Thread: Hone Opinions?

Hey guys, I'm basically just asking for opinion here. I already have the norton 4k/8k, and it has served me well for the last year or so (getting good shaves off of it). Recently, I have acquired a few razors that just need more grit, so I'm about to pick up a 1k. I would also like to get a finisher as well. My question is: I can get the Norton 220/1k combo for $34.99, or the Naniwa 1k for $32.99. That's a $2 difference, and would make my progression 1k, 4k, 8k, finisher. For the finisher, I'm looking at the Naniwa 12k. For the extra $2 is it worth it to get the combo so I'll have the 220 for chips and stuff? (right now, I don't have anything in that bad shape) Just looking for opinions here. Any input is appreciated.

Thanks,
James

Just for the sake of continuity, I would say add the 220/1k Norton to the 4/8 that you already have.

In terms of a finisher, you could go with the Naniwa 12k, the Shapton 16k, a Coticule or other high grit natural stone or the C12k. Its really up to you...! I've heard good things about all of them, and I have the 16k Shapton, so they will all serve you well.

If you've got your eye on the Naniwa, go for that one. I've heard nothing but good things about it!

Good luck!

I would go Norton also, just because you have them already....

Finisher wise in that price range either the Naniwa 12k or the Shapton 16k will do just fine in fact those two would be hard to beat in any price range really.... I use both and can find no fault with either..


Pretty much what you have heard already

Thanks guys, that's pretty much what I was thinking anyway, but I always like to get input from someone who knows more than I do before spending $. Norton 220/1k and Naniwa 12 it is... as soon as the tax fairy drops off that check...

Having all of the above and knowing what I know now I would get the Naniwa 1k and 12k. The Norton is alright but I like the feel of the Naniwa 1k a lot more. Just a personal preference.

Personally I like the Japanese stones. I don't think you could go wrong with either, one of those Ford vs Chevy things on the lower grits. For the finishing stone, my vote is Nani all the way.

Thanks to all for the replies. Btw shooter, I love your signature.

Another 2 cents. The 220 wouldn't even be useful for chips on a razor. I would conside it for chips on a stainless steel kitchen knife but thats about all. That Said I like to have a single brand of stuff that I work with, but since you are going with the Naniwa finisher anyways it doesn't make that much of a difference.

I on the other hand use wet/dry paper on glass for my 1000 grit so what do I know for stones.

Well, the deed is done. The tax fairy dropped in last night, so I pulled the trigger on the hones. Darn these web sites and their free shipping on orders over $100. Got the Naniwa 12k from SRD, and decided to go ahead and get the new modular paddle strop too. (my old strop is in pretty bad shape anyway) Jumped over to Vintage Blades and got the norton 220/1k, and while I was at it, picked up a new brush. (got to get my money's worth on that free shipping...) I'll let y'all know how things go when they get here.

James

Got home today and all my new toys were here. Couldn't wait, so I lapped everything up and honed about 6 razors. (none of which would shave) I used the circles and x's like Lynn does in the video on the home page. Had to play with numbers a bit on a couple of the razors, so I could get them to cut arm hair at the 1k level. Nice relaxing evening, and now I have a larger razor rotation. (pending shave tests) Problem is, my left arm is about bald from checking progress...

James