Quote Originally Posted by Shaotzu View Post
So my question is what would you guys recommend as a good economical startup set? My initial thoughts are the Norton 220/1000, 4000/8000 set (SRD carries at what looks like a good price) and maybe a Naniwa SS 12k?
The Nortons are what I began with, still use sometimes though I've widened my selection of hones out since then. Two of the best honers in the world, that I know, still use the Norton for the 4/8 part of the work more often than not. So for an economical setup I think that is just fine.

I would suggest holding off on the 12k until you find you're getting a DFS (damn fine shave) at the 8k Norton level. That is the way I was taught anyway. Also, though the Norton lapping plate works, a DMT D8C diamond plate will last eons, is much more efficient, chances are it will be flat, and you can also sharpen your kitchen knives with it.