I have honed everything from a cross cut saw to a real good pocket knife. the straight razor is a different animal. I had no luck at all until I watched and read and learned from the masters here at SRP. I know that fine blades can be ruined from an inexperienced person. if you have a good straight razor it would be in your best interest to send it to a pro razor hone master. I can now shave with one I have honed but as I found out recently from a visit to a friend and pro I'm till a long way from the pros. do yourself a favor and find a hone-master send your blade to that person and enjoy a shave. just my opium.