That would also be one way to go, but I find the Atoma is useful in other ways that a Nakayama would not be - lapping my other finishers, and even putting bevels on razors.
James.
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I've heard the tan-yellow ones called "Kiita", the darker brown to reddish ones called "Tomae" and the multicolored ones called "Iro".
I don't know if color is the only factor but it definitely seems to be part of the naming process.
As for slurry vs. water, I find water is sufficient if you've got patience.
I have one of the tan (and a little pearskin too) hones from OLD_SCHOOL. An awesome hone, leaves a fantastic edge that is very smooth straight from the hone.
Amen.
I get perfect HHTs after setting the bevel on my DMT 1200.
I used to get reliable HHTs when I used the Norton 1/4K (told me I was ready to move on to fine naturals) and diamond pastes afterward (told me it was time for a test shave).
The HHT seemed to be at its heyday when most of us were doing Norton pyramids. Less so now that many of us use artificial media at low grits only, then move on to natural stones for polishing. I don't think I'm imagining this, or that it's a coincidence. The HHT seems to reward a toothy edge...
These days the HHT tells me one thing: that the last stone or honing medium I used was probably artificial. This can be useful if I suddenly forget what the hell I've been doing.:D Beyond that...
Sorry, :OT
Chris, I was wondering what you found out. were you able to discern differences between the two, or come up with a best use strategy?
Hey Kevin:
I opted for the irregular/natural shaped Asagi and another member purchased the rectangular one from So which I mailed to the member stateside. I have not had a chance to get down to "Razorville" as my wife calls my sharpening area in the basement. I did find in working with one razor on both of the Asagis, that water only for me as a final polish worked better than slurry all the way through. Both Asagis were/are top notch and very high quality. No bad inclusions in either one.
Chris L
So you are a proud owner then Chris? Congrats man!! :rock::tu
James.