04-18-2017, 08:21 PM
I’ve seen the term toothy edge mostly used in connection with kitchen knives.
I think the reason the term “toothy edge” does not come up in woodworking tool sharpening is because it is not applicable. A toothy edge is not advantageous, and probably detrimental in push cutting applications like chisels, etc.
Same with straight razors. The idea of shaving with a toothy edge blade is disturbing.
The same is more or less true for outdoor knives that might be used for hacking wood or beheading a fish. Those are times where more pressure can be applied even if the blade is not at peak sharpness.
I think the term becomes most applicable with kitchen knives where a lot of force is generally not used. The venerable slicing a tomato is a perfect example. If you can’t break the skin, more force just smashes the tomato. I very sharp, highly finished edge works OK, but as you say it sure does not last long.
I agree that about 180 grit makes a nice, toothy edge. It works well for tomatoes and things like slicing rope, cardboard and anything that has fiber that can be torn by its micro-saw like edge.
I think the reason the term “toothy edge” does not come up in woodworking tool sharpening is because it is not applicable. A toothy edge is not advantageous, and probably detrimental in push cutting applications like chisels, etc.
Same with straight razors. The idea of shaving with a toothy edge blade is disturbing.
The same is more or less true for outdoor knives that might be used for hacking wood or beheading a fish. Those are times where more pressure can be applied even if the blade is not at peak sharpness.
I think the term becomes most applicable with kitchen knives where a lot of force is generally not used. The venerable slicing a tomato is a perfect example. If you can’t break the skin, more force just smashes the tomato. I very sharp, highly finished edge works OK, but as you say it sure does not last long.
I agree that about 180 grit makes a nice, toothy edge. It works well for tomatoes and things like slicing rope, cardboard and anything that has fiber that can be torn by its micro-saw like edge.