Thread: Dull razor after just 3 shaves

Originally Posted by gssixgun

The first stage of stropping correctly is to "Do no harm" the next stage of stropping is to "Improve the edge" it takes time a practice to get to the second stage

Is there a "Stroppers Oath" to take?

Originally Posted by Cros

Scott, are you inferring that vintage coticules are of a better quality compared to the new stones? I have heard that it is harder to do harm to the edge on a coticule compared to synthetics, as if you don't raise fresh slurry, the initial one can serve to remove only so much metal, so over-honing is not that great of an issue. Is this true in your opinion? I am really-really-really scared of over-honing, I am just kind of a person who tends to overdo everything

I have yet to have my hands on a good vintage coticule, but this is what I hear from those who truly know and have a lot of experience with them. I can't agree with the statement that a coticule is easier on the edge/razor than a synthetic when you stay with comparable "grits"...it's all up to the person holding the razor. I really doubt you will ever overhone on your coticule, but you shouldn't be "scared" of it by any means, just means you will have to go back to the stones if you do. Remember, less is more when it comes to honing. I would rather you to "think" your razor is shave ready, you test shave with it & find it needs a "little bit more on a clean, water only stone" than to hear you honed away 1.0 cm of steel away "just to be sure" from your razor. If you want to keep your "over-do" tendencies, over-do it on the collecting side of stones, strops, and razors.