Grind Height Calculator

How this is calculated

Grind height = (stock thickness − edge thickness) ÷ 2 ÷ tan(angle per side). The ÷2 is because each bevel removes half the stock’s thickness; the tangent converts your angle into rise-over-run up the blade.

Reading the answer

If the result is taller than your blade, that combination cannot exist as a full-height grind — raise the angle, use thinner stock, or accept a sabre grind that stops partway. If it is much shorter than the blade, you are building a sabre or scandi by definition. Primary-grind angles for full-flat kitchen and EDC work commonly land in the 3-6° per side range on 1/8″ stock — see the bevel angle chart for EDGE angles, which are a separate, later decision at the sharpening stage.

Using it at the machine

Scribe the height on the blade, set your work table or jig to the calculated angle, and grind to the line — the speed chart covers the rest. Check with calipers as the edge approaches target thickness; the math assumes flat, and hands drift.

Browse more tools in the Calculators section.