Recutting undercut hand-cut cards

[Section103]

This card was an absolute butcher job when I got it. I'd wager it was hand-torn, not hand-cut; but the dimensions were long when I got it, so I squared it off to the proper size and sent it in.

[kevinlenane]

So is the verdict from those who care about ethics in terms of card "handling" that it is "okay" to execute a "modern cut" on an older handcut card that was poorly excised? Just curious to see where people fall on this.

[T206Collector]

I think it's ethically fine, but I wouldn't do it. Just couldn't bring myself to cut the card, which to me is preserving some amount of history. But, to each his own!

[pokerplyr80]

I don't see a problem with trimming a card that has already been hand cut at some point. Just cleaning up what could have been done better the first time. I do not own any hand cut cards and have never tried this personally.

[brian1961]

If there is an area or are areas that could be re-cut to achieve a better grade, you should have absolutely no qualms in carefully cutting the unwanted excess out. Some might call this an unfair advantage.

Yeah, how 'bout that?

You have every right to re-cut. Just plan ahead carefully, and really think it through, since you obviously do not want to take too much off. Not to sound as a dimwit, but you simply must be sure of exactly how you want the overall cut to appear to you, and eventually the grader. Use a clean, good "true flat", somewhat heavy straight edge, with a brand new Exact-O blade, after you've practiced SEVERAL TIMES on cardboard that matches, or is a little thicker, than what you'll be cutting. You must practice so you'll get down how the knife feels in your hand as it cuts, to become comfortable with it.

If, after thinking about it, you simply cannot go through with this "operating room procedure", fine. It's your card. Another obvious point, once it's done, it's irreversible.

I wish you the best. ---Brian Powell