I'm well aware of Shapton's capability - that's why I sell them!

In my quest to become a better sharpener, I am not limited to Shapton stones, but I always return to the Pros because they can do the job better and faster. As much as I sharpen everything else, straight razors have been like a hobby for me, and I have only ever sharpened my own.

By comparing the results of each type of stone, it adds to my knowledge and experience, and it will give me an indicator of what is better suited and why. You've probably noticed by now that I like to analyze sharpening.

It's not so much a test to see which is "best", but more of an exercise in what are the differences and similarities in the results, and how this information can help my customers, and people in general, to make better informed decisions when purchasing their own equipment.

Like I mentioned above, I know how each kind of stone works, and I have my theories already as to which will be better and why, but I need to know for myself. Maybe some other may want to know as well . Using one knife and sharpening it 3 times will not allow me to compare directly. Who knows, I might be pleasantly surprised....

P.S. I've put in a bid for 3 New York Selective blades. Anyone have any general comments about their quality?