Thread: 20K vs 12K after dovo black paste

I have 3 coticules, 2 of which are natural combos and the other with a slate backing stone.
ONe of the combo stones is 6” x 1 1/2” and the other is 5” x 2”. The third is the size of a barber hone, which I think is what it was used for.

I wish I were more organized and scientific so I could look at my notes and tell you whether the BBW side gave a nicer edge than the coticule side, but I’m not and I can’t.

Regardless, finishing with light strokes on the dry stone does seem to produce a lovely polished edge once the bevel has been set properly. I am still trying to figure out how finishing on the coticule dry compares to finishing on the BBW dry.

I have a Vermio and think that it does take the coticule/BBW finished edge just that little bit further without sacrificing comfort or keenness.

Took my 2 Swedish framebacks BBW vs 20K in a direct shave comparison.

They shave almost identical, both are plenty sharp and smooth.

My only noticeable difference is that the BBW is keener/sharper and shaves easier, it feels a tiny bit more crisp compared to the 20K. The 20K feels super smooth though.

Aside from that both have the same characteristics, outstanding finishers. Doesn't get much better than that.


Can't say anything about skin feel afterwards without shaving for at least a week consistently with the 20K, but if the smoothness of this shave is any indication my skin will like it very much and might even better the BBW in that regard.

After nearly 2 months I came to the conclusion that my best finished edge is achieved by finishing my razors on the 20K under running water and then onto a Coticule under running water.

You get the sensation the razor is sticking to the Coticule, not crazily hard, just a little, and result are a very sharp and smooth shave. Best edge I've shaved with.