Hey guys,

I've been straight shaving for about 6 weeks and am loving it. I'm getting the technique and my stropping is improving. Eventually though, when it's required, I will need to hone my razors. They don't need to be honed now - but since it takes so long for stuff to get here by mail, by the time my stones get here, it will be time.

I'm trying to figure out what hone(s) I need. Both of my razors came shave ready - I have no eBay junkers or those in need of restoration. I want to be able to keep my edges sharp. I live out in Western Canada - sending off a razor to be honed is not an option.

From what I understand, I can get away with a polishing stone (Chinese 12k?) and be fine. However, it seems that everyone is recommending a Norton 4k / 8k. Why is that? It's a much lower grit, so wouldn't it only be needed for heavy duty work on a razor? Can you comfortably shave off of that? I'm trying to figure out if I need a Norton 4k / 8k, Chinese 12k, or both.

Speaking of Chinese 12k, I'm only interested in that specific stone since it's so cheap and a lot of people like them. Would I be further ahead getting a coticule, even though they are much more expensive? Is the edge they leave much superior?

Thanks,
Pug