What Is a BESS Sharpness Tester?

A BESS (Brubacher Edge Sharpness Scale) sharpness tester is a tool designed to measure the sharpness of a blade or cutting edge with precision. Unlike traditional methods of testing sharpness, such as slicing paper or shaving hair, a BESS sharpness tester quantifies the sharpness of an edge by measuring the amount of force required to cut through a standardized test medium. The result is a numerical score, with lower numbers indicating a sharper edge.

How Does a BESS Sharpness Tester Work?

The BESS sharpness tester uses calibrated test media, a fine polymer thread, and measures the force needed to cut the material. The force is measured in grams, and the result is displayed on the tester. By using this standardized process, the BESS scale provides objective, repeatable results, allowing users to compare the sharpness of different knives or tools accurately.

Why Use a BESS Sharpness Tester?

The key benefit of a BESS sharpness tester is its ability to provide precise, consistent data. This makes it valuable for both professionals and enthusiasts who want to ensure their tools are sharpened to a specific standard. Whether you're a professional sharpener, a chef, or a hobbyist, a BESS sharpness tester offers a reliable way to gauge and improve sharpness, helping you maintain optimal cutting performance.

The PT50 Series: BESS Testers

The Edge-On-Up PT50 Series sharpness testers, comprising the PT50A, PT50B, and PT50C, are the only instruments capable of performing an official BESS sharpness test. Each model in the PT50 lineup allows users to measure the sharpness of a blade with precision and consistency, making them invaluable tools for professionals, enthusiasts, and even industrial users.

The PT50A is the top-tier model, designed for industrial and commercial use. With its 1-gram resolution and 25 measurements per second, the PT50A offers unparalleled accuracy, capable of handling the most demanding sharpening tasks. It features a heavy-duty strain gauge sensor and a steel measurement platform, ensuring both durability and precision.

The PT50B is the preferred choice for sharpeners, knife enthusiasts, and woodworkers. It provides a 5-gram resolution and 10 measurements per second, offering a balance of accuracy and practicality. Its steel measurement platform and professional-grade sensors make it the go-to option for those looking to achieve professional-level sharpening results without the industrial features of the PT50A.

For home users and hobbyists, the PT50C offers a more affordable way to test sharpness. With a 25-gram resolution and 5 measurements per second, the PT50C is perfect for testing everyday kitchen knives, hobby tools, and household edges. It includes a disposable clip system for quick and easy measurements, making it an accessible option for those new to precise sharpness testing.

A BESS sharpness tester takes the guesswork out of sharpness testing by providing accurate, quantifiable results. With models available for industrial, professional, and home use, these testers make it easy to assess and maintain the sharpness of any cutting edge. Ready to see how sharp your tools really are? Explore Edge-On-Up’s PT50 series and bring precision to your sharpening process.