I have a microtome that I picked up before I knew any better. I have since learned how to hone it up like the microtome that it is, and not like a straight, and have gotten some rather good shaving off it!
It cuts better on one surface than the other if you dont adjust the angle. It was a fun experiment, and the honing left the backside a wonderful mirror that is always kind of thrilling to see glinting back at me!