Originally Posted by
Mike7120
I used the Norton 4K/8K and a leather strop exclusively for about 5 months and got pretty good shaves. However, about a month ago I purchased some Chromium Oxide and pasted the reverse side of my strop. My shaves are much closer now. I had the opportunity to use a Coticule stone that my friend bought and let me tell you, it put the finest edge on my razor. I placed an order at Vintage Blades last night to get my own Coticule stone. After I get my desired edge with the Norton, I will move to the Coticule, then to the pasted strop, and finally to the leather stop. So from my experience, a Norton 4K/8K and a strop will get you good shaves, but if you want immaculate shaves, get a “finishing stone” such as a Coticule or other 12k stone and some paste. Hope this helps, good luck.