I can definately see the reason and benefit behind getting a razor sharpened professionally. As a matter of fact I will likely be doing that soon enough. In the meantime I am practicing on the hone.

However, after reading some of the information in the Archives it would seem that I might need a 1K hone to recreate the edge on my razor and then finish it up on the 4k/8k Norton - and strop prior to shaving. Keep in mind I am referring back to the portion of Barber's books posted in the Archives describing the use of hones.

Besides, I can pickup a Dovo 5/8 for about $56 and have it sent to Lynn (I believe I read that he handles that service for Classicshaving.com).

Anyway, I am already enjoying myself and I haven't even gotten past the Feather!