I just ordered a 220/1000 Norton to replace my aluminum oxide setting stone. I'm sure it will be just as good as the Norton I already own but this is not my problem. After using it for quite some time I have come to the conclusion that my coticule bout is only suitable for sharpening my hatchet and other tools that I can clamp in my vice and run the stone across. It is just too small for me to use on straight razors correctly.
Therefore, I am looking for any ideas on a relatively cheap stone to bridge the gap between my Norton 4k/8k and Chinese 12k. I've always liked the feel of natural stones over synthetic but I just can't afford $130 for a new coticule. I don't think I can just jump from my norton to the chinese stone as I would have to do something like 100 laps, and with my skill level I don't think that's feasible.
So, any ideas?