Thread: Looking for some help please?

Hello all, I am rather new to the straight razor world, and i have a few razors that I have been working on. I am looking for some help on deciding what hones i should have to keep up with my razors? I have heard a Norton 4k/8k is a great hone? Also I have a few strops but I am still unsure as to what strop paste I should be using? Is paste necessary for stropping? Any help would be much appreciated! thanks a lot -BRETT-

Hi Brett-

I'm no expert but this is a good link to look at to get started (hopefully the link works)

What hone(s), paste(s), or spray(s) do I need? - Straight Razor Place Wiki

The Norton 4/8 is ubiquitous and a staple for many that hone.

Shane

I love using my Norton 4k/8k! I used the 8k side as my finish for a while and got comfortable shaves on it. Then I upgraded to the Naniwa 12k. Pastes and sprays can take your edge a little further but they are not required. I've used diamond spray and it does improve the edge a little; however, I've started leaning away from diamond spray because my honing has improved. I've never used CrOx so I can't comment on the feel of it.

As for the Norton 1k, if you're looking for a full set of stones, I'm not the biggest fan of it. It is the only 1k stone I have though, so I make due with it. It will do the job but I feel like it loads up easier than it should. This is just my opinion though.

Look around for a mentor from Florida, there are a few experienced guys here from your great State. Once you find a mentor relatively close by, visit them and stick with their recommendations...your learning curve will be short and sweet.

Well it sounds like you have 1 that works already . I used a N 4/8 for a year just to learn the basics. I now have a nani 12 k togo a bit farther but I keep forgetting to use it :<0)

Thank you all very much, I think I have some learning ahead of me!