Thanks Bruce, the reply has helped and got me started. I've been a rawhider for a few years so most of my splitting hAS consistied of thining strings and lace. I know from experience that the final product depends on the quality of those inicial cuts. That inturn depends on the sharpness and quality of your tools. Have tried to "touch up" the blade in the past, but sometimes think i've made it worse. Thanks for to info.