Originally Posted by
dave5225
I think you need to practice , and learn , the "X" stroke . It is the only stroke you need to know for refreshing the edge . I don't know where you got the idea to hone in a figure 8 stroke , but to the best of my knowledge the figure 8 is only used for lapping , not honing . You should get an awesome edge from a Shapton 16k , but it sounds like you're not . IME , when it comes to refreshing an edge , less is more . 5 "X" strokes on my Shapton 15k is all that's needed . I think you should practice the "X" stroke with the razor you're restoring , using one hand only . Once you think you have it down , take your good razor , and give it 5 very light "X" stokes on your Norton 8k , then give it 5 very light "X" strokes on your 16k . Strop it up and see how it shaves .