So so frustrating...............

[Mike Cherry]

I just wanted to say that I feel your pain OP. I spent my first year or two of woodworking trying to get that mirror finish that is supposedly so important. I started with the same stones as you and could never figure out why the bevel was polished but the backs werent. Eventually, I convinced myself (as it sound like you have) that enough was enough and the blades were plenty sharp!

I think alot of folk get hung up on sharpening. For me, I had to keep trying until I found what worked for me. Once you find it, you can get on to building things! The realization, as mentioned previously, that premium LV blades are hazy from the factory is what ultimately made me realize that attempting to get a mirror shine was pointless.

[Jebediah Eckert]

So true Mike, I'm happy with "good enough" for now!

[Joe Beaulieu]

Ahhh...I see! If the chisel will cut paper, and paper is made from wood, ...she must be a witch! Burn her! Burn her!