Stones v/s Sandpaper

[Super X]

After reading several post in this subforum, I have a question. When we compare stones, natural or diamond sharpeners, sharpening systems, does sandpaper have the qualities to do just as good a job or could it never compare. I have recently started using the sandpaper, mousepad, strop technique. Could knifenut, for example, achieve the same results with sandpaper as he does with the DMT plates or other sharpening systems. I have always freehanded with basic equipment. I would like to invest in a good system some day like a Edge Pro or go to paper wheels. I am doing pretty good with the Sandpaper technique however, shaving sharp is about as far as I can get and would like to take it to another level. Can it be done with sandpaper if enough time is spent doing so?

 

[thombrogan]

The edges one can achieve with sandpaper are as sharp as every other edge achievable with grit of the same size and composition. Try using it on something with less give than a mousepad (such as a phone book, block of wood, or piece of float glass).

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

The edges one can achieve with sandpaper are as sharp as every other edge achievable with grit of the same size and composition. Try using it on something with less give than a mousepad (such as a phone book, block of wood, or piece of float glass).

+1 :thumbup:
I have every reason to believe this is good advice.

I'm still working on improving my technique with sandpaper, but the polish produced by the finer grits of sandpaper is quite impressive. I've also hit something of a 'plateau' with it, but I'm certain it's just related to my individual skill at the moment. My next 'experiment' with it will likely involve a harder backing, such as glass.

 

[Super X]

Thanks for that information. I bought a thick mousepad when I first started and was not getting it sharp enough. I started using my leather strop as a backer and got much better results.:thumbup: