Sharpening can be frustrating. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

The theory and concept is pretty simple, but the actual results can be evasive sometimes. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

I think it often comes down to the steel - especially when doing it by hand.

There are so many different steels with different hardness, carbides, etc. Many just seem to require a bit different technique. So, often, you will find some steels that you can get a great edge on and turn around to try the same technique on a different steel and have quite a struggle with it.

... other times, you just keep getting what you want. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

I have mentioned cardboard strops and similar rough paper strops. I continue to be amazed with the results I can get on cardboard and rough paper. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Keep at it and try to have patience. It will come. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

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