David Barnett
... that if properly sharpened and polished, the wire edge should evaporate like the morning dew, should just vanish on those last strokes on a fine stone, and while I can't say I always succeed in doing so, it's my goal. The point is, the wire edge is evidence that the successively refined arris will be rough, and no matter how fine the burr, it will tear the edge. The more properly honed and polished edge should last longer.

I have seen this difference through the microscope but cannot say that my technique nor by ability to assess it in practice has proven a gain in edge sharpness and longevity to be the case. Perhaps my mentors possessed greater sensitivity and consistence to appreciate the difference. I could not.