visual evaluation

vis·u·al e·val·u·a·tion

(vizhū-ăl ĕ-valyū-āshŭn) Examination of a cutting edge to evaluate sharpness accomplished by holding the working-end under a strong light source. A dull cutting edge reflects light because it is rounded and thick and reflected light appears as a bright line running along the edge of the face. A sharp cutting edge is more of a line-with no thickness-and so does not reflect light.