In reading various threads both here and other places about metal polishing and finishing, I have often seen the word Quality in front of the words finishing paper, where the writer was discussing final metal polishing before bluing or engraving.

Just what makes a "Quality" finishing paper, and what are some brands that fulfill the requirement.

I Personally prefer Mirka and 3 M

It's quality control of abrasives along with the bonding adhesives used to adhere it on to the backing ,

be it paper or cloth in whatever weight or grit .

http://mirka-online.com/?gclid...Lz46ACFQ8bawod9mPJCA

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/po...t-Catalog/Abrasives/

http://www.nortonconsumer.com/SheetsDIY-3X.aspx

http://www.carborundumabrasives.com/

+1

Norton or 3M

The difference is how long it lasts and how well it cuts. HF junk is cheep and will not last long at all. The good stuff lasts a long time and continues to cut after the cheep stuff has lost all it's rocks.
It's more expensive but it will far out last the cheep stuff hands down.

I've gone almost exclusively to 3M products for both wood and metal. Their sandpaper lasts by far longer than any other I've used, and cuts better. The cheap stuff is not worth using and I won't use it even when given to me.