Norton 4/8k or Naniwa 8k and King 4k?

I own a kind 4k already. I am trying to hone a vintage razor that is sharp but not sharp enough. I tried my 12k naniwa SS but that didn't do much. So I wanted a 8k stone. I plan on going either 4,8,12 or 1.2,4,8,12. I have a Bester 1200 also.

If I go with the Naniwa 8k SS:
+ Splash and go
+Comes with stand
+Less expensive than Norton 4/8
-Don't have a stand for my 4k King so I have to use the wet towel method

If I go with Norton 4/8k:
- Have to soak
- More expensive
+I get a stand that I can use for both the 4k and 8k side
-I believe I have to lapp it for some time to get it smooth. The Naniwa I just have to lap to make sure its flat.

You can always use that rubberized mesh they sell at hardware stores instead of the wet towel routine. It is less messy, quick drying, light weight, and re-usable.

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Originally Posted by nipper

You can always use that rubberized mesh they sell at hardware stores instead of the wet towel routine. It is less messy, quick drying, light weight, and re-usable.

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Good idea. Never thought of that.

There is also a Combo Naniwa 3/8 and the Henckels version of the exact same hone that comes with it's own stand it is 3x7 IIRC

The plastic boxes that the Norton's come in serve as a honing stand also

The amount of Lapping that it takes to get a Norton 4k in line varies greatly, don't automatically assume that it is 1/8 in



Hope that helps you make up your mind..

FYI the 8k side of the n4/8 is also splash and go. it's very similar to the naniwa 8k.



Michael