Thread: What's the general consensus on honing a butterknifed blade?

Wet or dry sandpaper should work just fine if the paper is perfectly adhered to a flat, non-porous substrate. Sometimes this will work with water and the wet or dry paper on something like a piece of plate glass. If the paper slips, however, you have a chance that it will bunch up ahead of the blade, wreaking havoc with your developing edge, or bubble up in the hollow grind, scratching the finish of the blade. Papers that have a pressure sensitive adhesive that one can apply like a decal with a water slip and anti bubble transfer layer that can be squeegeed out would be a wonderful way to attach/use abrasive papers, but I don't know if such things are available, tho' for the one or two time user would be great sharpening media.

For the many times user or the HAD afflictee, hones and stones is where it's at.



ps, I did read Lynn's quote that Jimmy provided and in reading between those lines am guessing that Lynn gets presented with re-work jobs from those who are taking shortcuts with abrasive papers for honing razors where the cautions are not fully understood or appreciated. I have learned that sharpening a razor ain't quite like putting an edge on an axe.

I hate to say this, but I agree with Bruce


I think that sandpaper is the way to go when you are establishing a bevel. I have numerous coarse hones and non of them work as well as sandpaper. (at this coarse level)

As usual my mileage varies.

I find it more productive to go through grits of paper than to toil away on my DMT or 220 Norton.

Charlie

I can see what Lynn means when he gets annoyed at sandpaper attempts, but I did test some 2000 grit sandpaper before I started sanding the blade, and it gave a decent edge (not one ready for shaving, by any means) which could cut hair without too much trouble.

Also, I have the patience required, I've hand-sanded the razor for ~5 hours now, with another 10 still to come before I get the finish I want, and after that I still have to hone it.

Thanks for the feedback,

Joundill