Quote Originally Posted by Woodash View Post
May I ask if using tape is then required for all subsequent honings and touch ups (maintaining a constant bevel, etc.)? I just acquired my first hone and am completely in the fact-finding/experimenting stage, so please don't mind the questions...
A related comment: at this stage, I'm shaving consistently well and can recognize honing quality based mostly on shaving quality and smoothness. I use the microscope to see what's going on with the edge/bevel, but it is much harder to me to calibrate my thumbpad or thumbnail to determine what needs to be done next. I've had some of my best shaves on razors that did not seem particularly sharp by TPT or TNT, and forget about the HHT - never worked for me, even with freshly honed razors from experts. So, for me, this is the hardest part. Hope this isn't too far off the OP 's topic.
Welcome to SRP. Have you gone to the SRP Wiki ? See the link below in my sig line for info on honing, hones and just about anything straight razor shave related. If you don't find what you are looking for there by all means post your questions.

The TNT is only used to determine that the bevel is set to the point where the razor is keen enough to 'pull' when run across a moist thumbnail with the weight of the blade. No pressure. Once it does that from heel to point the TNT is no longer used on that razor.

If you have a new DE blade you can get the feel of the TPT with that. Moistened thumb pad and holding the razor's spine in the opposite hand lightly touch the thumb pad to the edge from heel to point. A sharp edge will grab the pad. A dull one will have the pad slide along. There are gradients that are learned as you gain experience with these tests. Again no pressure.

The HHT is for later. I get good shaves with razors that do not pass HHT and with razors that do. It is always nice to pass but not necessary for a close and smooth shave IME.