88 degree (or 2 degree) side bevel roto guide with ball bearings made by Ski Man.
- Features a two point locking system that allows you to use any file or stone and locks it in to avoid unecessary wear on the guide or tool.
- These roto guides use ball bearings as the running surface against the base to allow for easy glide with less running surface than traditional guides.
- The bearings also allow for a gap between the tool and the base to allow filings to drop without catching on the base.
Which edge tool? A multitool (side & base in one tool) or dedicated tools (one tool for each angle)?
- Multitools are more convenient and simple to use. They provide precise results even for the novice. This is a great choice for the beginners and the advanced model (SKU RB-3505) is a tool that will do everything a casual skier/boarder will need to do for a lifetime, and is a great choice for a family with skiers/boarders of different ages and sizes. A disadvantage is they can only use certain size stones (diamonds are not a problem, but a ceramic or Arkansas stone will not fit.
- Fixed angle bevel guides are devices that tend to be dedicated to one angle (though there are some models with shims that are more flexible). It's advantage is that it can use any stone of any size. You have a greater feel for the cutting process with dedicated tools.
Side edge beveling will give the skis more grip on the snow surface. Higher angles should be reserved for experienced racers; if the angle is too high the ski can "rail out" on a less experienced racer. Typical angles are 1.0 to 3.0 degrees. Less angle equals less grip. Slalom angles can be 3.0 to 5.0 degrees; downhill up to 3.0 degrees. A racer should start at 3 degrees. Keep in mind:
- Higher angles are quicker to dull.
- An aggressive edge (high angle), may be more difficult for lighter racers (young kids or women) may make it more difficult to recover from being up on the edge.
