As the newest member to this forum, I'd like to say hello to everyone and thanks for such a great site!
I'm trying to absorb as much as I can. As a SR user for the past 5+ years, I'd like to query some advice from you experts on honing stones. Currently my toolbox contains a Norton 4000/8000 water stone, a couple of Russian leather strops and a paddle with .5 & 1 micron paste. I'm able to get a usable edge most of the time and there are times when I get a blade that seems to be “sticky” sharp, producing the best shave. Now I see you folks talk of a super sharp blade that is a real joy to shave with and probably goes beyond my “sticky” blade. I don't think I've ever encountered that sharp of a blade. In doing some research on this forum, I've come across various finishing stones that are used to get that magical finish. I've listed a few here.
Belgian Yellow Coticule Stones
Cotigura Slurry Stone
Shapton
Escher
Belgian Blue
Diamond Glass Lapping Plate
Unfortunately, I'm a little confused on what my next stone should be. That's assuming you all agree my toolbox is only half full in getting to that fine finished edge. Not only is there that special stone, but other needed items such as Slurry stones and Diamond Glass Lapping Plates to use with them. As you all know, some of these items are a lifetime investment which one would want to pass along to sons and grandsons!
So I'm in need of some advice here so that I don't go and purchase duplicate stones, but rather move in a stepped up direction of finishing stone choices to complete my toolbox.
As for the DGLP's, are these necessary or can one send a stone out for lapping?
Again, many thanks for the help and in the meantime I'll be absorbing as much as I can from this great forum!