Before we dive into this topic, I wanted to say this device is controversial and I am not sure why. This is the reason for the posted topic. I think this device has great value when comparing your edge progress while sharpening and believe for “newbies” using this can shorten the learning curve significantly and answer many elusive questions through their journey. It might even save some arm hair.
Clay posted a example of a custom made tool like this in my post Ever wanted to measure and view a Edge Profile? Check this out! The “BESS” device on the surface seems like it measures “sharpness” or better yet, “Keenness”, however, it is limited to testing only one small point on the blade and believe for accuracy, you would need to measure many points along the blade and then average them out.
Clay opened this door, so lets “hear” (Read) what you all think!
Note: I don’t fully subscribe to the idea that “sharp” should be determined by comparing the sharpness or keenness found on a factory manufactured razor blade to another blade. But I do like the idea of comparing the same blade to itself during the sharpening process to show improvement of keenness (Before and After). It’s my belief that “cutting” is a act of force and “sharpness” is a fact of (or result of) near perfect geometry. “Keenness” from new research on the topic is is what “Hair Whittling Sharp” is actually “measuring”. The video below does a great job at showing the fragility of a “Keen Edge” is still really “sharp”. Basically, I believe we obtain “Sharpness through Symmetry
-My motto”. Hopefully, I didn’t just throw a “hand grenade” in the room. Lets discuss this… Wait for it…I envision making a larger and longer stand and measuring the keenness of the edge while the knife is still in the Wickededge vise (See minute marker 02:39 in the first video and combine it with what you see in minute marker 04:17) Do you see the magic?.
http://edgeonup.com/linked/kn100_mr110_tutorial.mp4
http://www.edgeonup.com/linked/sharp_check_pt50_turtorial.mp4