Thread: Buying a Hone and a Second Razor

So, I've been using a Thiers-Issard half hollow 6/8 razor and my stropping has been improving. But, the razor has gotten to the point where it does need a touch up because I'm starting to press harder to get a close shave. I've decided this is a good time to step it up and get a second razor and a hone.

I'm considering getting a 5/8 half hollow, but before I do I have a question. Because I have a fairly thick beard would a 5/8 straight be better than another 6/8?

My plan for the hone is to get a norton 4000/8000. In my previous job one of my co-workers very lovingly got me some Pakistani razors (yes I kept them for this exact purpose) and was planning on using these to practice honing.

Thoughts/Comments?

If I may suggest, barber hones were made specifically for refreshing the edge of a razor that is starting to decrease. I'd recommend considering one of those, it is quick and easy to use and would take care of most of your daily needs. A norton is also a very nice hone to have, but typically it is used when you need more than just a touch-up. They should both work well tho, and you really can't go wrong with either.
On honing the pakistani razors, there was a discussion about that here a little while back. I heard someone that argued that practicing honing on them is futile; if you are trying to hone a razor that can't be honed right, what could you possibly learn? I see the argument, and think it is mostly true, but perhaps you could practice the basic honing movements with them. Don't expect to learn much about proper honing tho.
On your second razor; I do not think your beard matters much with regards to what size of razor you should get. A quality razor should work fine either way. Personally, I shave with razors from 3/8 to 7/8 and enjoy them all, and get nice shaves from all of them. I'd recommend getting a size that you like, and one that goes well in your hand.
Best of luck, and let us know how it goes.

For your practice honing, it's an easy matter to find vintage straights in flea markets, etc. They can be found cheaply. You're not looking for nice razors, just something that you can put an edge on.

As for your heavy beard, most any size razor will be fine.

I think you need to evaluate what you are really after when it comes to your upkeep. For example, if you are interested in keeping a good edge, but will probably send your razors out to a honemeister, then a barber's hone is all you'll ever need.

If you think you may want to delve into honing on a larger level, then the 4/8 combo will be the better buy.

As for your second razor, I would recommend getting something that you know you'll shave with and enjoy. Having two razors of the same grind will help your technique, and touch-ups. Then with your third, try something different, because if it fails miserably and you don't enjoy it, you still have two nice ones that you'll use often.

My thoughts.

I'd stay away from the pakastani razors, even for honing practice. They're just going to aggravate you. I've never had one, but I hear they don't take or hold an edge. Do yourself a favor, and get a better razor off the classifieds, or even the bay, Check our "Razors to avoid" in the wiki. The Norton 4/8k is an excellent hone to learn on. It sounds to me like your beyond a Barber hone. As your shaving skill improves, you'll find that you'll be able to shave with sub par blades that go well beyond a Barber hones capability ime. Barber hones are very small, about 4 inches...They're great for maintaining a shave ready blade, but I've always found it hard to bring one back that's already dull and pulling...but that's me...I've always found it easier to go to another hone, Naniwa, Norton, even a Coticule. It's much easier when you have the right tools. By all means, if you have the funds, get a Barber's hone. They are good, as i said, for maintaining razors, not really for bringing them back. it takes too long. As far as blade width goes, 5/8th's, 6/8th's is personal preference. Both will shave you equally well. If you need help honing, or picking out a hone, Pm me....

Ok ok, this is the second time I've been warned about these pakistani razors. I will get rid of them. My thoughts were to use them to get used to the technique of honing. Use them to get a feel for it and then use my good razors to really get a grasp of what I'm doing.
I'm leaning more towards the 5/8 razor ... I can see that heading into the beginning of a collection of razors!

Thank you all for the advice!

I understand why you were considering practicing with Pakastani razors, but if they don't develop or hold an edge how will you be able to evaluate your developing honing skills?

You should be able to find cosmetically unappealing but functional vintage razors for next to nothing. If you can't, I'll send you one.

Originally Posted by Fox

So, I've been using a Thiers-Issard half hollow 6/8 razor and my stropping has been improving. But, the razor has gotten to the point where it does need a touch up because I'm starting to press harder to get a close shave.

I'm not sure if I'm reading this in the correct context but it may help a bit to not press harder. As I've learned, a lighter touch always gets better results. The razor size is just preference as far as I have experienced.

Just buy any razor you like as long as it's a quality one. The size or grind won't make shaving any easier.

Originally Posted by ats200

I'm not sure if I'm reading this in the correct context but it may help a bit to not press harder. As I've learned, a lighter touch always gets better results. The razor size is just preference as far as I have experienced.

well, the reason I'm pressing harder is because the razor is dull. I think part of it is that I'm still learning to strop, but it did last much longer than last time. Although, last time I was using a really cheap strop and newspaper. Now I have a MUCH better strop and it has linen on the other side too.