Thread: RE: The Potential of Black Arkansas & Translucent as a Razor Finisher

Originally Posted by Oakeshott

Modine,
Is that Iwasaki's symbol peeking out from the lather?

That CF is beautiful. I've never used one or seen one I particularly wanted until now.

How are you testing your novaculites and what have you found out so far?

Yes sir it is an Iwasaki. Thank you, these are the “super fine” stones as the OP requested. Because these stones are being tested as “finishers”, certain criteria have to be taken into consideration.

1. High quality razor steel needs to be selected in this case an Iwasaki, Le Jaguar, Torrey, and an FWE.
2. All test stones has been prepared and lapped, edges beveled and the surface polished to remove any chance for damage or contamination.
3. The edges will progressed to the 8K level which is generally accepted as a finished edge prior to moving on to the test stone.
4. Instead of using water or slurry at this level, oil will be used on the test stones to reduce friction on this hard stone.
5. Because this is novaculite, 100-X laps, strokes or passes will be made on the test stones and then the edge will be inspected. If improvement has been indicated another 50 X-laps will be made and again inspected. The edge will be palm stropped and visually inspected at 100X magnification at each level during the progression.
6. Shave test the razor. Do not strop on any material. WTG and ATG shave passes will be made. Test the heel the tip and middle portions of the edge throughout the shave. Complete an entire shave session.
7. After the shave, immediately inspect the edge for any sign of deformation or deterioration and note results.
Mike