact with the wheel then that would indicate that the diamond is no longer cutting the wheel and needs to be replaced. Having to dress the wheel more frequently (say every other pair of skates) compared to what you’re used to then that could be a sign that the diamond is worn. If its taking longer to sharpen a skate than normal.Not getting as nice of a finish on the blade as you usually do then those are also good signs that it’s time to replace the diamond. The last indicator would be a visual inspection of the diamond where if you can no longer easily make out the point of the diamond then it is time to change the diamond.

Question 45

What glide pad is the replacement pad for the MPFD300 form dresser?

Accepted Answer

The MPFD11 felt glide pad is the replacement for the MPFD300 form dresser.

Question 46

Changed my wheel out and now there is a small vibration in the machine. What's happening here?

Accepted Answer

Ensure the grinding wheel is properly installed and balanced. Check for any debris or damage to the wheel or machine. If not resolved, please follow-up with Blademaster technical support for more assistance at guspro@guspro.com.

Question 47

Do you have service manuals online?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not publish service manuals online for our equipment. Please contact customer service at guspro@guspro.com or call 1-888-648-7776 for technical support.

Question 48

I am getting an uneven finish almost like waves on my skate blades. Using 8MXR - Blue grinding wheel. Not sure why this is happening. Any idea as to the issue?

Accepted Answer

Troubleshooting Steps:Redress the wheel completely to 3/8” and then to the desired hollow and see if that gets rid of the waves.Use Gusto Glide and go slower and lighter on the last pass to get best finish.If these first two steps don’t solve the problem, go through steps 3-8Make sure the wheel is tight by using the wheel wrench and tommy bar to tighten the wheel locking nut.  Test by sharpening again.Check that there is no play (wiggle) in the dressing arm (yellow) that the diamond quill goes in.Put a new diamond dresser on and re-dress the stone.  Test by sharpening againPut a new wheel on.  Dress to 3/8”.  After dressing to 3/8”, dress to your desired hollow (ie. ½” or 5/8” etc.).  Test by sharpening again.Check clamping pressure on skate holder.  You should be able to use your index finger and middle finger to clamp the skate and this is enough pressure.  Test by sharpening again.Remove wheel nut, washer and wheel.  Run the machine with just the spindle.  Feel for vibration on the tabletop.  If there is excessive vibration on the tabletop then the motor is likely gone bad and replacing the machine is the best course of action

Question 49

Tell me about contouring. What is the Mark 6 contouring system?

Accepted Answer

If you’re new to skate sharpening, contouring (also called profiling) can sound complicated—but the idea is actually straightforward: it’s about shaping the blade to match how someone skates.Think of your skate blade from the side.It’s not flat—it has a slight curve. That curve is called the profile (or contour).A more curved blade = quicker turns and agilityA flatter blade = more speed and glideThis curve is measured as part of a large imaginary circle (usually between 8–13 feet for players)So when someone says “9-foot profile,” they mean the blade matches part of a 9-foot circle.The Blademaster Mark 6 contouring system allows skate sharpening techs to put different profiles on skaters blades.This system works with our the following equipment: Platinum Triple Stations (PLA5VSV, PLA5HYB), Legend Triple Station (BRLEG1FSF), Infinity Double Station (BRINFFS), Single Station Combo (BRCEX1) and our BRC2005/BRC2005B portables.Please note: Mark 6 contour bars can only be used with the Mark 6 system. Mark 5 contour bars can only be used with the Mark 5 system.

Question 50

Why should skates be contoured?

Accepted Answer

Since the contour (also called 'rocker' or 'profile') of the blade determines how much of the blade will be in contact with the ice, it can have a dramatic effect on skater speed, agility, and performance. Though choosing a contour is often a matter of personal preference, Blademaster recommends that all new skates be contoured at least once at time of purchase to ensure that the left and right skates are perfectly matched.

Question 51

What is the Radius of Contour (RoC)?

Accepted Answer

The Radius of Contour (RoC) describes the lengthwise curvature of the skate blade. It is sometimes referred to as the 'profile' or 'rocker' on the blade. Skates commonly have a single radius of contour (eg. 9 foot, 11 foot), but Blademaster contouring systems can optimize performance by applying multiple radii or more complex shapes to your skates, therefore giving you improved speed and agility.

Question 52

What does Pitch mean? What does Lie mean?

Accepted Answer

Head over to our YouTube channel to learn how to set skate pitch - timestamp at 10:12.Pitch and Lie are the same thing, created by moving the apex or balance point on the blade forward or backward. When a skater is standing erect, they should be directly on the high point of the contour; balanced between falling forward or backward.

Question 53

How often should my skates be contoured?

Accepted Answer

Because contouring shapes your blades, it is important to have your skates contoured to your preference upon purchasing them. For maintenance purposes, you should consider re-contouring them once or twice a year as it acts as a blank canvas for a suitable lie and radius on your blade. Should you damage your blades you should also consider re-contouring them.

Question 54

Is the BRC2005B suitable for occasional contouring?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some customers even use their BRC2005 exclusively as a contouring machine.

Question 55

Will frequent contouring mean quickly going through grinding wheels and put more strain/wear on parts of the unit?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. It depends on if the operator is re-dressing the wheel before and/or after cross-grinding. The more re-dressing of the wheel lessens the lifespan of the wheel.

Question 56

Is contouring only possible on a machine with cross-grinding capabilities?

Accepted Answer

Our contouring system is only used on a cross-grind head. Some of our competitors use their finishing head to “contour” or “profile” skates. However these methods are time consuming and will heat up the blade more.

Question 57

Is it necessary to purchase the complete contouring kit (CRM6LITE) to do any contouring at all, or is there some more economical options such as adjustments/adaptors for the machine and/or holders to allow occasional contouring?

Accepted Answer

The CRM6LITE is the most economical option as it provides the equipment to offer sharpening and three (3) contour bars and gauges. You could buy the components individually, however they are all required. We bundled these items together for ease of use and cost.

Question 58

Do you sell profile / contour bars for Mark 5 systems still?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do still sell the stock we have left. We are not producing new contour bars for Mark 5 systems.

Question 59

Can Mark 5 contour bars be used with the Mark 6 contour system?

Accepted Answer

No. Mark 6 contour bars can only be used with the Mark 6 system. Mark 5 contour bars can only be used with the Mark 5 system.

Question 60

What the difference is between the SH6000 and SH6600?

Accepted Answer

The SH6000 Pro Series skate holder is the original dial-increment adjustment holder. It allows for precise three-dimensional adjustment.The SH6600 is the same as SH6000, but with an extended-length anvil providing added support for blade-only sharpening. It also includes a modified clamp post with extra runner clearance to accommodate changing skate designs. Note - it is specific to the Bauer LS and True (formerly VH) blades.

Question 61

What is the difference between SH2000 and SH6000 skate holders?

Accepted Answer

The SH2000 skate holder uses traditional cam handles to make height adjustments.The SH6000 (and other Blademaster) holders use detent knobs (instead of cam handles) where the height and pitch adjustments are made in 0.001” increments. This holder was designed to be used with our BR100/BR1000 gages to give precise movement measurements.

Question 62

Do you have a skate holder for goalie skates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the SH7000 is ideal for goalie skates. It is an excellent all around holder and has a wide stirrup to accommodate skates that will not fit over a traditional clamp post.

Question 63

Do you have a skate holder for children's skates?

Accepted Answer

Yes we do. The SH7700 is ideal for children's skates. This multi-purpose holder has a smaller anvil to support shorter skates that will not fit over a traditional clamp post.

Question 64

What is the Powerfly Skate Holder?

Accepted Answer

The SH6300 Powerfly Holder has been specifically designed for those cowlings with crossbars. No more popping steel out to sharpen!

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