sharpening CIA Blackie Collins Zytel Blade

You might be able to sharpen it with wet/dry sandpaper, but I don't think it will take an edge. Those CIA letter openers are pretty much meant for stabbing if I'm not mistaken.
--Josh
 
I would use a mill bastard file at a relatively steep angle--say 25 to 30 degrees per side. I would expect a wispy burr to be left on the edge. I would shave that burr off with a sharp knife or box cutter held at the same 25 to 30 degree angle. A slight bit of final edge roughness would improve slicing. I would use fresh 400 grit sand paper for this. Sharpen with edge-forward strokes on the sand paper for about 2 strokes per side. Try and match your sharpening bevel. If you start to develop another wispy burr you are sharpening too much. Once you have this edge you should only use it in an emergency. Paper, cardboard, or almost anything will start to round the edge.
 
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