Thread: Newbie ready to go!

Matt, just use some Maas, Flitz, Simichrome or CLR Metal Clear on a rag. That will get rid of the water spot quickly.

recommendations on ebay razors,

1. don't buy anything listed in the "don't buy" section HERE (click me)
2. unless it's a bow style blade there should be no curvature in the cutting edge especially no frowning or waving. frowning is the cutting edge looking like a frown when the spine is on top.
3. don't buy one riddled with rust, it might be rusted all the way through.
4. Always ask the seller to send you better pictures via email.
5. Don't be afraid to post a link to the razor on here and ask if it's worth trying to get for a practice razor.

hope that helps

Hi, I'm new to these forums so please be patient with me.

I am wondering about flattening, or 'lapping' the stones. I have looked, but cannot find any information regarding this subject.
I have 2 brand new japanese waterstones (King brand), 4,000 & 8,000 grit and am wondering about the steps needed to make these stones 'hone ready'. I am also looking for basic information on the honing process itself.

Any advice in these areas would be appreciated.

Thanking you in advance

Martin
(currently living in Greece)

Martin, I'm quite surprised you couldn't find anything as it's a topic that appears here frequently... Here it is, quick and dirty:
1) Soak the stone for 15min
2) Get a granite/marble tile or a glass plate wet and place a sheet of wet, wet/dry sandpaper on it (1000 grit, usually used for auto-body work.
3) Draw a 3x5 grid on the honing surface and start making figure-eights on the sandpaper until the grid disappears. Repeat the step (this should be MUCH quicker).
4) Wash the stone well to remove any sandpaper abrasive that may be on it.