Originally Posted by
jkatzman
I have researched this before I decided to convex some stones. It isn't only the Germans who convex their stones. In the 1800, NY razor manufacturers also used convex stones. I assume they got the idea from the Germans. Since I have both flat and convex stones, I think my opinion should be more valid than those who have not tried BOTH. My results, depending on the razor's steel is as follows. On medium stones 6k-8k naturals, the speed to hone the razor is drastically improved. I also find the edge to be shave ready faster than on a flat at the same amount of laps. When I moved up to 12k-15k and Ark Surgical black and translucent, again, less laps and a much finer edge. The shave is also smoother. Now the negative, if you want a real workout, try convexing an Ark. It took me a week of 2 hours a day to finally get the stones convex. My observation is that when the stone is convex, the razor's edge seems to stay on the stone better than flat. This may be the way I hone, but I suggest if you really want to find out if this has merit, send Jarrod a razor to hone and make your own intelligent observation. Another observation, I tried Jarrod's suggestion and laid a strop on my convex stone to see what would happen. Amazing edge, smooth, irritation free results. I am sure having the strop on such a hard surface is a major reason but the results are better.