Thread: Paper testing razors

Originally Posted by Slurryer

Thanks to all that contribute useful info. Euclid440, between the venom, I see tons of wisdom. Thanks for your input here as well. I could do without all the furor, and misquotes, but whatever.

We see a lot of budding experts come to SRP with claims they cannot substantiate & methods that are wasteful of steel, to name but a few things we deal with. Please don't mistake cynicism with venom.

Originally Posted by Slurryer

How much does the paper affect the edge? Let's say on your final swipe through a piece of paper, and you're satisfied that the edge is where you want it, are you needing to take the razor to the hone again? I think what I'm confused on is that if a razor can slice through some fairly coarse facial hair, will a thin piece of paper ruin the edge of the razor?

Paper has clay & other fillers in it so it is more destructive.. Any destructive test is ok while setting a bevel as long as you finally set the bevel. What you don't do is use those tests at end stages of honing.
You hone the razor to shave hair so any damge thru shaving is acceptable wear n tear.

Originally Posted by onimaru55

Please don't mistake cynicism with venom.

Point taken.

Originally Posted by onimaru55

Paper has clay & other fillers in it so it is more destructive.. Any destructive test is ok while setting a bevel as long as you finally set the bevel. What you don't do is use those tests at end stages of honing.
You hone the razor to shave hair so any damge thru shaving is acceptable wear n tear.

So does there exist an objective test prior to the actual shave, that will give an indication of how well this edge will perform?

Originally Posted by Slurryer

So does there exist an objective test prior to the actual shave, that will give an indication of how well this edge will perform?

No test can indicate comfort on the face. AFAIK only a variety of sharpness tests exist.

Originally Posted by Slurryer

So does there exist an objective test prior to the actual shave, that will give an indication of how well this edge will perform?

Since the comfort of a shave is a completely personal experience, it is by definition subjective. How would you devise an objective test for a subjective quality?

Originally Posted by Splashone

Since the comfort of a shave is a completely personal experience, it is by definition subjective. How would you devise an objective test for a subjective quality?

Very well said.
We start with a piece of steel that we know little about and want it to react like the last piece of steel. We each use slightly different angles of the blade to the stone, but expect the same results. We each use slightly different pressures, consistency of slurry, different stones, and shave a different face, with a different beard with different pressure to the skin. No one can make a razor perfect for you, as they cannot feel the razor on Your face. Can't be made completely scientific, and wouldn't be any fun if we could.
Have fun!