Ok. I got to see some of Steves blades at Cubeta's and I love the finish on them and would like to try it. I have a O-1 blade in 1500 grit handrub finish, and i was wondering how to go to a mirror finish, what buffs and compounds to use, etc. or would going to a 2000 or higher handrub be the equivalent?

Also, is it easier to go from a hand rub finish to mirror with buffing wheels than from a belt finish to mirror? Say 600 grit hand and 600 grit belt for comparison sake. thanks guys!

I' dsay it's easier to polish using belts/wheels. Of coures you can get to the same point using sandpaper, but it's probably slower.

Go to this link for my coments on polishing a blade:

pub42.ezboard.com/fcustom...D=23.topic (http://pub42.ezboard.com/fcustomknifedirectoryforumfrm5.showMessage?topicID =23.topic)

Thanks! What type of buffing wheel is used on the last step?

The ONLY buffing wheel I use is the 10", 3/4" arbor, yellow, glued one, sold by POP. They are unsewn but are still a bit aggressive with the light glue treatment they have. He can explain it better than I can.
www.popsknifesupplies.com (http://www.popsknifesupplies.com)

I really think that about any buffing wheel will do, once you get used to it. We all have our own tastes and likes. I used an 8" sewn, with about 1" spacing, 1" thick for years, but, after giving it a good try, found that I like this yellow one better. Been using it for probably 10 yrs. [/u]

Thanks! Wasn't sure which buffing wheel to use, there are so many of them...

Yes, there are plenty of buffs out there. Ask around, try a few out, find what you like and go for it.