I wouldn't say that I like a duller edge, I simply prefer one that is finished off at a lower grit.

My edges start passing the HHT at DMT1200, as said by somebody above. That is how I know the bevel is set, and then I refine from there. So, by my definition, the razors are all "sharp" at the 1200 stage.

For a while I have been honing to 8k (DMT EE), then doing some Chromox stropping, and I have been enjoying the shaves. I hone until I get a silent HHT, and minimal glint along the egde looking under a bright light source (I don't always use the scope...)

I recently honed a razor up to 0.3um lapping film-- Weepers, discomfort, dissapointment.

Re-honed that razor to 1.0um lapping film, and the shave was back to ease, comfort, etc, etc...


Way back when I first started, before I even knew anything at all I found the exact same thing: Finished to 0.5um-harsh, finished to 1.0um-nice, finished to 3.0um-not so good. 1.0um seems to be the sweet spot for me.

That was a year and a half ago. I've honed many razors since then, and my technique for shaving has most likely gotten better (I hope!). So, that is why I wanted to re-visit the upper reaches of honedom. I had the same experience again- finishing at too high a grit makes for an uncomfortable shave for me.

I'm hoping to do some more experiments with this while documenting using the scope, time permitting.