Thread: A logical progression for learning to hone

Lots of responses and at the core they're all pretty similar.

There are really only two simple things to learn
(1) the motion itself i.e. uniform and consistent strokes of flat razor with no pressure
(2) when to stop, and if applicable move to the next grit

You have to learn both to be successful and there are plenty of approaches to it. The easiest way is Norton pyramids as a touch up of a previously honed blade - the equipment and the method is very consistent, so the only variable is the motion. If the Norton is too expensive a barbers hone should be almost as good for the task at hand.
Then to actually progress beyond maintenance to honing, you'll have to expand to the lower grits, and that's just addressing point (2) as presumably one is already proficient with (1).

There will always people who like to make it unnecessarily much harder than it should be, but that's just how it is - some value the satisfaction of accomplishment, others pragmatism.

Originally Posted by gugi

There will always people who like to make it unnecessarily much harder than it should be, but that's just how it is - some value the satisfaction of accomplishment, others pragmatism.

Gugi you are an amazing philosopher!

Can I use that line?

While I realize there are two (or more) sides to any discussion I was not trying to start a Ford vs Chevy feud but rather get opinions on the shortest path to enlightenment.

Originally Posted by gugi

Lots of responses and at the core they're all pretty similar.

There are really only two simple things to learn
(1) the motion itself i.e. uniform and consistent strokes of flat razor with no pressure
(2) when to stop, and if applicable move to the next grit

You have to learn both to be successful and there are plenty of approaches to it. The easiest way is Norton pyramids as a touch up of a previously honed blade - the equipment and the method is very consistent, so the only variable is the motion. If the Norton is too expensive a barbers hone should be almost as good for the task at hand.
Then to actually progress beyond maintenance to honing, you'll have to expand to the lower grits, and that's just addressing point (2) as presumably one is already proficient with (1).

There will always people who like to make it unnecessarily much harder than it should be, but that's just how it is - some value the satisfaction of accomplishment, others pragmatism.

That is a sweet post! Well done!