Sharpened Forceps

METHOD

• 1. Set the sharpening stone under a dissecting microscope, and, with the pair of forceps pressed closed, start rubbing one side and then the other to sharpen the tip, with the aim of making the ends meet again. Alternate sharpening a little on one side followed by a little on the other side; also change the angle between the forceps and the sharpening stone.

  • A drop of H₂O on the sharpening stone may help to achieve better sharpening.

• 2. After a few minutes (depending on the material of the forceps and the extent of damage, it may take less or more time), wet soft tissue paper and wipe the forceps’ tip clean from the handle toward the tip to remove the shredded metal.

• 3. Observe the result of the sharpening under the dissecting microscope. Test the forceps by attempting to pick up a small item such a dissection pin.

• 4. Continue sharpening (Step 1) if the tip is not yet good enough.