Sharpening a TH katana

[Sharp Knives 86]

Could a through hardened 9260 katana be touched up using just a strop or sandpaper or something common? I know traditional differentially hardened kats one needs expensive water stones and to know what they are doing to sharpen them but would a through hardened blade be easier to maintain an edge on?

 

[Jamesh Bond]

Last Legend used to sell a ceramic rod to hone their cutting katanas.

TH or DH makes no difference, since such light honing should only be applied to the very edge. When this is no longer effective, the sword will have to be properly stoned. Ultimately the decision is yours since the cosmetics will be compromised, but if you're actually using one to cut, imma guess you're more concerned with performance.

Hit up Jason B. Or HeavyHanded if you already haven't. They are encyclopedias on sharpening this kind of blade profile. I guarantee you'll walk away smarter.