The trouble with honing is that most of us aren't content to just get a good shaving edge. No, we want the ultimate shaving edge.

This lifelong pursuit naturally involves the acquisition of all manner of exotic hones. Then there are the new techniques you'll try on those hones. And the odd sharpening mediums you'll seek out (does anyone know where I can get some lamp black to strop with?).

But for the new guys, this stuff can quickly become overwhelming. They start to think they need $700 in hones just to get a decent edge on their razors, and that leads to despair.

So we created the Advanced Honing section for discussion and questions of a more esoteric nature.

Examples of topics you might find here include:
  • Rare and expensive varieties of hones
  • Heavy-duting honing chores like restoring a chipped edge
  • Detailed discussion of honing theory


We ask that the more skilled members be mindful of the new honer's need for clear, simple answers. Help them out, but don't overwhelm them. When they're ready, they'll find their way here.

Your moderators,
JoshEarl and Bruno