Does smooth edge = dull edge?

C

cds1

Joined
Jan 24, 2004
Messages
237
I just got a new BM 520, and I am very impressed with the overall feel and construction of the knife. The only thing that bothers me is the slippery-smooth feel of the factory edge. It doesn't have the fine, micro-serrated feel that my Spyderco's have spoiled me with.

Does the smoothness of the edge necessarily indicate that it is not adequately sharp?

Regards,
cds1
 
Many factory blades are buffed too heavily which round the edge, causing it to lose aggression excessively. Sometimes you will see this blamed on high polishes, but this isn't the case as even up to 0.5 micron finishes, edges will have some bite if not rolled.

Examples of highly polished edges which are not rounded are those mentioned from Spyderco, and Fallkniven also does an excellent job. These edges will shave smoothly, push cut newsprint, and *still* show decent slicing aggression on ropes.

There is of course always a trade off of coarseness, if you go really coarse the edge will have lots of bite, but stop push cutting well, but this should not imply as noted that a high polish = a smooth edge with no aggression to the touch.

Of course the only way to know for sure, aside from generalizations, is to cut something. Try slicing and push cutting fine paper for a start.

-Cliff
 
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