detail knife HELP!!!

[ArizonaPaPa]

I need some help!!!! I have a detail knife (flexcut) that every time i use it it leaves a scratch mark on my carving. I cant feel a knick or even see one ........i have stropped several times but still cant get it to go away..... any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

PaPa
Phoenix, Az.

Papa,
That is a common problem with flexcut tools, the cutting edge has a chip in it. My suggestion is to sharpen it on a stone until it is gone.
If you are not sure where the chip is, make a cut across the end-grain of a piece of basswood. The white scratch indicates where the chip is on the blade.

That is truly the most common reason why flexcut tools require sharpening. Due to the extreme hardness of the cutting edge, they rarely get dull. The downside is they are also very brittle which results in chipping and breaking.

Another good way to check a blade for chips is to hold it edge up over a dark surface and under a bright light. Any nick will usually appear as a shiny spot on the edge. I use this method when sharpening to check for nicks, distortions, or wire edge. A razor sharp edge will not reflect but defects or wire edge will reflect and shine under the light.

Good whittlin, Cliff
Charles City, Iowa
http://cliffordparker.tripod.com

[ArizonaPaPa]

thanks guys that helped me alot....that 2000 grit did the trick