The Blademaster professional grind/initial grind ensures maximum control, grip, and glide on the ice. We at HP’s Sport Shop perform this grind on a Blademaster Infinity grinding machine – in combination with the high-quality Blademaster 8VBP grinding wheel, which stands for precision, smooth running, and durability. This combination is the first choice of many professionals and service technicians in the DEL, NHL, and NLA. Differences between grind types – Radius of Hollow vs. Flat Bottom: Radius of Hollow (ROH) – the classic hollow grind. With the Radius of Hollow, the blade is ground into a semicircle, creating two defined edges – an inner and an outer one. These edges bite deep into the ice, providing maximum stability, control, and grip in turns, as well as during acceleration and braking. The smaller the chosen radius (e.g., 3/8″), the deeper the hollow grind, and the more the blade "bites" into the ice. This provides more grip, but also higher frictional resistance during the gliding phase. A larger radius (e.g., 3/4″) creates a flatter grind – this allows for better gliding, but offers slightly less grip during quick changes of direction. Advantages of the ROH grind: Very good grip in turns and during acceleration; precise control and stability; individually adaptable to weight, style, and preferences. Disadvantages: Slightly higher resistance while gliding; somewhat more frequent sharpening required with heavy use. Flat Bottom – the modern hybrid grind: The flat bottom grind is a newer technology in which the blade is not ground semi-circularly, but with a small flat contact area in the middle. This means the blade still has two edges, but the area between them is flat instead of curved. This design offers an interesting combination: Less resistance when gliding (i.e., more speed) Still stable grip thanks to the outer edges. However, the edges of a flat bottom blade are more sensitive – they wear down faster and lose their sharpness more quickly when in contact with dirt or hard ice. Advantages of a flat bottom blade: Less friction, better glide Faster acceleration with less effort Pleasant feel on softer ice Disadvantages: Edges dull faster Less suitable for heavier or more powerful players Slightly less stability in aggressive turns Recommended radii by body weight (ROH): Very light – 3/8" (deep grind, lots of grip) Light – 1/2" Average – 5/8" (standard at HP's Sport Shop) Heavy – 3/4" (shallow grind, better glide) Important notes: This service is only available in conjunction with This service can be booked with the purchase of ice skates. Sharpening is carried out by trained professionals using state-of-the-art technology. The price is for a complete pair of ice skates. Service work is non-refundable and cannot be exchanged.