Using Sand Paper to Sharpen

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pinetree

Joined
Jun 24, 2005
Messages
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I searched for help using sand paper to sharpen knives and didn't find too much. I have some 600 grit and by using it on top of leather and then be using a leather strop loaded with polishing compound I was able to get a great edge on a knife I could never get sharp.

What other papers should I be using? I appreciate any advise you guys have.

I have a Gatco, never did like it, a fine Arkansas Stone and a couple diamond sharpeners. I like the diamond sharpeners, but the polished edge is a sight to behold. I was going for a convex edge. Also, once I go convex, then I guess I shouldn't go back to a hard surfaced sharpener or I'll lose the convex?

I've learned so much here already, I figure uping my membership was a bargain.

Thanks,
tjg
 
Sharpening on sandpaper was how I was first able to whittle hair held between my fingers. Started at 100 grit to fully convex a Schrade Peanut, then 220, 320, 400, 600, 1200 then stropped. Occasionally, I use a 120 grit belt hooked around the vice or something to get a course slicing edge.
 
Hope I'm not hijacking, but what 2 grit types of paper would you guys recommend for field use. I'm thinking one grade for removing any nicks and the like and one to just touchup the edge (roughly equivalent to stropping)

My idea is to just carry 1/2 sheet of each folded in my wallet and use my leg as a backer for a really light field sharpening system.

Drew
 
Just out of curiosity what grit value would be applied to the stones used in sharpening systems like the Spyderco sharpmaker?
 
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