Thread: Help getting that mirror finish

Originally Posted by Euclid440

So, how bad was the pitting, do you have photos?

What is the lowest grit you tried.

You must remove all the surrounding metal, to the depth of the lowest pit. Only go as low in grit as needed or you will, spend more time removing the deeper scratches.

Typically, I start at 600, then drop down in grit a little at a time until I am making progress, removing the damage. Sometimes it is easier to use a bit higher grit and spend more time removing the damage than using a lower grit and spend more time removing the scratches you made with lower grit.

The mistake most folks make is not spending enough time on the lowest grit and removing all the pitting.

I see original pitting in your finish. Sand from heel to toe, then from edge to spine, removing each scratch pattern. It will leave a more uniform pattern and remove metal faster, also use a cork backer, wrapped in 6mm craft foam.

Once all the pitting is removed and you have a uniform finish, then move up, if you have a uniform base, the finer grits go quickly.

I go to 2k W&D then buff, you can hand polish after 2k or use micro mesh. Buy good paper, cut into 3 inch squares and change it, when it stops cutting.

Almost always, a defective finish is from not spending enough time at the lowest grit.

Dull your edge, with a diamond file, plate or sand paper, it will make it much safer to sand, you will have to re-hone when done anyway.

I do not like the finish of tumblers, they remove all the sharp lines and detail. Have one never use it for razors.

It depended on the blade. The Wedge I went down to 240 because it was the worst. of the 3, The Magnetic I started @ 400 and the one with the scales still on it honestly I just hit it real quick with 600 then buff wheel and MAAS because the blades in real good condition

the Wedge in question is to the right.


The Magnetic Razor




I don't have original photo's of the one still in scales.

I was wondering if the jump from 600 to 1500 was too much. I do that on the wood turning I do with out an issue but metal obviously is completely different.

I'm also not opposed to devils spit being left as I've read that it may never come out no matter how much sanding you do.