Which sharpening operation is performed last?

The last sharpening operation performed is stropping. This step is crucial because it refines the edge created during earlier sharpening processes, such as grinding, honing, and polishing. Stropping typically uses a leather or fabric surface with an abrasive compound, which helps to remove any remaining burrs and align the edge of the blade for maximum sharpness.

In contrast, grinding is used to shape the blade and create the initial bevel; honing follows to refine that bevel and achieve a finer edge. Polishing can enhance the finish and smoothness of the blade but is not as effective in aligning the very edge as stropping is. Therefore, stropping is the final touch that maximizes the blade's sharpness and prepares it for use.