Thread: Beginner Hone Question

The norton lapping stone is good it just needs to be lapped itself first. Some 80 grit wet dry and a flat surface will get the lapping stone flat and ready to go.

And yes I know that it sounds really dumb that the flattening stone I'd not already flat

I see "Stainless" etched on the blade, which means a hone job takes longer but lasts longer.

Do you use a piece of electrical tape along the spine of the razor? If you do and the original honing person didn't, or vice versa, that could make a difference. I use the tape to preserve the life of the blade and minimize hone wear.

Recently I went through a period where my shaves seemed to tail off and I realized I had been lax on watching my angles. 30 degrees or less does a better job getting the whiskers and getting a smooth, comfortable shave. Pay attention to the angle at which you hold the blade to your face next time.

I have three years experience with a straight and perhaps the main difference between you and me at this point is that I have decided what I like best with regards to hone, razor size, soap, aftershave, etc. Enjoy the journey, and know that all of this will eventually come together with time, experience, and sometimes with advice from someone who has been there.

Just as an FYI - just shaved with the Boker from SRD after taking another shot with the 4k/8k earlier in the week, and.... got a much better shave. Nicked myself a couple times, but it was getting the job pretty well. Not as well as when I got it from Lynn, but I'm sure he used a to finishing stone and/or spray.

I still plan on sending it in for a rehone but I'm glad my efforts weren't completely wasted too. I was going to be pretty upset if I got another terrible shave. LOL!

Right on! It takes time. Months for me. Patience and having fun are the key.