Initally the plan was to get it professionally honed, there doesnt appear to be anyone too local that does work at this level either ( at least after speaking to a local knife store owner). Atleast then, i would have a benchmark to work from. (Wait you just said that)

I have the same hesitations...i have other razors (in less usable condition to "hone" my own skills on...i also have trust issues..lol..so i dont take sending anything out lightly.