Thread: "Shapton Glass" In Search of the Perfect Edge

Well I went and done it. I have been using these Shapton Ceramic on Glass for a couple weeks now and am really impressed. I have redone most [About 30] of my razors all the way to the 30K stone. I also use the Chromium Oxide paste after the 30K. I have test shaved with most of them. The shaves I have been getting are unbelievable. The most impressive thing about these stones is the quickness of the cutting of the metal. After only one or two strokes I can see metal on the stone and in the water slurry. I think they cut almost as well as the DMT and I think they are a little easier on the blade. The Shapton Diamond lapper is an excellent way to lap. It only took about 5 minutes per stone to lap. This Shapton Diamond Lapper is incredible. Time will tell how these glass stones hold up to lapping. I have only lapped them one time and don't think they need lapping again yet. I know there are many ways to get your edge so Shapton is not the only way.

Now I will pin down each one. For bevel setting the 1K is about as fast as the DMT1.2K but smoother on the blade. I have wanted to replace the 4K Norton for a long time as I have not been satisfied with the performance. The 4K Shapton gives better feedback, faster cutting, plus no soaking in water first. The 8K Norton is just as smooth as the Shapton and does a great job but again the Shapton cuts faster. The 16K is the star of this group as it brings the edge to a whole new level. I liked the Spyderco UF best for finishing until I found this one. If I could only have one Shapton it would be the 16K. With the 30K, as Captain Kirk would say "This stone has taken Straight Razors to a place where they have not gone before". I don't know yet how many shaves I can get before losing the fine edge but even if it is only 3 or 4 before touch-up it will be worth it.

These stones give you feedback like no other I have tried. The blades edge gives you a suction to the stone which tells you the edge is just about right. Again I am not saying this is the only way to sharpen your blade and they are a little expensive. I also like the stone holder that Shapton makes. It is very heavy and does not move when you are honing. I will keep my DMT's for my kitchen knives and I will have my other stones on the BST soon.

bj