I’m guessing tcmeyer is not assessing Ribstabsheart’s edge damage as being significant which is why Tom’s recommending the 800 grit method and thinks the file is a “bad idea”. Possibly, tcmeyer thinks the edge damage can be removed easily and the original profile recued.
I have used a hand-held metal file horizontally/longitudinally across a damaged knife edge and removed the damage edge with good success. That I followed with a total edge reprofiling.
When you’re needing to remove a lot of edge damage here’s a discussion on reprofiling, essentially the same process, from an earlier W.E. forum post. Read the full thread. In that earlier forum post using a file was discussed. tcmeyer even made a custom W.E. paddle setup with “first-cut” files.
Thank you for the clarification. I have to remember that while it looks catastrophic under the microscope, I can barely see it with my naked eye. Maybe I’ll try a couple swipes just to see how the edge changes under the microscope to better understand.
Thank you, Marc! I will read this post and take some notes. The file would probably be pretty handy if I ever get handed a blade that was used as a pry bar. I’m afraid to look at my first Spyderco under the scope, because I used it in some very dumb ways a decade ago, haha.
I would say if the amount of effort you’re expending seems excessive to remove the edge damage with the 100 grit as you’re first getting started after matching the bevel angles with the marker technique…then 800 grit may not be where I’d start… it all depends on the steel’s hardness and the extent of the damage you’re looking to remove. For microchips to the apex for a softer steel 800 grit may be perfect.