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| RBD CutlerySharpening and Tool Grinding Carves Out Niche By Ofelia Saenz, Signal Tribune staff writer
RBD is a one-man operation that services kitchen knives, hunting knives, pocketknives, all types of cleavers, shears and scissors. "The last 35 years I've had grinders around me," says Dale. Up until 1986, he owned a company that sold and serviced retail systems in Northern California. "We were always remaking parts for things, manufacturing with a lathe, sharpening." Dale's longtime curiosity with metal, wood and tools has fed his knowledge over the years. Although he also takes an interest in woodworking, he illustrates the importance of a fine well-maintained tool by pointing to a course he once took at Cerritos College in which they spent three-quarters of the class sharpening tools. Dale speaks at length about the nuances of sharpening a good blade and his genuine enthusiasm is contagious when describing the difference in precision between his older powerhouse grinder that turns at 3500 revolutions per minute versus his quiet Swedish water-grinder which turns at a much more refined 90 revolutions per minute. "I think that my knowledge of the angles...is the important thing," he says. Dale knows a lot about knife construction. His home is filled with books on the subject. "I'm going into this with knowledge of the metallurgy," he says, "and the angles that have to be used in sharpening knives and other edged tools. It's been a study that I've done for 25 years." RBD is a small operation compared to Dale's former company, but the convivial gentleman is pleased about the opportunity to do business on this scale. "I'm interested in meeting people and just enjoying life," he says, "and I think this will help me do that." For information, contact RBD at (562) 426-3719. |
Bud Dale appreciates a fine knife and a sharp blade. Although Dale's business, RBD Cutlery Sharpening and Tool Grinding Service, is a new undertaking, his fascination with, and knowledge of, knife construction and grinders goes way back.