Yes, cutting through cardboard and paper can dull a knife's edge over time. Cardboard and paper are abrasive materials that contain small particles, such as wood fibers or cardboard pulp, which can cause the knife's edge to wear down with repeated use.
Despite this potential drawback, testing knives on paper is a common practice for several reasons:
Edge sharpness assessment: Cutting paper is an easy and quick way to assess a knife's initial sharpness and its ability to create clean, precise cuts. A sharp knife will slice through paper effortlessly, producing a clean edge, while a dull knife will tear or snag the paper.
Thin material: Paper is a relatively thin and soft material, so even if it dulls the knife's edge slightly, it may not be as damaging as cutting through harder materials like metal or stone, which could cause more significant damage.
Consistency and standardization: Paper is a widely available and consistent material for testing knives. It provides a standardized benchmark for evaluating a knife's sharpness across different brands and models.
Safety: Compared to other materials, cutting paper is generally safer during testing, as it poses a lower risk of injury to the person conducting the test.
Real-world relevance: Knives are commonly used for tasks like slicing paper, opening packages, and cutting cardboard boxes. Testing on paper provides a practical assessment of a knife's performance in everyday scenarios.
While testing on paper is valuable for initial sharpness evaluation and some general performance insights, it's essential to remember that the real test of a knife's durability and edge retention comes with its usage over time. To keep a knife performing at its best, proper maintenance is crucial. Regular sharpening and honing will help maintain the edge and counteract the gradual dulling caused by cutting various materials. Additionally, using the knife on appropriate cutting surfaces, such as wooden or plastic cutting boards, can help reduce the wear and tear on the blade.