Thread: Why tape the spine?

Originally Posted by gssixgun

I don't think you can ever get into definites with this hobby, anytime you do something will pop it's ugly little head up and prove it wrong...
You can speak to generalities and you can speak to "I have found in most cases" but as soon as you get to "this is the way it is" something changes...

Now all that being said, I have found in most cases, that using one layer of tape works best for me and my honing style.... It gives me the sharpest longest lasting edges, and the least amount of hone wear and spine wear.... Now you and your style might find this to be untrue, but it doesn't change a thing for me...
I have tried it both ways, and tape works best for me...
what I find interesting is the two people on here that hone more razors than most others combined, can't even agree on this, Lynn does not use tape, and I do.... Maybe the other really busy honemiesters will chime in??? Dan??? Chis???
We both get good, sharp, long lasting edges.... and that is the end all be all of the hobby.....

Try it both ways and see what works for you....
when you have tried 100 razors one way then 100 the other then make your own decision which way you like best...

I really don't know what I can add. I hone 20-30 razors almost every day of my life and I have not seen the benefit of taping spines unless I am protecting a Damascus pattern or I have a lot of steel to remove in a repair job. I get wonderful edges and shaves every day, currently from synthetic hones. I have tried taping and have not found it to have any benefit to the shaves which is really the point for me.

I don't have anything to prove to anyone and I do not have any specific dogma other than to promote straight razor shaving and make it as easy to learn and as enjoyable for people as it can be.

I have always said if it works for you, then enjoy. There is a lot of personal preference to this sport.

You guys have fun.

Lynn