Quote Originally Posted by Maladroit View Post
I've had second thoughts on this: a 220 grit stone is probably a bit aggressive and might unnecessarily widen the bevel. Just start with a few passes on a 1000 grit hone, that should be enough to discover whether you have clean metal at edge and therefore the ability to set the bevel without corrosion pits ruining it. If you're inexperienced at honing you may wish to then do a clean up of the blade to the point where you're satisfied with the finish and then send it on to an expert to bring the edge up to the shave ready level. There are a few people in Australia who offer honing services, including Oz (Onimaru55) who is very highly regarded.

Thanks everyone for your advice and ideas.

I have sent it to Oz to see how the edge is - if it falls on the right side of the 50/50 I'll look forward to working on the blade when it comes back. If not.. it returns to it's rego sticker duties at which it excelled.

My friend gave it to me to use, it's not to be returned as he has no real use for it. it would have a little value to me because of that but it's not the end of the world if I make a mistake (I hope).

The pins are not too bad. They are a little loose as it leaves the scales, but it tightens up coming around to open position so I don't plan to touch them if I can avoid it.

I'll keep this post updated with pics as I go and if the advice keeps coming I shouldn't go to far wrong :-)

THanks