Thread: What's your approach to refreshing a pretty good edge?

You know what I like? I like how you said "What's YOUR approach", not "What's the approach". This gives you a bunch of ideas without starting a debate on the 'correct' solution. Well done on the question...

I generally give it a good stropping and then a few passes on the 12k.
(I strop to make sure the edge is aligned prior to touching the stone. Just my thought pattern about stropping first )
I have some blades I like a CrOx finish on so if it is one of those they will get a few laps on my pasted strop after the 12k.

Originally Posted by carlmaloschneider

You know what I like? I like how you said "What's YOUR approach", not "What's the approach". This gives you a bunch of ideas without starting a debate on the 'correct' solution. Well done on the question...

:-) Indeed, I tend to not be an absolutist.

I've been using the .5 Diamond/Felt SRD Paddle for my every 25-30 shave refresh with great results. (6 - count em - 6 weight of the razor strokes - no tape)

If I need to go to the 12K Nan touch up, don't I need to tape the razors that were honed with tape?

I first look at the edge with magnification and strong light, especially down on the edge before doing anything. Find out why it is flagging.

For a new honer stropping is usually the cause of edge failure and the extent of damage determines the extent of repair.
Stropping, Paste, Finish hone and Full bevel reset as needed.

Yes, if honed taped you will need to tape if touching up on a 12K or any finish hone.

.50 Diamond is a bit aggressive for me for maintenance pasted stropping. It is more of a refresh paste as you are using it, once a month.
I would try .125 and or.10 CBN for maintenance, smoother, with the same keenness. This way you maintain a keen shaving edge daily. Chrome Oxide and Cerium are also great for maintence.
.10 CBN can be used daily with excellent results, but if it works for you…strop on.