When to refinish? Losing the character of the blade

[k_estela]

I like a new knife as much as the next person but at the same time a knife that shows some wear also has character and many stories to explain the wear marks. When is it a good time to refinish a knife? Anyone have any pics of before and after conditions? How about a contest to see the most used knife?

 

[Rev. Pete]

I just got a knife in a trade that is showing a bit of "character" (not a Busse but another famous high-end maker). My first thought was to check with the maker and see about getting it refinished. Indeed refinishing service is available and the fee is reasonable. Then I started thinking about it. Here I have a knife that I would never use in it's pristine state. But one with some minor finish wear is already a "user". It has a story and I will add to that story. Maybe some day I will get it refinished (if rust ever becomes a problem) but for now I am just going to enjoy it and not worry about the finish.

 

[Eric Isaacson]

Personally I only think about having it refinished if I'm taking it out of action. I just had a Busse MS refinished a few months ago, the main reason was because I'd decided to retire it from service. If it is still a user I like the worn look

 

[Andrew Lynch]

I wouldn't refinish a blade unless it was a collector piece or similar. Character marks are part of the charm

 

[DonL]

I agree with Eric. If it's a user, I'll let it be. If it's going to become more of a keepsake, I'll get it spiffed up. Jerry's got my DWMS now for that.

OTOH, I'd return a user for a touch-up if I really beat the edge to death. Hard to beat that factory edge.