Re: Does your angle cube reading match your W.E ?

When I first got my angle cube, I agonized over the differences I found in the readings too but then I stopped worrying…

There are bound to be differences in readings in even the most precise mechanical rig. When you stop to think about it here are some causes of differences:
…operator error due to eyesight level and lighting when adjusting the angle setting on each side.
…variations in the dimple drilling on the angle adjustment bar
…variations in the screw face that fits into the stop dimples on each side
…slight variation in setup of the angle adjustment bar on each rig
…+/- errors in the reading from one cube to another, I believe there is a half a degree error allowance expected in individual angle cubes
…variation caused by the geometry of the each blade

And the list goes on and on. Now think about a master free hand sharpener. The person has been sharpening for many years and cranks out super sharp knife blades each and every time. People using his knives are amazed by his abilities, yet if you were to measure his angles with a very precise scientific device, what would you find…probably far greater variance than you would find if he had used the WEPS or any fine clamping device and I suspect the WEPS would be right at the top of the most accurate devices.
The question really is what is the effect of the variations in settings? How sharp is sharp?
With my rig with all its adjustments set as accurately as I can, I know I am off from time to time one half to three quarters of a degree at best, but having said that, my knives are almost ethereal in their keenness. I never cease to be amazed at how well my rig sharpens. From time to time when I have gotten really fanatical about accuracy, I have even flipped/reversed the angle arms so that any inaccuracies caused by the dimples are obviated. In order to keep the screws from slipping, I use Purple Loctite to hold the screws firmly locked. With that way of setting up I seem to find the knives slightly sharper, but then I have no way of knowing how much sharper with accuracy or even if the edges are really any sharper at all.
In the end I end up with the sharpest edges I have ever had…sharper than I have ever found using all the various devices I have tried over 60 years or so. My need for edge keenness of a high order has been satisfied by the WEPS. In the real world of slicing and dicing things, I am a very happy camper.
That is my two cents worth.

Cheers
Leo