The How, Why, and When of Lapping Films

Lapping Films are one of the most effective tools in the Wicked Edge system for achieving a highly polished knife edge with minimal effort. Whether you're chasing a mirror finish or refining a convex edge, understanding how to use and care for these films is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover what Lapping Films are, how to use them, how they compare to strops, and which grit progression to follow.

What is Lapping Film?

In simple terms, Lapping Films are thin Mylar strips coated with micron-sized diamond particles. These adhesive-backed films are designed to produce a fast, dramatic polish on your blade's bevels. Each sheet includes 10 strips and can be mounted to either Wicked Edge glass platens or Blank Convex Handles.

Unlike traditional grit ratings, Lapping Films are measured in microns, which describe the actual size of the diamond particles. Larger micron numbers mean coarser abrasives. By contrast, grit ratings are based on sieve sizes—the higher the grit, the finer the abrasive.

How to Apply Lapping Film

Applying a Lapping Film strip is quick and easy:

• Peel one strip from the sheet.
• Stick it to the center of your glass platen or convex handle.

Sharpening Motion

Lapping Films should be used with an edge-trailing stroke—that is, up and away from the edge. This prevents the blade from cutting into the soft film and damaging it.

Grit Progression: When to Use Lapping Films

Lapping Films are used after Diamond Stones (and ceramics, if applicable) and before strops. The typical progression begins with a coarse film and works down to ultra-fine levels, depending on your goal.

Lapping Film Micron Count Progression

• 30 Micron: Start for convexed edge creation. Follow with 15 Micron.
  
• 15 Micron: Use after 30 Micron for convex edges. Similar to 800 grit.
  
• 9 Micron: Use after 1000 grit or 15 Micron. Follow with 6 Micron or 5/3.5 strops.
  
• 6 Micron: Use after 9 Micron, 1500 or 2200 grit. Follow with 3 Micron or strops.
  
• 3 Micron: Use after 6 Micron or 3000 grit. Follow with 1.5 or 1 Micron.
  
• 1.5 Micron: Use after 3 Micron. Follow with 1 Micron or 1/0.5 strops.
  
• 1 Micron: Use after 1.5 or 3 Micron. Follow with 0.1 Micron or 1/0.5 strops.
  
• 0.1 Micron: Use after 1 Micron. Follow with Kangaroo strops or Gunny Juice.
  

Lapping Films vs. Strops

We often get asked: “Should I use Lapping Films or strops?”

It depends on your goal:

• Strops offer a soft, forgiving surface that smooths out micro-serrations and slightly rounds the edge for more durability—perfect for razor-like refinement.
• Lapping Films create a high-gloss polish quickly and leave subtle bite for slicing performance—ideal for users chasing a bright visual polish with minimal effort.

For the best of both worlds, consider using Lapping Films followed by strops. For more on matching your progression to your goal, visit our article: What is the Right Abrasive Progression for Me.

Care and Storage

Lapping Films are low maintenance:

• Store unused sheets in bags to keep them clean.
• Leave the strip on the handle until it’s worn out—removal damages the adhesive.
• Replace once the color fades or bald spots appear.
• Clean lightly used strips with rubbing alcohol or Windex and a paper towel.

Want More Info on Polished Edges?

Explore our in-depth polishing guide here: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Progression for Creating a Mirror Edge.

Learn more about Wicked Edge precision sharpeners and accessories here.