Thread: Norton 4/8K or the Naniwa 3/8K?

Which is better the norton 4/8K or the Naniwa 3/8K? Anyone know where these 2 are compared?

Just looking for experiences from guys that have used both.

Looking for some pros and cons also.

Thanks guys

I've used both, but not extensively. I just got to try the Naniwa's at the WNY meet with Lynn's guidance, and they are awesome stones. They cut really fast, they don't cut deep, and metal does not become embedded in the stones like it does on the Nortons. The Naniwa's also don't need to be soaked. I am totally sold on the Naniwas.

My routine for sometime now has been Naniwa 1k to set the bevel, pyramid on the Naniwa 3k and 5k and finish on the 8k. I usually test shave and then if I want to I go to the 12k for further refinement. I am liking the results I'm getting with this on all of the razors I've done it with and that is a couple of dozen. The Norton is a tried and true stone too though and I like them but I've come to like the Naniwas better. Just IMHO.

Get the Naniwa. I wish they'd been around, or I'd been aware of them, when I got my norton. Much better stones. Though I only have a nawina 1k, its really impressed me. I think that the Nawina combo should dethrone the norton as the recommended newbie stone. They're higher grit, you'll never "grow out of them" and feel a need to get better stones in that grit range, and they have a great feel to them.

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

My routine for sometime now has been Naniwa 1k to set the bevel, pyramid on the Naniwa 3k and 5k and finish on the 8k. I usually test shave and then if I want to I go to the 12k for further refinement. I am liking the results I'm getting with this on all of the razors I've done it with and that is a couple of dozen. The Norton is a tried and true stone too though and I like them but I've come to like the Naniwas better. Just IMHO.

I have the opportunity to shave with a razor that Jimmy honed on his Naniwas and that was finished on the Naniwa 12k. It is a sweet smooth shaver.

Between the two, go with the Nani's. I would, however, recommend that you get the 3k and 5k though. There is a big spread between the 3 and 8 and it will take you much much longer to finish honing. JMHO

Ray

The 3K 5K and 8K??? oh Lord I need a raise!!!

Can one shave off a 5K? Would it not need a little on an 8K before going for it?

Yes, you can shave off the 5k.

Ray

For just touching up, would an Naniwa 8k be the way to go?

Several options are available to you. If it is between honings - barbers hone, hard balsa with crox. If it needs more 8k nani would work and so would a 12k.

Enjoy!

Ray