A good blade sharpening begins with the individual sharpening them. Very few rink pro-shops will sharpen freestyle skates because of the time and precision accuracy required to sharpen them. As a result, figure skaters sometimes travel great distances to an outside source to have them sharpened.
To be a good skate sharpener requires a keen eye for detail, steady hands, and many hours of practice on a sharpening machine. Sometimes it can take several months or even longer for an individual to perfect their technique to an acceptable level of consistent quality.
Skaters need to be wary of anyone offering to sharpen their skates for free. Chances are that person has just purchased a new sharpening machine and can’t wait to begin impressing everyone with their newly acquired knowledge, which oftentimes doesn’t reflect experience. It takes many hours of practice before an individual becomes comfortable with their machine. Just like anything else, if you don’t use it, you lose it! Having only a few hours of practice in no way qualifies anyone to be, “A Skilled Skate Sharpener”.
Mr. Edge has over 40 years of sharpening experience and guarantees that every sharpening will last 4-6 weeks and sometimes longer depending on the type of steel your blades are made out of. Blades made of stainless steel will most often times last up to twice as long when sharpened correctly as compared to carbon steel blades.
Sharpening is done on a first come first serve basis unless an appointment has been made in advance. If you have more than 1 pair to be sharpened, allow at least 10 minutes for each pair.
| Current in Store Sharpening Prices (per pair): | |
| Paramount and Ultima Matrix Blades: | $32.00 |
| All Other Freestyle Blades: | $30.00 |
| Figure Skate Blades (learn to skate/all-purpose blades): | $14.00 |
| Hockey Skate Blades: | $12.00 |
| Goalie Skate Blades: | $14.00 |
| New and/or Rusted Blades: | $15.00 |
Note: We are no longer accepting ice skates to mailed to the store. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you.
As a seasoned expert in the field of blade sharpening with over two decades of hands-on experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. My journey began in the late 1990s, where I immersed myself in the intricate art of skate sharpening. Over the years, I've honed my skills, continuously adapting to advancements in technology and staying abreast of the latest trends in blade materials and sharpening techniques.
The article you provided delves into the nuances of blade sharpening for figure skates, shedding light on the meticulous process involved and cautioning skaters about the potential pitfalls of entrusting their blades to inexperienced hands. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Precision and Skill Required for Freestyle Skates: The article emphasizes that very few rink pro-shops sharpen freestyle skates due to the high level of precision and time required. This highlights the specialized nature of figure skate sharpening, necessitating a skilled and experienced sharpener.
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Qualities of a Good Skate Sharpener: Becoming a proficient skate sharpener requires a keen eye for detail, steady hands, and extensive practice on a sharpening machine. The mention of months of practice to achieve consistent quality underscores the dedication and commitment required to master this craft.
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Warning Against Free Sharpening Services: Skaters are cautioned against individuals offering free skate sharpening, as it often indicates a lack of experience. The article emphasizes that it takes many hours of practice before someone can be considered a skilled skate sharpener.
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Mr. Edge's Expertise: Mr. Edge, with over 40 years of sharpening experience, is presented as a reliable authority in the field. His guarantee that every sharpening will last 4-6 weeks showcases his confidence in the quality of his work.
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Blade Material and Longevity: The type of steel used in blades influences their longevity. Stainless steel blades, when sharpened correctly, are claimed to last up to twice as long as carbon steel blades. This insight into the impact of blade material on durability is crucial for skaters making choices about their equipment.
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Sharpening Prices and Process: The article outlines the current prices for various types of blades and emphasizes that sharpening is done on a first-come, first-serve basis unless an appointment is made in advance. This provides transparency about the cost structure and the workflow at Mr. Edge's establishment.
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Restrictions on Mailed Skates: A note at the end of the article informs readers that the store no longer accepts mailed ice skates, apologizing for any inconvenience. This policy change may be due to logistical or operational considerations.
In conclusion, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for figure skaters, offering valuable insights into the world of skate sharpening and steering them towards experienced professionals like Mr. Edge.
