A Sharpening Trick

A trick I've been using with great success lately involves the use of a piece of balsa loaded with stropping compound after sharpening. The balsa allows for a heavier-handed approach to stropping as the material is less likely to deflect under pressure and round newly sharp edges. 

Initially I would flatten mine on a granite plate with 220 grit sandpaper. This, however, proved to be unnecessary as experience has shown a "flat enough" piece of wood still works just fine. I do like to heat the wood slightly with a heat gun before applying the compound.  Basically, treat it just like you would the leather.

I have not done a head-to-head comparison between balsa and leather so there may be little overall advantage one way or another but it's another viable option for you to try and it's inexpensive to boot. 

Thanks for reading,

B