Thread: Where the magic happens...

I mean, I've purchased probably 20 stones mostly off ebay, some on Etsy. Every single one of them performs fabulessly. Yes, a few sellers sent me some rocks with some bad veins in them but they are easily dealt with. The suita's you have to be careful with when buying, they are the worst offenders!! Just about everything under $400 from 330mate on e bay has toxicities. I wouldn't touch any of the Karasu or suita he is selling.

Originally Posted by VSteel

Those are very nice looking stones! I think that getting a nice finishing stone should be my next step as well, my diamond spray isn't going to work forever. I watched a few videos including Lynn Abrams, but I'm still a little concerned about trying it. Assuming that I'm really careful with it, what are the chances that I trash an expensive blade, is that possible, or am I worried for nothing?

Finishing hones are very fine and remove very little steel. So if you start there, and work your way down the chances of trashing anything are pretty much non existent.

You can also start with a blade that isn't very expensive. Buy a second hand one from whipped dog, or an old piece of junk off ebay or an antique store, and have yourself a ball. Just don't use a Wade & Butcher to practice on and you'll be alright.

The only way you're going to learn is by doing. My suggestion is buy a cheap throw away razor and a Norton 4/8 (or Naniwa 3/8) combination stone and start honing.

Originally Posted by VSteel

Those are very nice looking stones! I think that getting a nice finishing stone should be my next step as well, my diamond spray isn't going to work forever. I watched a few videos including Lynn Abrams, but I'm still a little concerned about trying it. Assuming that I'm really careful with it, what are the chances that I trash an expensive blade, is that possible, or am I worried for nothing?

I find that the sprays and pastes scratch the blade at least in my limited experience.