[QUOTE=Visibility;443187]I did not have time to read the entirety of this thread. I read the first 4 pages and there was a couple things I wanted to comment on.
The scratches that people are talking about the the 16k leaving can be caused by this, but having used the 16k extensively, and having more than one of them, it is a phenomenon of the stone. IMO its a result of the positioning of a random abrasive partical or perhaps its a renegade grit size. I think the fact that its so visible is a combination of what I just said and the fact that overall the bevel is becoming more polished so any inconsistencies will start to become more visible.
The stone material that does 'release' from the stone as you sharpen does not respond like a natural stones will. Partical sizes are pretty uniform and don't break down as easily. IMO with the glass series you will achieve much better results by frequent cleaning and rewetting as you go along.
As I have not read to the contrary elsewhere I strongly suspect this is exactly what's going on with the disproportionate increase in price of the 10K ($170+) over the 8k ($100+) and the 16K ($130+). It may simply be due to a more rigorous quality control of grit sizing and explains why Shapton highly recommends this stone for razors. What we we may be getting with this stone is an even more homogenous scratch pattern. Has anyone using the 10K noticed this or is Shapton just out of line in their pricing it so much higher than the 8k & 16K?