Thread: Arkansas stone for honing?

I have a question for the experienced honers at SRP. Would a small arkansas stone (1x4) be suitable for a hone? The one I own is natural and seems to be rather smooth. I appreciate your info. Thanks

That would depend on the fineness of the stone and your patience. Arkies are very sloooow cutters. I myself would not bother.

I found the SRP Wiki informative if you haven't already looked there. Category:Honing - Straight Razor Place Wiki

Thats what i figured, I'm sending my razors out in the morning for honing, figured id give it a shot while I was sitting in front of the TV. Man I cant wait until I get a barbers hone I'll probably start with pastes though. I know I should start with a .5 micron just have to decide on a material. The wiki is incredibly informative. This is an all around excellent site with quality people IMHO.

It depends on which Arkansas stone you have, and what you want to do with it. Honing a razor can mean many things. Do you want to set a bevel on an ebay special or put the finishing touch on after a going dulicot on a coticule?
A black or transluscent Ark has the capability to put a finish on an edge that you'd be hard pressed to beat.
A 1 x 4 transluscent would be an interesting substitute for a barber hone. 1" wide is thin, but if you're careful it'll work.

If it is a vintage black or translucent arkansas they can put a very nice edge on the razor, but are very slow. It would take awhile on a 1x4" stone, but could be done. Expect to do several hundred laps on oil though.

I have heard several of the guru's mention that unless you happen to have an especially great stone, it's not something they would recommend...thus I haven't added one to my collection.

If you haven't picked up the theme to the answers yet...

Some will work for razors. Some will work better than others. It's a rock, so you take your chances.