The way I test edges is to see if it will catch on the surface of a
thumb/fingernail. I think this is about the same as shaving...

--jd

-----Original Message-----
From: oldtools-bounces@r...
[mailto:oldtools-bounces@r...] On Behalf Of Ellis, Thomas
Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 9:08 AM
To: Mike Hamilton; tool list
Subject: RE: [OldTools] scary sharp question

1500 should be plenty.  You can (or at least used to be able to) find
2000 grit at WalMart, of all places, and you can go finer at
LeeValley.  The critical part is to be sure that you generate
a burr on the back of the edge with each grit. If you don't
do that, you haven't really accomplished anything.

And once you run out of hair, a good test I read about somewhere
is to cut pine endgrain.  If you easily pull a shaving, and
get a finely burnished surface, you're in good shape.

Tom Ellis
Dayton OH
 

> -----Original Message-----
> From: oldtools-bounces@r... 
> [mailto:oldtools-bounces@r...] On Behalf Of 
> Mike Hamilton
> Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2006 7:14 PM
> To: tool list
> Subject: [OldTools] scary sharp question
> 
> GG:
> 
> I've been on a sharpening jag lately.  Nearly busted multiple times by
> SWMBO with too many edge tools in a single location.  I've sharpened
> everything I own through 1500 grit silicone carbide.  That's the
> highest grit that was handy at the local hardware store.  On finishing
> and putting everything away, I thought I'd see if a plane blade was '
> hair off the arm sharp.'  No go.  

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