Description
Automatic Knife Sharpening for Maximum Efficiency
The AV-54 is a high-performance automatic jointer and planer knife grinder built for professionals who need consistent, accurate sharpening with minimal manual effort.
Designed for both woodworking shops and industrial operations, this system allows you to sharpen knives automatically, freeing up time to work on other tools or tasks while the machine runs.
Precision Grinding You Can Rely On
Thorvie sharpening machines are engineered to deliver exceptional accuracy:
- Straightness & flatness within .0005″ per inch
- Consistent edge quality across the full length of the knife
- Professional sharpening results for both carbide and steel
This level of precision ensures smoother cuts, improved finish quality, and extended tool life.
Sharpen Jointer & Planer Knives Up to 24″
The AV-54 can handle:
- Individual knives up to 24 inches long
- Multiple knives with a combined length of up to 24″
- Knife lengths ranging from 3″ to 24″
This flexibility makes it ideal for a wide range of shop sizes and applications.
Automatic Operation Saves Time
Unlike manual sharpening systems, the AV-54 features an automatic travel system, allowing the machine to grind knives without constant supervision.
- Set your knife and start the process
- Let the machine handle the grinding
- Work on other sharpening jobs simultaneously
This significantly improves workflow efficiency and productivity.
Variable Speed Control for Better Results
The AV-54 includes a newly redesigned variable-speed U.S. D/C travel motor, allowing you to:
- Adjust grinding speed based on material
- Optimize performance for carbide vs. steel knives
- Improve finish quality and consistency
Hollow Grind or Flat Grind: You Choose
The AV-54 offers both grinding styles:
- Hollow grinding for precision edge geometry
- Flat grinding for uniform, straight edges
Switching between modes is simple, just loosen a 3/8″ bolt and adjust the knife holder assembly.
Compact Design for Shop Efficiency
Despite its capabilities, the AV-54 features a compact footprint, making it easy to integrate into:
- Woodworking shops
- Tool sharpening businesses
- Maintenance facilities
- Industrial operations
What’s Included with the AV-54 Knife Grinder
This automatic sharpening machine package includes:
- AV-54 Automatic Jointer & Planer Knife Grinder
- Heavy-duty TEFC 110V motor
(220V 50Hz upgrade available for international users) - 5″ White 60 Grit Flared Cup Wheel
- Machine Light
- Angle Finder
- Instruction Manual & Training Video
- Customer Support (7 days a week)
Optional Grinding Wheels for Enhanced Performance
Upgrade your sharpening results with optional wheels:
Diamond Cup Grinding Wheel (12A2)
- Ideal for carbide sharpening
- Also supports side grinding saw blades
- Long-lasting, high-performance grinding
CBN Cup Grinding Wheel (11V5, 180 Grit)
- Excellent for steel knives
- Cooler grinding with less heat buildup
- Improved surface finish and consistency
Ideal for Professional Applications
The AV-54 is perfect for:
- Industrial knife & tool sharpening operations
- Woodworking and cabinet shops
- Millwork and production facilities
- Tool sharpening businesses
- Maintenance departments
Expand into Chipper Knife Sharpening
If you need to sharpen chipper knives, Thorvie offers an upgraded version of this system designed specifically for that application.
Explore the AV-54 Jointer/Planer & Chipper Knife Grinder for expanded capabilities.
Why Choose the AV-54 Automatic Knife Grinder?
- Automatic travel system for hands-free operation
- Precision grinding within .0005″ per inch
- Handles carbide and steel knives up to 24″
- Variable speed control for optimized sharpening
- Hollow and flat grinding capabilities
- Compact, shop-friendly design
- Built in the USA
- Backed by expert support
Automate Your Knife Sharpening Process
The AV-54 allows you to sharpen knives more efficiently while maintaining professional-level precision—helping you increase output without increasing labor.
- Sharpen while you work on other tools
- Improve consistency across every blade
- Reduce downtime in your shop
READY TO UPGRADE YOUR SHARPENING PROCESS?
Add to Cart or Call 866-497-0572 to speak with an expert





Ryan –
I recently purchased your AV-54 automatic knife grinder to sharpen my personal planer knives. Our old grinder broke down and I was looking at your machine and other machines that would have costed me a lot more money as well. After a couple phone calls with Thorvie, I had the confidence that this grinder would fit my needs well. It was very easy to set this machine up and learn how to use it. After I sharpened my first 5 set of knives and tested them, I could not believe how sharp my knives were. My old grinder would sharpen a dip in the center of the knives and when you put the cutting edge of the knife on a work bench, you could see daylight in the center of the knife. This grinder sharpened the knives perfectly straight. I never understood how a hollow ground knife made that much difference from a straight ground knife until I have tested it for myself. Thank you for saving me a lot of money and making a product that will fit my need for many years to come.
Ryan in NY
cfox –
I own a Powermatic model 225 24” planer. I bought this system for my own use, not to start a business. I knew nothing about sharpening, although with a little help from Rick at Thorvie I was soon up and sharpening my own blades. I buy my blades from Terminus and after one re-sharpening by Terminus the knives are no longer any good. With my AV-54 I can now get 3-4 sharpenings out of those same Terminus blades. At $250 for a new set of knives and $176 for Terminus to sharpen them, the AV-54 is saving me well over a thousand dollars, if not more, a year. I mention this because most people that buy this equipment are starting a business, I am at the other end, the end user and I can tell you the equipment does a wonderful job. I am very satisfied with my AV-54. IT PUTS A BETTER, LONGER LASTING EDGE ON THE KNIVES THAN TERMINUS DOES. Thank you for a well made product that is made in America.
Chris in PA