Microbevel

[awestib]

Hi Folks:
I was wondering if green compound (I use the Chr oxide paste 0.5 micron from HA, recommended by Knifenut and I love it) on leather strop is "good enough" and "abrasive enough" to produce a convex mircobevel on an edge that was sharpened on stones freehand, so assuming a rather flat bevel before stroping.

Virtuovice has some videos on this topic, however he uses the BRKT black compound to produce the convex microbevel which I can't stand. I believe however that he is quite right with the assumption, that the convex mircobevel adds to edge strenght.
The black compound is approx. 3000 grit (about 6 micron?) , the green compound paste from HA is 0.5 micron!

If you guys think that the green compound is not "rough" enough for this, how about the 1 micron diamond spray or the 2 micron silicone carbide paste. In other words, how coarse does an abrasive have to be to be usefull to put a convex microbevel on an edge?

Thanks

 

[rpttrsn]

Why not use a high number wet/dry paper on a mouse pad first and the polish that with the compound of your choice. Just a few strokes with the paper to get that micro bevel started?

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

I'd think the bigger issue would be controlling the degree of 'convex' on a microbevel. On the one hand, pretty much any free-handed bevel (or microbevel) will be at least slightly convexed. It's a natural result of human variation in the stroke. On the other hand, attempting to deliberately convex a microbevel would, I'd bet, result in something more akin to a 'rounded edge' (dull). Especially if trying to do so with green compound on a strop. That would likely take some time, and more likely result in a rounded (dulled) edge.

I wouldn't even worry about trying to 'make' a convex microbevel. Especially if the edge itself is already convexed. A microbevel, on it's own (V or convex) can add some durability to an edge. The real-world difference in durability, between a V-microbevel and a convexed microbevel would be miniscule. For microbevelling, I'd just give the edge a few very light, edge-leading passes at a slightly elevated angle on a ceramic hone, or fine-grit sandpaper on a hard backing.

 

[awestib]

Yes thanks, that really makes sense!