The scary sharp method replaces traditional oilstones or waterstones with automotive wet/dry sandpaper attached to a dead-flat surface, usually a piece of thick float glass or granite. Woodworkers progress through grits from 220 up to 2000 or higher, quickly producing a mirror finish on plane irons and chisels. It requires minimal upfront investment compared to high-end stones.
Heard on the job
I spent the morning getting my smoothing plane iron scary sharp for this curly maple.
Insider tip
Use a spray adhesive or water tension to stick the sandpaper to the glass so it does not bunch up and round over your cutting edge.