If using diamond spray do you still need to use chromium oxide?
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If using diamond spray do you still need to use chromium oxide?
No, you do not have to go to chromium oxide after you use diamond spray. I think you should keep in mind the micron rating. For example, you use a one micron diamond spray you could go to chromium oxide that is rated around .5 microns or you could go to a diamond spray that is rated at .5 micron or higher. So the progression is the most important part, going from 1 to a .5 and possible .25. If you were to use a .25 micron diamond spray and go back to chromium oxide that could be a waste. Finally, it comes to preference. If you are happy with the edge produced by the diamond spray use it or alternatively the chromium oxide. The only caveat is I know that Theirs Issard suggests using chromium oxide after the use of their .25 micron bio-diamond paste. They indicate that this might take some of the harshness out of the edge produced by the diamond paste. To me it seems unnecessary and you should go directly to the chromium oxide after using a finishing stone or a one micron rated sharpening solution such as pastes. Ultimately the choice is yours and what you prefer.
Not needed to use them both. After diamond spray, use of linen is needed more.
Don't need to but it's personal preference. Some prefer the crisp edges left by diamond. Others dont and will use crox to smooth the edge to a greater comfort level.
Reason I'm asking is I'm plannng to buy the modular paddle (as my first ever strop) when it comes back in stock next week and it comes with 15 Carat 0.5 Diamond Spray included in the price.
So wondering ifI need the crox or any oher dimond pastes?
I gave diamond spray a tryout for a year or so and did the same amount of time with chromium oxide. The cr ox is my regular now. I like the edges better than with the diamond.
And the SRD spray makes life easy.
I'd say t is a question of preference of the type of edge you get, it was for me at least. I liked diamond spray edges better than CrO.
When you learn how to hone correctly you will need neither.
You may like the CrO better than the diamond or vice versa, you may have to try them both to know.
I did not like the edges off 0.25 micron diamond spray, for me too harsh. From what I have seen said about that size it is a love/hate thing depending on the person.
Maybe a good question then is what type of blade d you like. Really sharp and keen, slightly more mellow and a bit softer? What type of edge do you want.
Well I'm currently using feather professional blades in my feather DX. I've had around 20 shaves. The first 3 shaves are too sharp and harsh then after that the sharpness is about right. Only blades I've tried.
I suppose I want smoother and bit softer than the AC pros.
I think I'll stick with the diamond spray 0.5 micron for now since it comes with the paddle. Can always buy some CO later I suppose.
Sounds like a sound plan. Try out the .5 micron at first for performing refreshes on the edge and see how it goes. I have the SRD modular paddle and I am happy with the .5 micron spray that comes with the paddle. When you do get the razor shave ready you will not have to worry about the spray for awhile. You should touch up the razor only after you get a performance drop from the razor, meaning the razor does not shave as well as it did. At first, you should really be focused on getting your stopping technique adequate enough to maintain the edge for awhile. Again, the diamond spray will serve you well. Perhaps, a member in your area can help with a comparison by refreshing your edge with chromium oxide if you wanted to compare. This might save you some money and headaches. I personally like the .5 and find .25 a bit too much. You mind can start reeling from all the choices you have at your disposal, so try to keep it simple, focusing on the basics of shaving technique and stropping.
The diamond might be similar to the feather blades giving a slight harsh edge for the first couple shaves. Stropping the heck out of it will help so try the diamond with a really good strop session if you find it harsh. Good luck
Actually… maybe.
It depends on grit size of the Diamond, the substrate, number of laps and the condition of the bevel and edge prior to stropping.
Many find Diamond too harsh, especially if a hard substrate or too much pressure is used, a common complaint with balsa.
While Chrome Oxide is only .50um about 30k grit it can smooth much finer grit diamond paste. It is not just about grit size but grit shape.
For example .50um diamond will leave a much different finish than .50um CBN.
Chrome, Cerium and Ferrous Oxides are good for smoothing/calming and edge as are CBN.
Diamond .50um is a good refreshing paste for adding keenness, Chrome Oxide for smoothness.
Make sure you buy quality Chrome Oxide and do not use pressure with any paste, you will roll the edge.