i recently acquired a touch up stone, and took it through the paces to refresh my very first straight - my "learner" straight, a Wm Elliot which is far from sexy, but has given me decent shaves.

I used a layer or regular black electrical tape to prevent additional hone wear before taking the blade to the stone. The stone worked great, my straight was definitely sharper with no pulling whatsoever. I was pleased. But it took some serious elbow grease to get the adhesive from the tale off the blade and spine.
I guess for this blade it's ok, but I have others with an etch, or gold wash - I wouldn't want to scrub like i did on those blades.

Has anyone seen this?
My questions are:
  • Is there a particular type/brand of tape to use on straights?
  • If they're all sticky, is there a recommended product/technique that will easily eliminate the gummy stuff? Acetone maybe?


Thanks!