Microtome Knives 



49 



Figure 8. Second set of strokes for microtome knife stropping. 



ing with both hands and with uniform pressure from both. Always use 

 the same pressure on the forward strokes as on the return ones. Never 

 hurry honing or stropping; use at least one full second for each stroke. 



Mechanical knife sharpeners are on the market; almost every scien- 

 tific supply company has at least one. One of the best, an automatic 

 sharpener, is now in production by the American Optical Company. 

 Most technicians develop a fancy for one type in preference to others; 

 the author, therefore, considers it expedient not to offer any recommen- 

 dation. 



If the cost of microtome knives and their maintenance is prohibitive 

 for a class of beginning students, the Spencer Razor Blade Holder can 

 be used to advantage. A student can use a razor blade once and throw it 

 away if the edge has become dull, or sharpen it up a bit on an old knife 

 strop. 



