Description
Start a Sharpening Business with the AV-40 System
Thorvie’s AV-40 is a powerful, all-in-one saw blade sharpening machine designed specifically for entrepreneurs, contractors, and shop owners looking to start or expand a tool sharpening business.
With the ability to sharpen both carbide and steel circular saw blades, plus a wide range of cutting tools, the AV-40 gives you the flexibility to serve multiple industries from day one.
Built and trusted since 1977, this machine is known for its durability, precision, and ease of use, making it one of the best manual sharpening systems for beginners and professionals alike.
Complete Saw Blade Sharpening Capabilities
The AV-40 allows you to fully restore saw blades through:
- Face grinding
- Top grinding
- Side grinding
It accommodates blades ranging from 1-7/8″ to 30″ diameter, making it suitable for everything from small specialty blades to large industrial applications. Thorvie’s AV-42 sharpening machine upgrade accommodates saw blades up to 42” in diameter.
Sharpen More Than Just Saw Blades
Unlike many sharpening machines, the AV-40 supports a wide range of tooling without motor interference.
With the included fixtures, you can sharpen:
- Router bits (including anti-kickback designs)
- Shaper cutters
- Raised panel cutters
- Profile cutters
- Planer & jointer knives
- Woodworking and industrial cutting tools
This versatility allows you to expand your services and increase revenue streams within your sharpening business.
High-Speed Motor Built for Carbide Tooling
The AV-40 features a 3450 RPM constant-speed motor, critical for maintaining proper grinding performance on carbide tools.
Many competing saw sharpening machines slow down under load, reducing accuracy and finish quality. The AV-40 maintains consistent speed, ensuring:
- Cleaner cuts
- Longer tool life
- More efficient sharpening
Thorvie’s motor performance is so reliable that modified versions are even used to upgrade competitor machines. (220V 50Hz option available for international use.)
Precision Saddle Assembly for Accurate Results
Accuracy is everything in sharpening, and the AV-40 delivers.
The saddle assembly uses Thompson rods with four sealed bearings, compared to three on many competing machines. This provides:
- Exceptional stability
- Zero play during grinding
- Consistent, repeatable sharpening results
This level of precision is essential for professional-quality sharpening and customer satisfaction.
What’s Included in the AV-40 Starter Package
This start-up sharpening machine package includes everything needed to begin sharpening right away:
- AV-40 Saw Blade Grinder
- Saw blade cup and cone assembly up to 30”
- Knife Grinding Fixture
- Router Bit Fixture
- Shaper Cutter Fixtures (multiple sizes)
- Small Cup and Cone Assembly
- Wood Chisel Fixture
- Mason Drill Bit Fixture
- Roundness Gauge
- Machine Light
- Diamond Grinding Wheels (face, top, router bit, ultra-thin rim)
- Cup Wheel for Jointer & Planer Knives
- Polishing Wheel
- Aluminum Oxide Wheel
- Angle Finder
- Instruction Manual & Training Materials
- Ongoing Customer Support (7 days a week)
One of the Easiest Sharpening Machines to Learn
The AV-40 is designed with simplicity in mind—making it ideal for those starting a sharpening business with no prior experience.
Key benefits include:
- Quick setup and adjustments
- Simple transitions between grinding positions
- Easy blade size changes
Switching between face and top grinding requires only a simple lever adjustment, helping reduce setup time by up to 25% compared to other sharpening machines.
Built in the USA for Long-Term Reliability
Every Thorvie AV-40 sharpening machine is manufactured in Wisconsin, using high-quality materials and proven engineering.
With a design that has remained consistent since 1977, you benefit from:
- Proven durability
- Long-term parts availability
- Reliable performance year after year
Ideal for Multiple Applications
The AV-40 is perfect for:
- Start-up sharpening businesses
- Home-based sharpening shops
- Mobile sharpening services
- Woodworking professionals
- Contractors and maintenance teams
- Industrial tool maintenance
Reduce Costs & Increase Profitability
By sharpening your own tools or offering sharpening services, you can:
- Extend tool life
- Reduce replacement costs
- Generate recurring income
- Build a loyal customer base
The AV-40 is not just a machine, it’s a business opportunity!
Why Choose the AV-40 Saw Sharpening Machine?
- Professional carbide and steel sharpening capabilities
- Multi-tool versatility with interchangeable fixtures
- High-speed motor for precision grinding
- Beginner-friendly operation
- Built in the USA
- Trusted since 1977
- Ideal for starting a sharpening business
Gerald –
From my early teenage years (late 1950’s early 60’s) seeing the Foley Saw Sharpening Machine advertisements in The Popular Mechanics Magazines I had wanted to try my hand at it however, I never made the investment. Fast forward to age 70 after retiring for the second time I became acquainted with a young man who had established a Mill Works business in my home town. He was in need of a saw sharpening service, so I researched saw sharpening equipment, found Thorvie International and the AV-40 Start Up Package with Rick’s help determining the best fit for my needs made the purchase.
The Training Videos and Written Material that came with the package are 2nd to none, that coupled with Rick’s expertise availability and unwavering willingness to provide unlimited help, advise and directions has helped this “Old Dog” learn some new tricks. The Thorvie AV-40 … is truly a top of the line tool sharpening machine and Rick at Thorvie puts Thorvie International over the top with his Customer Service Program.
Jerry in FL
John Zsori –
I am just shy of one year with my AV-40 and most of the fixtures that go with it. Have nothing but good service out of this machine, as well as quick and professional response from Rick. It replaced three machines in my shop, and has already paid for itself. Thanks to Rick and his team who have put together a great machine.
John Z – WI
Kenneth –
After two years of agenizing over whether I should take the risk of investing in the AV-40 starter package I finally made up my mind and made the purchase. Rick walked me through the whole process and we customized the purchase to fit what I thought would be the right tooling for my particular area. After setting the tooling up in my shop and getting familiar with it I hung a sign advertising my sharpening service. On the first day I hung the sign I had three customers. After practicing sharpening my own tools I could see the quality of the work the AV-40 was capable of was without question something that I would be proud to offer my customers. Since starting the sharpening service I have had various tools that I did not know how to sharpen. A simple phone call to Rick at Thorvie was all it took to know what was needed for tooling and how to use it. Thank you to all the folks at Thorvie. I am excited to be able to be a Thorvie sharpening team member and look forward to growing my business using Thorvie tools and sharpening expertise.
Ken in VT
Ken –
I wanted to write to you and tell you how thrilled I am with my Thorvie AV–40 sharpening machine! What an amazing piece of equipment, and with the videos, training aids and customer service I was able to get set up and operating this sharpener in no time at all. The AV-40 is very versatile with so many tool fixture attachments, and it takes me just a few seconds to change sharpening attachments. This AV-40 is an extremely well crafted piece of equipment, and I am already doing great with my little startup sharpening business after only 6 months. Thank you!
Jack –
I have owned my AV-40 sharpening system since 1999 and the AV-40 is a well built U.S. made machine with very minimal maintenance and replacement parts. I had placed an order recently for a couple new tool fixtures and the update to the written instruction booklet was fabulous. I am really impressed with the upgrades Thorvie has done with their training services over the years. Keep up the great work!
Jack in PA
Jerome –
We are very pleased with The Thorvie AV–40 sharpening machine that we purchased from you. It is an amazing piece of equipment and with all of the tool fixture attachments the AV-40 is very versatile. We found that it took us no time at all to learn how to use it and to change the various sharpening attachments. It is in our estimation that the AV-40 is a very well built piece of equipment and we couldn’t envision being without it now.
Best Regards, Jerome NF Canada
Gurnie –
I love my AV-40 sharpening machine! Easy to set up, great customer support, easy to learn with training aids and everything to do the jobs fast. The tool fixtures allow me to sharpen each tool with ease. Thorvie has built a tool that makes me a professional in the sharpening industry. The AV-40 has opened many doors and opportunities for me other than just sharpening tools. Thank you Thorvie!
Gurnie in DE
Paul –
I want to sincerely thank you for your help when I was just getting set up because you were very helpful to me on the phone a few times when I needed advice. You helped me a lot, and your AV-40 is an excellent machine well made and well designed. Your videos also are top notch for a beginner to learn from. Best wishes to you in the years to come.
Paul in NY
Mike –
I want you to know that I bought your AV-40 package because I own a wood working shop and could not find someone in this area to do a descent job, sharpening my tools and saw blades. The very first blade I sharpened was a 10″ 60 tooth carbide from my table saw. When I put it back on and tried it, I could not believe that a saw blade could cut so good. It cut through Oak like cutting through butter. Than I took 2 router bits and sharpened them. I found that to do the same thing. I had now decided instead of just sharpening my own tools that I am going to open up a sharpening shop in this area to serve other people. I now can understand the message you are trying to get across to people before they buy a sharpening machine.
Mike in CO
Johnny –
First of all I wanted to tell you how much I have been enjoying sharpening with the Thorvie system. I can definitely tell the quality of the edge on the cutting tools. I find it so easy to use the fixtures and AV-40. Please contact me so I can order the hole saw fixture. Thanks again for all your help.
Johnny in CA
Walter –
I bought your AV-40 between 3 and 4 years ago. At that time I was debating back and forth between your grinder and buying another grinder that I saw someone else using. I decided to go with your machine and I sure am glad I did that. Not only did I save a lot of money but I built my business up with satisfied customers who recommended me to others because of the work I do. I also was able to take work away from this other fellow due to the quality your machine provided. Thanks a lot for the help you have given me.
Walter in NY
Doug –
I received your AV-40 package about a year ago. I would like to now order the ice auger fixture or my machine. I want to tell you that my father used to be in the sharpening business and I was going to buy the same type of equipment he used. But I remembered how he used to say at times that he wished he had something different. So I decided to try your equipment. Now I wish he was still here so he could see what I am using compared to what he used. Your grinder is really quick to set up and I find it doing an excellent job, as I am a wood worker.
Doug in MT
Mike –
I purchased your AV-40 deluxe grinder package In September and it has been exactly 2 years to the month and I have done almost $150,000.00 so far worth of business.
Mike in TX
Jeff –
I don’t know if you remember me my name is Jeff H. I bought a bunch of sharpening equipment from you in 1991, about 23 years ago. I just wanted to see how you are doing, as I think of you a lot and about the help you gave me. I also wanted you to know I had put my 2 kids through college doing tool sharpening and I am still sharpening tools with your same equipment. Naturally doing that much work over that many years I had to replace a few minor things but I am still using the equipment and making a good living.
Jeff in WI
S. McLaughlin –
Dear Thorvie, (a testimonial for you) I purchased the AV-40 package with some hesitation because of the price (very cheap in comparison to other machines), however I could not have been more wrong. The AV-40 does exactly what you say it will and more. After I sharpened some of my own tools I now offer a first blade sharpening free service (only to large companies) and the reaction from my customers has all been the same. THESE BLADES ARE NOW SHARPER THAN WHEN THEY WERE NEW. I still carry out my full time job as a kitchen fitter and do the sharpening evenings and on weekends because the sharpening time is so quick. Since purchasing the machine I realize just how badly my own blades were being sharpened by other companies. PS. The AV-40 is now called my retirement fund manager.
S. McLaughlin in United Kingdom
Bob –
I just love this machine [AV-40] and when you designed it, you sure had your head on straight. Not only that but the fixtures you sell with it, I can’t say enough about them. You can use this as a testimonial.
Bob in WI
D.M. –
I received all seven (7) boxes of equipment and all arrived in good condition. I put my AV-40 together in my shop, mounted it to a bench as the instructions advised. First thing I did after watching the videos was to sharpen a 7-1/2″ Marathon thin kerf blade which I severely dulled cutting some red oak dunnage a while back. Lo and behold, my first effort at sharpening that blade of mine turned out great. Cuts better than it did when it was new. I really like the AV-40’s look and feel… solid!
D.M. in SC
Wilbur –
Thorvie, I received everything (four boxes) and in excellent condition. I’ve got everything spread out all over my living room and have been watching your videos. Now I haven’t sharpened anything yet or even set up the equipment in my shop so this can’t qualify as much of a testimony but the more I look at your system the more I think I was smart enough to find the right guy with the right stuff. All of your precision machine work sure looks superb. The diversity of all the different modules and their quick setup looks even better with it all complimented by your videos, training aids and business setup. It will surely get me off the ground, looks like the rest is up to me. I bet you’ve been around the machine shop for a few years. Looks and feels like old school ( German or Scandinavian) craftsmanship to me. Between you and that Wolff fellow I’ve got a feeling you guys are going to change my life forever. The more I go in this direction the more it looks right. Thank you very much.
Wilbur in AK
Les –
Just received the AV-40 package last week and all I can say is WOW WOW !! The saws (my own) that I sharpened are incredibly sharp. They are sharper now I think, than when I bought them. I can’t tell you what a pleasure it is to use sharp tools. The AV-40 is as solid as a rock.
Les in Canada
Max –
I am writing to let you know that I was just getting ready to spend over $6,000 dollars to buy another grinder before I found and bought your grinder. I can not believe how easy it is to sharpen saw blades and all these other tools with your one machine. It has been a real surprise how fast I can change over from one tool to the next. You saved me $3,000 plus I can do more now than if I would of went the other route. Can’t thank your company enough.
Max in GA
Dave –
There was an older fellow in our area who used to sharpen all our woodworking tools. Ever since this fellow passed away, we could not find anyone who could sharpen our saw blades and shaper cutters correctly, to our satisfaction. After seeing the Thorvie International AV-40 Grinder on the Internet, we remembered that that was the machine this fellow had been using. So we decided to order out your AV-40 grinder package, as we knew it was what we were looking for to sharpen our woodworking tools, as we remembered this fellow telling us that this was an excellent grinder that he used.
Dave in WA
Joe –
Please send me one wheel for grinding jointer and planer knives and also one of your rubber bond green wheels for knives. I am in the construction business and have been sharpening my own saw blades with your AV-40 grinder package which I purchased on 1-26-02. The blades cut beautiful now that I do them with your machine. I have been sharpening for about a year and a half now. I can honestly tell you that I can sharpen a 12″x 60 tooth carbide tipped saw blade in less then 10 minutes and that is face grinding and top grinding. Now I have started sharpening for my own local people and they are very pleased.
Joe in VT
Dave –
I received the AV-40 grinder package last week and had just set up shop this weekend and already sharpened a bunch of saw blades. It was a piece of cake. I could not believe how fast and easy it was. Could you give me some advise on going mobile as I see it would be very easy to do with your equipment set up.
Dave in FL
Bruce –
When I first started looking into this type of business, I was having a real hard time trying to make up my mind whether or not to do this. After talking to you, you convinced me that tool sharpening was an excellent business to start up. Now I want to share something with you that you can tell others about. I started this tool sharpening business in March of 2006. My first month I done $163.00. My business has been growing every month and just this last month of September, 2006. I done over $6,000.00 in just that one month alone. I am getting so many compliments from customers about the way the blades and tools cut after I sharpen them. I want to thank you for all your help and for you convincing me to go into doing this. Thanks again Thorvie and I feel as though I owe you a lot for all you have done for me.
Bruce in MN