brass rod test

[Omega]

could some one give me a run down on how that test is run i think i understand it but it seems real unlikely that the edge will flex like that, but ive never trieit so im not sure
Bill


Sweeet:evil

[Ray Rogers]

It actually works, strange as it may seem. Some people like to take a 1/4" brass rod and clamp it in a vise, others prefer to just lay the rod on a flat surface. Then, put the blade at an angle to the rod that allows the funal bevel of the edge to rest flat against the rod (as if you were about to try to slice off a thin layer of brass). Instead of slicing, push and pull the blade to that the thin edge rides along the brass as the brass rod rolls along the table. With a little pressure on the edge you should see the edge bend around the brass and return to normal after it passes over the brass. If it stays bent, the blade is too soft. If the edge chips, it's too hard.

Use the Search button at the top of the page to search for more threads where we have discussed this test in the past. You may find a better explanantion than what I just wrote...

[J. Hartt]

Thanks Ray.
I have heard of the brass rod test many times and have read descriptions of it. Never understood it till now. Maybe I'm just a little thick. Thanks for splaining it.
TTYL, Jeff

[Bob Warner]

Take a look at the first post in the Newbies section. The FAQ has a picture of the blade flexed over a rod.