Thread: Honing help: keeping it level.

Unfortunately, this is really more of a muscle memory thing. If you take your time and try to get a smooth, steady stroke every time, your body will eventually learn how to do it on its own. However, when learning you have to be fairly careful you're getting it right. Early in the thread it was recommended that you keep at least half of the blade on the hone at all times. I would have to second this as a good way to keep it level and let your natural dexterity learn the technique. After you have it dialed in (and don't jump the gun on this) you can begin to pick up speed and make changes to your strokes from things like thin hones and smiling blades. Take your time, be patient, and don't overthink!

Originally Posted by AFDavis11

Cheat. Put your pinky under the scales to stop the scales from dropping which will keep the blade flat.

I do it just as Alan says with an added twist that works for me. My index finger is very lightly on the shank with the razor balanced between the thumb and 2nd finger. Exactly as shown in this barber manual. The pinky under the scales and my index finger on top of the shank, together, helps me detect the slightest change on the hone. Most of my honing stroke is from the shoulder joint.

May or may not work for you. Made it much easier for me.

I'll second the pinky thing... actually on most passes I don't have any fingers on top, just cradle it from underneath so it's only the weight of the blade..

Originally Posted by jalapeno_peppah

My problem is actually the opposite, the scales come up a little, so theres a small gap between the stone and the blade.

Ah, that helps . . . then I'd suggest you sit in a higher chair or try a table of a different height. You need to change the orientation between you and the stone in a way that allows your body to move more freely.

If it happens more at the end of the stroke you can also take shorter strokes.

Also, keep your head steady. Some guys like to look and see if the blade is rising and its the looking that makes the blade rise because your head movement sets you off kilter.

Originally Posted by LIMIT

WHATEVER HAND YOU ARE USING, MAKE SURE THE ELBOW IS HIGHTER THAN YOUR WRIST. WORKS FOR ME

GOOD LUCK

LIMIT

This is a great tip. I always try to make sure my elbow is a least as high as that wrist if not higher as it definitely promotes a nice flat and even stroke. Pressure is the other key. Use very little.

Lynn

I found it easier for me to hold the hone (norton) in my hand. I am actually begining to perfer honing "uphill" -- I sant the hone an bit so the stroke is uphill a bit -- each way.